Ellie Taylor, the comedian and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, will take over hosting duties for the show’s spin-off series, It Takes Two, starting next week. Taylor has pledged to bring a fresh and candid approach to the programme, promising to address any controversies or drama surrounding the main show without avoidance.
Taylor, who competed on Strictly in 2022, said she aims to make the revamped It Takes Two “really gossipy” and responsive to fan discussions on everything from on-air judge disputes to off-screen romances. She joked about having a direct connection to the action through former dance partner Johannes Radebe, who now co-hosts the main series and serves as her “man on the inside.”
“You can’t predict what’s going to happen on Strictly,” Taylor said of the live entertainment show. “If something happens and it’s being talked about outside, we’re here to address it. It’ll be fun to have the licence to be really gossipy.” She mentioned that the judges — Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke — will likely be subjects of discussion, especially about the fairness and generosity of their scoring.
Taylor also expressed enthusiasm for developing a supportive dynamic with Emma Willis, who co-presents the main show alongside Johannes and Josh Widdicombe. Taylor praised Willis for her professionalism and kindness, describing her as “everyone’s girl crush” and “really kind and brilliant at her job.” Although Willis, Johannes, and Widdicombe have already established a WhatsApp group for presenters, Taylor indicated she has yet to be invited, humorously suggesting she might create a separate “splinter group.”
Following hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara, Taylor acknowledged the challenges her new role presents, but she said she intends to shield herself from the negative online commentary that sometimes accompanies Strictly personalities. Reflecting on her own experience as a contestant, Taylor said competing under pressure — including a challenging live rumba and a technical mishap at Blackpool — has strengthened her resilience and bolstered her confidence.
“My time on Strictly taught me I can cope with far more than I thought,” Taylor said. She added that her performing background and experience will help her offer guidance to current contestants, describing herself as an “annoying big sister” figure who will provide advice whether welcomed or not.
To inject new energy into the spin-off, Taylor plans to experiment with separating the professional dancers and celebrities into different segments, allowing for more open and vulnerable conversations. She also intends to make the role distinctly her own by approaching the series without watching previous episodes and bringing an abundance of enthusiasm—comparing her energy to that of a “Labrador.”
The new series of It Takes Two, with Ellie Taylor joining as host, will begin airing next week, aiming to deliver an insider’s perspective on the latest Strictly Come Dancing season.