Craig Revel Horwood: From ‘Mr. Nasty’ to National Treasure – A Life in Dance and Revelations
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A judge known for his sharp critiques and frequently enough-brutal honesty, Craig Revel Horwood is challenging his public persona and sharing a deeply personal story of a life dedicated to performance, resilience, and unexpected success. The Strictly come Dancing mainstay, frequently enough dubbed “Mr. Nasty,” insists his reputation is a misunderstanding born from simply telling the truth about contestants’ abilities.
Blackpool Beckons and a New Book Unveiled
Revel Horwood will be in his element this Saturday night, overseeing the iconic Blackpool show on Strictly Come Dancing. But beyond the glitter and glamour of the dance floor,he’s also unveiling a new memoir,Revelations: Songs Boys Don’t Sing,offering a candid look at his life and career.
Dame Shirley Bassey: The Ultimate diva
Despite a career filled with memorable moments, no performer, according to Revel Horwood, will ever surpass Dame Shirley Bassey. He recounts a especially striking visit from the legendary singer to Strictly Come Dancing, describing how she “literally waltzed on, came up the stairs, belted out the tune, walked down the stairs, got in the taxi and went home.” He contrasted this effortless performance with the extensive preparation of other stars, noting that Bette Midler required four hours and five attempts for a sound check. “Dame Shirley is my diva,” Revel Horwood affirmed.
From Australian Childhood to the West End Stage
Revelations delves into Revel Horwood’s upbringing in Australia, revealing a childhood marked by an alcoholic father and a surprising path to ballet. He described growing up “in a household filled with dirty bikes, goats, and didgeridoos,” yet finding his passion for dance. He recalled being a “porky little kid” and being told by his PE teacher to “take your top off and run round the oval.” This led him to explore the trumpet and, ultimately, jazz ballet, which quickly blossomed into a full commitment to classical ballet, jazz, tap, and modern dance.
His early career took him to Paris in the 1980s, but a dispute over duets led to a swift dismissal from the Moulin Rouge on his very first night – a setback he attributes to “this woman, a cow, called Debbie.” Undeterred, he found success in the UK, simultaneously performing in Cats and Miss Saigon, a demanding schedule that left him questioning his roles. “I was very confused. I didn’t know if I was a Gl or a pussy,” he admitted.
“Car Crash television” That Conquered the World
Revel Horwood’s involvement with Strictly Come Dancing began in 2004 with considerable skepticism. He initially dismissed the show as “car crash television” and expressed disinterest, citing existing commitments as a director/choreographer in the West End. Despite his reservations, a screen test was requested, and the rest, as they say, is history. “I didn’t think anyone would watch it,” he confessed, “but it’s gone to 63 countries worldwide and is still huge.I mean, it’s a little bit insane.”
Embracing the Villain and a Festive Future
Revel Horwood’s penchant for playing antagonists extends beyond the judging panel.he is set to appear as the Wicked Stepmother in a production of Cinderella, a role he relishes. “I absolutely love playing the villains as I think they’re so much fun,” he said, adding that he has “played loads of wicked queens.”
The judge also offered a playful glimpse into his personal life, describing himself as “verse” – a term meaning versatile in the gay community – while speaking about his fiancé, jonathan Myring.
Craig Revel Horwood’s Revelations: Songs Boys Don’t Sing is available now, priced at £39.95 from A Way With Media.
