Strictly Come Dancing update as BBC ‘shortlists’ nine big stars for presenting role
Strictly Come Dancing bosses are said to have narrowed down the potential hosts for the new series
Strictly Come Dancing is looking for new hosts(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing’s potential new presenters are reportedly undergoing auditions this week.
Following Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly‘s departure last year, BBC executives have been searching for their successors to front the ballroom programme. Nine prospective hosts have now apparently been shortlisted to replace Claudia and Tess, with the shortlisted celebrities said to be attending a confidential venue in London this week for their auditions.
The candidates will reportedly compete during a comprehensive show rehearsal, featuring the complete judging panel and live band.
Since Tess and Claudia revealed their exit, numerous high-profile personalities have been linked to the presenting role, though BBC bosses have remained tight-lipped about potential replacements.
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Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly have left Strictly(Image: PA)
Up until Friday, the nine contenders will apparently undergo auditions and chemistry assessments to determine who will present the beloved programme.
Participants have reportedly signed non-disclosure agreements, barring them from discussing the process, reports the Mirror.
A source revealed: “It’s not just about reading autocue. They’ll be looking at how people work together and humour is a massive part of it. There’s everything to play for.”
Strictly’s executive producer Sarah James and the BBC’s head of entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight are said to be overseeing the audition process closely. Meanwhile, Matt Brittin, who will be joining the BBC as director general, will also be kept informed at every stage.
Rylan Clark is thought to be a contender(Image: ITV)
The source told The Sun: “Strictly is the crown jewel of the BBC. With Claudia and Tess now gone, it needs to be handled with the utmost care. Bosses are taking a very keen interest.”
Rylan Clark and close friend Emma Willis are reportedly amongst those being considered during the audition stage, described as a “pairing that works” with audiences, having previously co-hosted episodes of ITV’s This Morning together.
La Voix, who rose to prominence on RuPaul’s Drag Race and participated last year alongside Aljaž Škorjanec, has been frequently discussed as a potential candidate. Speaking to the Mirror, La Voix said she is waiting on the call.
The drag artist commented: “I’m absolutely holding out for any involvement in that show. I loved it. People say to me, ‘Would you do it?’ Of course I would! It would be the most amazing presenting role – whether the main show or It Takes Two. Not many people get to go back.”
Angela Scanlon is rumoured to be on the list(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
La Voix has already expressed her desire to present with Jane McDonald.
Graham Norton, Amanda Holden and Alison Hammond were previously considered potential replacements, but have since removed themselves from contention. Meanwhile, Zoe Ball, who formerly hosted It Takes Two, remains another candidate for the role.
Additional leading names include Tom Allen, former participant Angela Scanlon and The One Show presenter Alex Jones.
A Strictly spokesperson said: “Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course.”
Strictly Come Dancing airs on the BBC.
