BBC Denies Reports of Strictly Come Dancing Hosts Being Axed
The BBC has firmly denied claims that it has axed the hosts of the Strictly Come Dancing companion show It Takes Two. Reports had suggested that Janette Manrara and Fleur East were being dropped from the weekday programme, which provides behind-the-scenes updates and rehearsal footage with contestants. However, the broadcaster stated it is "factually incorrect to claim that either has been axed", according to statements provided to media outlets.
Significant Changes Ahead for 2026 Series
This denial comes as Strictly Come Dancing undergoes substantial transformations in preparation for its 2026 series. The main show will feature new hosts following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in December 2025, alongside a refreshed lineup of professional dancers. Earlier this month, it was reported that five professional dancers—Michelle Tsiakkas, Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, Nadiya Bychkova, and Karen Hauer—had been dropped. Over the weekend, Hauer, the show's longest-serving professional, announced she had quit, rather than being axed.
Additionally, it has been reported that Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will remain as professionals but will not have celebrity partners in the upcoming series. The replacements for Daly and Winkleman are still unknown, with frontrunner contenders including former hosts Zoe Ball and Rylan, as well as The One Show's Alex Jones.
Background on It Takes Two Hosts
Janette Manrara began her association with Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer in 2013 before taking over from Zoe Ball as a host of It Takes Two in 2021, initially co-hosting with Rylan. When Rylan left the show in 2023, Fleur East—a singer and DJ who competed on Strictly the previous year—joined Manrara as co-host. Their roles have been central to the companion show's format, which airs during the week and offers fans exclusive insights into the competition.
BBC's Response and Future Plans
The BBC has dismissed the reports about Manrara and East being axed, with a spokesperson telling Metro: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." The Independent has also reached out to the BBC for further comment. The initial claims, published by The Sun, suggested that bosses wanted a "completely new look and fresh start for the show", with the hosts potentially being "repurposed elsewhere". A source added that executives are determined to create a new era and distance the show from past controversies.
Despite these rumours, the BBC's denial indicates that Manrara and East may still be involved in the 2026 series, though specific details about their roles or the show's overall refresh remain unconfirmed. The broadcaster is keen to maintain transparency as it navigates these changes, aiming to reassure fans and participants alike amidst the ongoing speculation.
