A Traumatic Childhood and the Power of Dance
Craig Revel Horwood, a well-known judge on Strictly, has shared his deeply personal story about growing up in a household marked by alcoholism and abuse. At 60 years old, he reflects on his childhood in Australia, where he faced challenges that shaped his life in profound ways.
Growing up with an alcoholic father, Craig described his early years as “just awful.” His father, Philip, struggled with alcohol addiction, which had a devastating impact on their family. The situation escalated to a point where Craig’s father even attempted to shoot his mother and brother-in-law, leading to his imprisonment. This turbulent environment pushed Craig to seek solace in dance, which became his escape from the chaos at home.
“I started dancing not only because I was porky, but because I just couldn’t stand being at home,” Craig explained. His passion for dance led him to explore various styles, including jazz ballet, classical ballet, tap, and modern. This love for movement eventually opened doors for him, leading to a role in an Australian production of West Side Story when he was just 17.
From Abuse to Success
Craig’s journey into the world of dance was not just a career move but also a way to cope with the emotional trauma of his past. He admitted that during his childhood, the abuse was so severe that he feared for his life. “I thought I’d be killed. It was real, proper abuse,” he recalled. This fear was compounded by his father’s history of drinking, which worsened after he left the navy.
Despite the challenges, Craig found strength in his art. He joined Strictly when it first launched in 2004, and although he initially doubted the show’s success, it became a massive hit. His experience on the show has allowed him to connect with others and share his story, shedding light on the struggles many face with alcoholism and abuse.
A Complex Relationship with His Father
Craig’s relationship with his father was complex, marked by both pain and a desire for understanding. After his father’s death in December 2015, the toxicology report revealed alarming levels of alcohol in his system. Craig reflected on this loss, stating, “I made the decision that I was going to learn to love him and also love who he could have been.”
His father, a former Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant, passed away at the age of 74. Craig has since spoken about how his father “drank himself to death” and had a blood alcohol level of 400mg per litre at the time of his death. This tragic end highlights the dangers of alcoholism and the long-lasting impact it can have on families.
The Impact of Secrets and Silence
Throughout his childhood, Craig kept the abuse and his father’s drinking a secret. He explained that he never confided in anyone about what he experienced. “No, I kept his drinking a secret,” he said. This silence was a coping mechanism, but it also added to the emotional burden he carried.
Craig recounted that among the five children in the family, the eldest three were abused. They were too scared to bring people home from school, fearing the consequences of their father’s outbursts. This sense of fear and isolation was a significant part of his upbringing.
Reflections and Future Directions
Craig’s experiences have shaped not only his personal life but also his professional journey. He has become an advocate for awareness around alcoholism and abuse, using his platform to speak out about these issues. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of art to heal.
As he continues to navigate his career, Craig remains committed to sharing his insights and supporting others who may be facing similar challenges. His journey from a traumatic childhood to a successful career in dance and television is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to overcome adversity.
