Johannes Radebe has been left in tears just weeks before he makes his Strictly Come Dancing presenting debut. It was announced earlier this year that the professional dancer will host the BBC primetime show alongside Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe. The trio take over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped away from the programme at the end of the 2025 series, which was won by footballer Karen Carney.
New Presenters 'Very Excited'
Giving an update on Strictly's new presenting line-up, Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips said: "They're very excited. Johannes always cries every time you speak to him. I'm hoping they're happy tears. He's a lovely, emotional man, Johannes, and I think they were happy tears last week."
It comes after the news that Johannes, Josh and Emma will perform a dance in the opening show, which is being pre-recorded on Wednesday, September 9. They have been busy rehearsing with the rest of the professional dancers in a London studio for their big moment.
Strictly 2.0 Opening Number
A source told The Sun: "This year's series is going to be Strictly 2.0. Bosses are determined to put all the bad blood of the past behind them and start afresh with new dancers and new hosts."
"They're working really hard on an opening number. It will blow everyone's socks off. Traditionally the presenters haven't danced but since Johannes is a pro and Emma and Josh are keen to learn they're making it part of their routine. They're all really excited and can't wait for fans to see them in action."
There has also been a shake-up with the pro dancer line-up. Fan favourites Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas and Gorka Márquez have departed. Meanwhile, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will reportedly be without a partner for this series.
Judges and Celebrities Confirmed
The presenting and pro dancers line-up may look different, but the judging panel remains the same, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Head Judge Shirley Ballas set to return to offer their expert opinions and scores of the dancing celebs and their professional partners.
The 2026 celebrity line-up is Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Coach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Jaime Winstone, Bethany Antonia, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Graeme Hall, Lawrence Robb, Tabby Stoecker, John Nellis and Melanie Walters. The professional and celebrity pairings for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 have not been announced yet and will be announced when the launch show airs.
Kate previously said: "Emma, Johannes and Josh's chemistry is undeniable. There's been so much speculation and hype, so I'm relieved we can share the news with the public at last! I'd like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision but the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle. Along with our amazing Strictly team, who are busy planning fabulous and unforgettable treats for this new series, I know this terrific trio can't wait to join our judges and pros to bring us must-see TV on the BBC this autumn."
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September.
