Strictly Come Dancing boss offers verdict as new hosts unite ahead of making BBC show debut
The Strictly Come Dancing boss has offered her verdict as the show's new hosting trio united ahead of their September 2026 debut. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe will take over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down at the end of the 2025 series after long-running roles presenting the Saturday night BBC entertainment favourite.
Kate Phillips, the BBC's chief content officer, said of the new hosts that "their chemistry is undeniable" when their appointment was announced in May. Executive Producer Sarah James has now publicly praised the trio after seeing them bond away from the ballroom.
Emma, her husband Matt Willis, and Josh recently attended a performance of Kinky Boots at the West End to support Johannes, who plays drag queen Lola in the hit musical. Josh shared pictures on Instagram, writing "Incredible evening watching johannesradebe absolutely smash the West End in Kinky Boots Emma and I a bit too in love with him in the second pic." Sarah James replied "Love this so much" with a heart emoji.
Fans were delighted to see their new Strictly hosts coming together. One viewer commented "Such an amazing performance" while another added "Looking forward to seeing the 3 of you on Strictly." However, some fans expressed division about the new lineup, with one theorising "I'm so sorry but even this photo backs up my theory that it'll just be Emma + Johannes after 1 series."
The announcement comes after significant changes to Strictly ahead of the 2026 series. Professional dancers Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas will not be returning. Johannes, who initially joined Strictly in 2018, will now present alongside the former host and comedian.
The shake-up has extended to other roles, with Janette Manrara confirming she has left the series after 13 years. "Strictly Come Dancing has changed hugely and I am no longer a part of It Takes Two or the main show," she stated.