'I’m so excited, I could cha cha!'

Ellie Taylor has been officially unveiled as the new host of the Strictly spin-off show It Takes Two.

Earlier this month, Chortle reported on speculation that the comic – who took part in the 2022 edition of the BBC One dance competition – was to take the job.

Now the BBC has confirmed the news.

Taylor said: ‘What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role. I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who've made Strictly - It Takes Two so loved over the years. 

‘I can’t wait to immerse myself in all the gossip and sequins flying out of the ballroom in order to bring my fellow Strictly fans everything they need to know. I’m so excited, I could cha cha! (But I won’t - don’t worry… no one needs to see that again.)’

It Takes Two was last hosted by Fleur East – also a 2022 contestant  – and pro dancer Janette Manrara,  both of whom are leaving. Claudia Winkleman, Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark all previously hosted the show.

Rhe-an Archibald, the executive producer of  It Takes Two, said the programme had been ‘reinvented’ for 2026, adding: ‘With a wealth of new features and deep dives, we want to reflect the conversations happening in living rooms up and down the country – full of opinions, laughs, surprises and those moments everyone wants to talk about. 

‘With the fun and funny Ellie at the helm, it will be an utterly unmissable companion to Strictly Come Dancing.’

Taylor came seventh when she took part with pro Johannes Radebe.

Her previous presenting work includes Snog Marry Avoid?, The Great Pottery Throw Down and Bake Off: The Professionals.

Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Radebe will be the new presenting team on the main show when Strictly returns next month.

Published: 15 Aug 2026