The BBC has announced that Emma Willis, 50, Josh Widdicombe, 43, and Johannes Radebe, 39, are the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, stepping in to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman following their departure last year. The announcement came via Strictly’s official Instagram page, with the trio appearing together in a celebratory video.
Emma expressed her excitement and humility, noting the challenge of filling the shoes of the iconic former hosts. “It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind,” she said. “I can only hope we are able to help steer the ship as beautifully as they have.” Emma also promised fans she is eager to work with Josh and Johannes and the judges for the upcoming series.
Josh, who competed on the 2024 Christmas special of the show, described the opportunity as a career highlight. “Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin remains my career high point,” he joked, adding that he is honoured and excited to step into the presenting role alongside Emma and Johannes.
Johannes Radebe, who has been a professional dancer on Strictly since 2018, called the opportunity “beyond anything I ever imagined,” praising the show’s long-standing focus on joy and togetherness. He will take on presenting duties for the first time, including a roving reporter role while participating in group dances.
The trio were selected after a rigorous audition process, which saw other high-profile presenters like Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, and Angela Scanlon considered for the roles. Emma was the first to be signed by BBC bosses, followed by Josh, who emerged as a surprise favourite, and Johannes, chosen for his popularity and fan-favourite status.
Fans can expect to see returning professional dancers including Dianne Buswell, Nancy Xu, Vito Coppola, and many more, while some previous professionals like Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez will not be returning this year. The judging panel remains Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton du Beke.
With this new hosting team, Strictly Come Dancing enters a new chapter, blending familiar faces with fresh energy to continue the legacy of the beloved dance competition.
Source: https://www.dailymail.com/tvshowbiz/article-15831169/Emma-Willis-Josh-Widdicombe-Johannes-Radebe-confirmed-new-Strictly-Come-Dancing-hosts-replace-Tess-Daly-Claudia-Winkleman-BBC-show.html
