Strictly Come Dancing fans are calling for at least one of the three new hosts to be removed from the show after a series of live on-air mistakes. The trio—Josh Widdicombe, Emma Wallis, and Johannes Radebe—made their live debut this week, replacing Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly at the helm of the dance contest, and the reaction has been mixed.
Live blunders spotted
Early in the show, viewers noticed comedian Josh Widdicombe missed his cue, leaving an awkward silence as he and co-host Emma Wallis stared silently down the lens. Later, fans spotted professional dancer Johannes Radebe talking at the wrong time, delivering vital voting information while dance pairs were walking up the stairs, making it difficult to hear what was being said.
While both Josh and Emma have faced criticism, many fans singled out Johannes as the one who should be moved to a different role. One viewer, @lewisjsxx, wrote: "Why is Johannes talking about voting before they even get up the stairs." Another, @bjr062204, suggested: "Emma is a great fit, leave her as the main presenter. Put Josh in the balcony - let him use his humour (on a trial basis, I think there are better options). Johannes needs a different role completely - maybe the Strictly podcaster?"
Fan reactions
@notthetiswasone commented: "Josh Widdecombe's been getting all the heat but I think it's actually Johannes who's the weak link." @legen_dary93 added: "Why do they keep having Johannes read the bloody terms and conditions when they're running up the stairs cheering and no one can hear him?? #Strictly."
@harlenqzel40 said: "Josh Widdecombe needs to be in the auditorium with the celebs. He's not a tv presenter; he looks uncomfortable! He'd be better upstairs bringing on the banter and having a laugh, just like Claudia did. Johannes is awful in this role. Stick to dancing! #Strictly." @francescajayne asked: "Are the producers not going to tell Johannes that he’s continuously out of time, talking when the dancers are coming up the stairs and the viewers aren’t catching a word he’s saying?! #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing."
First show details
The live show opened with Big Brother presenter Will Best and professional dancer Dianne Buswell, who returned to the series after giving birth to her first child with partner Joe Sugg. The couple performed a samba to Rock DJ by Robbie Williams and received 18 points from the judges. Skeleton racer Tabby Stoecker and newcomer Mark Karmalita were next, performing a Jive to Katseye’s Animal and scoring 22 points.
The judging trio split presenting duties, with Willis and Widdicombe by the judges’ table while Radebe welcomed dancers on the balcony ahead of the score reveal. The first show did not include a public vote or elimination.
