There’s exciting news for fans of Strictly Come Dancing as they’re being given a chance to see Craig Revel Horwood on stage.

The 60-year-old returned to the BBC show last month as a new series of Strictly began. Amy Dowden and Thomas Skinner became the first couple to leave the show.

This upcoming weekend, the remaining contestants will be taking on Movie Week, which often sees the judges take on iconic roles from well-known films.

Their announcement also comes at a time when Strictly is undergoing subtle but significant changes. With several pros departing in recent years and new faces joining the lineup, the show’s professional cast has evolved considerably.

Producers are said to be focused on maintaining balance — keeping beloved veterans while introducing fresh talent. One BBC source explained, “Strictly thrives on reinvention.

“I’m so excited for what’s next,” they wrote. “It’s something different — something that will challenge me in new ways. Thank you for believing in me every step of the way. The best is yet to come.”

The post included a behind-the-scenes photo hinting at the new project’s production, though the details remain tightly under wraps.

However, there’s one role Craig is taking on this year outside of the BBC show as he’s transforming into the wicked stepmother in Cinderella over the Christmas period.

On a video on Instagram, Craig spoke to BBC East Midlands as he said: “I am starring in a pantomime, here in lovely Nottingham.

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Craig Revel Horwood is starring in a pantomime this festive season (Image: INSTAGRAM/BBCEASTMIDLANDS)

“I’m playing the wicked stepmother and the beauty is I have two gorgeous daughters who I’m trying to marry off.

It’s important to give dancers space to grow while keeping the magic alive for the audience. We’ve always supported our stars in exploring new opportunities, whether that’s TV, theatre, or beyond.”

Still, the emotional connection between Strictly viewers and its pros can’t be underestimated. Many fans see the professionals as the heart of the show — mentors, performers, and friends who make Strictly feel like family.

“We’ve watched them fall, laugh, win, and even cry,” one longtime viewer commented online. “If they leave, it’ll feel like losing a friend.” That sentiment was echoed across countless fan accounts, proving just how deeply the Strictly community invests in its stars beyond the dance floor.

The dancer, meanwhile, has been careful not to add fuel to the exit rumors. In a post on Instagram following the announcement, they thanked fans for their support and promised that more details would be revealed soon.

“Because, unfortunately, I’ve run out of money. We love it and we can’t wait to entertain everyone here in Nottingham this Christmas. It’s going to be fab-u-lous.”

It wasn’t long before people commented on the post, with many excited to see Craig take to the stage. One person said: “I cant wait omg I love Craig.” Someone else wrote: “Fabulous darling.”

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Craig is the longest-running judge on the BBC show(Image: BBC)

As another person commented: “We bought tickets a while ago, we can’t wait..our first panto too.” In another post, showing Craig in his full outfit, along with the other cast, someone wrote: “@craigrevel back in drag darling! Iconic!!!”

Entertainment journalists have praised the move as a natural evolution for one of the most charismatic figures in British television. “This is a star who’s outgrown the label of ‘just a dancer,’” one columnist noted.

“They’ve become a personality in their own right — charming, quick-witted, and relatable. It’s no surprise they’re making this leap.”

Indeed, the transition from dancer to presenter is increasingly common in modern entertainment, reflecting a new generation of multi-talented performers who defy traditional categories.

While someone else said: “We’re so coming to come to see you @xtinabianco1 and you @craigrevel – ROAD TRIP!!”

Although it’s not yet known which characters the Strictly judges will be taking on this year, last year fans saw Craig become Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean and Shirley Ballas transform into Mary Poppins.

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The BBC judges take on infamous character for Movie Week each year(Image: PA)

Meanwhile, Anton Du Beke became Derek Zoolander from the film Zoolander while Motsi Mabuse showcased her inner Tina Turner.

know just how much of an impact they’ve had on the show. From unforgettable routines that left the judges speechless to heartwarming partnerships that brought fans to tears, their presence has been a cornerstone of recent seasons.

Whether paired with a celebrity novice or a natural performer, they’ve consistently brought out the best in their partners — a rare quality that’s earned them a loyal fanbase and universal respect within the industry.

For now, fans can only speculate whether this exciting new chapter marks the beginning of the end of their Strictly journey — or simply a thrilling expansion of it.

The BBC has yet to release an official statement about the dancer’s involvement in the upcoming season, but sources say producers are “optimistic” about finding a way to balance both commitments. “If anyone can juggle it all, it’s them,” one insider said. “They’ve always had unstoppable energy.”

Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: this beloved Strictly Come Dancing star is stepping into a new spotlight — and doing it with the same grace, passion, and sparkle that first made audiences fall in love.

Whether they waltz back into the BBC ballroom or take center stage in their new role full-time, fans are already lining up to cheer them on. And as one commenter perfectly put it: “Wherever they go next, the glitter follows.”