The final shortlist for the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing has reportedly been narrowed down to nine candidates, with auditions scheduled to begin this week. Former contestant Angela Scanlon is among the frontrunners, according to sources close to the process.
The auditions, taking place at a secret London location, will involve full-scale dress rehearsals complete with judges and a live band to simulate a live show. Candidates have signed non-disclosure agreements, and crew members are sworn to secrecy. The tryouts will assess not only autocue reading but also chemistry and humour, with executive producer Sarah James and BBC head of entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight overseeing proceedings.
Other names on the shortlist include Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, Tom Allen, Zoe Ball, and Holly Willoughby. Rylan, who co-hosted It Takes Two for four years, is said to be 'really excited' about the opportunity. Emma Willis, known for hosting Big Brother and The Voice, is reportedly 'keen to wow' in auditions. Comedian Tom Allen could bring the fun, with sources suggesting a pairing with Rylan might be 'hilarious'.
Angela Scanlon, who finished sixth on the show in 2023, is considered a strong contender due to her familiarity with the programme. The BBC is taking a cautious approach, vetting candidates' backgrounds to avoid any scandals, as the show is described as 'the crown jewel of the BBC'.
