A controversial proposal to fill a major vacancy on Strictly Come Dancing has ignited a fierce internal debate at the BBC, following Claudia Winkleman's decision to leave the show.
Executive Backing for a Surprise Candidate
According to BBC sources, Suzy Lamb, the Managing Director of BBC Studios, has put forward television presenter Paddy McGuinness as the ideal replacement for Winkleman. Lamb, who previously worked with McGuinness on the ITV dating programme Take Me Out, is said to believe his light-hearted interviewing style would be a perfect fit for chatting with the celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners.
This is the role that Claudia Winkleman, 53, made her own, becoming a beloved figure on the programme. She will depart the show at the end of the current series alongside her co-host, Tess Daly, 56.
Internal Fury and a Defensive Stance
The suggestion, however, has been met with significant opposition and fury from some of Lamb's colleagues. Critics are reportedly aghast at the idea of linking the family-friendly Strictly Come Dancing with the more provocative Take Me Out, a show known for its innuendo and which some have criticised for casual sexism.
One BBC source voiced strong concerns, stating: 'He hardly has the track record to be doing such a role. Neither Top Gear or Question of Sport is with us any more. He isn't a fit for Strictly, and there have been some very vocal people shouting it down. As if you would base Strictly on a show like Take Me Out. Strictly is a national treasure.'
This criticism references McGuinness's recent presenting history at the BBC. After Lamb joined the corporation in 2018, McGuinness was handed the job of fronting Top Gear. Later, he took over A Question of Sport after the controversial sacking of Sue Barker. Both shows were ultimately axed, with A Question of Sport ending after 53 years as its ratings plummeted from eight million to two million.
Denials and Alternative Contenders
In response to these claims, a BBC Studios spokesman has officially denied that any such conversation about McGuinness joining Strictly has taken place.
Despite the denial, the reports have highlighted the search for a new host. Other names being circulated as possible replacements for Winkleman include Alan Carr, Bradley Walsh, Holly Willoughby, and Hannah Waddingham.
Away from his professional life, Paddy McGuinness, 52, underwent an acrimonious split from his wife, Christine, in 2022 after 11 years of marriage.
