The popular Strictly Come Dancing companion programme, It Takes Two, is poised for a significant transformation ahead of the 2026 series, according to reports. The show, which has been a staple for fans since 2004, is expected to undergo a format refresh that could see it become a vodcast, blending traditional television with podcast-style content.
Format Refresh to Reflect Changing Audiences
Sources indicate that the BBC is planning to revamp It Takes Two in a manner similar to other companion shows like The Traitors: Uncloaked and The Apprentice: You’re Fired. The proposed change would see the programme recorded as a vodcast, allowing viewers to watch episodes on screen while also making them available as audio podcasts for listeners. This dual-format approach aims to capture a broader audience, including younger demographics who increasingly consume content via podcasts.
A source told The Sun: “There is definitely a creative renewal on the table for It Takes Two, and they are poised to sign off on the radical option of a vodcast.” The source added that the switch could attract millions more viewers and listeners, calling it “quite a shrewd move” despite being a departure from the traditional format.
New Hosts Rumoured
Alongside the format changes, it is claimed that current hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East will not return for the refreshed series. However, a BBC spokesperson previously told The Independent: “It is factually incorrect to claim that either has been axed.” The network has not confirmed any changes to the presenting lineup.
The show originally launched in 2004 with Claudia Winkleman as host, who later became the main Strictly presenter. Zoe Ball took over from 2011 to 2021, sharing duties with Rylan Clark from 2019. After Ball’s departure, former professional dancer Janette Manrara stepped in, with East eventually replacing Clark.
Speculation Over Main Show Hosts
The news comes amid ongoing speculation about who will replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly on the main Strictly Come Dancing series, following their departures in December. Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark are reportedly among the contenders for the top job. Ball recently teased a “glamorous” project, though she remained tight-lipped about specifics. In January, she expressed a desire to host the show but noted she had not yet spoken to producers. Her father, Johnny Ball, hinted in December that she was being considered, saying: “People are coming to her, but it’s too early to say.”
The Independent has contacted the BBC for further comment on both the It Takes Two refresh and the main show’s hosting changes.
