Emma Willis has stepped into the role of host on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, joining newcomers Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe as the show undergoes a significant hosting transition. The trio replaced Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed after 21 years with the program, marking a notable shift for the long-running dance competition.

Filming for the new series began recently, with reports indicating that the first day involved several retakes and some on-set adjustments, including hosts having to swap seating positions to improve camera angles. Audience members watching the initial recordings reportedly noticed these challenges, though a BBC spokesperson clarified that the process was typical for the program and praised the new hosts for a strong debut.

Willis acknowledged the inevitable comparisons to her predecessors, emphasizing her readiness to face both praise and criticism. She framed her entry as a continuation rather than a reinvention of the show. “We aren’t Tess and Claudia,” Willis said, highlighting that while they bring their own personalities and approach, the core objective remains to create joyful entertainment centered on dance.

Josh Widdicombe, a comedian known for his television work, expressed enthusiasm for contributing a fresh dynamic, especially alongside Radebe, a professional dancer whose expertise adds a new dimension to the hosting lineup. Widdicombe joked about his official “ten” score from a Strictly Christmas special, adding levity to the team’s chemistry. Johannes Radebe reflected on the surprise and responsibility of joining such a high-profile show, acknowledging the pressure but also the excitement of engaging with a long-time passion.

For Willis, the hosting role comes at a pivotal time. She recently celebrated her 50th birthday, departed from her previous role on The Voice, and experienced the cancellation of her culinary program on Prime Video. She described feeling invigorated and confident at this stage in her career, eager to embrace new opportunities without hesitation.

The new hosts’ preparations for the show have included adjusting to production routines such as scheduled fake tan sessions and costume decisions, indicating their commitment to maintaining the program’s distinctive style and theatricality. Notably, the studio’s balcony, formerly known as the Clauditorium in honor of Claudia Winkleman, has been renamed in tribute to the new hosts, featuring spaces dubbed Jojo’s Dojo and The Josh Pit.

As the show moves forward with this fresh presenting trio, the BBC appears optimistic about their ability to sustain Strictly Come Dancing’s popularity and charm. With a mix of television experience, dance expertise, and comedic timing, Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe are set to bring their unique energy to the beloved series.