IN HIS OWN WORDS:

Craig Revel Horwood

Craig is a dancer, choreographer, theatre director and, of course, a judge on Strictly Come Dancing (7.05pm, BBC1). Here’s what he’s had to say about his life and career so far...

On his early love for dancing: ‘I hated sport, but at 13, I went to an aerobics class, and the teacher thought I had natural rhythm. She suggested formal dance classes, and that’s when I finally found something I was really good at.’

On his own dance ability: ‘I didn’t really know ballroom or Latin when they asked me to be a judge, so I was sent for lessons at Len Goodman’s dance school. I was partnered by his wife. I wouldn’t say I’m a brilliant dancer now, but I have a very good eye for what’s going wrong. Anyone who thinks they can get to be as good as the professional dancers after a month is kidding themselves.’

On his reputation for being a harsh critic on Strictly: ‘I’m not saying the

persona on Strictly isn’t me, it’s just that the nurturing side, which is also a part of who

I am, isn’t what I’m there for. I’m there to judge and to give an honest opinion, even if it’s not the opinion someone wants to hear.’ And on how that honest opinion often

gets him into trouble: ‘I did get rammed in the legs by a supermarket trolley once, and somebody slapped my face in Newbury, but generally people are very friendly. However, I take the precaution of doing my grocery shopping online.’

On that kiss between Strictly celebrity contestant Seann Walsh and his professional partner, Katya Jones: ‘She should not have allowed it to happen. It’s a teacher snogging a student.’