Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans

Shirley Ballas with Craig Revel Horwood and former judge Bruno Tonioli (Image: Getty)

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas made a cheeky dig at her fellow judge, blasting: “I’m not Craig Revel Horwood!”

The star was taking part in an Instagram Q&A when she was asked whether she would give a score of 10 in week three.

The star made it clear that she has no qualms about pulling out her top scoring paddle early in the season if a contestant truly deserves it.

She revealed: "I had a question here would you whip out your 10 in week three again and let me tell you those 10 paddles - if somebody comes on and they’re outstanding I’m whipping that 10 out - I’ll tell you I’m not Craig Revel Horwood.”

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Shirley made a cheeky dig at her fellow judge who notoriously withholds his high scores until much later in the competition and takes no prisoners when it comes to any slip-ups from the contestants.

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Shirley Ballas took questions from fans on Instagram (Image: Instagram Shirley Ballas)

Strictly bosses have allegedly implemented a gag order on the cast regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding Giovanni Pernice. It follows head judge Shirley’s public defence of the dancer.

Giovanni, who will not be returning for the upcoming 20th-anniversary season, has faced accusations from former contestant Amanda Abbington, leading to a BBC investigation into his behaviour.

The situation has reportedly raised concerns among the show's producers, who are anxious that the scandal could overshadow the much-anticipated milestone series.

An insider told The Sun that Shirley’s passionate defence of Giovanni as a “perfect gentleman” has only intensified the situation, prompting the producers to instruct the cast to refrain from discussing the matter publicly.

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It is said that the professionals on the show have been briefed on how to handle questions about Giovanni and have undergone media training to steer conversations away from the controversy.

Despite the scandal, Giovanni has maintained his innocence, stating on social media that he “rejects any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour” and is determined to clear his name.

The decision to ban discussions comes as the show prepares to reveal the 2024 cast, with bosses eager to focus on celebrating two decades of the beloved dance competition rather than the ongoing drama surrounding its former stars.

Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans

Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans

Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans

Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans

Strictly's Shirley Ballas declares 'I'm not Craig' as she makes promise to fans