BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans divided as Craig Revel Horwood debuts surprising new look

Fans of Strictly Come Dancing have been left split over Craig Revel Horwood dramatic new look just hours before the new series kicks off.

The 59-year-old judge is gearing up for the sparkle-filled new instalment of the hit BBC One show, set to air tonight (September 14). In anticipation of the premiere, the Beeb took to Instagram to share a clip of Craig and his fellow adjudicators Anton Du Beke, Shirley Ballas, and Motsi Mabuse strutting their stuff.

The judges' reunion was met with enthusiasm by fans happy to see the "band back together" fully glammed up, yet it was Craig's unusually full beard that stole the spotlight and prompted a mix of reactions online. While some are loving his rugged new style, one fan responded with: "Omg Craig looks incredible. Loving the facial hair."

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing's return 'spoiled' by Anne-Marie after she breaks major rule

Another echoed the sentiment saying: "Craig with a beard is something I didn't know I needed."

However, others appeared confused and likening him to television personality Rylan, the Mirror reports. One said: "I thought that was Rylan for a minute, I can't get over Craig's beard" while another asked "Is that Rylan?"

Elsewhere, some fans thought Craig bore a striking similarity to comedian Jason Manford as one mused: "Since when did Jason Manford become a judge? Craig with a beard?"

With high anticipation, the audience is eager to tune into Strictly tonight after a challenging period for the dance competition. Despite the buzz surrounding the show, the BBC has yet to release the findings from its investigation into claims Giovanni Pernice was "abusive" to celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington, accusations which he firmly denies.

Ahead of the show's launch, Craig expressed his hopes that the quality of the programme would remain high despite the introduction of chaperones for rehearsals.

Discussing strictness in training, he said: "I hope that wouldn't happen. I think you do have to be strict - can you imagine an Olympian getting gold without his or her trainer not being strict? I think you've still got to be strict, and there'll be chaperones in there if anything untoward is to happen."

As Strictly celebrates its 20th anniversary, Craig also predicted this season might carry more sentimentality. He revealed his anticipation for the excitement surrounding the series to settle down with the commencement of the weekend shows.

In conversation with Bella magazine, Craig remarked: "After the investigation when we find out the truth, I just want to know what is going on and until that happens, everything is speculation. I don't want that to ruin everybody's enjoyment of what is a fantastic format that has gone to 63 countries worldwide and never failed."

Following issues surrounding the conduct of two former professional dancers, the BBC confirmed in July that production staff members would monitor all future rehearsals. The BBC has bolstered its commitment to participant welfare on Strictly by appointing two new dedicated welfare producers among other enhanced measures.

The corporation explained in a statement: "The BBC is announcing additional steps to strengthen welfare and support on Strictly Come Dancing. Concerns that have arisen in recent months have been fundamentally about training and rehearsals. The actions we announce are designed to address that."

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