Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has dropped significant hints about the BBC's selection process for new presenters, following the departure of long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The professional dancer turned panelist shared insights during a radio interview, suggesting producers are likely to favour candidates already connected to the popular Saturday night show.
Revealing BBC's Potential Strategy
Speaking candidly on Chris Evans' Virgin Radio Breakfast Show, Du Beke disclosed what he had "heard" regarding the search for new Strictly hosts. "I did hear Kate Phillips mention somewhere that they would probably be looking towards somebody who has a connection with the show," he revealed, referencing the BBC's Chief Content Officer. This comment suggests the corporation may prioritise internal talent or familiar faces when filling the prestigious presenting roles.
Personal Experience of Rejection
The Strictly star drew upon his own experience of being passed over for a judging role before Shirley Ballas joined the panel. "I remember when there was sort of an audition process which I went for," Du Beke explained. "We did the thing and sort of had a bit of a go and did the screen test and they gave the job to Shirley." Despite this personal setback, he expressed confidence that potential hosts wouldn't require extensive testing, given their established profiles.
Speculation Mounts Over Potential Candidates
During the radio discussion, several names emerged as possible contenders for the coveted positions. Chris Evans suggested former Strictly: It Takes Two host Zoe Ball would be "amazing," with Du Beke agreeing she would be "great." The judge also voiced support for Hannah Waddingham, alongside current It Takes Two presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East.
Contenders Break Their Silence
Zoe Ball has since addressed the speculation surrounding her potential involvement. Speaking to The Sunday Times, the former BBC Radio 2 presenter admitted: "Obviously, there's a part of me that would love to do it." However, she remained diplomatic, adding: "I will still be watching, whoever hosts." Ball brings considerable Strictly experience, having competed on the show with professional dancer Ian Waite before hosting the companion programme.
Janette Manrara, another frequently mentioned candidate, has similarly broken her silence on the possibility. The former Strictly dancer told Woman and Home magazine: "To be honest, I keep giving the same answer - who doesn't want that job?" She described the role as "the dream job" for anyone passionate about family entertainment that "makes people's hearts smile."
Uncertainty Remains Despite Growing Rumours
While speculation continues to build, no official announcements have been made regarding the new presenting team. The BBC faces the significant challenge of replacing Daly and Winkleman, who co-hosted the programme for fourteen years before stepping away to pursue other projects. Their departure marks the end of an era for the beloved dance competition, which will return to screens later this year with fresh faces at the helm.
Du Beke himself acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the selection process, though he expressed willingness to consider the role if approached. When Evans suggested his name as a potential host, the Strictly star admitted he "would" be up for the challenge. As the BBC navigates this transitional period, viewers await confirmation of who will guide them through the glittering world of ballroom dancing in the upcoming series.
