Comedian Josh Widdicombe has faced criticism from Strictly Come Dancing fans who say he has too little to do, as the 2026 season's new three-host format continues to split opinion among viewers.
The 43-year-old was announced in May as one of three hosts for the BBC dance contest, alongside model and presenter Emma Willis, 50, and former Strictly professional dancer Johannes Radebe, 39. The trio replaced Claudia Winkleman, 54, and Tess Daly, 57, who stepped down after the 2025 series.
The format change, which gives the show three hosts for the first time since Sir Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly were joined by Claudia Winkleman, was intended as a boost for the long-running series. However, many fans have taken to social media to argue that Strictly works best with just two hosts.
Fans criticise Widdicombe's role on the show
On X, formerly known as Twitter, several viewers watching Saturday's live show expressed disappointment with Widdicombe, accusing him of standing on the edge of the action. One disgruntled fan posted: "What even is the point of having Josh at this point?! He’s literally just stood there #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing."
Some have urged the BBC to drop the comedian, with one writing: "Josh is just standing there awkwardly waiting for his line all the time. Put him out of our misery." Another added: "I've tried to embrace the new hosts, but Josh just doesn't fit in with all the sparkles, sequins, glitz and glammer..."
Mixed reactions among viewers
However, others have backed Widdicombe, with some suggesting Radebe was the weakest of the three hosts. One fan commented: "He's doing better than I thought he would. Imo [in my opinion] would work better if he was in the auditorium. Johannes should be dancing."
Another wrote: "I don't know why people hate on Josh; I don't think he's doing a bad job. But Johannes is still constantly stumbling over his words, and he seems to be getting worse. I adore him as a person and as a dancer, but he's not a good presenter. I feel bad saying that, but..."
When the three hosts were unveiled six months ago, all expressed excitement about their new roles. Widdicombe said at the time: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume."
Radebe said: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward."
Season faces further challenges
The 2026 season has also faced complaints from fans that many contestants were not famous enough. Among the lineup were celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, professional dog trainer Graeme Hall, and social media star John Nellis.
There was backstage drama this weekend as professional dancer Kai Widdrington was forced to drop out of the live show at short notice due to illness. He was replaced by fellow professional Aljaž Škorjanec, who danced alongside Australian singer Delta Goodrem. Škorjanec had previously competed in the 2026 season with Melanie Walters of Gavin & Stacey fame, but the pair were eliminated in the second week of the competition.
