A New Host Trio Takes the Helm
The BBC’s flagship ballroom competition is ushering in a new era as Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe step into the presenting roles previously held by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed in December 2025. Willis, a longtime fan of the series, admitted she feels both honoured and daunted by the prospect. “It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long,” she said, adding that she “can’t quite comprehend” becoming a presenter on the show.
Johannes Radebe, already a familiar face on the professional dance floor, joins Willis and comedian Josh Widdicombe to lead the weekly broadcasts. The trio will also oversee the companion programme It Takes Two, with Ellie Taylor taking over as its host from Fleur East and Janette Manrara.
Radical Reveal: Live Partner Pairings
For the first time in the show’s history, the celebrity contestants will learn who their professional partner is in front of a live studio audience. Three specially choreographed group dance routines will serve as the stage for the reveal, replacing the traditional pre‑recorded segment that has been used since the series began.
This change aims to heighten the drama and give viewers an immediate, unfiltered reaction to the pairings. The producers hope the spontaneous atmosphere will inject fresh energy into the opening weeks of the competition.
Revamped Professional Line‑up and Judges
The judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke returning to critique the performances. However, the professional dance roster has undergone a significant refresh.
Five longtime pros – Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas – have departed the show. Their places are taken by five newcomers: Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby and Mark Karmalita. These dancers will be paired with the celebrity line‑up for the 24th series.
Star‑Studded Cast and Launch Details
Fifteen celebrities have been confirmed for this year’s contest. The list includes TV personality Dani Dyer, singer Delta Goodrem and EastEnders star Lacey Turner, alongside Gavin & Stacey alum Melanie Walters, actor Jaime Winstone, former footballer Shaun Wright‑Phillips and Paralympic champion Dame Sarah Storey.
Further names completing the roster are celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, Love Island contestant Cach Mercer, TV presenter Will Best, House of the Dragon actress Bethany Antonia, Winter Olympic gold medallist Tabby Stoecker, dog behaviour expert Graeme Hall, Emmerdale star Lawrence Robb and football content creator John Nellis.
The launch episode will air on BBC One at 7.25 pm on Saturday 19 September 2026, featuring last year’s winner, Lioness Karen Carney, performing a special dance with her former partner Carlos Gu. Live weekly episodes will commence the following weekend, broadcasting on both Saturdays and Sundays until the Christmas period.
Why it Matters
Strictly Come Dancing’s decision to reveal partnerships live marks a bold shift in how the show engages its audience, moving from edited suspense to immediate, authentic reactions. Coupled with a fresh presenting team and a refreshed professional cast, the changes signal the BBC’s commitment to keeping the long‑running format relevant in an era where viewers crave real‑time interaction and diverse representation. If successful, this revamp could set a template for other reality competitions seeking to revitalise viewer loyalty while honoring the show’s beloved heritage.