Craig Revel Horwood thinks Strictly Come Dancing will be ‘better’ without Brendan Cole.
The long-time Strictly judge has offered his view on Brendan’s controversial axing.
Brendan had been a pro dancer on the show for the past 14 years but announced his exit on ITV’s Lorraine earlier this year.
Craig told the Daily Mirror newspaper: “Strictly will be better without Brendan.”
He also told Brendan to be “grateful” for his time on the show.
“The show’s done him wonders. It’s done us all wonders. It’s been fantastic,” Craig said. “I would never complain about it. It’s given us all platforms on which to stand.
“How many dancers in their life get a job that will last 15 years? Not many. Be grateful.”
New Zealand born Brendan announced that the BBC had decided not to renew his contract in January
“They’ve made an editorial decision not to have me back on the show,” he said. “I’m in shock. I got a phone call. I’ve had 15 incredible series.”
Brendan admitted: “I’m disappointed. I’ve always known this day would come. I’m a very strong character, some don’t like that.
“I’ve never been contracted for more than one year. I still wanted to be part of it. My passion is still very much there.”
While Craig may not be a huge fan, Strictly’s former head judge Len Goodman previously spoke up to give Brendan his backing.
He said of Brendan’s outspoken attitude: “I always thought the pros should defend their celebrities. If you’re not careful, you can come across as a bit of a bully, picking on people that can’t defend themselves.
“So I think it’s admirable to say, ‘I can’t agree with you on that’. Maybe he went a tad over the top with it, but no, I think it’s good that the pros defend their partners.”
Len, who left the BBC series in 2016 had said he was “sad” to see Brendan leave.
He explained: “You can’t say he didn’t do a great job. He did and there was always a bit of an edge with him: the bad boy of ballroom – he didn’t mind answering you back.
“I hope me leaving didn’t cause it and I just hope Anton doesn’t go the same way. It’d be a bloody tragedy – he’s got so much character.”
Len added: “He’s terrific for the show. But there always has been egos with the professionals and it was the same when I danced, with anything competitive.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One in the autumn.
Shirley Ballas, who replaced Len last year, is expected to return for her second series as head judge.
