Craig Revel Horwood, the renowned Strictly Come Dancing judge, recently opened up about the lasting impact of the abuse he suffered during his teenage years. This abuse led him to become “completely homophobic” and suppress his own sexuality. In an interview with The Guardian’s G2, Craig shared the pain he endured as a teenager and reflected on the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s.
Growing up in Australia in an abusive home, Craig faced slurs and derogatory comments from his classmates. He revealed that he was called names like “pansy” and “poofter,” compounding the trauma he experienced. Craig also spoke about the ignorance and fear surrounding the HIV/AIDS epidemic during that time, with the disease being stigmatized as “the gay plague.” He recounted the devastating loss of friends and the emotional toll it took on him.
Before finding his passion for dance and theater, Craig struggled with his own sexuality, which contributed to his homophobia. However, his introduction to the performing arts community changed his perspective. He found acceptance and support from older individuals in the theater world. This positive environment helped him overcome his homophobia and embrace his true self.
The HIV/AIDS epidemic, which began in 1981, continues to be a significant public health issue, with millions of lives lost and countless individuals affected. At the time, there was limited understanding of the disease, leading to widespread homophobia and discrimination. Craig witnessed the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS firsthand, with many young people losing their lives before they had the chance to truly live.
Reflecting on his own childhood, Craig admitted feeling like a social misfit and an outcast. He didn’t fit in with his peers, who were into sports, and instead turned to dance as an escape route. Dance became a place where he felt understood and accepted, providing him with a sense of belonging.
In addition, Craig shared his personal experience of marriage and how it ended due to infidelity. He explained that if his marriage had worked out, he could have envisioned a future with a woman and children. However, life took a different turn, and he now finds happiness with his horticulturist and trainee paramedic fiancé, Jonathan, whom he met on Tinder in 2018.
Craig’s story is a testament to the transformative power of acceptance and love. It highlights the importance of creating inclusive communities that support and embrace individuals of all sexual orientations. Through his journey, Craig has emerged as a role model, using his platform to advocate for understanding and compassion.
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