Strictly 2026 opens with mixed reviews for new hosts and dance variety

Strictly Come Dancing returned for its 2026 series on Saturday with a new presenting trio of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The launch show paired 15 celebrities with professionals, but no elimination takes place in week one.

YouTuber John Nellis, paired with Katya Jones, surprised viewers by topping the leaderboard with 31 points for a Foxtrot to "Ordinary" by Alex Warren. Bookmakers Coral immediately made the pair 9/4 favourites to win the series.

“Loads of things could go wrong, but let's not focus on that.”

Reaction to the new hosts was divided. While Willis was praised for her experience, Widdicombe was labelled a "spare part" on the dancefloor by several viewers. Radebe conducts interviews from the auditorium while Willis and Widdicombe present from the floor.

The week-one dance list also drew criticism. Reddit users noted that the majority of the 15 routines are Latin styles, including four cha chas, with not a single waltz scheduled. Fans argued the lack of variety makes the opening week feel repetitive.

Celebrities shared backstage group photos during rehearsals, with Olympian Tabby Stoecker captioning her post "Class of 2026 is ready to rumble." Widdicombe admitted hours before the live show that he was "terrified" and feared "loads of things" could go wrong.