Strictly Come Dancing legend Craig Revel Horwood has revealed his preferences for the show's new presenters, suggesting that an announcement could be made within a month. The long-serving judge, known as 'Mr Nasty', has named professional dancer Johannes Radebe as his ideal choice to replace former hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Claudia and Tess's Departure
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly shocked fans last October when they announced mid-season that they were leaving the BBC show. They made their final appearance on the Strictly Christmas Day special later that year. Since then, speculation about their replacements has been rife, with names like Rylan Clark, Fleur East, Emma Willis, Alex Jones, and Zoe Ball all linked to the roles. However, the BBC is believed to have now settled on a choice.
Craig's Picks
Craig suggested that the announcement could come as soon as 'in one month' as he shared his own picks. He first named Simon Cowell and Amanda Holden but admitted he didn't think they would 'get the job'. He also had an idea for who could be the 'sweet one'. Speaking to The Sun, he said: 'I love Johannes for the job. I think he would be the sweet one. I don't know how he would get on with me as he just laughs at me.'
He added: 'I know they are trying people out at the moment. In fact, this week, and I am sure we will find out. I think it is going to be released in one month.'
Secret Auditions
A week of 'secret auditions' was due to culminate in a decision on the new duo on Friday, April 24, with Saturday marking the final day of screen tests with different line-ups. However, the announcement 'may not come for a few more weeks'. A source revealed to The Sun: 'They want it done and dusted this week. The announcement may not come for a few more weeks, because obviously contracts will need to be signed but the powers that be will be naming who they want in closed door meetings as we speak.'
'They really didn't want to get this wrong, which is why it's been such a long, drawn-out process. Everyone who has auditioned and been invited for screen tests is on tenterhooks, they just want to know now.'
Other Changes
This is not the only significant shake-up on the popular dance show. Strictly pros Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have all been confirmed not to return this year. Similarly, Gorka Marquez is reportedly also on his way out, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu are said to have been limited to group numbers only. Meanwhile, sister series It Takes Two is reportedly due to be relaunched as a vodcast.
Astrologer Russell Grant recently took to X to share his prediction for the main presenting role. He wrote: 'I'm in no doubt that the best presenter for Strictly is the wonderful Alexander Armstrong. He sings, he's funny, and he's warm and kind to all.'
