Comedian Josh Widdicombe has dropped his strongest hint yet that he will be the new co-host of Strictly Come Dancing alongside Emma Willis. The 43-year-old funnyman, who shot to fame on Channel 4's The Last Leg, addressed swirling rumours during his stand-up gig at the Hackney Empire on Friday night.
Josh Widdicombe's Strongest Hint Yet
Speaking to the audience, Widdicombe said: "I have started doing old people's TV shows and attracting older audiences." He referenced his appearance on the Strictly Christmas Special in 2024, where he performed dressed as a penguin. Reflecting on that experience, he added: "If I was to sum up the age I have reached - I did the Strictly Christmas special two years ago."
Widdicombe went on to describe the experience as the worst day of his career, recalling: "I had the worst day of my career. We all had to get up and do a group dance. All the big celebs were there - me, Nitro from Gladiators. All the biggies. We all started dancing and I realised I was the worst dancer. This wasn't meant to happen. When I signed up I knew I would be fine because I know how Strictly works. There's always a s*** middle-aged bloke that makes everyone else look good."
Continuing his self-deprecating humour, he joked: "I was like, 'Oh f***. I am the s*** middle-aged guy. I am Adrian Chiles, je suis Jeremy Vine, that is who I am.'"
Rumours of New Strictly Hosts
Earlier this week, reports emerged that Widdicombe had landed the prestigious job alongside Emma Willis, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. However, a BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." Despite this, Widdicombe's public comments suggest he is the frontrunner for the role.
Since Tess and Claudia announced their departure from Strictly in October, numerous top TV names have been linked to the position, including Rylan Clark, Alison Hammond, and Bradley Walsh. Earlier this week, Zoe Ball ruled herself out, admitting she didn't get the job and has been working through the 'seven stages of grief and rejection.' Reports have also suggested Johannes Radebe will be part of the new presenting line-up.
Josh Widdicombe's Career
Josh Widdicombe rose to fame on The Last Leg and co-hosts the hugely popular podcast Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett. A regular face on panel shows, he has won over fans with his comedic timing and one-liners. His recent comments have only fuelled speculation that he will be the new face of Strictly Come Dancing alongside Emma Willis.
