Craig Revel Horwood has delivered his 100th score of 10 on Strictly Come Dancing, marking a milestone in the show’s history.
During tonight’s Strictly final, co-hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly watched on as JB Gill and Lauren Oakley performed their Viennese Waltz. Previously awarded 39 points for this routine, today they wowed both judges and audience again.
Upon giving their feedback, Craig confessed his frustration at being unable to fault the dance. He previously criticised JB’s thumb position, but acknowledged the performance as flawless this time around.
He awarded them a 10, securing JB and Lauren another perfect score of 40 for their Mary Poppins inspired Viennese Waltz on the second attempt. This led Claudia to bring proceedings to a halt and invite Craig to join her in the Claudiatorium.
On the programme, Claudia excitedly informed Craig: “Hold on! So it has taken 20 years, it has taken 22 series and guess what’s just happened? You have just given your 100th 10,” with the professional dancers offering their congratulations, reports the Mirror.
Claudia went on to jest: “Thank you everyone, it was so nice to see you Craig. It took Anton about six weeks to do that and it took Donny Osmond one episode. If you want JB and Lauren to win Strictly, then you need to vote to them.”
Before the finale aired, Craig didn’t hold back in expressing his admiration for all the contestants.
He expressed his enthusiasm for the finalists, saying: “Firstly, I think all four finalists are worthy winners. I am so pleased Chris McCausland got through to the final, I think he has fantastic rhythm and is a joy to watch. He has every chance of winning the entire show, I think he’s absolutely brilliant. I can’t wait to see Chris and Dianne’s show dance, it’s going to be spectacular. I think Tasha is a worthy winner also, she is an exceptional dancer, she has all the technique to get through the final and I think we’ll see really a truly spectacular show dance from her.”
“JB has come a long way, he’s really come out of his shell, he’s gained in confidence and he is thrilling and delighting absolutely everyone audiences and judges alike. He got his first 40, which I was really pleased about, which was amazing.”
Further commenting on the competition, he added: “We haven’t had a Salsa get a 40 for six years so that’s pretty good going! Sarah is our showbizzy gal, who I think is amazing. She’s done some really great routines throughout, I particularly loved her Fosse number, she’s really great at doing all the theatrical stuff where there’s lots of acting and technique as well. The final this year is going to be so rewarding dance wise, as they are all great, so it’s all very exciting and may the best person win! “.
Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer