Strictly Come Dancing hosts discuss new format and pressures

New hosts for the BBC series Strictly Come Dancing are addressing the transition following the departure of long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The new hosting lineup includes Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe.

During an appearance on the spin-off show It Takes Two, comedian Josh Widdicombe described the role as “intense,” noting the emotional difficulty of participating in contestant eliminations. He also mentioned facing varied public reactions, including unexpected confrontations from viewers in public settings.

Ellie Taylor, who has taken over hosting duties for the spin-off It Takes Two from Janette Manrara and Fleur East, commented on the backlash regarding recent changes. Taylor noted that the show aims to engage more with social content and the “ridiculousness” of the competition, despite some viewer criticism regarding the composition of the interview panel.