Strictly Hosting Rumours Addressed
Reality television stars and podcast partners Pete Wicks and Sam Thompson have broken their silence about swirling rumours that they could replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing. The speculation emerged after the beloved presenting duo announced their shock departure from the BBC show following the current series.
'Pete Has to Do It!' Says Enthusiastic Sam
During an exclusive interview with Notebook magazine filled with their trademark banter, Sam Thompson immediately championed his friend for the prestigious role. "Pete has to be the new presenter. He has to do it!" Sam declared, shooting a mischievous look at his podcast co-host.
However, in typical fashion for their friendship dynamic, former TOWIE star Pete Wicks appeared significantly less enthusiastic about the prospect of becoming the nation's new Tess and Claud. "I'm not ready to cut in a fringe," he laughed, referencing Claudia Winkleman's iconic hairstyle.
Wicks expressed deep admiration for the current hosts, stating: "Tess and Claudia are so brilliant and so professional, and we're useless." He added: "It would be the most chaotic thing in the world, me and Sam doing it. I don't think Strictly will be asking us any time soon."
From Podcast Success to Strictly Speculation
Despite Pete's reservations, Sam remained characteristically optimistic about the possibility. "I'd be very shocked if we got the phone call, but I'd give it a go if we were asked," he smiled.
The pair's hilarious podcast Staying Relevant has become a massive chart-topping success, with a new book now available on shelves and a recent sold-out show at London's O2 Arena demonstrating their popularity.
Pete, who reached the semi-finals on Strictly last year with professional dancer Jowita Przystal, also opened up about that memorable kiss with his former dance partner during a routine that generated instant headlines.
"I brought her out for a dance," he explained simply. "Part of that was because we didn't make the finals and I feel like I hadn't completed the whole Strictly thing."
He elaborated: "We did a dance that she had choreographed in the first two weeks of us doing the show, the dance she wanted us to perform in the final. And I wasn't good enough to get her there. But I promised her, one day we'd do it. And where better than the O2?"
When asked if he misses the glitz and glamour of the Strictly ballroom, Pete admitted: "I've been to a couple of live shows to support Vicky Pattison, who's one of my best friends. I love the show and I do keep up with it."
He reflected fondly on his time in the competition: "I miss the routine of it. I threw myself into something that was so far out of my comfort zone, something no one thought I'd do and yeah, I do 100% miss it. It was a very humbling experience and a huge part of my life."
Regarding Tess and Claudia's departure, Pete expressed genuine surprise: "It was a big surprise. I'm gutted to see them go. I adore both of them, they're so good at what they do. They are Strictly. They were always so warm to me. I'm sure whoever they replace them with will be fantastic."
Staying Relevant: The Book by Sam Thompson and Pete Wicks (Sphere) is out now.
