Craig Revel Horwood, a prominent judge on BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing,” has been vocal about a significant feud with former professional dancer Brendan Cole. This animosity, which has contributed to numerous on-screen confrontations, has reportedly evolved into lasting resentment between the two.
The Origins of the Feud
The tension between Craig Revel Horwood and Brendan Cole can be traced back to 2009. During a judging segment, Craig made an unflattering comparison of dancer Jo Wood to “a bush kangaroo.” This comment upset Brendan, who defended his partner and comforted her after the critique. Bruce Forsyth, the show’s former host, called the remark “too personal,” amplifying the conflict.
Escalation and Departure
Years later, the feud intensified when Brendan learned in 2018 that his contract would not be renewed. Craig expressed his pleasure at the news, stating the show “will be better” without Brendan. He attributed Brendan’s departure to his public behavior and criticized him for not being grateful for the platform “Strictly” provided. Craig commented on this at the premiere of Meatloaf’s musical, expressing that the show had been a blessing for many dancers.
Contrasting Opinions in the Competition
Despite earlier attempts to mend fences, Craig admitted their relationship was filled with animosity. He candidly stated to Kate Thornton, “We hated each other.” Their contrasting views were evident in the most recent competition. Craig remarked that this year’s female contestants appeared strong, while Brendan disagreed, suggesting that the key talent lay with male contestants like Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Lewis Cope.
Brendan’s Legacy
- Brendan Cole was the first professional dancer to win “Strictly Come Dancing,” achieving this in its inaugural series alongside Natasha Kaplinsky.
- After 15 years on the show, Brendan left but remains a significant figure in its history.
The ongoing feud between Craig Revel Horwood and Brendan Cole continues to capture public interest, showcasing the drama that often accompanies reality television. Their discord highlights the challenges of working alongside strong personalities in high-stakes environments like “Strictly Come Dancing.”
