Former Strictly Come Dancing star Alex Kingston has expressed her full support for Johannes Radebe after he was announced as one of the new hosts of the BBC dance show. The actress, who was partnered with Johannes in the last series, described his new role as a smart 'plan B' for his career.
Johannes Radebe's New Role on Strictly
The BBC confirmed earlier this year that Johannes would remain with Strictly Come Dancing in a completely different capacity. He will now co-host the show alongside comedian Josh Widdicombe and presenting legend Emma Willis, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down after the previous series.
Speaking exclusively at the National Film Awards, Alex Kingston said: "I'm excited for JoJo moving forward in a different direction. He's on the West End stage at the moment doing Kinky Boots, and he's amazing in it. A dancer's life is finite, so you've got to start as a dancer to have a plan-B in your pocket, for when that time comes to an end, which it does at some point."
Johannes' Reaction to the New Role
Following the announcement, Johannes shared his excitement: "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. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I'm ready—sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me. Love Jojo."
Fans' Concerns and Johannes' Promise
Fans had earlier feared that Johannes might quit Strictly entirely after his exit from the competition with Alex. After the dance-off results, Johannes told Alex: "Thank you, because I have never grinned this much in my life, for the past couple of weeks with you. Thank you, Alex, for being a trooper. I appreciate the laughs, and I'll hold onto the memories, but as far as the dancing goes, I think we've achieved what we both wanted to achieve." He then added: "To my Strictly family, I love you. I'm forever grateful. Thank you, thank you, thank you."
After fans interpreted his words as a "goodbye speech," Johannes quickly put the rumours to rest. Speaking to Graham Norton on his BBC show, he said: "Graham, I will do that show for as long as they will have me. I promise, I will. That is a magical, sparkling world. I love it."
Johannes' Current West End Role
Johannes is currently starring as Lola in the West End production of Kinky Boots, showcasing his versatility as a performer. His transition from dancer to presenter marks a significant career shift, one that Alex Kingston believes is a wise move for any dancer facing the finite nature of their craft.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year, with Johannes, Emma Willis, and Josh Widdicombe taking the reins as the new presenting team.
