Matt Willis has spoken out in defence of his wife Emma Willis ahead of the next episode of Strictly Come Dancing, disclosing her genuine thoughts regarding her fellow presenters.
Earlier this year, Emma was unveiled alongside comedian Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe as the BBC show's new hosts. Their appointments followed Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's departure last year, with speculation mounting for months over their replacements.
Matt's verdict on Emma's co-hosts
Since this year's launch programme, the incoming trio of hosts have encountered criticism and scepticism from viewers, yet Matt has now stepped forward to champion The Voice and former Big Brother host Emma.
Speaking on Thursday's This Morning with presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley, Matt discussed his enjoyment of collaborating with his wife, including co-presenting Love is Blind, stating: "I love working with her, she's very good at what she does."
Regarding her current position, he continued: "I have never watched so much Strictly in my life, I am so in. I've been to the live show, I'm watching every episode. She's smashing it, she's so happy, she loves it."
Emma 'puts her head down' amid criticism
Addressing the response Emma, Johannes and Josh have encountered, Matt added: "I don't think she pays attention to anything, she's very good at doing her job. She puts her head down, does the job as best she can.
"She loves working with Josh and Jojo, and they're great and brilliant and lovely people. They're all in this thing together, it's a new job, it's exciting and she's loving it."
Matt subsequently disclosed he'd declined the chance to participate in Strictly, having been approached previously. He explained: "Now I have a very valid excuse, I think it'll be a conflict of interest, surely. I don't think I'll be doing it any time soon.
"But watching it does make you go, that's impressive. When you're there live and see what they're doing, you're like, wow, that's really difficult."
Matt's pride in Emma's new role
Matt had earlier voiced his backing for his wife, describing how "perfect" she is for the position. "She's really happy, really excited. It felt different, this job, because she really wanted it, and I think she was scared to say that out loud," he recently told The Telegraph.
He added: "Strictly was a curveball. Taking the biggest job on TV was not on our bingo card for 2026, but I'm so proud of her. And if anyone can do it, it's her. I'm stoked for her, she's perfect for it, and loves the show so much."
Following confirmation as one of Strictly's new presenters, Emma revealed: "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!" This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX.
