© BBC/Ray Burmiston Josh Widdicombe IS going to host Strictly
BBC confirms comedian will be paired with Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe
It’s official – Josh Widdicombe has been announced as one of the new presenters for Strictly Come Dancing.
The show will return this autumn with three hosts for the first time ever, with the comedian joined by Emma Willis and professional dancer Johannes Radebe.
Widdicombe says: ‘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.’
Previous hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman shocked fans in October by announcing they would be stepping down from the BBC One show, more than a decade after they began presenting it together.
Speaking about the new line-up Kate Phillips, the BBC’s chief content officer says: ‘Emma, Johannes and Josh’s chemistry is undeniable. There’s been so much speculation and hype, so I’m relieved we can share the news with the public at last!
‘I’d like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision. But the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle.;
Last Leg co-host Widdicombe had been rumoured to be taking part last week, but remained tight-lipped, telling This Morning today: ‘Do not believe what you read in the papers.’
But the news was confirmed this afternoon, including via this Instagram post:
Strictly’s executive producer said today: ‘We are absolutely thrilled to finally share this wonderful news. The combination of Emma, Josh, and Jojo was unexpected, but their magic was undeniable the moment they came together.
‘Emma brings a wealth of presenting experience and a natural warmth º she truly belongs in the ballroom and will guide our new celebrity cast through their Strictly journeys with love and care.
‘Josh had us all in stitches with his unique style of self-deprecating humour and razor-sharp wit – and let’s not forget, he got a ten from Anton in the Christmas special, so I think he already considers himself a pro dancer…
‘And then there’s Jojo - a one-of-a-kind talent who’s been a beloved part of the Strictly family for eight years and will bring all his experience and knowledge to this new role - plus of course his legendary wardrobe!’
Willis said: ‘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.’
Radebe added: ‘To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward.’
Published: 19 May 2026
