What's happened
The Scotsman and Independent report that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe have taken over hosting duties for Strictly Come Dancing 2026. The 24th series features 15 celebrities, new professional lineups, and a revamped It Takes Two, with launch on September 19 and live shows through Christmas. The change marks a major shift in format and presentation.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- This year’s reboot centers on a new presenting trio, signaling a clear shift in on-screen chemistry and audience engagement.
- The introduction of five new professional dancers alongside a 15-celebrity cast may broaden appeal and inject fresh choreography dynamics.
- The extended run (Saturday launches, Sunday results) maintains a steady weekly cadence, which could stabilize viewership across the season.
- The piece suggests a strategic emphasis on personalities with broad cross-media reach (e.g., Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem) to attract diverse audiences.
- Expect scrutiny of how new hosts balance judging energy with entertainment, as audience adaptation often drives early-season momentum.
How we got here
The 2004 launch of Strictly Come Dancing has evolved into a global franchise with versions in over 60 countries. This year introduces Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe as the presenting trio, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman who departed in 2025. The cast includes Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Lacey Turner, and 12 others, with five new professional dancers joining the lineup.
Our analysis
- The Scotsman: coverage of the new hosting team and cast, including quotes from Executive Producer Sarah James. - Independent: outlines the format shift (celebs meeting partners in front of a studio audience) and confirms new judging lineup and cast additions. - Getty/Associated media photos referenced for backdrop on cast appearances.
Go deeper
- How will the new hosts handle the balance between competition and entertainment?
- Which new professional will prove most influential in adapting the dances to modern audiences?
- Will Dani Dyer and Delta Goodrem drive broader cross-media engagement this season?
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Emma Willis - English television presenter and model
Emma Louise Willis (née Griffiths; born 18 March 1976) is an English broadcaster. She is known for her television and radio work with Channel 5, BBC, ITV and Heart FM. Willis presented the Channel 5 reality shows Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother (2013–2018), as well as the spin-off show Big Brother's Bit on the Side (2011–2015). She presented the BBC One and ITV1 talent competition show The Voice (2014–present), and the children's spin-off The Voice Kids (2017–2023). In 2019 and 2021, Willis presented the second and third series of the reality show The Circle on Channel 4. In 2024, she became a co-host of the Netflix dating show Love Is Blind alongside her husband Matt Willis.
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Delta Goodrem - Australian singer-songwriter
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Lacey Turner - English actress
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