Emma Willis has reportedly stepped down as host of The Voice UK after 12 years, with Love Island host Maya Jama said to be in negotiations to take over. Willis, 50, is leaving the ITV singing competition to host BBC's Strictly Come Dancing alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.
Maya Jama in Talks for The Voice UK
According to reports, Maya Jama, 31, has been offered the role but has not yet accepted due to competing opportunities in the United States. A source told The Sun: "There have been a lot of approaches to Maya from various networks, including ITV, and shows in the UK and Stateside. The Voice producers and her did have meetings but because of her other commitments the conversation didn’t progress. Right now, she and her management are evaluating all of the opportunities and planning her next moves."
An ITV spokesperson responded: "As with each new series, we are in discussions about talent for The Voice series 15." WalesOnline has also approached ITV for further comment.
Willis Moves to Strictly Come Dancing
In May, it was announced that Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe would replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing. Willis expressed her excitement: "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. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!"
Johannes Radebe added: "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."
Josh Widdicombe commented: "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."
Impact on The Voice UK
Willis has hosted The Voice UK since 2014, becoming a familiar face to viewers. Her departure marks a significant change for the show, which will now seek a new host for its 15th series. Maya Jama, known for hosting Love Island, is a leading candidate, but negotiations are ongoing due to her international appeal. ITV has not confirmed any replacement, stating only that discussions are underway.
