Emma Willis has shared the touching six-word message she received from former Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after being announced as their replacement. The 50-year-old former Big Brother host, along with comedian Josh Widdicombe, 43, and Strictly professional Johannes Radebe, 39, will front the new series of the BBC dance competition.
Support from Former Hosts
Speaking to The Sun, Emma revealed that Tess and Claudia have been nothing but supportive since she landed the job. 'We’ve had a little back and forth, yes, and they were lovely,' she said. 'They just said, "Congrats, well done, you’ll smash it". And I was like, "S***!" No tips. Just lots of kind words.'
Tess, 57, and Claudia, 54, announced their joint decision to step down from the show in October 2025, ending a 21-year run for Tess, who had presented since the first series. Claudia joined in 2014 after hosting the spin-off show It Takes Two since 2004. Their final appearance was during the Christmas special on December 25, 2025.
New Hosts' Vision
Emma hinted that the new hosting trio have big plans for the show's future. 'We will bring fun and joy - and that’s what the show is. It’s a big celebration of life and individuality,' she said. 'Hopefully we will continue to do it justice. It’s super, super important that we have full representation on screen. I think Strictly do it brilliantly.'
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September 2026 for its 24th series, featuring an all-star line-up of contestants. The judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas.
Confirmed Contestants
Among the announced contestants are EastEnders icon Lacey Turner, known for playing Stacey Slater, and Dani Dyer, who returns after fracturing her ankle during rehearsals in 2025 just days before the first live show. Singer and actress Delta Goodrem and world-renowned hair stylist Chris Appleton are also taking part. The full cast and exact return date are yet to be confirmed.
