Strictly Come Dancing's head judge Shirley Ballas has given her verdict on the new presenting trio, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, who are set to replace long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The announcement came after a rigorous audition process, with Shirley revealing that Emma and Josh secured the roles because 'their chemistry was off the charts'.
Shirley's Praise for the New Team
In a recent interview, Shirley expressed her enthusiasm for the BBC's decision. 'I think it's absolutely brilliant what the BBC have done,' she said. 'Of course, I've worked with Emma and she's an absolute star, she's very calm, so beautiful, she keeps everything together. And there's only one Johannes in the whole world. I mean, who wouldn't want him somewhere in that trio?'
Shirley admitted she 'wasn't too familiar' with Josh but had spoken to him properly on Good Morning Britain this week. Josh, who appeared on the 2024 Christmas Special dressed as a penguin dancing with professional Karen Hauer, marks the first male host since Bruce Forsyth. Shirley told The Mirror: 'I think it's going to be fresh and interesting. Apparently the chemistry between Josh and Emma was off the charts. So I believe that was the case. They had chemistry beyond chemistry, so I do trust the process and the producers. They took their time, they didn't rush this decision. I know people are judging before they've even seen the results, but for me, this is a dream team.'
Official Confirmation and Reactions
The news was confirmed on Strictly's official Instagram page on Tuesday, with a photoshoot featuring the trio. The caption read: 'It's official….September 2026.' In the video, Emma and Johannes kissed each other on the cheek before Josh joined them. Emma said: '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!'
Josh expressed his excitement: 'Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can't wait to spend my weekends with them. I'll dust off the penguin costume.' Johannes said the opportunity was 'beyond anything I ever imagined', adding: 'Strictly has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I'm ready-sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me.'
The Selection Process
Emma was the first to be signed after a shortlist of presenters underwent chemistry reads and screen tests over the past few weeks. Josh emerged as a shock favourite after impressing bosses. Johannes, a beloved professional dancer since 2018, will take on presenting duties for the first time as a roving reporter, participating in group dances but not paired with a celebrity. The South African dancer, a fan favourite for his flamboyant routines, is currently starring in Kinky Boots on the West End and has appeared on Doctor Who and Celebrity MasterChef. His memoir, Jojo: Finally Home, became a bestseller in 2023.
Other high-profile names in the running included Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, and Angela Scanlon. Zoe, who auditioned, said: 'I didn't get it, but it's okay. I have worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection over the last couple of days.'
