Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood risks BBC rap after scathing verdicts of stars Nicola Adams and Bill Bailey

STRICTLY judge Craig Revel Horwood risks a reprimand for a gaffe apparently suggesting boxer Nicola Adams is unattractive — and claiming comedian Bill Bailey will be a “terrible” dancer.

The controversial star could be facing a rap from BBC bosses after publicly discussing the show’s contestants before the series has even begun.

Craig claimed former The Wanted singer Max George is going to shine but laid into Bill, 55, and said he was looking forward to judging his “disasters”.

Asked about Olympic champ Nicola, 37, who will be part of Strictly’s first same-sex pairing, he said: “I think Nicola Adams will be punching above her weight, darling.”

But that term is often used to describe a person who is less attractive than their partner.

Craig went on: “But I am looking forward to seeing a same sex couple. That’s going to be cool.”

Asked how Bill will perform, he added: “Terrible. I’m looking forward to the disasters!”

The choreographer then gave his backing to trained dancer Max, saying: “Oh yes, he’s going to be great.”

An insider said: “Craig always shoots from the hip, and won’t be kowtowed into diplomatic silence.

"On his cutting remarks on Nicola though, Craig wasn’t being misogynistic — he was simply referring to her dancing as she has openly said she’s not a natural mover.

“Obviously at this stage of the competition, he shouldn’t be saying who he thinks the best and worst dancers will be. He is supposed to be neutral — so this isn’t great.”

The outspoken judge made his remarks on a live chat with Mecca Bingo online.

When asked if he had any Glitterball favourites, he replied: “I would have a favourite if I'd seen them dance.

“I just need to see them walk down a set of stairs to music, then I can judge them. Some people can’t even do that.

“And that’s before they go on to the dance floor — and then it becomes a complete and utter disaster.”

Craig has come under fire for remarks before.

Last year, he had to apologise for claiming Stacey Dooley had slept her way to victory after getting together with dancer partner Kevin Clifton.

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