Strictly star Craig Revel Horwood hits back at new series backlash: 'Get over it!'
It's all change at StrictlyCraig Revel Horwood has defended Strictly Come Dancing’s sweeping changes and dismissed criticism surrounding Johannes Radebe’s new presenting role.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Craig praised the revamped series and argued that its new direction brings fresh energy.
The overhaul brings Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe together as the programme’s new hosts.
Craig is the only original judge still serving after the competition’s debut in 2004.
That long connection gives his endorsement particular weight as Strictly prepares to unveil a noticeably different on-screen line-up.
Craig Revel Horwood backs Strictly’s new direction
Asked how different the show would feel, Craig answered: “Really different. And really good. Different in a really fantastic way.”
He added: “It’s breathing new life into the show.”
Craig, 61, began on the judging panel with Arlene Phillips, Bruno Tonioli and the late Len Goodman.
The panel has changed considerably since then, but Craig has remained a constant presence across the programme’s run.
He now judges alongside Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.
Anton previously performed as a professional dancer on Strictly before taking his place behind the judges’ desk.
Together, those familiar faces provide continuity while a new presenting trio reshapes the programme’s on-screen personality.
Craig’s blunt response to Johannes Radebe concern
Some fans have been disappointed that Johannes is leaving the dance floor to become a host.
When that concern was put to Craig, he replied: “I know, but life moves on. So get over it.”
It was a direct dismissal of resistance to one of the overhaul’s most visible changes.
Johannes, 39, has competed in seven Strictly series as a professional dancer and choreographer.
His celebrity partners included Catherine Tyldesley, Ellie Taylor and John Whaite.
What else is changing on Strictly Come Dancing
The presenters are not the only newcomers arriving for the next series.
Five new dancers will join the Strictly professional line-up for the upcoming series.
Their arrival means viewers will meet several fresh dance-floor faces alongside the programme’s new hosting team.
Emma, Josh and Johannes represent a three-person presenting set-up, another major departure for the long-running competition.
The current judging group remains Craig, Shirley, Motsi and Anton as those changes take shape around them.
For Craig, the answer to concerns about a transformed Strictly is enthusiastic and uncompromising.
He expects a very different programme, yet believes that difference will help renew it.
Viewers will soon decide whether the new chemistry works, with familiar judges assessing performances amid several new faces.
Read more: Strictly Come Dancing fans divided as 2026 pairings ‘leak’ days before launch show airs
Strictly airs on Saturday, September 19 from 7.25pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI technology to synthesise source reporting and structured data. It has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by our human editorial team before publication.
