The search for new faces to lead Strictly Come Dancing has taken a surprising turn, with a former professional dancer suggesting a replacement could be found very close to home. This follows the emotional departure of long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman during Saturday night's grand final.
Could Vernon Kay Step into His Wife's Shoes?
Outspoken ex-Strictly professional James Jordan, who danced on the show between 2006 and 2013, has thrown a fascinating name into the ring. He believes Tess Daly's own husband, popular presenter Vernon Kay, would be a "brilliant" choice to take over her role. Jordan made the suggestion during an appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain, praising Kay's presenting skills and noting the symbolic appeal of him succeeding his wife.
Jordan's shortlist didn't end there. He also expressed strong support for Zoe Ball, citing her fantastic work hosting the companion show It Takes Two in the past, and mentioned enjoying the style of presenter Bradley Walsh.
An Era Ends as the Show Must Go On
The hosting duo confirmed their exit back in October, ending a partnership that has defined the show's Saturday nights for over a decade. Daly, 56, has been with Strictly since its 2004 launch, initially presenting alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth. Winkleman, 53, began fronting It Takes Two before joining the main show in 2014 after Sir Bruce stepped down.
Their final live broadcast was Saturday's final, won by former Lioness Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu. Fans will see them one last time in the pre-recorded Christmas Special airing on Christmas Day.
Despite his sadness at their departure, James Jordan is confident the "juggernaut" show will endure. He compared the change to when Sir Bruce left, stating the programme's legions of dedicated fans will continue to watch regardless of who presents.
Calls for Change and Defence of Dancers
Jordan used the discussion about new hosts to call for broader tweaks to the Strictly format. He argued the show has lost some "authenticity," particularly in its video packages (VTs). He longs to see more genuine training room footage of celebrities learning routines, rather than staged segments in pubs or at fairs.
The dancer also came to the defence of finalist Amber Davies, who faced criticism for her prior dance training. Jordan pointed out that winner Karen Carney also had a background in competitive street dancing as a child. He stressed that Carney and Gu were "brilliant" and he was happy for their win, but wanted to provide perspective for viewers about the level of skill involved.
He expressed sympathy for Davies, who was "trolled" online, arguing that anyone would accept an offer to be on the show. Jordan reiterated his view that Strictly is ideally about watching a non-trained dancer's journey, like fellow finalist George Clarke, whom he had personally wanted to win.
