Strictly Come Dancing judge: Same-sex couples could happen next year
Craig Revel Horwood has claimed that same-sex couples will be included in prime-time dancing show Strictly Come Dancing as soon as next year, despite BBC officials confirming there were “no plans” over the weekend.
In an interview on ITV’s Lorraine, the Strictly judge discussed the recent controversy that has surrounded the show regarding same-sex dance pairs.
He said: “In the world of competition, there are same-sex couples competing, so there is no reason same-sex couples couldn’t happen on Strictly.
“The BBC just have to decide what year they want to do it. I think it is going to happen next year.”
These comments contrast with the official BBC guidance, with a spokesperson stating that the show would maintain a “traditional format.”
In a statement released yesterday, the BBC said: “Strictly has chosen the traditional format of mixed-sex couples and at the moment we have no plans to introduce same-sex couples in the competition.”
Susan Calman has received criticism for dancing with a man (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Revel Horwood added: “When you consider the Tango was originally danced between two men anyway, then why not?
“The Argentine Tango between two men is so powerful – it’s explosive! It works between two women as well.”
This series of Strictly involves two out contestants, the Reverend Richard Coles and comedian Susan Calman.
Calman faced extensive criticism for agreeing to dance with a male partner.
The comedian highlighted that she has received far more criticism than Reverend Coles, who also dances with an opposite-sex partner.
Reverend Coles said to Digital Spy that it makes “no sense” to keep the show purely focused on opposite-sex couples.
Revel Horwood added: “Same-sex couples can get married now, and I think it’s great to celebrate anyone’s sexuality. But this isn’t about sex, it’s about dancing. I think this move will be appreciated.”
“You just have to decide which one will be dancing backwards,” He said. “That’s the only difference really.”
Craig Revel Horwood has expressed his hopes for same-sex couples on the show before, with the judge claiming that same-sex couples were “on the cards” since 2015.
