Strictly Come Dancing bosses face a difficult decision after the 2026 series launched with a mixed response, with debut host Johannes Radebe struggling in his presenting role and viewing figures falling year on year.
The first live show of the series aired this weekend, introducing Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe as a new three-person presenting team. The decision to use three presenters instead of two had already been questioned, and the early signs suggest the format is not working.
Presenting trio gets off to a shaky start
Josh Widdicombe appeared to struggle alongside Emma Willis, who took to the role smoothly as if she had been presenting for years. Widdicombe cut into the judges' chat with ill-timed jokes and forced laughter, and appeared uncomfortable with basic tasks such as reading the autocue and timing transitions between the stage and the balcony.
Johannes Radebe, meanwhile, tried to create a fun atmosphere with his former dancing colleagues and their celebrity partners. Despite some inexperience and mistakes, he was entertaining to watch and put contestants at ease.
Body language expert weighs in
Body language expert Inbaal Hongiman told Express.co.uk: "Johannes keeps sneaking glances back towards the dancers. The 'bit', the joke is over, but his devastated face remains. It's as if he can't wipe his sad expression away."
Hongiman added: "Those backwards glances could signify regret as well as sadness, as he still sees himself as part of the gang, one of the dancers, and not a presenter."
The expert's analysis points to a wider issue: while Radebe is clearly charismatic and well-liked, he appears out of his depth in one of the country's biggest presenting roles. His style might be better suited to Josh Widdicombe, who could use his comedic talent in more off-the-cuff moments rather than being restricted by a script and timing.
Viewing figures fall
The live show attracted an average of 4.8 million viewers, with a peak of 5 million, down from 6.2 million last year. It was also nearly a million viewers down from the pre-recorded partner show, which peaked at 5.8 million.
While not a disaster, the figures are unlikely to satisfy Strictly bosses. If they respond to viewer feedback, Emma Willis should remain on stage with the judges to lead proceedings, Josh Widdicombe should joke with the stars upstairs, and Johannes Radebe should either return as a dancer next year or step back from the role.
Whether they decide to act remains to be seen, but with a show reboot always a gamble, the current approach is not paying off. If Strictly is to last another year, bosses need to make a change quickly.
