Emma Willis has shared a positive update after the first week of Strictly Come Dancing, despite divided opinions among viewers over the new presenting line-up. The presenter has joined Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe in hosting the BBC show, a change that has drawn criticism from some fans.
While Emma has largely been praised, her co-presenters have come under fire from some quarters. Posting snaps on Instagram, Emma wrote: "Week one, done. I’ve never had so much fun! What a way to kick things off."
Backstage moments and celebrity support
Among her backstage snaps was an embrace with husband Matt Willis, who was clearly proud of Emma's efforts. The pair shared a kiss as they beamed near the dressing rooms. Emma also posed in her white gown, styled by Leah Binnall.
Delta Goodrem was among the celebs in the comments section gushing over Emma's post. She wrote: "Total babetown," and added three flame emojis. Lacey Turner also called the presenter "stunning," while professional dancer Lauren Oakley said: "Argh I’m obsessed!! what a night, what a show."
Viewer criticism over three hosts
Fans were quick to share their disappointment at the new proceedings following Saturday's show, though. One unimpressed fan on X/Twitter said: "Having three hosts doesn’t work," as another agreed: "Three hosts are too much." A third fan commented: "I love strictly but this trio of hosts just isn’t working for me." A fourth said: "These transitions between JoJo and the other hosts are so clunky and stilted, it’s probably the reason the show is running to 2.5 hours."
Former pro Vincent Simone insisted some people just don't like change. He told the Mirror: "I think the only downside of this year is that there's been way too many changes all in one go. Some people like changes, like me. Some people don't."
He added: "I can imagine some people saying, 'Oh, Tess and Claudia are not going to be presenting, I won't be watching it,' or, you know, some of the professionals that I used to love, they won't be performing again, I'm not going to watch it again. So unfortunately, it is what it is. I think there's been way too many new changes all at once."
Backing from former host
Shortly after her first appearance on the show, Emma received the backing of former host Claudia Winkleman, who had hosted since 2014 but stepped down at the end of 2025. The presenter of The Traitors showed her support in the comments, calling Emma a "knockout".
