Tom Allen Declares Interest in Strictly Come Dancing Hosting Position
Comedian and television presenter Tom Allen has enthusiastically expressed his desire to become one of the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after the previous series. The Bake Off: An Extra Slice host, known for his sharp wit and flamboyant style, confirmed he would happily put his name forward for what he described as the biggest job in television.
"In a Top Hat I’ll Put My Name"
When asked if he would consider applying for the prestigious role, the mischievous 42-year-old responded with characteristic humour. "Yes, in a top hat I’ll put my name, yes. I mean, it’d be fun to do that show wouldn’t it?" Allen acknowledged the significant challenge of following in the footsteps of the previous hosts, stating, "But what enormous shoes to fill really, with Tess and Claudia. They did such an amazing job."
The presenter revealed his particular affection for glamorous television formats, explaining, "I’ve always loved telly like that - that’s got shiny floors and lots of razzmatazz."
Unconventional Co-Host Suggestion
Speaking exclusively ahead of hosting the Royal Television Society Programme Awards at London's JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, Allen shared his surprising thoughts about who could potentially join him as co-host. The Chislehurst, Kent resident, who lives with his actor boyfriend Alfie Garston, suggested, "Erm… maybe someone very serious. Kirsty Wark! That's it! You heard it here first. Top of the table at Ladbrokes."
This unexpected pairing would create a fascinating dynamic between Allen's camp persona and Wark's renowned journalistic gravitas.
Pre-Show Rituals and Professional Approach
Allen, whose refined accent belies his working-class Bromley upbringing as the son of a coach driver, humorously described his preparation for high-profile hosting duties. "Well, I polish my face for about two hours with an industrial floor cleaner, and then I’m good to go. I’m already dressed up, of course, so it doesn’t make any difference," he joked.
More seriously, he added, "But no, no real rituals. They’re usually a nice bunch. Although they are a bit lairy at this awards ceremony, they’re not as formal as they might be at other ones. They can be a bit chatty, so it’s my job to tell them to 'shut up!'"
Current Stage Role and Audience Interaction
The versatile performer recently joined the West End cast of the hit musical spoof Titanique, where he plays Rose's snobby, bankrupt mother Ruth in drag. When questioned about dealing with hecklers during his theatrical run, Allen responded, "Well, actually, no, people are too drunk to form words, haha! But they’re very fun, I’m having a wonderful time and the audiences have been such a laugh. They’ve been great. Really, really great."
The glitzy RTS Awards ceremony celebrated excellence across UK television, attracting notable attendees including Erin Doherty, Steve Coogan, Stephen Graham, Lucy Punch, Davina McCall and Alison Steadman. As speculation continues about who will fill the vacant Strictly hosting positions, Tom Allen has firmly established himself as a serious and entertaining contender with a uniquely British perspective on television entertainment.
