Strictly Come Dancing launches 2026 series with new hosting trio

Strictly Come Dancing returned on Saturday 19 September with a new presenting team of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe. The trio replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who left after the 2025 series. Fifteen celebrities were paired with professional dancers during the launch show, including EastEnders actor Lacey Turner with Vito Coppola and Team GB skeleton athlete Tabby Stoecker with new pro Mark Karmalita. Big Brother host Will Best was partnered with Dianne Buswell, while Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey will dance with Julian Caillon.

Viewers reacted on social media with mixed opinions about the three-host format. Some praised Willis's performance, while others questioned the need for three presenters and suggested Widdicombe appeared out of place. The hosts previously described their roles as fluid, without direct replacements for Daly's and Winkleman's former positions.

“It's a little bit overwhelming to be here but we are so excited”

The BBC is also reportedly preparing a spin-off titled Strictly Pro Dance Off, led by Buswell, to launch alongside the main series. According to TV insiders cited by The Sun, the format will feature professional dancers competing in seven-minute head-to-head challenges. A source said the goal is to attract a younger audience and future-proof the contest, drawing inevitable comparisons to the US show Dancing With The Stars: The Next Pro.