Strictly Come Dancing fans have noticed that a long-standing feature has vanished from the show, in addition to the change in presenters. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe have taken over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and viewers were not impressed with the opening show, with some saying the much-loved programme is now in need of saving.
Some fans believe it is already time to find new hosts, with on-air gaffes during the live opener on Saturday night becoming the talking point. However, the absence of Tess and Claudia is not the only change being felt, as another absence has been discussed.
Fans notice missing Clauditorium segment
One fan pointed out that celebrities no longer tell viewers who their friends and family are in the audience, and that those watching the stars in the ballroom have been ignored. On Reddit, one wrote: “Anyone know why most of the contestants guests weren’t introduced in the Clauditorium?
“We saw a lot of family and friends etc in the audience today, but then we never heard from the celebs who they were? I used to really enjoy this bit as we’d see family and friends emotional etc.”
Other fans hope the segment will return once the number of couples reduces. They responded: “Time factor. There will be more room for chatting when there are fewer couples.”
Bookmakers cut odds on show being scrapped
According to bookmakers, this could be the last series. Coral has cut the odds to 3-1 (from 8-1) on the BBC show being scrapped in 2027, with the firm making it odds-on at 1-2 that the show changes its presenting panel next year.
“Strictly has not got off to a good start this year, and with ratings on the decline, we have slashed the odds on the show being scrapped by the BBC in 2027,” said Coral’s John Hill. “The odds don’t look good for the new presenting trio, as we make it odds-on there will be a change if the show continues next year.”
Three stars at most risk
Whilst no one was eliminated this week, there are three stars at most risk - Melanie Walters, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Dame Sarah Storey. They have another week to impress the judges, and the public vote makes a huge impact on who stays and goes.
Next week, the 15 celebrities will dance to movie-themed songs, the first time all 15 stars have ever been able to take part in a themed week. Emmerdale’s Lawrence Robb could go all the way and win Strictly 2026, his soap co-stars reckon. Katie Hill and Jeff Hordley are supporting the Mack Boyd actor, and reckon his personality alone could bag him the Strictly trophy.
Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
