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[CULTURE] · United Kingdom · 4 sources

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Part of situation: Strictly Come Dancing 2026 format and host changes (19 clusters)

Emma Willis responds to Strictly Come Dancing hosting backlash

Strictly Come Dancing Emma Willis BBC television hosting audience backlash

New hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe have faced mixed reactions and criticism following their debut on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Viewers on social media have expressed dissatisfaction with the new three-host format, with some describing the transitions as awkward.

In response to the backlash, Emma Willis shared a series of behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram. Her post included the message, “You will get judged either way, so may as well pick the fun option,” which appeared to address the criticism. She also noted that she had “never had so much fun” during the first week.

Reports suggest behind-the-scenes tension is also present. An insider claimed that Willis feels the pressure of being the “safe pair of hands” in the new hierarchy, leading to potential friction as the new presenting team settles into their roles following the departure of long-term hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

Entities

BBC · Emma Willis · Johannes Radebe · Josh Widdicombe · Strictly Come Dancing

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

  • [● 2 SOURCES] Emma Willis stated she had never had so much fun after completing the first week of hosting. www.gbnews.com · www.huffingtonpost.co.uk
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Some viewers criticized the new three-host format of Strictly Come Dancing on social media. www.gbnews.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] An insider reported that Emma Willis feels she is carrying the show and is experiencing pressure due to the new hosting hierarchy. closeronline.co.uk
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Josh Widdicombe sarcastically commented on his podcast regarding how the internet handles change. www.huffingtonpost.co.uk
  • [● 2 SOURCES] Emma Willis posted a message on Instagram suggesting that since judgment is inevitable, one might as well choose the fun option. www.gbnews.com · www.huffingtonpost.co.uk

Sources

Strictly chaos is building — Emma Willis is already dreading what comes next [closeronline.co.uk]
Emma Willis fires back at being 'judged' over BBC Strictly role amid backlash to new-look trio [www.gbnews.com]
Strictly’s Motsi Mabuse slams fans for “tearing apart” new hosts in harsh critic [www.digitalspy.com]
Emma Willis Shares Veiled Message For Strictly Come Dancing Critics After First Live Show [www.huffingtonpost.co.uk]