Television presenter Holly Willoughby has finally addressed the swirling speculation that she is in line to become the new host of Strictly Come Dancing. The rumour mill went into overdrive after the shock announcement that both Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly would be stepping down from the beloved BBC programme at the end of the current season.
The Cryptic Comment
According to reports from the Daily Mail's Richard Eden, the 44-year-old former This Morning and Dancing on Ice presenter was approached by reporters at the preview night for Winter Wonderland in London's Hyde Park. When asked about the high-profile presenting role, Willoughby was carefully diplomatic. She coyly stated, "At the moment, I'm just having a lovely time at home watching Strictly." This ten-word comment has done little to quell the rumours and has instead fuelled further speculation about her potential involvement.
Hairdresser Gossip Adds Fuel to the Fire
Further intriguing details have emerged from an unlikely source: a West London hair salon. TV producer Peter Fincham reportedly let slip some insider gossip he heard while getting a trim at Hari's salon, founded by Hari Salem in 1976. The salon, which counts celebrities like Bianca Jagger and Debbie Harry among its clientele, also caters to a "well-known TV channel controller."
Fincham revealed, "My hairdresser also cuts the hair of a well-known channel controller. What's said in Hari's the hairdresser stays in Hari's. But he says with great confidence that Holly Willoughby will take over." This claim adds a significant layer of credibility to the ongoing rumours.
Who Could Join Her on the Dancefloor?
If Holly Willoughby were to step into Claudia Winkleman's shoes, the next major question would be who would present alongside her when the show returns next September. Several names have been touted, but some have already ruled themselves out.
This Morning's Dermot O'Leary, who was rumoured to be in contention, has firmly stated that he is not in negotiations. He suggested that signing up for Strictly would enrage his old X-Factor boss, Simon Cowell. Another presenter with X-Factor connections, Rylan Clark, has also been tipped for one of the vacant roles.
Meanwhile, Strictly professional dancer Katya Jones has thrown her support behind former co-star Janette Manrara. Manrara, who is married to fellow professional Alijaz Skorjanec and currently presents the spin-off show It Takes Two with Fleur East, was Katya's clear favourite.
"Naturally for me, it’s Janette Manrara," Katya said during an appearance on Loose Women. "She’s done it all - she’s done it as a professional, she’s presented It Takes Two. She knows what we’re feeling - she’d be the perfect Claudia, talking it through with us."
However, Katya did not completely rule out the possibility of taking on a presenting role herself, reflecting on her positive experience judging Dancing with the Stars in Belgium. She expressed a deep understanding of the contestants' journey, noting the immense work that goes into the seemingly flawless Saturday night performances.
