In a surprising turn of events, comedian Alan Carr has officially distanced himself from the coveted hosting role on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. This announcement comes as the show seeks two new presenters to fill the shoes of beloved duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down at the conclusion of the 2025 series. Carr’s candid remarks, made during a promotional event for his new Channel 4 show, Secret Genius, have provided fans with both laughter and clarity regarding his decision.
Carr’s Humorous Rejection
Hosting the iconic dance competition is a dream for many in the entertainment industry, but Carr, known for his wit and charm, has offered a refreshingly honest take. “I just think I like watching it, I don’t love it,” he quipped, suggesting that a genuine passion for the show is essential for the role. He further acknowledged the show’s immense popularity, stating, “That show is so adored and so loved. You want someone in there who’s like, ‘Yeah, this Paso Doble was…’. I don’t give a s**t. Give it to someone else, yeah.”
While Carr has chosen to step aside, his sense of humour remains intact, showcasing his understanding of what the role demands: a true love for the intricacies of dance and a flair for engaging the audience.
The Search for New Hosts
As speculation swirls around potential replacements, one name has emerged as a frontrunner: Zoe Ball. The former It Takes Two host expressed her enthusiasm for the prospect, stating, “Obviously, there’s a part of me that would love to do it.” With a decade of experience on the spin-off show and a history of competing in Strictly herself, Ball is well-equipped for the task. She even briefly filled in for Winkleman in 2014, demonstrating her capability to handle live broadcasts.
Other stars believed to be in the running include Paddy McGuinness, current It Takes Two hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara, as well as Strictly 2018 champion Stacey Dooley. La Voix, a contestant from the latest series, has also expressed interest in the hosting role, adding to the growing anticipation surrounding the announcement of the new presenters.
Anticipation for the Announcement
While the BBC has yet to confirm a timeline for the unveiling of the new hosts, Ball’s father, Johnny, hinted that a decision could be forthcoming in the spring. He optimistically noted, “I think she would love the job because she took over from Claudia on It Takes Two, and if anything, she did a better job than Claudia.” This endorsement has only heightened fans’ eagerness to learn who will take over the helm of one of the UK’s most beloved television programmes.
Why it Matters
The search for new hosts for Strictly Come Dancing is not just about filling a vacancy; it reflects the evolving landscape of British television and audience expectations. As viewers become more discerning, the need for passionate and knowledgeable presenters has never been greater. Carr’s candid remarks highlight the importance of authenticity in TV presenting, setting a standard that future hosts will need to meet. The right choice will not only shape the future of Strictly but also resonate with audiences, ensuring that the show continues to capture hearts and inspire joy on Saturday nights.
