Josh Widdicombe, 43, has reportedly become the surprise favourite to take the helm of Strictly Come Dancing after wowing BBC bosses with his quick wit and deadpan humour. If he lands the role, Josh would be the first male host since Sir Bruce Forsyth, a pair of shoes that could be tough to fill.
Bruce Forsyth, who passed away in 2017, presented the show with Tess Daly until his retirement in 2013, after which Claudia Winkleman took over. Now, with Tess and Claudia stepping down from hosting duties, a number of names have been thrown into the mix to replace them.
Josh, no stranger to Strictly, appeared on the 2024 Christmas Special, where he danced alongside professional Karen Hauer. His performance, along with his natural charm, impressed the producers, making him a top contender for the coveted position.
A source revealed, “Josh blew the producers away with his deadpan, witty banter. He’s family-friendly, has hosted several shows, and absolutely loves Strictly.”
BBC bosses are said to believe Josh could take the show into a new era, bringing fresh energy while also respecting the legacy of the show. While not yet a household name, this opportunity could significantly elevate Josh’s career, as he steps into the shoes of TV legends.
The auditions for the role have been kept tightly under wraps, with several celebrities—including Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, and Alex Jones—competing in secret dress rehearsals. A source said, “It’s not just about reading the autocue; it’s about chemistry, energy, and humour. The audience needs someone who can keep the energy up live on air.”
In an exciting twist, Josh could be joined by other stars, including Rylan and Tom Allen, if they pair well together. The BBC is exploring different possibilities, including the idea of mixing up the hosting duo with a third presenter to keep things fresh.
The 2026 series of Strictly is shaping up to be an exciting one, with returning professional dancers like Dianne Buswell, Vito Coppola, and Katya Jones, alongside new talent yet to be announced. The drama surrounding the hosting shake-up has only added to the anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting the big reveal.
The final decision on the new host is expected soon, and fans can’t wait to see who will join the Strictly family in 2026!
