Josh Widdicombe has addressed the swirling rumours that he is set to become the new host of Strictly Come Dancing. The 43-year-old comedian, best known for his work on The Last Leg, has reportedly been offered the presenting role on the BBC's hit Latin and ballroom competition alongside Emma Willis.
Widdicombe's Reaction
Appearing on Tuesday's episode of Good Morning Britain, Widdicombe was questioned by hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls about the speculation. He responded: "I would love to do it." This comes after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure from the show last year, prompting producers to search for replacements.
Shirley Ballas Weighs In
Head Judge Shirley Ballas recently dismissed claims that Widdicombe would be the new presenter. When asked about the comedian's potential role, the 65-year-old dance legend said: "I have no comment," before adding: "What was the name of the man you said was on Strictly? Josh Widdicombe? Never heard of him, who is he? That is a new name for me." Speaking exclusively to the Mirror at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show VIP Day, Ballas added: "I'm looking forward to Strictly, we're going to have two new presenters. I will say to anybody who's listening or reading, don't believe everything you read." She also revealed that the official announcement regarding the new presenters is expected "next week, the end of this week, the beginning of next!"
Insider Insights
Teasing Widdicombe's new role, an insider told The Sun: "They demanded someone who could match (Claudia's) quick wit, which often defused any tension felt by contestants after their dances, and right at the moment where they got their scores. So getting a stand-up star who could think on their feet – who are used to responding to hecklers off the cuff – was an obvious choice. But they had to be someone very different to the central host, which, in this case, turned out to be Emma Willis." The source suggested that Widdicombe's more "awkward and funny" persona is a good contrast to Willis's "glamorous, smooth, straight-laced" demeanour. The insider added: "It's a similar dynamic to that of Claudia and Tess – and execs on the show didn't care if they had to ditch the same sex presenting format to achieve that."
The BBC has yet to comment directly on the claims that Widdicombe has been offered the role. Widdicombe previously appeared on the show in the 2024 Christmas special. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
