Craig Revel Horwood speaks out
Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has brushed off the controversy surrounding the show, stating that it will not overshadow the upcoming 20th-anniversary celebration. Despite recent allegations regarding the treatment of contestants, the star, 59, remains confident that the show is above such issues.
Allegations and investigations
The show faced scrutiny after dancer Giovanni Pernice left the series. Sherlock star Amanda Abbington, who quit the show after five weeks, accused Pernice of being "abusive, cruel, and mean." However, the 33-year-old dancer denied any wrongdoing. The BBC conducted a three-month investigation involving several individuals, including Pernice's former dance partner Laura Whitmore.
Craig's perspective
In response to the situation, Craig Revel Horwood emphasized that the controversy surrounding the show does not affect his role as a judge. He stated, "Strictly is beyond all of that. We go in on Saturday, judge what I see, and then I go home." Despite the ongoing investigations and complaints, Craig remains focused on his judging duties.
Further developments
Amid the controversy, fellow Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima was dismissed by the BBC for gross misconduct after it was revealed that he kicked his celebrity partner Zara McDermott. Despite receiving complaints, Graziano has since returned to work at a farm in Italy. The show's upcoming lineup for 2024 has been announced, with a notable gender imbalance among the contestants.
As Strictly Come Dancing prepares to return to screens later this year, fans eagerly anticipate the new season and the judges' critiques of the celebrity competitors.
