Strictly Come Dancing's It Takes Two Faces Major Host Shake-Up
In a dramatic move, Fleur East and Janette Manrara have reportedly been axed from Strictly Come Dancing's spin-off programme It Takes Two. This decision forms part of a significant cull as BBC executives plot a comprehensive revamp of the BBC2 weeknight show. The overhaul comes in the wake of a series of damaging scandals that have rocked the popular dance franchise.
Hosts in the Firing Line Amid Franchise Controversies
Former Strictly professional dancer Janette Manrara, aged 42, originally took over hosting duties in 2021 after spending eight years as a competitor on the main show. Meanwhile, pop star Fleur East, 38, joined the It Takes Two presenting line-up in 2023, following her impressive journey to the Strictly final the previous year. Both stars now find themselves reportedly removed from their positions as BBC bosses push for a bold new direction for the programme.
An industry source revealed to The Sun: 'Fans will be stunned that this bloodbath is continuing, but bosses are determined to overhaul the show completely. Nobody feels safe right now and there's a real drive behind the scenes to usher in a fresh era after all the recent drama.'
The television insider further explained that the priority for executives is to establish a clean slate by September, creating distance between the show and the controversies that have plagued recent years. However, the source clarified that actions taken by BBC management do not necessarily mean Janette and Fleur are completely out of the picture, suggesting there could be other roles for them elsewhere within the corporation.
Wider Strictly Cast Exodus Continues
This reported axing follows a broader pattern of departures from the Strictly Come Dancing franchise. On Saturday, professional dancer Karen Hauer emotionally confirmed her exit from the main show after fourteen years, breaking down in tears during a video announcement. Karen stated she had decided it was the right time to close this chapter and pursue new projects in other areas she is passionate about.
The BBC dance competition has recently undergone one of its most significant reshuffles in recent memory, with several familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a 'bloodbath'. Those exiting the ballroom include:
- Karen Hauer
- Gorka Márquez
- Nadiya Bychkova
- Luba Mushtuk
- Michelle Tsiakkas
Michelle Tsiakkas also sensationally quit the Strictly Professionals live tour ahead of its scheduled start in April. Except for Karen Hauer, none of the other departing dancers have publicly commented on their exits. Following the news, dancer Aljaž Skorjanec shared his thoughts on the changes for the first time, speculating about what the shake-up might mean for his own role within the franchise.
Legacy and Future Directions
In her emotional farewell, Karen Hauer reflected on her Strictly journey, stating: 'Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being. I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much.'
She expressed gratitude to the production teams, fellow professional dancers, judges, and presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, while also acknowledging the show's fans who have supported her since she first moved to the UK. Karen noted she would become the longest-serving female professional dancer on what she described as a British television institution.
The Daily Mail has contacted representatives of Fleur East, Janette Manrara, and the BBC for official comment regarding the reported changes to It Takes Two. As the September deadline approaches for the show's revamp, viewers await further announcements about the new direction and presenting team for the popular Strictly spin-off programme.
