Ellie Taylor has been named as the new presenter of It Takes Two, the Strictly Come Dancing companion show, according to reports. The 42-year-old is said to have finalised an agreement to replace Janette Manrara after The Sun reported that executives found previous presenters "too boring" and wanted a "major revamp".
A source told The Sun: "Ellie was hugely popular with viewers when she appeared as a contestant on Strictly in 2022, and her infectious personality was also a hit with the senior production team."
Executive interest
The source said Ellie had previously been considered for the main show when Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were replaced, adding: "She very much featured in the discussions when they were looking to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on the main show, and although she didn't get that job, she remained in the executive team's thoughts."
The source continued: "They were very keen to get her on It Takes Two, which they felt was too boring and needed a major revamp. So she's been hired for the It Takes Two hosting job."
A Strictly spokesperson said: "We don't comment on speculation."
Strictly history
Ellie competed on Strictly Come Dancing four years ago with Johannes Radebe, 39, and finished in seventh place. Radebe has since been confirmed as one of the new hosts for the 2026 series, alongside Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe.
The comedian has previously said she and Johannes have remained in touch: "I give him little pep talks, because I know how gruelling it can be... Johannes is just a wonderful human. I used to call him the best boyfriend."
Main show ambitions
Ellie previously told the Mirror that she had put herself forward to host the main show after the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman was announced. She said: "I don't think there is anyone in light entertainment who'd say no. It'll be such an honour for whoever gets those jobs. I'll happily cut myself a fringe if they need me to. Or dye my hair blonde. Whatever it takes, I'll do it."
The new series is set to return in September, with the remaining contestants yet to be announced.
