Comedian Josh Widdicombe has described the mix of emotions ahead of his first live Strictly Come Dancing appearance as “brilliantly terrifying,” as the BBC’s flagship dance competition kicks off its new season this weekend with a refreshed presenting line-up.
Widdicombe joins Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe as co-hosts for the upcoming live shows, marking a new chapter for the long-running programme. Speaking ahead of Saturday’s premiere, the 43-year-old praised the collaborative spirit of the trio, insisting there are “no egos” among them.
A New Era of Team Dynamics
“We feel like a team where there’s no ego,” Widdicombe said. “That there’s no one wanting to put themselves out front more than the others. We feel like we’ve all got our different personalities and they gel together.”
He went on to commend his co-stars, describing Willis and Radebe as “generous, sweet and funny” – qualities that, he added, make working on Strictly feel “even more exciting and joyous.”
Radebe, 39, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the authenticity of his fellow presenters. “Emma is such a formidable broadcaster. She has this incredible ability to make everything look effortless, while being incredibly precise and prepared. And Joshy is just brilliantly funny, he has this wonderful ability to find the joke without forcing it.”
“For me, it’s been about finding our rhythm as a trio. I’m learning so much from both of them, and I think we bring very different energies to the show. That’s what makes it exciting.”
The Weight of Live Television
Willis, 50, offered her perspective on the chemistry between the hosts, calling Widdicombe and Radebe “down to earth, humble, funny, lovely guys who both love Strictly with a passion and are here to do a great job and have fun.”
“I think that’s all anyone would want – they’re just fab and we kind of gelled from the moment we met,” she said.
Widdicombe admitted that stepping into the role of live television presenter came with its own set of challenges. “I had so much adrenaline on the night that I had to have two naps the day after!”
“I don’t think at any point since getting the job had it felt real until we heard the music start up and Alan Dedicoat say our names. The whole thing was a mix of joy and exhaustion off the back of fear – and totally and utterly thrilling.”
What’s Next for Strictly?
As the new season launches, fans can expect the usual blend of glitter, glamour, and high-energy performances when the live show returns on Saturday at 6:15pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
Widdicombe hinted at the excitement building around the upcoming episodes, adding: “I think it’s going to be really, really fun. It’s going to feel utterly surreal, just as terrifying as the first one. Will it ever stop being terrifying?”
“I hope not, because hosting something like this should be the best kind of terrifying.”
Why it Matters
The arrival of a new hosting trio signals a bold evolution for Strictly Come Dancing, one of the BBC’s most beloved and enduring entertainment programmes. With Widdicombe’s comedic timing, Willis’s broadcasting pedigree, and Radebe’s dance expertise, the line-up promises fresh energy while maintaining the warmth and inclusivity that have defined the show for nearly two decades. Their chemistry – built on mutual respect and shared enthusiasm – suggests a promising season ahead, offering viewers both nostalgic comfort and renewed excitement.
