Strictly Come Dancing 2024 winner Chris McCausland has shared his thoughts on the new presenting line-up for the 2026 series, saying it would have been a mistake to replace Claudia Winkleman directly.
The comedian, 49, who made history as the show's first blind competitor, won the Glitterball trophy alongside professional dancer Dianne Buswell. Their moving waltz, performed independently by Chris, won the British Academy Television Award for Memorable Moment at the 2025 ceremony.
Departure of long-standing hosts
Throughout Chris's journey on the BBC One contest, the programme was fronted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Tess had presented since the show's launch in 2004, while Claudia joined as co-host in 2014. In 2025, both announced they would be stepping away.
Following their departure, the BBC revealed in May that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe would succeed Tess and Claudia as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing.
Chris's verdict on new hosts
Speaking to RadioTimes, Chris said: "Josh is a mate of mine. He's quick and funny, but also very warm, and I think that's what the show needs." He added: "Trying to replace Claudia directly would have been a mistake. Josh is such a different proposition that I don't think people will compare him to Claudia in the same way they might have done if they'd got another female presenter. I think he'll be brilliant."
Josh, 43, said of securing the role: "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. I adore Emma and Jojo and can't wait to spend my weekends with them. I'll dust off the penguin costume."
2026 line-up unveiled
The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 line-up is being gradually unveiled. Confirmed participants so far include Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey and Jaime Winstone. Additional famous faces will be disclosed over the summer before the new series begins on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this September.
