The BBC has officially announced Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe as the new hosts of *Strictly Come Dancing*, the iconic UK dance competition set to return for its 24th series this autumn. The trio will replace long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, whose departure in June 2025 sparked widespread speculation and media coverage. Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, highlighted the “undeniable chemistry” of the new hosts, calling the announcement a “relief” after months of anticipation. “The most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first, we’ve chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle,” she said, emphasizing the network’s commitment to the show’s legacy.
Radebe, a veteran professional dancer with seven series under his belt, will transition from the dance floor to the spotlight, while Willis—known for her work on *The Voice* and *Big Brother*—brings a wealth of competition show experience. Widdicombe, a comedian and 2024 Christmas Special participant, joked about reviving his “penguin costume” for the role, citing the Charleston dance as a career highlight. “I’m giddy with excitement, honoured, and a little overawed to step into the biggest shoes in television,” he said, adding that he’s “ready—sequins, nerves, and all.”
The departure of Daly and Winkleman, who had anchored the show since 2014, came as a surprise. The pair’s joint Instagram post about their exit preceded the BBC’s official press release, leaving fans and industry insiders scrambling to process the change. Both received MBEs in June 2025 for their contributions to broadcasting, but their exit follows years of scrutiny over the show’s management and public perception.
The Shadow of Scandals
Strictly’s legacy has been increasingly clouded by controversy in recent years. Ahead of its 2025 series, the BBC launched an investigation into alleged cocaine use by two stars, a claim that led to arrests in August and October 2025. One individual, an unnamed man in his 30s, was detained for both rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse, though the BBC clarified he was not involved in the 2025 series. The second arrest in October resulted in no charges due to insufficient evidence. These incidents fueled debates about the show’s culture and safety protocols.
Contestant Thomas Skinner, the first to leave the 2025 series, also accused the show of vote rigging. He claimed an anonymous email from a “BBC exec” showed he received more votes than appeared, a claim the network denies. While Skinner initially threatened legal action, the BBC stated it was unaware of any formal complaint. These controversies have added pressure on the new hosts to rebuild public trust.
A New Era for Strictly?
The appointment of Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe marks a bold shift in the show’s dynamic. Radebe’s dual role as a former dancer and new host could bridge the gap between the competition’s technical and entertainment aspects, while Widdicombe’s comedic flair and Willis’s seasoned hosting style aim to modernize the format. Their backgrounds reflect the BBC’s effort to balance tradition with fresh perspectives, though the challenge of managing the show’s fractured reputation looms large.
