Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe have been confirmed as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
In October 2025, Daly and Winkleman delivered the shocking news that they would be leaving their roles as hosts of the BBC’s flagship entertainment programme, saying it “felt like the right time”.
Since 2014, Tess and Claudia have hosted the show together, with Tess at the helm since Strictly’s inception in 2004 and Claudia making the move from It Takes Two to the main results show in 2010, before taking on full weekend duties following Sir Bruce Forsyth’s departure.
Ever since their announcement, rumours have been flying as to who might step into the breach – and the BBC has finally confirmed just who will be joining the programme in their place.
Now we know a trio is taking over – and they’ve been rumoured for days.
Kate Phillips, the BBC’s chief content officer, said: “Emma, Johannes and Josh’s chemistry is undeniable. There’s been so much speculation and hype, so I’m relieved we can share the news with the public at last!
“I’d like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision. But the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle.
“Along with our amazing Strictly team, who are busy planning fabulous and unforgettable treats for this new series, I know this terrific trio can’t wait to join our judges and pros to bring us must-see TV on the BBC this autumn.”
Meanwhile, The Voice and former Big Brother presenter Emma Willis added: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
“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. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.
“I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”
Strictly professional favourite Johannes Radebe noted: “To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward.
“To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all… please bear with me. Love Jojo.”
Finally, comedian Josh Widdicombe added: “Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television.
“I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume.”
Later this year, the trio will head out onto the Strictly dancefloor for the first time, followed by the annual Christmas special.
Details on which celebrities will try their hand at becoming the next Strictly Come Dancing champion are yet to be unveiled, but we expect official confirmation in the summer of 2026.
Want to see this content?
This page contains content provided by Google reCAPTCHA. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Google reCAPTCHA may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose ‘Accept and continue’ to allow Google reCAPTCHA and its required purposes.
Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on catch-up on BBC iPlayer.
Add Strictly Come Dancing to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
