In the world of Strictly Come Dancing, a show that has captivated millions for 20 years, one figure has remained a constant presence, sometimes controversial but always entertaining—judge Craig Revel Horwood. Known for his tough love and scathing comments, Craig has made a name for himself as the "pantomime villain" of the series. His sharp critiques and sometimes harsh scores have earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable judges on the panel. However, this year’s winner, comedian Chris McCausland, has managed to do something that few before him have accomplished—he's broken through the tough exterior of Craig Revel Horwood. The turning point came during the Saturday night final (December 14), when Craig, typically known for his stoic composure, stood up, delivered an emotional speech, and even hugged McCausland. It was a moment that no one expected, especially given Craig’s usual reputation as the judge who holds nothing back.
This season of Strictly has been filled with emotional highs and entertaining moments, but Chris McCausland's journey has been truly special. For those who might not know, McCausland made history by becoming the first blind contestant to win the show. And, as it turns out, his relationship with Craig Revel Horwood has been a highlight of this year’s series. From the very start, Chris was unafraid to fire back at Craig’s tough critiques with witty and playful remarks. This running dynamic between the two helped develop a unique and heartfelt bond. McCausland didn’t just let the judge's harsh words slide—he turned the tables with humor, proving that even the strictest of judges couldn’t get the best of him. This created a special connection, one that built up over the weeks of competition, culminating in the final moments of the season.
During the rehearsal phase for the final, each contestant was assigned a judge to work alongside them, helping to fine-tune their routines and ensure they were at their absolute best for the grand finale. It was no surprise that Craig was chosen to help Chris and his professional partner, Dianne Buswell. The two had developed such an engaging and amusing rapport throughout the series, and it was clear that Craig’s guidance was going to make a significant impact. But what no one expected was the emotional bond that would form between them as the final night approached.
When Chris and Dianne performed their final routine—a beautifully emotional Waltz to the song "You’ll Never Walk Alone" by Gerry and the Pacemakers—Craig could no longer hold back his feelings. The sight of the couple dancing together, a blind man and his partner, was incredibly moving, and it left Craig visibly emotional. He had spent so many hours coaching Chris and Dianne, helping to refine every little detail of their performance, and now, seeing it all come together, it was clear that this moment would stay with him forever. Craig admitted that the experience of working with Chris was so impactful that he even considered sending him a Christmas card—a gesture that would have been completely out of character for the notoriously blunt judge.
Instead of sending a card, Craig opted to write a poem for Chris, which he read aloud in front of the entire studio. The poem was heartfelt, charming, and, as you can imagine, completely unexpected from someone like Craig. It was clear that this was a genuine moment, one that reflected the personal connection Craig had developed with Chris. The poem began: “In a world of darkness, you’ve learnt to dance and slay / With every step, you’ve found your way / You’ve taught the world anything can be done / As long as you don’t stick out your bum / No shoulders raised with swing and sway / With every heel lead, you discovered the day / A heart that dances, pure and free / Is worth much more than a 10 from me / And Chris, you’re a light that shines for all to see.”
As Craig read the poem, the studio was filled with cheers and applause. The other judges, equally moved, fought back tears. For a judge who was known for his stern demeanor and no-nonsense attitude, this was an incredibly tender moment, and it didn’t go unnoticed by the audience, who were watching at home. As Craig finished the poem, Chris, with his trademark humor, opened his arms wide and exclaimed, “Come on, Craig!” Without hesitation, the judge got up from his chair and embraced Chris in a heartfelt hug. The studio erupted in applause, and host Tess Daly, never one to shy away from a joke, remarked, “I’ve seen it all now!”—a playful nod to Craig’s usual cold and critical nature. Even Claudia Winkleman, with a smile, chimed in, “Chris, you’ve officially broken Craig Revel Horwood, and we’re all grateful.”
Chris, clearly moved by the entire experience, responded, “Oh my goodness, it’s so much more than I ever thought. I thought that the show, if it did well, it would be entertaining, I didn’t realise it would be emotional, and that it would move people and connect with people. It’s really hit me.” His words resonated not just with those in the studio but with viewers across the country, who had been following his incredible journey.
The emotional moment didn’t stop there. Fans on social media, many of whom had followed Chris’s progress from the very beginning, were equally moved by Craig’s touching poem. One viewer tweeted, “That poem was possibly the nicest thing I’ve ever seen Craig do on Strictly. No matter his scores for Chris, that is the kindest moment I’ve ever seen.” Another person shared a poetic response: “Well, in the Elstree studios they say—that Craig’s small heart grew three sizes that day.” It was a playful reference to the Grinch, but it perfectly captured the sentiment of the moment.
As the night drew to a close, Chris and Dianne were announced as the 2024 winners of Strictly Come Dancing, taking home the glitterball trophy. The victory was well-deserved, not just for their incredible performances but for the personal journey Chris had undertaken, proving that no matter the obstacles, anything is possible with determination, humor, and a little bit of grace. It was a moment that will go down in Strictly history, not just for the dancing but for the unexpected, emotional bond that developed between a blind comedian and a notoriously tough judge. It was, in every sense of the word, a magical moment for the show.
So, as the glitterball trophy was lifted high in celebration, it wasn’t just a victory for Chris and Dianne—it was a victory for all of us who believe in the power of human connection, the importance of kindness, and the unexpected ways that even the toughest of people can be moved. And for Craig Revel Horwood, it was a reminder that sometimes, the show isn’t just about the scores—it’s about the moments that truly matter.
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