Josh Widdicombe has taken a break from social media following the online storm after his Strictly Come Dancing debut. On Saturday night (September 26), the 43-year-old comedian joined co-stars Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe as they hosted the first live show of the series. Viewers at home were not best pleased with the new hosting line-up following Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's departure last year.
Comedian reveals use of Brick app
Over the weekend, the dad-of-two faced an overwhelming wave of backlash and criticism directed at his hosting skills. This week on his podcast, Parenting Hell, which he hosts with his co-star and friend Rob Beckett, the Last Leg star revealed that he has been limiting his screen time at home.
He admitted that he has been using an app, the Brick, to help keep him off social media by using locks. Mr Widdicombe told listeners: "I'm back on the Brick. You've inspired me [Rob], and I'm loving the Brick again. It's mad that we've reached this space in time where we have to buy a second phone because we're being dragged into these apps."
Viewers brand Josh the 'spare part'
Saturday's two-and-a-half-hour live broadcast attracted fewer viewers than the pre-recorded launch episode, notably the first time this has happened in seven years. Audience members were quick to voice their frustration, questioning why the BBC opted for three presenters to fill what had previously been a two-host role. Many also raised issues with missed cues and stumbled lines throughout the broadcast.
During the live show, the production team assigned each host a specific position. Emma, who is widely regarded as the most seasoned broadcaster of the trio, assumed Tess Daly's former role on the dancefloor, supporting anxious stars as the judges delivered their verdicts. Mr Radebe took up home in the 'Clauditorium', gossiping with the professional dancers and their celebrity partners. Meanwhile, Josh Widdicombe was positioned beside Emma to deliver comedic interjections and keep the show lighthearted.
Support from fellow cast members
However, viewers believe that the comedian was left looking like the "spare part" as he stumbled over his lines and failed to pick up hosting cues from Johannes on the dancefloor. It comes after the 43-year-old comic broke his silence following the backlash to his hosting debut on Monday (September 28). Taking to his Instagram Story, he shared his fellow cast members showering him with support in a telling post.
Originally posted by professional dancer Lauren Oakley, she gushed: "We couldn't be in safer hands than with these beautiful people. Strictly is about family, uplifting others, and creating a safe space for celebrity contestants to be vulnerable and do something so outside of their comfort zone." Lauren's post continued: "This trio have been so warm and welcoming, and they felt like family from the minute they stepped into the studio, and we love having them with us. Professional, funny, kind and fantastic at what they do. I couldn't feel more lucky to be sharing the screen and our Saturday nights with them."
The touching message was accompanied by a photograph of Emma, Josh and Johannes, with Josh re-sharing it alongside three red hearts, evidently grateful for the backing.
