Will your favourite judge be returning for the new series?
Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has accidentally revealed the judges’ line-up for the new series of the BBC One show.
The controversial judge confirmed that he and judges’ Darcey Bussell, Bruno Tonioli and Shirley Ballas will all be back on the panel when the ballroom show returns later this year.
‘Yes, same judges. Shirley is back with us, which will be great,’ he told The Express.
‘Bruno is back and being more Italian than ever. And of course the fabulous Darcey Bussell.’
He added: ‘I think it is a great team and it was really good last year, I can't wait to get back into it.’
Speaking on Loose Women last month, Shirley – who will return as head judge – confirmed that she had been approached by the BBC to return for another series.
She said: ‘I’ve been verbally asked but as of yet I haven’t had a contract, but of course I would be highly delighted to go back on that most fabulous show. I had the time of my life.’
Craig also revealed why he didn’t take on the coveted role of head judge following Len Goodman’s departure in 2016.
He said: ‘The role as head judge... you have to be the mediator and I am who I am and love the job I do. I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I didn’t want the responsibility, I like where I am at the moment I think it’s good.’
And Craig admitted that he thinks Shirley is doing a fabulous job in the role.
He added to The Express: ‘I thought Shirley was a fantastic choice as head judge,’ It's great having a woman in that position as well because we have a very even amount of commenting which I think is fantastic.’
A BBC spokesperson neither confirmed nor denied Craig's claims on the judging panel.
‘The full judges’ line-up will be announced in due course,’ a spokesperson said.
