By Lewis Knight

Published: Saturday, 20 November 2021 at 12:00 am

He’s the longest-running judge on BBC One’s biggest show.

Craig Revel Horwood has been a mainstay on Strictly Come Dancing since its first series and is known for his withering putdowns, glances, and ‘fab-u-lous’ praises.

In the 2021 series, Craig has been joined once again by Strictly’s current head judge Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse.

In a change to the lineup this year in light of Bruno Tonioli uncertain travel rules from the US, long-running Strictly professional dancer Anton Du Beke stepped up to the panel after enjoying a brief stint in the 2020 series.

However, in a change to the panel on the show this Saturday (20th November), Craig is absent and has been replaced by award-winning actress-performer Cynthia Erivo.

So, why is Craig missing the big show in Week Nine, Musicals Week?

Why is Craig Revel Horwood not on Strictly Come Dancing?

Craig Revel Horwood has been forced to drop out of judging on Musicals Week after testing positive for COVID-19.

A statement from the BBC released on Monday (15th November) reads: “Craig Revel Horwood has tested positive for COVID-19 and is now self-isolating following the latest government guidelines.

“While Craig will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, all being well he will return the following week.”

The judge becomes the latest Strictly star to be forced to self-isolate during the show’s run after testing positive for COVID-19.

McFly star Tom Fletcher, who is still in the competition, was forced to miss a week of the show earlier in the series.

Meanwhile, Loose Women star Judi Love was also forced to miss a weekend after she tested positive for the coronavirus.

Judi was subsequently eliminated from the competition on the weekend of her return to the show.