Popular television presenter Alison Hammond may be forced to carefully manage her diary if she accepts a coveted role hosting the BBC's flagship show Strictly Come Dancing, following the recent signing of a new contract with ITV.
New Deal at ITV Creates Potential Conflict
The 51-year-old star, who shot to fame on Big Brother in 2002, has just secured a fresh agreement to continue her presenting duties on ITV's This Morning. However, industry insiders report she is also a strong contender to take over from departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on the BBC's glitterball juggernaut.
Alison currently fronts the magazine show alongside Dermot O'Leary, providing relief cover on Fridays and during school holidays for main presenters Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard. Despite the swirling rumours about Strictly, a source close to the situation indicates she is "very happy" in her ITV role and has "no plans" to leave This Morning for the dance show.
Insiders Hint at Scheduling "Juggle"
Speaking to The Sun, an insider revealed the potential logistical challenge. “Alison is a huge talent and no one was surprised she’s being looked at for Strictly. But she’s very happy at This Morning so, as far as anyone knows, has no intention to quit to take on the dance show — but there may need to be some juggling of the schedule.”
The source added a note on the BBC's ultimate authority, stating: “Ultimately, no one is bigger than the show so whichever lucky pair land the jobs will be the ones who the BBC think will be the perfect accompaniment to the series.”
Alison is no stranger to the Strictly ballroom, having competed as a contestant herself back in 2014. Her extensive TV career also includes appearances on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here and her rise to become a main presenter on ITV Daytime.
Wide Field for the Coveted Hosting Roles
Other names rumoured to be in the frame for the presenting roles include former It Takes Two host Rylan Clark, and Fleur East, who currently fronts the BBC Two spin-off show. The Chase star Bradley Walsh has also been mentioned as a possible candidate.
The speculation began in October when Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman dropped the bombshell news that they would be stepping down after a combined 21 years with the programme. In a joint video announcement, Claudia said, "Hi, it's Claud and Tess. There have been some rumblings, and we want you to hear this from us..."
Tess, who began hosting with the late Bruce Forsyth in 2004, added: "After 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly, we have decided the time is right to step aside and pass on the baton..." Both presenters expressed deep gratitude to the production team and the loyal audience that has supported the show throughout their tenure.
