Josh Widdicombe has been praised by fans after sharing a glimpse of life behind the scenes at Strictly Come Dancing on Instagram. The comedian, 43, became one of the new presenters on the BBC Saturday night show in September, hosting alongside Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman quit their long-running roles last year.
Backstage photos with celebrities
In a carousel of photos posted to Instagram, Josh wrote: "Don’t take enough photos at strictly but here are some of the JOURNEY so far." One picture shows Josh posing with contestant Shaun Wright-Phillips. Another backstage snap features his co-star Emma learning lines before filming began. In the final post, Josh is seen with actor Ray Winstone, whose daughter Jaime is currently competing on the show.
Fans praise new hosting role
Strictly viewers reacted quickly to the post, praising the star for his work in the new hosting role. One fan said: "You’ve given strictly a new lease of life [hand clapping emoji] great job , absolutely smashing it," and another said: "You're doing great!" A third added: "Loving you on the show Josh. Bringing the humour and smiles." Another wrote: "Brilliant job Josh. A real glow up, bringing the fun and laughter."
Social media and brick phone
The post comes weeks after Josh said he had "pulled the drawbridge up" on social media amid backlash over his new TV role. When the latest series began airing, some fans compared Josh to a "spare part". During his podcast Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett, Josh revealed he had started using a brick phone to limit screen time. He said: "I'm back on the brick. You've inspired me and I'm loving the brick again. It's mad that we've reached this space in time where we have to buy a second phone because we're being dragged into these apps."
Support from colleagues
Pro dancer Lauren Oakley was among the first to praise Josh early in the show, saying on Instagram Stories: "We couldn't be in safer hands than with these beautiful people." She added: "This trio have been so warm and welcoming, and they felt like family from the minute they stepped into the studio, and we love having them with us. Professional, funny, kind and fantastic at what they do. I couldn't feel more lucky to be sharing the screen and our Saturday nights with them." TV presenter Richard Osman also defended Josh on his podcast The Rest Is Entertainment, saying: "The producers are watching that more carefully than viewers are watching it. The producers know."
