Strictly's Craig apologises for 5-year-old insult he made about co-star

Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood apologises to Anton Du Beke

Strictly Come Dancing star Craig Revel Horwood was left “speechless” after a blunder when judging an Anton Du Beke performance.

BBC fans took a trip down memory lane this evening with Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Fabulous Years, celebrating two decades of the iconic dancing show.

Presented by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the one-off special saw professional dancers, celebrities and the judges, past and present, talk about their experiences and fondest memories of the show.

Included were an abundance of clips from the past 20 years but one that particularly stood out occurred just five years ago following a performance from EastEnders’ Emma Barton and Anton Du Beke.

Their Austin Powers-themed salsa was being critiqued by the judges when it came to Craig Revel Horwood’s turn to speak but he quickly made a social faux pas.

Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood apologises to for 5-year-old insult that left judge 'speechless'. (Image: BBC)

Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood thought Anton Du Beke was wearing fake teeth during a routine. (Image: BBC)

In the clip, Craig told Anton: “I slightly was distracted with the wig I have to say and the fake teeth that you have in.”

Back to the present day, sat with Claudia and Tess, the former gasped thinking about the moment as the blonde host said: “Oh my goodness, that was such a moment.”

Craig labelled the incident as “teeth gate” with him and Anton laughing as the latter exclaimed: “I can’t believe you thought they were false teeth.”

Returning back to the infamous clip, a younger Craig looks shocked as he asks his fellow judges: “They’re not fake?”

Shirley Ballas states: “They’re not fake teeth, they’re his own teeth”, as Bruno Tonioli shouts: “They’re his real teeth!”

Anton’s partner Emma commented: “Slightly embarrassing”, with a taken aback Craig saying: “I’m sorry Anton”.

Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood was 'speechless' after he had accidentally insulted Anton Du Beke. (Image: BBC) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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Talking about the clip, Anton said: “That is literally the first time I’d ever seen you speechless.”

Tess stated that she had “never laughed that hard on live television”, before Craig had something to say to his fellow judge.

He said: “Well I can only apologise. I’m giving my sincere apologies so that everyone knows at home -”

Anton then interrupted to tease: “That you have softened. You have changed.”

Craig continued: “That I’m very sorry”, as the pair continued to laugh looking back at the unforgettable moment.

Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.