Strictly Come Dancing bosses have reportedly decided to alter the presenting line-up after just one series, with Josh Widdicombe's position on the show said to be in doubt, although the BBC has dismissed the claims as "pure and utter speculation."
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe took over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after the long-time hosts announced their exit during the 2025 series. The new trio has faced criticism from viewers, with Widdicombe receiving much of the backlash after appearing "uncomfortable and out of his depth" on the programme.
Reports of a Presenting Shake-Up
A source told the Daily Mail that bosses have already decided "to change" the presenting line-up after the hosts became the "butt of the joke." The source said: "When Emma, Josh and Johannes entered that room, they were seen to be the dream. Those at the BBC who didn’t see them were shocked and didn’t believe it could work."
"That view stands, it doesn’t work. Not only have many of the traditional viewers stopped watching, the show has become the butt of jokes, a laughing stock," the source added. While Emma Willis's position as host could remain, Josh's "could be in doubt," according to the publication.
The source continued: "It isn’t working. Strictly isn’t really for him; he probably knows that."
BBC Response and Latest Elimination
However, the BBC has shut down any plans to replace Widdicombe or the other hosts. A spokesperson told Express.co.uk: "This is pure and utter speculation."
Meanwhile, the next Strictly star to be eliminated is being revealed during the results show on Sunday, October 24. This follows Dame Sarah Storey's departure after she faced actress Bethany Antonia in the dance-off.
The results come after a showstopping live show, which saw Olympian Tabby Stoecker and Mark Karmalita top the leaderboard with a score of 37 for their Couple's Choice to "Stupid Song" by Olivia Rodrigo. Tabby secured two tens from the judges, while Delta Goodrem also received a ten in her first performance since being ruled out of last week's live show due to a rib injury.
