The BBC’s announcement of new hosts for the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing has generated surprise both among viewers and the presenters themselves. After months of speculation about who would replace longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the broadcaster selected Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe to front the show. The trio admitted they were initially taken aback by the decision and uncertain about how their dynamic would work.

Emma Willis, 50, known for hosting programs such as The Voice, Big Brother, and Cooking With The Stars, described the moment the BBC proposed testing their chemistry as “bonkers” but embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm. “I think all three of us were in such disbelief when they put us together,” she said, noting the network’s approach to “throw caution to the wind” and see how they performed as a team.

Johannes Radebe, 39, who joined Strictly as a professional dancer in 2018 after participating in the South African version of the show, said he had not expected to take on a presenting role. Originally aspiring to become a judge on the series, Radebe found himself challenged by the new responsibilities but eager to remain involved with the programme in a fresh way. He reassured fans that he has no immediate plans to retire from dancing despite stepping into hosting duties, promising significant dance performances during the launch show and beyond.

Comedian Josh Widdicombe, 43, acknowledged the pressure that comes with hosting such a beloved show but viewed it as a motivating factor. “If you weren’t feeling pressure, you’d need to go, ‘What’s wrong with you?’” he said. The hosting trio has spent time together ahead of the launch to build rapport, with Willis noting the support they have received from Daly and Winkleman, who encouraged them to enjoy the experience.

Willis’s connection to the show runs deeper, as she was previously scouted to be a contestant in 2022 and underwent dance tests with Radebe while planning to appear alongside her husband, Matt Willis, the Busted star. Those plans were later shelved when Matt Willis took a lead role in a West End production. The couple has been open about managing potential strains related to the programme, with Emma Willis citing concerns about the so-called “Strictly curse” affecting marriages.

This year's Strictly line-up, featuring numerous reality TV personalities and social media influencers including celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton, Love Island contestant Cach Mercer, and YouTuber John Nellis, has faced criticism from some viewers. Despite this, the new presenting team aims to bring fresh energy to the dancefloor when the series begins next Saturday.