The new presenting trio for Strictly Come Dancing, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, have addressed how the 2026 series will operate, dismissing a significant rumour about the show's format.
The hosts, who are taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, confirmed that there will be "definitely no backstage roving reporter," a role Johannes Radebe had been widely tipped for. Willis explained that the show's bosses pitched the "wildcard" option of three hosts during chemistry reads.
The exact plan for what each host will do is not yet finalised, with Willis stating, "There's no like for like, so no one's kind of replacing anybody and at the minute it's all very kind of open isn't it?" Widdicombe added, "It's going to be like Total Football," suggesting a flexible approach to their roles.
The 2026 series, which returns on Saturday 19 September, will also introduce five new professional dancers. Additionally, contestants, including Lacey Turner and Delta Goodrem, will be paired with their professional partners live in the ballroom during the launch show, a change from recent years.