Craig Revel Horwood has described the murder of former politician Ann Widdecombe as 'undeniably cruel' as authorities continue their search for a suspect.
Widdecombe's body was reportedly discovered on Saturday, approximately 24 hours after she is believed to have been attacked at her Dartmoor bungalow. The incident is thought to have occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Revel Horwood, who worked with Widdecombe on theatre tours and other projects after her 2010 stint on "Strictly Come Dancing," shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. He described her as "warm, wickedly funny, deeply intelligent, and a genuinely joyous presence." He added that beneath her "formidable public persona" was a "kind and generous spirit."
"What happened to her is unimaginably cruel. No one deserves such a horrific end. Rest in peace, darling Ann. You will be greatly missed," Revel Horwood wrote.
Devon and Cornwall Police announced on Saturday that they are still seeking a suspect, described as a white male. A 26-year-old white British man, who was arrested on Friday, has since been released without charge and is no longer part of the investigation. Detectives stated the case is progressing rapidly, with their priority being to identify those responsible for Widdecombe's death.
New details emerged about Widdecombe's final hours, indicating that an alarm was raised after she failed to appear on Channel 5's "Matt Allwright" show at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.
Fellow "Strictly" contestant Anton Du Beke expressed his devastation, recalling their time on the show in 2010. He stated on Instagram that Widdecombe had become a "real friend" and that they had "an incredible time together."
Widdecombe's death at age 78 was initially announced by her agent on Friday morning, with no immediate indication of foul play. However, by Friday afternoon, Devon and Cornwall Police had launched a murder inquiry, hunting for a suspect believed to be a white male.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman confirmed the arrest of a 26-year-old man. He also stated that there was no information to suggest the murder was politically motivated or terror-related.
Tributes from public figures flooded social media following the news. Piers Morgan remembered Widdecombe as a "charismatic, combative gem," noting her "no-nonsense, straight-talking, highly-opinionated" public persona and a "heart of gold off air."
Martin Frizell, former editor of GMTV, recalled Widdecombe's appearances on television, stating, "Agree or disagree with her politics, Ann Widdecombe had a sense of fun that more politicians could do with."
Jeremy Vine, who worked with Widdecombe on his Channel 5 show, described her as "one of the most extraordinary politicians of the age," praising her principles and sense of humor.
Amanda Barrie, who appeared with Widdecombe on "Celebrity Big Brother," acknowledged their opposing views but said she "adored her," describing her as a "really kind person" beneath a "big bulldog frontage."
Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP, was known for her strong stances on social issues and a zero-tolerance approach to drugs. She gained further public recognition through her appearances on "Strictly Come Dancing," "Celebrity Big Brother," and pantomime performances, including one alongside Craig Revel Horwood.
She remained a public commentator, writing opinion columns, and was recently seen supporting Reform leader Nigel Farage. Widdecombe never married and had no children.