Strictly judge Shirley Ballas' five-word verdict on Craig Revel Horwood after heated clash

Shirley Ballas and Craig Revel Horwood are no strangers to the occasional fiery exchange when dishing out critiques on Strictly Come Dancing. Though the judges often disagree and engage in lively back-and-forths, Shirley has made it clear that their on-screen clashes don't impact their off-screen friendship. Speaking to Express.co.uk at the Pride of Britain Awards, head judge Shirley had nothing but praise for her co-star, saying "We get on very, very well. I was just chatting with him this afternoon. He's an amazing human being. Remember, it's TV - we love a little bit of banter on TV!"

Shirley also shared her thoughts on the show's new rule, which now sees a different judge cast the deciding vote in the dance-off when the result ends in a deadlock. "I like the change of format where I don't have to keep sending people home. I think Craig really enveloped himself in that this week. It was more his role. It always pulls at my heart strings to send anybody home," the 65-year-old said.

Although Shirley had hoped to save Chris Robshaw in last weekend's dance-off, the Queen of Latin acknowledged that the final decision rests with the designated judge and that it's important to respect the format.

"We're all looking for different things. Two wanted Balvinder and Anton and I wanted Chris. Craig had the final decision and we've got to respect that," she added.

Shirley and Craig clashed over George Clarke and Alexis Warr's performance in week three, where the pair danced their Couple's Choice routine to Soda Pop from K-Pop Demon Hunters.

Shirley praised the YouTuber's performance, branding it "synchronised to perfection" and "precise". She added: "You were flying like an angel. It was unbelievable."

While Anton Du Beke acknowledged that the 25-year-old is a "super good" dancer, he felt the first half of the routine was "a little reserved" and "lacked edge".

Tess Daly noted that Shirley was shaking her head before turning to Craig for his thoughts. "I think Anton Du Beke is actually right. It needed to be sharper," the 60-year-old said.

Addressing Shirley directly, Craig declared: "I don't agree with you. I think it was out of sync, a lot actually."

The head judge hit back: "From that end of the desk it might look one way but from this end of the desk, it looked bloody fabulous love." To which Craig snapped: "Shirley, you're wrong!"