Craig Revel Horwood says new 'Strictly Come Dancing' judge Anton du Beke will "come with compassion".
Strictly 2021 judges
The 56-year-old choreographer is infamous for his savage criticism of the contestants on the BBC One Latin and ballroom show, however, he is looking forward to the 55-year-old professional dancer bringing some "sensibility" to the panel.
In a syndicated Q&A, Craig said: "Anton is going to bring sensibility which will be good plus he's been through it so he knows all about it. He knows what it's like for the contestants, he knows what it’s like for the pros, so he'll come with that sense of knowledge that none of us have because we haven't been through the competition in that way. So, I think he will come with some compassion."
Craig - who is also joined by head judge Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse on the panel - believes the competition's longevity is down to dance being "part of our blood" and the show appealing to all ages.
He said: "I think dance is part of our blood. I think as human beings, people have danced around fires, they've danced for rain, they've danced for fertility. There's always been dance in human nature and people love it. I think 'Strictly' is one of those wonderful entertainment shows that audiences know as the build up to Christmas. There's always an excitement, a buzz, and you can talk about it with your friends and family and it's something that from ages three to 93 can enjoy, which is just brilliant."
And he also believes 'Strictly' has provided some light relief and lifted spirits amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said: "I think it's really important for people's mental health and for people to get excited about live shows again.
"When you're watching it on the telly live, it feels like you’re at a live performance.
"If someone falls over or forgets their steps, or has an amazing performance, you’re the first one to see it so I think that keeps excitement up.
"I think it's really important for people to keep social in that way and by watching 'Strictly', you can then have conversations with friends and family about it which I think is why people love it so much."
'Strictly Come Dancing' goes live on Saturday (25.09.21) at 7.00pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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