Craig Revel Horwood has revealed that he spoke to Ann Widdecombe just six days before her death, sharing an emotional account of their final exchange and the friendship they developed after her memorable Strictly Come Dancing appearance.
The Strictly Come Dancing judge said Widdecombe had contacted him about taking part in a charity event after she became unable to attend herself.
Horwood told the Daily Mirror that he agreed to step in and later received an enthusiastic message from Widdecombe.
He said the exchange proved to be the last contact he had with the former politician, who died at her Devon home in July aged 78. ([The Standard][1])
Craig Revel Horwood Recalls Ann Widdecombe’s Final Message
Horwood said Widdecombe had asked him to become a guest speaker at one of her charity events, scheduled for October.
According to the dancer and choreographer, she reacted enthusiastically when he agreed to help.
He recalled that her final message became increasingly animated, ending with several versions of the word “Yippee”.
For Horwood, that cheerful exchange has remained particularly poignant because it was the last communication he had with his former Strictly colleague and friend. ([The Standard][1])
The judge has now said he intends to honour the commitment and dedicate the charity appearance to Widdecombe.
Ann Widdecombe and Craig Revel Horwood Became Friends
Many viewers will remember Widdecombe from Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, when she competed in the eighth series alongside professional dancer Anton Du Beke.
Her performances became one of the memorable storylines of that series, while her relationship with the judging panel frequently produced entertaining exchanges.
Horwood said Widdecombe was brave enough to appear on the programme and challenge him, but their relationship eventually developed beyond the dance floor.
He explained that they subsequently worked together for around three years and became good friends. ([The Standard][1])
Ann Widdecombe’s Strictly Come Dancing Journey
Widdecombe entered Strictly after her long career in politics and quickly became a familiar face to the show’s audience.
Partnered with Anton Du Beke, she reached the quarter-finals despite receiving some tough assessments from the judges.
Her time on the BBC dance programme helped introduce her to viewers in a different setting from Westminster and political life.
The experience also created friendships that continued long after she left the competition.
Horwood’s latest comments highlight how that connection remained important to both of them years later.
Craig Revel Horwood Pays Tribute to Ann Widdecombe
Reflecting on their friendship, Horwood described Widdecombe as an “amazing human being” and praised her courage.
He said the pair remained in contact until shortly before her death.
The Strictly judge also expressed his sadness at what happened, describing her death as a terrible event.
His comments add to tributes from people who knew Widdecombe through television, theatre, politics and charity work.
What Happened to Ann Widdecombe?
Ann Widdecombe died on July 8, 2026, aged 78, at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon.
Police later opened a murder investigation after serious injuries were discovered.
Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was charged with her murder on July 20. The charge is an allegation and has not been proved in court. ([The Standard][1])
Around 100 family members, friends and colleagues attended Widdecombe’s funeral at Buckfast Abbey in Devon last month.
The circumstances of her death have since formed part of an ongoing criminal case.
Ann Widdecombe’s Legacy Beyond Politics
Widdecombe became widely known through her political career, television appearances and later work in entertainment.
She served as a Conservative MP for many years before becoming a familiar television personality.
Her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing introduced her to a different audience and became one of the most discussed chapters of her later public life.
She also appeared on other television programmes and remained active in public life after leaving Parliament.
Her friendship with Horwood illustrates how her Strictly experience continued to influence her relationships years after the programme ended.
Craig Revel Horwood Will Honour His Promise
Despite the sadness surrounding their final conversation, Horwood said he intends to keep his promise to Widdecombe.
The charity event she had planned to attend is due to take place in October, and Horwood plans to participate as originally agreed.
He said he will dedicate his appearance to Widdecombe, turning a final professional commitment between the pair into a tribute to their friendship. ([The Standard][1])
Craig Revel Horwood and Ann Widdecombe’s Lasting Friendship
Craig Revel Horwood’s recollection offers a personal glimpse into his relationship with Ann Widdecombe away from the Strictly Come Dancing cameras.
Their relationship began with the BBC dance show but continued through later professional projects and personal contact.
His revelation that they spoke just six days before her death has added an emotional detail to the tributes surrounding Widdecombe.
For Horwood, their final exchange was filled with the enthusiasm that he remembers as characteristic of their friendship.
Now, by attending the October charity event she had asked him to support, the Strictly judge plans to fulfil one final promise to a woman who became far more than just a former contestant.
The source of this news is The Standard.