The search for new presenters on Strictly Come Dancing has taken a dramatic turn, with a show legend now being tipped to step into the vacant hosting roles.
A Shocking Departure and a New Prediction
Earlier this year, the BBC confirmed that its iconic presenting duo, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, would be leaving the flagship entertainment programme after the 2025 final. The pair, who had fronted the main show together for years, announced their joint departure in October, stating it "feels like the right time" to move on.
While names like Zoe Ball and Holly Willoughby have been rumoured as potential successors, a new and compelling prediction has now emerged from within the Strictly family itself.
Ian Waite's Verdict on the Future Hosts
Former Strictly professional dancer Ian Waite, who starred on the show between 2004 and 2009, has shared his thoughts on the surprising exit and who he believes should take over. Speaking to Reach on behalf of ZingoBingo, Waite expressed his shock but understanding at Daly and Winkleman's decision.
"I think it was a big, big shock for everybody," Waite said. He noted that Tess Daly had been in the role for an impressive 21 years, a long tenure for any job, while Claudia Winkleman now has the hugely successful Traitors on her schedule.
The Case for a Male-Led Presentation Team
Waite then made a bold suggestion for the show's new era, proposing a shift away from its female-led presentation history. "It's been very much female presenter led, the main show and It Takes Two, so it would be nice to see some male presenters back in there just to balance it up," he commented. He believes the public would welcome this change.
His specific prediction for the coveted role? None other than Anton Du Beke. "My prediction is Anton Du Beke. I think he'd be great," Waite stated enthusiastically. He even drew a comparison to the show's original host, calling Du Beke "basically Bruce Forsyth's love child." Waite expressed confidence that the audience's affection for Anton would see him through any initial nerves.
Why Anton Du Beke Fits the Bill
Anton Du Beke is one of the most familiar faces in Strictly history, having been part of the programme since its very first series in 2004. He began as a professional dancer, partnering celebrity contestants for 17 years, before being promoted to a permanent judging role in 2021, replacing Bruno Tonioli.
This deep-rooted history with the show, combined with his established popularity and sharp wit, makes him a frontrunner in the eyes of many insiders and fans. The BBC has yet to make an official announcement regarding the new hosts, leaving the nation's favourite dance show's future presentation team the subject of intense speculation.
For now, viewers can catch up on past glories of Strictly Come Dancing on BBC iPlayer, while awaiting news from BBC bosses on who will officially fill the shoes of the beloved departing duo.
