The search for new faces to front Strictly Come Dancing has intensified, with one of the fan-favourite contenders publicly addressing the speculation for the first time. This follows the seismic announcement last month that long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman would be stepping down from the BBC One juggernaut.
"I Would Certainly Answer The Call": Scanlon's Candid Response
Irish presenter Angela Scanlon, who competed as a celebrity on the show in 2023, has now broken her silence on the rumours linking her to the coveted role. Speaking to The Sun, the 41-year-old expressed her deep affection for the programme and her flattery at being considered.
"I am such a fan of the show and have been forever," Scanlon stated. "I think Tess and Claudia are such an incredible pairing... to be uttered in the same breath as them, and some of the other brilliant names that are in the mix, is just very flattering."
She emphasised the importance of the hosts' chemistry, acknowledging the "amazing dynamic" between Daly and Winkleman. When directly asked if she would take on the job, Scanlon confirmed, "I would certainly answer the call."
Her comments have excited a segment of the Strictly fanbase, with some viewers taking to social media to champion her for the role. One supporter on X (formerly Twitter) argued she is the "best and realistic candidate to take Claudia’s role running the Claudatorium."
A Crowded Field of Contenders Emerges
However, Angela Scanlon is far from the only name in the frame for what is considered one of the plum jobs in British television. The speculation reached fever pitch last week when Bradley Walsh, star of ITV's The Chase, was spotted backstage at the Strictly studio.
The surprise visit occurred on Saturday, 30th November, during a break in filming for his quiz show. Head dressmaker Theresa Hewlett shared a photo with the star on X, captioning it: "The Chase is filmed next door and he popped in to say hi. What a lovely man Bradley Walsh is!" The unexpected appearance has inevitably fuelled rumours that he is also in contention.
Furthermore, reports suggest that Alex Jones, a mainstay on The One Show, is also in discussions with BBC bosses regarding the presenting role. This indicates that corporation executives are casting a wide net to find the perfect duo to fill the considerable void left by Daly and Winkleman.
What Comes Next for Strictly?
The departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, announced in November 2025, marks the end of a defining era for Strictly Come Dancing. Their chemistry and rapport with contestants and judges alike became a cornerstone of the show's success.
The BBC now faces the significant challenge of appointing successors who can maintain the programme's unique blend of glamour, warmth, and excitement. With names like Angela Scanlon, Bradley Walsh, and Alex Jones in the mix, the decision is poised to be a major talking point in the world of entertainment. The corporation has yet to announce a timeline for confirming the new hosts, leaving millions of fans eagerly awaiting the next development in this unfolding story.
