Busted star Matt Willis has spoken out in defence of his wife Emma and her fellow Strictly Come Dancing hosts after the new presenting team faced criticism from viewers. Emma, comedian Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe were confirmed as the BBC show's new hosting trio earlier this year, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after their departure last year.
Speaking on Thursday's This Morning with Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley, Matt discussed his enthusiasm for working with his wife, including their joint hosting duties on Love is Blind, saying: "I love working with her, she's very good at what she does."
Matt's Support for Emma
Discussing her current role on Strictly, Matt said: "I have never watched so much Strictly in my life, I am so in. I've been to the live show, I'm watching every episode. She's smashing it, she's so happy, she loves it."
Responding to the feedback the trio have encountered, he added: "I don't think she pays attention to anything, she's very good at doing her job. She puts her head down, does the job as best she can."
"She loves working with Josh and Jojo, and they're great and brilliant and lovely people. They're all in this thing together, it's a new job, it's exciting and she's loving it."
No Strictly Appearance for Matt
Matt also disclosed that he had declined the chance to appear on Strictly after being approached previously. He said: "Now I have a very valid excuse, I think it'll be a conflict of interest, surely. I don't think I'll be doing it any time soon."
"But watching it does make you go, that's impressive. When you're there live and see what they're doing, you're like, wow, that's really difficult."
Matt previously told The Telegraph how "perfect" Emma is for the role, saying: "She's really happy, really excited. It felt different, this job, because she really wanted it, and I think she was scared to say that out loud."
He added: "Strictly was a curveball. Taking the biggest job on TV was not on our bingo card for 2026, but I'm so proud of her. And if anyone can do it, it's her. I'm stoked for her, she's perfect for it, and loves the show so much."
Emma's Reaction to New Role
Following her announcement as one of Strictly's new presenters, Emma said: "It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Strictly – I've cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend."
"It's impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter."
"I can't wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!" This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX.
