Emma Willis has broken her silence for the first time since the live broadcast of Strictly Come Dancing. The TV star joined Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe on the dance floor to host the BBC dancing programme live from Elstree Studios on Saturday evening.
The former Big Brother host is among the three new presenters for the 2026 series. Emma, Josh and Johannes have taken over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who left their roles at the end of last year's series.
Mixed viewer response to new hosts
However, the new mix of hosts have faced a mixed response from viewers, with many calling for either Johannes or Josh to step down for the role. Emma's place on the show, however, has been met with praise, as fans noted her professionalism and charisma during the series' first live show.
Strictly officially launched last weekend, with the inaugural live episode broadcasting on Saturday evening. Viewers were quick to share their views as the new presenting team settled into their positions, as one said: "Strictly is hard to watch with Josh. So awkward. It looks creepy with him hanging around gorgeous Emma. I love Johannes, but he is not a happy bunny in this role. Set him free to dance."
Another added: "Can we all agree that it should have been just Rylan and Emma. Johannes needs to be back doing what he does best…….dancing!"
Emma's Instagram post
Emma has now spoken out by publishing a post to commemorate the start of her Strictly adventure, sharing several photographs from week one. The 50-year-old wrote on Instagram: "Week one, done. I've never had so much fun! What a way to kick things off @bbcstrictly."
Supporters filled the comments section with affectionate and encouraging messages. One follower called Jane said: "I thought you were brilliant @emmawillisofficial and I loved the whole show." A second viewer wrote: "Thought you were brilliant" while a third enthused: "Absolutely stunning and you all smashed it ! ! ! ! Loved watching the 3 of you."
Photos and fan reactions
Emma's carousel of photographs featured a breathtaking shot of her dressed in an elegant white dress, paired with a red smoky eye, natural face makeup and gold hoop earrings. In the third clip within the post, Emma shared a touching moment with her husband Matt, best known as a member of the band Busted. The couple, who have been married for 18 years, shared a kiss as they strolled down a backstage corridor.
The post garnered over 36,000 likes on Instagram, including from familiar faces such as Strictly professional Dianne Buswell and Lauren Oakley. Jowita Przystal, who is partnered with Emmerdale's Lawrence Robb, gushed: "Just one word. WOW! !" accompanied by fire emojis. Lauren, who is paired with dog expert Graeme Hall, wrote: "Argh I'm obsessed! What a night, what a show."
