Strictly Come Dancing professional Lauren Oakley has spoken out in defence of the show's new presenters, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, who have faced heavy backlash since taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
The trio made their debut as hosts last month after undergoing extensive chemistry tests before being appointed to the BBC show. However, shortly after the new series launched, the presenters came under intense scrutiny from viewers.
Criticism over three-presenter format
Many viewers have questioned the need for three presenters, given that the show was hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman for 11 years. Others have specifically criticised Josh, 43, with many feeling he is "out of his depth". Further complaints followed after he appeared to miss his cue during the first live show on Saturday, September 26.
Former professional Johannes, 39, has also sparked backlash, with some calling for him to be removed from the show alongside Josh.
Lauren Oakley's defence
Lauren, 35, has now jumped to the defence of the trio, describing them as "beautiful people" as she reminded fans what Strictly is all about.
"We couldn't be in safer hands than with these beautiful people," she wrote on her Instagram Stories. "Strictly is about family, uplifting others, and creating a safe space for celebrity contestants to be vulnerable and do something so outside of their comfort zone."
"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," she added.
Lauren, who is partnered with television presenter and dog trainer Graeme Hall in this year's series, continued: "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!"
Josh Widdicombe on his debut
After making his debut as Strictly host during the launch show last month, Josh admitted his new role didn't feel real until he stepped onto the stage that night.
"I had so much adrenaline on the night that I had to have two naps the day after! I don't think, at any point since getting the job, it had felt real until we heard the music start up and Alan Dedicoat say our names," he explained.
Speaking about working with Emma and Johannes, he said: "We feel like a team where there's no ego. That there's no one wanting to put themselves out front more than the others. That we feel like we've all got our different personalities and they gel together. Emma and Johannes are just so generous, sweet and funny - they make working on Strictly feel even more exciting and joyous to me."
