Vernon Kay Advocates for Alex Jones and Rylan as New Strictly Come Dancing Hosts
Vernon Kay has publicly endorsed his preferred candidates to take over from his wife Tess Daly and her co-host Claudia Winkleman on the beloved BBC programme Strictly Come Dancing. The iconic presenting duo announced their joint departure from the show in October 2025, leaving legions of devoted fans heartbroken. Following their final appearance in the Christmas special, the BBC has been actively searching for new hosts to lead the ballroom extravaganza.
Vernon Kay's Strong Endorsement for Alex Jones
Vernon Kay, the 51-year-old former host of Celebrity Family Fortunes who has been married to Tess Daly since 2003, offered his insights during an interview with Metro. He emphatically stated, 'Alex Jones should be on the floor. She is probably the funniest presenter I've worked with.' Kay elaborated that the formal structure of The One Show does not fully showcase her comedic and irreverent personality to the audience.
'She'd be perfect because she is one of the best in a live TV scenario. Absolutely brilliant,' he continued. 'If they pick anyone but Alex, that person has to, literally, be made of liquid gold. Alex, for me, is the right choice.' Kay further argued that after many years on The One Show, Alex Jones deserves an opportunity on a major prime-time entertainment programme, clarifying that his comments were not meant to disparage The One Show but to highlight that it is her moment to shine.
Rylan Suggested as Claudia Winkleman's Successor
Regarding who could fill the role currently held by The Traitors host Claudia Winkleman, 54, Vernon Kay proposed Rylan. He remarked, 'Then upstairs, someone who knows the show better than most... Rylan.' This suggestion points to Rylan's extensive familiarity with Strictly Come Dancing, potentially from his previous involvement or coverage.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's Emotional Farewell
When announcing their exit last year, Tess and Claudia shared the news with fans via an emotional Instagram video. Claudia began by addressing rumours, saying, 'There have been some rumblings and we want you to hear this from us.' Tess added, 'We have news, after 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly, we have decided that the time is right to step aside and pass over the baton.'
Claudia humorously referred to it as 'The very sparkly baton!' before noting Tess's involvement since the beginning with the late Bruce Forsyth. Tess reflected on how the show has been a significant part of their lives, watching their children grow from infants to adults. Claudia expressed gratitude to the entire Strictly team, emphasising that the show's success is due to its people.
In their caption, they wrote, 'We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.' They thanked the BBC and every team member, promising to miss them daily and hinting at future casual viewings in tracksuit bottoms with pizza.
Other Potential Candidates Rule Themselves Out
Speculation about potential replacements has been widespread, but some rumoured contenders have declined interest. Comedian Alan Carr, 49, who won Celebrity Traitors for the BBC, acknowledged the honour but stated during a Q&A for his Channel 4 show Secret Genius that he prefers watching the show rather than hosting it. He believes the role should go to someone who genuinely loves Strictly, suggesting a fresh face would be more appropriate.
Similarly, The Chase host Bradley Walsh, 65, dismissed rumours of his candidacy in an interview with Radio Times. He detailed his weekend routine, which includes watching I'm a Celebrity, football, Strictly, and Match of the Day, concluding that hosting Strictly would disrupt his cherished television viewing schedule. 'If I was to host Strictly, it would absolutely ruin my weekend,' he asserted.
As the BBC continues its search for new hosts, Vernon Kay's recommendations add to the ongoing public discourse, highlighting the high stakes and emotional attachment surrounding one of Britain's most cherished television programmes.
