The BBC has announced a significant shake-up for Strictly Come Dancing,naming Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe as the show's new hosting trio beginning in September 2026. The trio will replace long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who have anchored the competition since its launch in 2004. According to the source, the decision followed what the BBC described as a rigorous audition process.

Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe's 'off the charts' chemistry sealed the deal

Head judge Shirley Ballas has publicly endorsed the pairing, citing the chemistry between Willis and Widdicombe as the deciding factor. "Their chemistry was off the charts," Ballas told The Mirror,adding that the pair "had chemistry beyond chemistry." Willis, 50, brings television experience from her work on shows including The Voice and Big Brother, while Widdicombe, 43, is a comedian and broadcaster best known for his work on panel shows and podcasts.. As the source reports, Ballas said she "wasn't too familiar" with Widdicombe before the selection process and only spoke to him properly on Good Morning Britain this week.

Johannes Radebe shifts from dancer to roving reporter

Johannes Radebe, 39, will join the hosting team in a hybrid role—he will serve as a roving reporter rather than as a competing professional dancer. According to the source, Radebe will not have a celebrity partner this year but will participate in group dances. The professional dancer has become a fan favourite on the show due to his flamboyant routines and outgoing personality. He is currently starring in Kinky Boots on London's West End stage, which will run alongside his hosting duties.

A departure from 18 years of continuity

The move marks a significant break from the show's hosting tradition. Tess Daly, 57, and Claudia Winkleman, 54, have been the public face of Strictly since 2004, building a partnership that became synonymous with the programme. In the official announcement video posted to Strictly's Instagram on Tuesday, Willis acknowledged the weight of the transition, saying: "It's impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long." The source does not provide details on why Daly and Winkleman are stepping down or whether the decision was voluntary.

Widdicombe's surprise selection over higher-profile contenders

Widdicombe's appointment represents a notable choice given the field of candidates reportedly considered for the role. according to the source, high-profile names including Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, and Angela Scanlon were in the running to land one of the hosting positions.. Widdicombe's only prior Strictly appearance was on the 2024 Christmas Special, where he danced as a penguin alongside professional dancer Karen Hauer—who, as the source notes, will not be returning for the upcoming series.. The decision to elevate a comedian with limited show experience over established television personalities suggests the BBC prioritized on-screen chemistry and fresh energy over established Strictly credentials.