Craig Revel Horwood, who is the longest-serving judge on Strictly, celebrates his milestone birthday on Saturday

Craig Revel Horwood has been hailed “warm and witty” by fellow Strictly Come Dancing judges as he turned 60. The Australia-born choreographer, who has been a Strictly judge since 2004, is celebrating his milestone birthday.

In an Instagram tribute, judge Motsi Mabuse gushed: “Happy 60th birthday to one of the most fabulous, inspiring, and unforgettable people I know! On this milestone, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible impact you’ve had-not just on Strictly , but in my life personally.” She credited Revel Horwood’s kindness for making her Strictly debut in 2019 “an absolute joy”. “You welcomed me with open arms, and I will never forget how supported and seen you made me feel during those first moments,” Mabuse added.

His Strictly co-stars wished him a happy birthday ( 
Image:
BBC/Rob Parfitt)
“Over the years, I have come to treasure this (heart emojis), from our laughter-filled conversations to our shared love to Banter, you’ve shown me that beneath your legendary sharp wit is a kind, generous, and truly remarkable soul. I feel so lucky to share this journey with you and to celebrate you today.”

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional-turned-judge Anton Du Beke shared a spooky photo of himself and Craig Revel Horwood dressed as the infamous Grady twins from the 1980 horror classic The Shining, along with a heartfelt birthday message. Du Beke penned on Instagram: “Happy 60th birthday to the wonderful @craigrevel! My sister from another mister. Have a fabulous day my love! #60today.”

Craig is one of Strictly’s beloved judges ( 
Image:
Guy Levy/BBC/PA)

Shirley Ballas, Revel Horwood, Du Beke, and Mabuse are set to embark on the Strictly live tour later this month. Recently, Revel Horwood revealed to Radio Times that he plans to publish a book featuring all the negative comments and death threats he’s received over the years, aiming to “shame them”. He also discussed how he’s transformed his judging style from being “really harsh” to a more constructive approach, akin to a teacher rather than a judge.

Revel Horwood admitted that he used to be very direct with celebrities, but now opts to “wrap the truth in a nice way”. Throughout his career, he has appeared in numerous productions and pantomimes, including playing the role of Miss Hannigan in the touring production of Annie, and directing and choreographing the UK tour of the musical Sister Act.