Strictly Come Dancing announces new hosts and format changes for 2026 series

The BBC has released a trailer for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, marking a significant era of change for the flagship entertainment program. The new hosting lineup features Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and former professional Johannes Radebe, who replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

A major format change has been introduced: for the first time, celebrity contestants will discover their professional dance partners live in front of a studio audience through three specially choreographed group routines. The launch show is scheduled to air on Saturday, September 19, on BBC One and iPlayer.

The new series also welcomes five new professional dancers: Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby, and Mark Karmalita. The celebrity lineup includes Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Jaime Winstone, Bethany Antonia, and Shaun Wright-Phillips. The judging panel remains unchanged with Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke.