Strictly Come Dancing’s Craig Revel Horwood will be replaced this weekend by actress Cynthia Erivo, the BBC has confirmed.
The Oscar nominee will step into the TV judge’s shoes for Musical Week after Craig tested positive for Covid-19.
Instead of having a three-judge panel, Cynthia will be taking her place on the panel and be bringing her showbiz expertise with her.
She will be serving points alongside Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.
The 34-year-old actress said: ‘I’m so delighted to be joining the Strictly judging panel for Musicals Week. Musicals have a unique place in my heart, it’s such a special way of connecting all art and making it one.
“I’m excited to bring my experience to the show and I can’t wait to see what the couples have in store this weekend.”
Cynthia has just been cast in the movie adaptation of Wicked as Elphaba, so it’s no surprise she secured the sought-after spot.
The talented star has also previously played a role in the UK tour of Sister Act and the Broadway tour of The Color Purple.
The actress also currently stars as Aretha Franklin in the third series of Genius.
Before the announcement, the top names circling to sit in Craig’s seat were Elaine Paige and Michael Ball, as well as former judges Darcey Bussell and Alesha Dixon.
Despite being in its 19th series, Strictly has only asked guest judges to step in on a handful of occasions.
Donny Osmond stood in as a guest judge in the twelfth series whilst American actor Alfonso Ribiero stood in for Bruno Tonioli for the fifth week of the sixteenth series.
(Image: BBC)
Anton Du Beke has also now taken a regular spot on the panel in place of Tonioli who cannot be there in person as a result of Covid-19 restrictions.
Darcey Bussell was a popular choice on social media, with one fan tweeting: “Bring back Queen Darcey to save the day and give out sensible scores/save the correct couple in the dance off.”
Another added: “Emergency Darcey Bussell to replace Craig this weekend.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday at 6.35pm, with the results show on Sunday, November 21 at 7.15pm on BBC One.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
