Trending 20th May 2026 by Jade Hayden
Get To Know The New Strictly Come Dancing Hosts
No, it's not Rylan
Well, it’s official – we finally have our new Strictly Come Dancing hosts.
After months of speculation, confusion, and deep hope that it would, in fact, be Maura Higgins, BBC have confirmed that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe will be taking on the roles.
This is the first time that a trio have taken on presenting duties, following news of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s departure earlier this year.
The news was announced on the BBC’s social media alongside a video of Emma and Johannes telling Josh to get out from behind the camera and join them.
Strictly will return to screens later this autumn, but before then let’s get to know the new hosts.
Emma Willis
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Probably the most recognisable name on the list, Emma Willis is best known for hosting Big Brother, and for presenting social media competition The Circle.
She has also hosted The Voice, I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here Now, and Love Is Blind UK alongside husband Matt Willis.
Announcing the news, she said: “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.
Josh Widdicombe
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A comedian and podcaster, Josh Widdicombe is a previous Strictly contestant himself having appeared on the Christmas special back in 2024.
He has appeared on popular comedy and panel shows like Taskmaster, Mock The Week, Have I Got News For You and 8 Out of 10 Cats, and hosts podcast Parenting Hell alongside fellow comedian Rob Beckett.
He said he is “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.”
Johannes Radebe
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A former Strictly pro dancer, Johannes first appeared on the South African version of the show before joining the UK cast in 2018.
His former partners include Ellie Taylor, Alex Kingston and John Whaite, and he came second in the show a few years back.
Johannes said taking on the role of host “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.”
Rylan Clarke
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Rylan first came to prominence back in… – just kidding, Rylan unfortunately will not be taking on hosting duties, although he has confirmed that he was in the running for the gig.
He joked that he was “taking the news well,” alongside a meme of himself crying during The X Factor.
“This wasn’t my time sadly but I’m extremely grateful to even have been considered,” he said. “Genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three.”
