Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdicombe has taken a break in Sweden with his Parenting Hell podcast co-host Rob Beckett, sharing photos of the trip on Instagram as he faces criticism over the BBC show's new presenting line-up.
Rob Beckett, who presents the Parenting Hell podcast with Josh, wrote in a social media post: "Three Sneaky Sasquatches slipping out to Sweden for some Spotify fun in Stockholm." The photos showed Josh reading a book on a plane before visiting The Royal Dramatic Theatre with Rob and their producer, Michael.
New format draws criticism
Josh is set to return to Strictly for movies week on Saturday, October 3, joining co-hosts Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe for the series' first celebrity elimination. The trio replaced Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who left the show last year.
While Emma has received widespread praise for her debut, the BBC has faced criticism for introducing three presenters when the programme has traditionally used two. Some viewers have suggested that Johannes and Josh seem "awkward" and "out of place" as hosts, according to the Express.
Defenders speak out
BBC radio personality Ed James urged fans to show "a little kinder" spirit, saying: "Seeing lots of stuff about Josh today on social media and in news outlets. Wanted to share some thoughts, and I realise I'm adding to the problem here as I'm doing exactly what I'm about to suggest we don't do... but why is he getting a hard time? It's a TV show? ! If you didn't like him, switch off!"
He added: "He'll be just fine, so will SCD, as it's a brilliant show. Not sure how going online and having a go at him helps anyone... least of all Josh, who's just trying to do the best job he can on one of the biggest platforms in the UK."
Strictly professional Lauren Oakley also championed the new hosts on Instagram, saying: "We couldn't be in safer hands than with these beautiful people. Strictly is about family, uplifting others, and creating a safe space for celebrity contestants to be vulnerable and do something so outside of their comfort zone."
Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
