BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Craig Revel Horwood confesses 'nerves' as he unveils new look for 2024 series

Craig Revel Horwood as admitted to suffering 'nerves' on Strictly Come Dancing despite being part of the show from the very start. The judge, often branded the toughest on the panel, will be back when the BBC dance contest returns this weekend - and he's sporting a new look.

Craig will be back to cast an expert eye over this year's couples alongside Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke when they perform live to the nation each week in the show's iconic ballroom.

Before the competition officially gets underway, the pre-recorded launch show will air this Saturday, September 14, with hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcoming the class of 2024 to the show for the first time.

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But all eyes may be on Craig as he's unveiled a new look for the first time in a series of new Strictly promo pictures as he's ditched the clean-shaved look and opted to grew out his dark locks and is sporting a matching beard.

Speaking about being part of Strictly's 20th celebrations this year, Craig said: "Well, for me, it's life-changing, obviously, because when I started back in May 2004, I had no idea it would last one season, let alone 20 years. And now, I'm Len's age when he started, which is bizarre because there was a 20-year age difference between us.

"It's really exciting and I can't wait. It’s one of those shows that feels brand new every year because of the cast. It feels like a completely different show every time. So for me, it's really exciting, and it's been wonderful to wave the dance flag for the last 20 years."

But some may be surprised to hear that despite being part of the show since the beginning, Craig still gets nervous ahead of stepping into the ballroom. "As soon as I hear the music, I think, 'Okay, what’s going to happen?'" he revealed. "The reason I’m nervous is for the contestants because they've worked hard all week for that one performance. Because it’s live, there’s no turning back.

"Whatever happens on that day happens, and even professionals have made mistakes over the years. There’s no escaping it, and you just don’t know how it’s going to go on the night."