'Judgement doesn't hurt me - unless it's from Craig Revel Horwood'

A content creator and Strictly Come Dancing finalist has shared his advice to graduates, joking that judgement will not hurt them - unless it comes from Craig Revel Horwood.

George Clarke - known as "Clarkey" to millions of followers - received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts for his contribution to entertainment, digital media and the creative arts at Bath Spa University (BSU) earlier.

The 26-year-old from Bristol captivated audiences last year after he finished second in Strictly Come Dancing, despite having no experience as a dancer.

Speaking to graduates, Clarke said: "Once you test yourself once, each time afterwards it becomes easier. And suddenly you realise the judgement doesn't hurt, unless it's from Craig Revel Horwood, in which case you'll be bringing it up almost a year later at any possible public event."

Revel Horwood sparked a debate among the judging panel after Clarke performed the Rumba, which was dedicated to his mum following her cancer diagnosis.

Anton Du Beke praised the routine, while Revel Horwood disagreed and said it "wasn't great" and "it wasn't actually a Rumba".

"I'm supposed to be judging a Rumba but instead you danced a contemporary dance that belongs really in musical theatre," Revel Horwood said.

He added the story was "absolutely magnificent", but it was not enough to win his vote.

A ceremony to honour Clarke and 1,500 BSU graduates was held at the Forum in Bath earlier.

In his acceptance speech, Clarke said: "I'd like to firstly thank Bath Spa University for the immense privilege of being given this honorary doctorate.

"I'd also like to congratulate everyone today on receiving their real-life degrees."

Clarke quickly established his presence online in 2019, while he studied for a degree in Sports and Exercise Science at the University of Exeter.

Over the years, he has built up a social media following, collaborated with global brands, co-hosted the hit podcast The Useless Hotline and toured across the UK and Australia.

Clarke was also appointed as an ambassador for charity Encephalitis International, following his mother's previous diagnosis.

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