The BBC has unveiled the new presenting line-up for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, with Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe taking over the ballroom this autumn
For the 2026 series, ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ is entering a new era with a refreshed presenting line-up, following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
The trio is certainly an interesting mix. Emma Willis brings a mountain of live TV presenting experience, having fronted shows such as Big Brother, The Voice UK and Emma Willis: Delivering Babies. Johannes Radebe will be very familiar to ‘Strictly’ viewers, having been one of the show’s most beloved professional dancers for the past eight years. And Josh Widdicombe adds a rather more chaotic energy to proceedings, having previously taken part in the 2024 ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ Christmas Special, where he danced the Charleston dressed as a penguin.
“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. Along with our amazing Strictly team, who are busy planning fabulous and unforgettable treats for this new series, I know this terrific trio can’t wait to join our judges and pros to bring us must-see TV on the BBC this autumn,” said Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer.
Sarah James, ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ Executive Producer for BBC Studios, added: “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 — 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!
“Most importantly, what truly shines through is the love and passion all three share for this show. That’s the key ingredient and we hope our audience will love them as much as we do.”
Suzy Lamb, MD for Entertainment at BBC Studios, commented: “Strictly has always been about bringing people together through joy, warmth and world-class entertainment, and Emma, Johannes and Josh perfectly embody that spirit. Individually, each of them brings something audiences already love – personality, insight and wit. But when you put those qualities together, the result is a kind of chemistry that feels fresh, dynamic, and impossible to ignore – and we can’t wait for viewers to see them light up the ballroom.”
Speaking about joining the show, Emma Willis said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be 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. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”
Johannes 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. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all…please bear with me. Love Jojo.”
And Josh Widdicombe said: “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.”
‘Strictly Come Dancing’ is a BBC Studios Entertainment production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer, commissioned by Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC. The Executive Producer is Sarah James, the Series Editors are Nicola Fitzgerald and Jack Gledhill. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Jo Wallace.
‘Strictly Come Dancing’ returns this autumn on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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