Craig Revel Horwood has come to the defence of Strictly Come Dancing's new presenting team after an initial backlash from viewers.
The longtime judge praised Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, who have taken over hosting duties from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Horwood spoke to The Sun after returning for his 24th series of the BBC dance competition last month.
Since Daly's departure, he has become the only member of the show's on-screen team to have been involved since its launch.
Horwood Compares New Lineup to a New Family Member
Reflecting on the transition, Horwood compared the arrival of the new presenters to welcoming someone into a family.
He suggested that establishing comfortable working relationships takes time.
"As a new team, as we're all aware, it's like having a new family member," Horwood told The Sun.
"You know… you're just meeting, and the first Christmas together with the daughter's new husband could be awkward."
He emphasised the importance of building connections among the presenters and expressed confidence in their performance.
"It's about building relationships," he continued, insisting that, "in my opinion" the team is doing "a really, really good job" and that "from this level they'll just fly".
Horwood also singled out Emma Willis for praise, highlighting her experience and natural presenting style.
Willis, a former Big Brother presenter, is part of the new trio leading the programme.
"She knows exactly what she's doing. She's very natural," Horwood said of Willis.
The judge also praised comedian Josh Widdicombe, describing his spontaneous humour as a strength.
He predicted that Widdicombe's personality would become increasingly apparent as he settles into the role.
"I know that he will come into his own. He's absolutely hilarious when he gets going," Horwood observed.
Horwood also highlighted Johannes Radebe's experience as a professional dancer on the competition.
He said Radebe's familiarity with the show's process brings an additional quality to the presenting team.
Strictly Come Dancing is scheduled to continue on Saturday night at 6:15 p. m.
on BBC One.
Willis, Widdicombe and Radebe are serving as the new presenting team following the departures of Daly and Winkleman.
