Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdicombe has faced criticism after mocking professional dancer Neil Jones during the results show broadcast on October 11. The new presenter's swipe at the seasoned pro has been described as ill-judged, particularly as Widdicombe himself has come under fire since joining the show.
New presenter mocked veteran dancer
Widdicombe, one of three new hosts alongside Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe, poked fun at Neil during a "dance battle" segment on Sunday night. Neil was relegated to referee for a Latin versus Ballroom dance-off, after which Widdicombe asked viewers to applaud the "real star... Neil" as he walked past smiling, holding a board reading "applause".
Although the segment was scripted, it was still considered awkward. Neil, who joined Strictly in 2016, has had just three celebrity partners, the most recent being Toyah Willcox in 2024. Their partnership lasted only two weeks before elimination.
Neil Jones's contribution to the show
Earlier in the show, Neil performed a routine with new professional Lethabo Monametsi to a live performance of Burning Temptation by soul musician Jalen Ngonda. Despite limited celebrity partnerships, Neil is also one of Strictly's choreographers, and his importance to the show extends beyond his on-screen roles.
Critics note that Widdicombe, whose jokes have failed to land and who has faced calls to be axed weeks into his role, is hardly in a position to mock others. The moment has done little to win over viewers, with the scriptwriters also sharing some blame for the segment's poor reception.
