Craig Revel Horwood has revealed Strictly’s stars are enjoying the series a lot more now the probe on sacked Giovanni Pernice is over.
The new series was airing under a cloud while the BBC investigated claims made by former contestant Amanda Abbington, 50, but now a report has been published, he thinks that’s all gone.
Judge Craig, 59, said: “There is a difference. “It’s like a weight has been lifted off our shoulders because it was always hanging in the air.
READ MORE: Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice cleared of physical abuse but did verbally abuse Amanda Abbington
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“I was just so pleased that this investigation is over because now we can move on and really celebrate our 20 years on the screen, because it is a wonderful show and it’s awful when something like this does come along.
(Image: PA)
“So let’s move forward, let’s move on.”
There was speculation the abuse probe would spark the end of the dance contest, but Beeb bosses refused to axe it.
Since returning last month, it has continued to be one of the most-watched shows on TV.
Craig is amazed the series has lasted for two decades.
(Image: PA)
In an interview on Lorraine (subs please keep), he said: “When we first started back in May of 2004, I thought it wouldn’t have legs at all and thought, ‘Who is going to be interested in seeing a bunch of celebrities that can’t dance, try and dance in two weeks? No one!’
“But actually I was completely wrong.”
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Craig is tipping Love Island beauty Tasha Ghouri, 26, to have big success on this year’s run.
He said: “Tasha is the whole package… she is the one to beat technically”.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
