Fans Defend Craig Revel Horwood After Audience Boos During Strictly Come Dancing Halloween Show

Viewers of Strictly Come Dancing have rallied in defense of long-time judge Craig Revel Horwood after he was once again booed by the live studio audience during Saturday night’s Halloween special.

Known affectionately as the show’s “Mr. Nasty,” Craig has been on the judging panel since Strictly first aired in 2004 — making him the only original judge still on the show. With over two decades of experience as a choreographer, theatre director, and performer, it’s safe to say Craig knows a thing or two about ballroom precision and performance quality (BBC News).

Mixed Reactions to Craig’s Halloween Feedback

During the latest episode, Craig offered his critique of reality TV star Vicky Pattison’s American Smooth performance — and was promptly met with a chorus of boos from the audience. Dressed in elaborate Halloween costumes, both the judges and contestants leaned into the spooky spirit of the night, but Craig’s sharp eye for detail remained as exacting as ever.

He told Vicky: “I would’ve liked to have seen a little more reach in your arms,” as the audience began to jeer. Unfazed, he continued: “Extension, smoother transitions from one movement to the next. I could see when the lifts were about to happen because I could see the preparation.”

The crowd reacted again when he added: “I’d have liked a nicer shape when you’re up in the lift — in flight, it just needs to look beautiful. And you could’ve used the music a little bit more.”

Despite the critical notes, Craig concluded on a positive tone, praising Vicky’s weekly progress: “You’re becoming more confident every week, and it’s wonderful to see.”

Craig ultimately awarded Vicky a seven, while fellow judges Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke each gave her an eight, bringing her total score to 31 points (Metro UK). Motsi’s emotional feedback even brought Vicky to tears, telling her she could be “a serious contender for the final.”

Fans Urge Respect for Craig

While the studio audience may enjoy the pantomime element of booing Craig — a long-standing Strictly tradition — viewers watching at home were less amused. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustration at the audience’s reaction.

One user wrote: “Petition to stop booing Craig.” Another agreed: “I’m all for the panto element of the show, but why does Craig get booed when he’s giving genuine constructive criticism?”

A third commented: “Here we go again — the audience booing Craig for giving proper feedback. It’s so predictably boring now.” Another viewer added: “Craig gives fair, professional critique… audience: boo! It’s ridiculous.”

The Value of Honest Critique

Craig’s blunt but informed assessments have long been part of Strictly’s charm. While some fans find his tone harsh, others see him as the show’s only consistently objective voice. As The Guardian once noted, “Craig Revel Horwood’s role as the pantomime villain is not cruelty — it’s clarity. Without him, the sparkle of Strictly would lack its essential edge.”

Whether loved or loathed, Craig continues to bring professional discipline to the glitz and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing — a balance that keeps both the contestants and the audience on their toes.

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Sources:

• BBC News – “Craig Revel Horwood on Why Strictly Still Works After 20 Years” (2024)

• The Guardian – “Why Craig Revel Horwood Is the Voice of Reason on Strictly” (2023)

• Metro UK – “Strictly Come Dancing Fans Defend Craig Revel Horwood After Audience Boos” (2025)