Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood (Image: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has shared his retirement plans after hitting a significant personal milestone. Despite earlier intentions to step back from work, he says he’s “feeling great”.

The BBC One dance show veteran, who has been with the programme since its launch in 2004, is currently back on the judging panel for the 2025 series. With hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman both reportedly set to leave at the end of this series, speculation surrounding the show’s future has heightened.

Craig, who celebrated his 60th birthday in January, had previously suggested he hoped to retire by 50, with a backup plan of stepping away at 60. However, those plans have now been put on hold.

Speaking to The Mirror, he said: “When I was 25, I took out my pension and began paying in £136 a month. I have been paying that ever since.

“I once said I would like to retire at 50 and to be able to afford a bottle of champagne every day. But that didn’t work out. Then I thought, well maybe I will retire at 60.”, reports the Manchester Evening News, reports Wales Online.

The Strictly judges in action (Image: PA)

He added: “But now I’ve just bought a new house and gutted it – and everything is so expensive. So I don’t think retirement is on the cards for me just yet.”

The judge, who was recently unveiled as Sofology’s ambassador and Head of Fusstomer Experiences, revealed that turning 60 hasn’t bothered him whatsoever.

“I always forget until someone reminds me – like Anton du Beke likes to do live on telly,” the dancer and choreographer said.

“I’m feeling great at 60. I remember when I was 30 and thought 60 year olds were ancient, but I don’t feel ancient. I also remember people saying you’re only as old as you feel and actually it is true. I’m still performing, and choreographing 18,19, 20 year olds.

“It keeps me relevant and in a young mindset because I’m conversing with them, working with them, having a laugh with them – part of the team, the group, the clan. It keeps me up to date too with how young people speak – I know all the lingo.”

Craig has been part of the Strictly judging panel for more than two decades, establishing him as the programme’s most enduring judge. “Strictly celebrates an older dancer and I think that’s great,” he said.

“In fact, it celebrates everyone, and I think that’s so important. So many press want to bring it down and I don’t understand why. It’s upsetting.