This Morning star Sian Welby has revealed she was left in tears after what she described as a "gruelling" audition process for a new hosting role on Strictly Come Dancing. The 39-year-old was among the celebrity contenders who tried out for the presenting position after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departures last year.
Emotional reaction to the audition
Sian said it was "an absolute honour to be in the mix", but the experience had taken its toll. "It was a gruelling process with no messing about," she told The Mirror's Notebook Magazine.
"I left the audition, got in the car and burst out crying. It was the adrenaline. I'd never concentrated so hard or wanted to impress so much, but it wasn't my time," she added.
Uncertainty over her performance
Reflecting on the audition, Sian admitted she still was not sure whether she "nailed" it or if it was "a car crash". Regardless, she views the experience positively and believes Emma Willis is the perfect choice for the programme.
Emma shares presenting duties with Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, who joined the show as a professional dancer in 2018. The trio fronted their first live show together on Saturday, September 27, prompting divided responses from audiences.
Other contenders for the role
Others considered to replace Tess and Claudia included former Strictly: It Takes Two hosts Rylan Clark and Zoe Ball. Zoe, who previously competed on the programme, revealed she endured "seven stages of grief" following her rejection for the presenting role.
Speaking on her Dig It podcast with Jo Whiley, she said: "I didn't get it, but it's okay. I have worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection over the last couple of days."
The broadcaster also said she had an inkling about who had landed the position: "I tell you what, if who I think has got it, we're in safe hands and our new hosts are going to be fabulous."
Rylan similarly voiced his disappointment at missing out, posting on Instagram: "Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in 'the race' for strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh. You're all going to have the best time. Made up for yous." He added: "This wasn't my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered," and said he was "genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three".
What's next for Strictly
Strictly Come Dancing returns this week with all 15 dancing partnerships back on the floor for Movie Week. This Morning broadcasts weekdays from 10am on ITV and ITVX.
