'Strictly' Stars Support Alesha

1 month ago 22nd Sep 13:00

'Strictly Come Dancing' alumni have rallied support for new judge Alesha Dixon.

Panellist Craig Revel Horwood and professional dancer Camilla Dallerup - who starred in six series of the ballroom dancing reality show - have both spoke out in favour of Alesha, after a backlash to her debut appearance on the show last weekend, which prompted 272 complaints to the BBC, who make the programme.

Craig - renowned for his acid tongued comments on the show - said: "This is just horrendous. I don't think she deserves it.

"To be able to form constructive criticism in 10 seconds is not an easy thing to do. Alesha has a lot to say. I am really passionate about this. We have got to give her a chance."

She is a great dancer and she entertained us when she won. She has a bubbly personality and she holds her own with the judges.

The BBC was criticised for its decision to replace dance choreographer judge Arlene Philips with Alesha - who won the show in 2007 as a contestant - as she had no other professional dance experience.

Camilla, however, thinks Alesha, 30, fits into the judging panel.

She told Britain's New magazine: "She is a great dancer and she entertained us when she won. She has a bubbly personality and she holds her own with the judges."

Alesha has herself dismissed her critics, saying she can bring a fresh perspective to the show that none of the other judges have

She said: "Having competed on the show, I'm the only judge who understands what the celebrity dancers are going through.

"It's not like I have just been picked off the street to judge a dancing show. The important thing to remember is that I do know what I am talking about."