The first live show of Strictly Come Dancing's 2026 series attracted an average of 4.8 million viewers on BBC One, a decline from the 6.2 million who watched the equivalent episode in 2025. The two-and-a-half-hour broadcast, which aired on Saturday, 26 September, peaked at five million viewers, according to The Independent.
New hosts and lineup
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe have taken over as presenters, replacing Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who announced their departure at the end of last year. The series also features five new professional dancers following a reported 'bloodbath' that saw several stars leave.
The 2026 celebrity lineup includes Jaime Winstone, Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Melanie Walters, Bethany Antonia, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Graeme Hall, Lawrence Robb, Tabby Stoecker and John Nellis.
Leaderboard and ratings context
EastEnders star Lacey and her partner Vito Coppola topped the leaderboard with 27 points, while Gavin and Stacey favourite Melanie finished at the bottom with partner Aljaz Skorjanec on 15 points, reports Wales Online.
A Strictly spokesperson said: "Strictly was the most watched programme of the night, with a peak of five million viewers. As ever, overnight ratings do not give the full picture of all those who watch in an on-demand world."
The launch show averaged 5.3 million viewers, securing a 49.2% share of overnight ratings - a 7% boost from last year.
Presenters' reactions
When her appointment was revealed, Emma said: "It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Strictly – I've cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend. It's impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long."
Johannes said in a statement: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward."
Josh added: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television."
Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
