The dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing is set for a shake-up as comedian Josh Widdicombe, 43, has officially been confirmed as one of the show’s new hosts, joining Emma Willis and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, insiders have revealed to The Daily Mail.
Fans were stunned last week when Josh emerged as the shock favourite, impressing BBC bosses with his deadpan wit and infectious charm. Already familiar to viewers, he previously appeared on the 2024 Christmas Special dressed as a penguin, dancing alongside Karen Hauer—who will not return for the upcoming series.
Stepping into history, Josh becomes the first male host since Sir Bruce Forsyth, a towering figure who fronted the show alongside Tess Daly until 2013. Bosses hope Josh can channel that energy, providing comedy and warmth while Emma guides the series with her signature poise.
A BBC insider told The Daily Mail: “Josh blew producers away with his sharp, family-friendly humour. He loves Strictly, and he’s perfect to help the show enter a new era. His live TV experience makes him ideal for this challenge.”
Emma Willis, revealed last week as the frontrunner after a gruelling audition process, is expected to accept the role. Sources praised her chemistry on screen, calling her a “safe pair of hands” with a natural ability to connect with both contestants and viewers alike.
Meanwhile, Johannes Radebe, South African-born and a professional on the show since 2018, is reportedly joining the hosting team, adding a fresh, energetic dynamic. Insiders claim he excelled in chemistry tests, leaving both bosses and celebrity candidates impressed.
The BBC has kept details tight-lipped but confirmed: “Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be announced in due course.” Auditions reportedly featured nine shortlisted stars, including Rylan Clark, Tom Allen, and Alex Jones, who faced top-secret dress rehearsals watched by a judging panel and live band.
This year, the returning professional dancers include Dianne Buswell, Nancy Xu, Vito Coppola, Julian Caillon, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Amy Dowden, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Jowita Przystał, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Alexis Warr, and Kai. Meanwhile, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Luba Mushtuk will not return.
Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton du Beke will once again oversee the glittering chaos of the dance floor, as BBC bosses place their bets on a host trio capable of injecting humour, energy, and excitement into the iconic series.
Fans can expect a fresh, vibrant 24th series, blending nostalgia with bold new faces—a Strictly season that promises surprises, laughter, and the kind of chemistry only live TV can deliver.
