With the new series of Strictly Come Dancing just months away, speculation is mounting over who will replace long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The duo stepped down in December, with Winkleman stating they wanted to leave “on an absolute high” and that the show “deserves” a fresh start.
Emma Willis is reportedly the frontrunner after impressing producers in chemistry tests, according to The Sun. The Voice UK host, 49, is said to have been offered one of the roles, beating out competition from Zoe Ball and others. Willis previously turned down a chance to compete on Strictly due to work commitments but has expressed interest in presenting.
Zoe Ball, 55, confirmed on her podcast that she did not get the job, saying she had “worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection”. Ball, a former Strictly contestant and ex-host of It Takes Two, had been seen as a strong candidate. Other names in the mix include Mel Giedroyc, 57, who is being considered for Winkleman’s more comedic role, and Rylan Clark, 37, a former It Takes Two presenter who has fan support.
An announcement is expected soon, possibly after the Eurovision final on 16 May. The BBC has not yet confirmed the new hosts, but insiders suggest a decision has been made.
