Craig Revel Horwood would love to see Nicole Scherzinger replace Dame Darcey Bussell on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 54-year-old choreographer thinks the former Pussycat Dolls star – who previously appeared on ‘The X Factor’ panel – would be a "fabulous" addition and would love to see her join himself, head judge Shirley Ballas and Bruno Tonioli on the BBC One ballroom and Latin show’s panel, after the retired ballerina announced she has quit the programme.
However, he also said he’s keen on the idea of Carlos Acosta, who bosses are said to be lining up for the job, taking over from Darcey.
Speaking to Australia’s TV Week magazine, he said: "She’d (Nicole) be fabulous.
And Anton du Beke definitely wants to do it. I’d love to see Nicole, or Carlos [Acosta]."
However, he admitted that he’s always "the last" to be told anything on the programme.
He added: "But nobody has actually expressed anything to me. And I’m generally the last to find out!"
Craig says it wouldn’t matter if the new judge "doesn’t get on with him", because a "difference of opinion" is "rather good".
He said: "No, of course not! But it doesn’t matter if I don’t get on with them.
"The difference of opinion is rather good, generally. For me it’s of no concern. I just hope they choose the right person and they know what they’re talking about."
Craig revealing his preferences for his new colleague come after it was reported that Strictly’s head honchos are considering Cuban dancer Carlos – who has performed with Darcey before – for the position.
An insider said: "Carlos is a huge name in the dance world and has been on Strictly’s radar for a long time.
"Shirley Ballas’ popularity as head judge proves that audiences love genuine experts, even if they’re not a household name yet."
But bosses might have to fork out a rumoured £400,000 – around £150,000 more than the other judges receive – for Carlos’ services.
The insider added:"Carlos is a vibrant character, full of energy, with vast experience in his field. He ticks all the boxes and has the backing of influential producers.
"If ‘Strictly’ can strike a deal, it would be an exciting prospect."
Carlos has previously performed in Royal Ballet productions of ‘Swan Lake’, ‘Giselle’ and ‘The Nutcracker’.
Craig Revel Horwood tips Nicole Scherzinger to replace Darcey Bussell
