Strictly Come Dancing has faced a wave of complaints since returning last month, with new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe making their debuts to mixed reactions. While Emma has won over viewers, Josh and Johannes have attracted criticism, and the spin-off It Takes Two has also come under fire for format changes.
New Professionals Need Partners
Five new professionals joined the 2026 line-up: Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby, and Mark Karmalita. However, only Maddie and Mark received celebrity partners, leaving the others without a chance to establish themselves on the main show. Maddie is partnered with Love Island winner Cach Mercer, while Mark pairs with Olympic gold medalist Tabby Stocker.
Critics argue that investing in five new professionals means they should all have equal opportunities, even if established dancers make up the majority of the cast.
Neil Jones Deserves a Partner
Neil Jones has been a professional for 10 years but has only had three celebrity partners. His first pairing with Alex Scott in 2019 reached fifth place, but he was eliminated joint-first in 2021 with Nina Wadia and second in 2024 with Toyah Wilcox. Despite being one of the most qualified professionals, he rarely gets the chance to compete.
Social Media and Interview Changes
Calls to ban social media for the cast are seen as unrealistic, but the constant negative comments can affect both professionals and celebrities. On It Takes Two, the old format of interviewing couples together has been replaced by separate interviews with celebrities and pros, which has not gone down well with fans.
Move Josh Widdicombe Upstairs
Josh Widdicombe has faced criticism, including missing a cue on Saturday night. Instead of sacking him, a suggestion is to move him to the Clauditorium area, where Claudia Winkleman used to chat with celebrities after dancing. As a comedian, this role could play to his strengths.
