Strictly judges reveal inner cheeky side ahead of Blackpool show

Strictly Come Dancing judges Craig Revel Horwood and Shirley Ballas have revealed that they may take a dip in the sea while in Blackpool ahead of tonight's show

Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood has teased that he might go swimming while in Blackpool for the show this weekend - along with head judge Shirley Ballas.

The pair say they love a cold dip almost as much as they enjoy gorging on Blackpool’s world renowned fish and chips while in the famous seaside town. Craig said he was the most likely to take the plunge in the Irish Sea, saying: “I do love a cold dip.”

But Shirley argued that she might beat him to it, laughing: “I love a good dip in the sea – especially if it’s nice and cold. I find it refreshing.” Motsi Mabuse said her money was on Craig. “He might seem all cool and composed, but I can definitely see him getting a bit cheeky and taking a quick dip just for the fun of it.”

Presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman say there is zero chance of them joining in. “We both hate being cold,” Tess explained, with Claudia agreeing: “It’s November!” But absolutely all of the Strictly Come Dancing presenters and judges will be trying out the holiday zone’s famous fish and chips. Claudia said: “From the moment we arrive, we love it. Everyone there is bonkers friendly and we’re incredibly lucky they have us every year. The fish and chips are the best in the world, and we eat them the second we get there.” She confessed that she won’t be going on any of the daredevil rides. “I am a total wuss and freak out on rollercoasters. A very gentle carousel with the three-year-olds please.”

Shirley says that the remaining eight celebrities left in the competition should feel honoured to have the opportunity to perform in the iconic ballroom. “They are dancing in what I feel is the most iconic ballroom in the world. It has the best sprung floor that industry legends have danced on. The building holds so much history – there has been more World Champions crowned in this ballroom than anywhere else in the world.”

Notoriously tough judge Craig warned that tonight’s performances would feel different to when it is filmed in its usual home at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire. “Expectations are high,” he said. “Critiques are also based on how well the celebrities perform alongside extra professional dancers, and how they work together as a team or troupe. The sprung floor adds another challenge and the extra audience members add to the pressure.”

Motsi agreed, saying: “I look for a little extra magic, that willingness to push boundaries, and for the couples to truly honour the legacy of Blackpool with passion and precision. Scoring at Blackpool isn’t just about the technical elements; it’s about rewarding those performances that rise to the occasion.”

She said tonight’s live show was one of her favourite nights of the year. “It’s like you’re stepping into the heart of British dance. The energy of the audience, the massive dancefloor, and the incredible atmosphere are all unmatched. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“This season is even more special because it’s the 20th anniversary, so there’s this beautiful blend of nostalgia and excitement for what’s next. It’s truly magical.” Anton du Beke says he remembers how that extra pressure feels. “When I was a dancer, I would usually save what I would consider to be a ‘big’ dance for Blackpool, something that was expansive and could fill the incredible stage.”

Strictly Come Dancing: Blackpool Special, BBC1, 6.45pm

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads