Rylan Clark has responded to missing out on the coveted hosting role on Strictly Come Dancing with a characteristically humorous social media post, featuring a video of himself pretending to sob uncontrollably. The 37-year-old presenter, who previously fronted Strictly: It Takes Two, was widely considered a frontrunner for the position following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the end of last year.
New Hosts Announced
On Tuesday afternoon, the BBC confirmed that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe would take over the reins of the beloved Saturday night show. Willis, who previously worked with Clark on Big Brother, joins the comedian and the dancer in what promises to be a fresh chapter for the programme.
Almost immediately after the announcement, Clark took to Instagram to share his reaction. In a statement accompanying a clip of himself dramatically crying in jest, he wrote: "Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in 'The Race' for strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh. You're all going to have the best time. Made up for you's This wasn't my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered. I'm taking the news really well (see next slide) but genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three x"
Fan Reactions
Fans were quick to respond, with many praising Clark's good-natured response. The BBC's official announcement post featured the three new hosts posing together, with a voiceover declaring: "Quiet please, Strictly host reveal 2026, please take your positions." Emma Willis expressed her excitement, stating: "It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Strictly – I've cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend. It's impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can't wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them."
Clark's lighthearted reaction has been widely shared, with many appreciating his ability to laugh off the disappointment. The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is set to premiere in September 2026.
