BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Craig Revel Horwood distracts fans with new look
Craig Revel Horwood was barely recognisable as he made his grand return to the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom for the show's 2024 series. The 59 year old dance maestro graced our screens again on Saturday (September 14) night, joining fellow judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke to welcome a new batch of celebs during the glitzy 20th anniversary launch show.
But it wasn't just the dazzling stars that caught the audience's attention Craig's fresh beard became the talk of the town as he showcased his facial fuzz for the first time, causing quite the stir on social media.
Fans flocked to X, previously known as Twitter, to share their thoughts. One admirer gushed: "Craig with a new look this year. I'm liking the beard on him."
READ MORE:Coronation Street actor reunites with cobbles co-star as he signs up for new BBC comedy
Another chimed in: "Loving Craig with a beard! He reminds me of a top Hollywood star. Very professional! .", reports the Mirror. And a third echoed: "Loving Craig's new look.."
Some however weren't too sure, with one writing: "Craig with a Rylan beard is slightly disconcerting".
Sign up to OK!'s TV newsletter to get updates sent to your inbox for free
Ahead of the pre-recorded episode's broadcast, Craig teased fans with a sneak peek of his daring new style on Instagram. The BBC hyped up the anticipation by posting a clip featuring Craig and his fellow judges, Anton, Shirley, and Motsi, ahead of the much-anticipated launch.
This series follows a period rife with controversies for the beloved dance competition. Much of the drama has revolved around two of its pro dancers - Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima - both of whom have since exited the stage.
Giovanni, who last year danced with actress Amanda Abbington, has refuted any allegations of abusive or threatening behaviour during rehearsals.
While Graziano Di Prima recently owned up to accidentally kicking his celeb partner, Zara McDermott, during last year's Strictly rehearsals, the BBC has assured that any issues raised will be handled with "care, fairness and sensitivity". Meanwhile, the Beeb's top dog, Tim Davie, has extended his apologies to any Strictly stars who had less than stellar experiences.
At the launch of the BBC's annual report, he expressed his disappointment at hearing about complaints regarding professional dancers' behaviour. Despite confirming the beloved dance competitions return, he laid down the law, stressing that while a healthy competitive spirit is expected, pros must draw the line at "unacceptable" conduct.
He further emphasised: "There will be a degree of competitiveness and will to do well, but there are limits and the line should never be crossed. We never tolerate unacceptable behaviour of any kind."