Strictly Come Dancing's new presenting line-up could be set for a major shake-up just two weeks into the 2026 series, with Johannes Radebe reportedly facing an uncertain future after fan backlash.
The dancer-turned-presenter took over Claudia Winkleman's role in the auditorium, speaking to couples for their reactions to the judges' scores. He joined Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe as hosts after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure.
Body language expert weighs in
Despite Johannes sharing his excitement about the new role, body language expert Inbaal Honigman, speaking on behalf of Covers.com, said it is clear he is missing his old job on the show. She told Express.co.uk: "When the competition is just about to start, and Johannes makes a joke about missing being one of the dancers, there's more to it than meets the eye."
Honigman noted: "The dancer-turned-presenter pulls a sad face, lips turned downwards, eyebrows lowered, communicating how he feels to be on the outside. His upset expression, at this point, could be just a little joke for the cameras."
She added: "But while Emma and Josh look to the cameras and get on with their presenting, 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."
Fans call for Johannes to return to dancing
Honigman continued: "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."
Viewers have also been sharing their wishes for Johannes to return as a dancer. One said: "There really is no need for three people presenting. For me Johannes needs to go back to dancing." Another added: "Put Emma downstairs, Josh upstairs and let Johannes go back to dancing."
A third insisted: "Of course I would love to see Johannes dancing!! But ppl are also forgetting that this is his 1st ever presenting job filling the unfillable shoes of Claudia GOAT Winkleman and will grow and learn over time."
