Right now, the panel is a fascinating mix of old-school grumpiness and new-wave fabulousness. Craig Revel Horwood is still there, bless him, giving out 8s like they’re made of gold. He’s the judge you love to hate, but you’d miss him if he left. Admit it. Then you’ve got Motsi Mabuse, who spends half her time crying with joy and the other half screaming “YES!” at the camera. She’s the emotional support judge we all need.
Strictly judges: past and present
Shirley Ballas took over from Len in 2017, and it was a tough gig. She’s got the technical knowledge of a Latin dance legend, but she sometimes feels like a strict headmistress. And finally, there’s Anton Du Beke. After years of being the pro who’d never won the glitterball, he joined the panel in 2026. Anton brings charm and dad jokes, which is great, but sometimes you wish he’d be a bit meaner. Come on, Anton, tell someone their rumba was a snoozefest!
The Missing Piece: Where’s the Malevolent One?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Bruno Tonioli is gone. He left during the pandemic to focus on Dancing with the Stars in the US, and he never fully came back. The current panel is missing that unhinged energy. Craig tries to fill the gap with campy bickering, but it’s not the same. We need someone who will climb over the desk and demonstrate a paso doble while screaming “FIVE!” at a contestant. Bruno, please come home.
Some fans are calling for a return of Darcey’s quiet elegance, or even a surprise comeback from Len (who, sadly, passed away in 2026). But the truth is, the show evolves. The judges are a barometer of the times—from the early 2000s’ stern professionalism to today’s more emotional, reality-TV vibe.
Strictly judges: past and present | Leisure | Yours
