The BBC has announced a new presenting team for the upcoming 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, expanding the hosting lineup from two to three. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe will take over as the show’s hosts, succeeding Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who departed last year after many years on the program.

Emma Willis, 50, a former host of Big Brother, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Strictly ballroom. She acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Winkleman and Daly, describing them as "iconic women" who were central to the show's success. Willis said she hopes to continue guiding the program with her co-hosts while enjoying time alongside the dancers and judges.

Josh Widdicombe, 43, a comedian and long-time Strictly fan, recalled his memorable performance dressed as a penguin in the 2024 Christmas special. He described himself as both honored and “a little overawed” by the opportunity to fill a major role on a high-profile television series. Widdicombe said he looks forward to working with Willis and Radebe, joking that he might even bring back his penguin costume.

Johannes Radebe, 39, who has been a professional dancer on Strictly since 2018, said the chance to return in a hosting capacity exceeded his expectations. He emphasized the show’s themes of joy and togetherness and expressed pride in joining Willis and Widdicombe in what he called a "formidable" presenting trio.

Both Tess Daly and DJ Zoe Ball offered public support following the announcement. Daly welcomed the new team, calling them "the ultimate trio," while Ball, who had previously been considered for the role but did not make the final cut, congratulated the hosts on social media. TV presenter Rylan Clark, another contender for the position, also posted his congratulations while expressing his disappointment at not being selected.

Kate Phillips, the BBC’s chief content officer, highlighted the chemistry among Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe as a key factor in the decision. She noted that after a rigorous selection process, the broadcaster chose three presenters for the first time in Strictly’s history, confident the team will deliver engaging television when the show returns this autumn.