The search for new Strictly Come Dancing hosts took a surprising turn live on national television. During a link between BBC Breakfast and Saturday Kitchen on 10 January 2026, presenter Charlie Stayt put his colleague Matt Tebbutt firmly on the spot.
Live on Air Question Sparks Speculation
As Charlie and co-host Naga Munchetty handed over to the Saturday Kitchen studio, Stayt seized the moment. Noting the presence of Strictly stars in the kitchen, he directly asked Matt Tebbutt: "for the record are you ruling yourself out from presenting Strictly Come Dancing?" Tebbutt, the Saturday Kitchen host, responded with playful enthusiasm, stating: "No, I'll present anything me. I'll give it a crack. What could go wrong? There's not many presenters left anymore." He then swiftly moved the conversation on to his guests.
Who Do the Stars Want to See Host?
The guests on the show that day were deeply connected to the Strictly world. Head judge Shirley Ballas was promoting the upcoming 2026 live tour, alongside fellow judge Anton Du Beke and professional dancer Vito Coppola. When asked about potential replacements for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, Shirley revealed: "I know Anton Du Beke would like to take over, I know that for sure." She added that her mother was a fan of Rylan and Judge Rinder for the role.
Professional dancer Vito Coppola threw his support behind former contestant and singer Fleur East, calling her an amazing potential host who "can move, dance, up, down." Other names previously linked to the coveted presenting roles include Holly Willoughby, Emma Willis, and Zoe Ball.
A New Era for Strictly Come Dancing
The hunt for new hosts began after the beloved duo of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure in October 2025. Their final episode aired on Christmas Day 2025, ending what they called an "absolute dream." BBC bosses are now actively seeking their successors, with industry reports suggesting candidates are undergoing in-studio chemistry tests. Entertainment director Boyd Hilton has tipped Zoe Ball as a "good bet" for the role.
As the speculation continues, the exchange on BBC Breakfast has undoubtedly added a new, unexpected name to the growing list of contenders vying for a place in the Strictly spotlight.
