Zoe Ball has revealed that she was rejected for the Strictly Come Dancing hosting role and is now “grieving the rejection.” After Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced they would be stepping down, a number of celebrities were tipped for the coveted role, and Zoe, who previously hosted the Strictly spin-off It Takes Two, was one of the names in the running.
However, Zoe admitted that she “didn’t get it” and is still working through the “seven stages of grief.” Despite the setback, Zoe remained gracious, saying she was “thrilled” for the new hosts and believes the BBC made the “right decision.”
On her Dig It podcast with Jo Whiley, Zoe reflected on the journey, saying: “I didn’t get it, but it’s OK. I’ve worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection over the last couple of days. If the person who got it is who I think, then we’re in safe hands.”
Zoe, 55, explained how honored she was just to be considered, calling it a “fun time” to be involved in the process. “There were amazing people who didn’t even make it into the mix,” she added.
Despite the disappointment, Zoe emphasized her support for the new team, insisting that the decision was the right one. “I’m so thrilled for the gang that has got it. We’re going to have fabulous new hosts.”
While Zoe may not have landed the role, other big names like Emma Willis are reportedly set to join the show, with Emma impressing during the chemistry tests and securing her place as one of the new hosts.
A source revealed that Emma, 50, “nailed the chemistry tests,” and BBC bosses see her as a “safe pair of hands” for the role. Emma’s popularity and suitability for the job were clear, and she is reportedly thrilled to have been offered the opportunity.
The announcement of the new hosts comes after a period of intense speculation and multiple rounds of auditions, with a number of familiar faces, including Rylan Clark and Tom Allen, also considered.
Although Zoe may not have gotten the gig, she is staying positive and proud of the opportunity to have been involved. “I was so chuffed to even be in the mix,” she said.
In the meantime, Strictly Come Dancing fans can expect new faces, including a revamped lineup of professional dancers for the upcoming series. The BBC is keeping tight-lipped on some of the biggest reveals, but fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement.
Source: From Daily Mail – https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
