The new era of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing has faced its first wave of professional scrutiny after the series launched on Saturday, 19 September, with a brand-new presenting line-up.
For the first time in the competition’s history, the show is being fronted by a trio of presenters: comedian Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe. This transition marks the first series since 2004 not to be led by long-term hosts Tess Daly or Claudia Winkleman.
However, the debut of the new team has drawn mixed reviews from former show professionals. Vincent Simone, a former Strictly pro, described Widdicombe as appearing “lost and nervous” during the launch broadcast.
The launch show confirmed the celebrity-professional pairings for the 2026 series.
The 2026 series represents a significant shift in the programme’s structure. While Willis and Widdicombe lead the main proceedings, Johannes Radebe has moved from the professional dance troupe into a central hosting role, creating a three-person dynamic that the broadcaster is trialling for the first time.
According to a report on the launch show, the new format is the biggest shake-up to the production in over two decades.
The changes extend to the show’s sister programming. Comedian Ellie Taylor has been confirmed as the new host of the BBC spin-off It Takes Two, taking over the role from previous presenters Fleur East and Janette Manrara.
Viewers do not have long to wait to see the new pairings in action. The first live competition show of the series is scheduled to air on Saturday, 26 September 2026, on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Unlike the launch show, the live broadcast will see the celebrities performed their first judged routines as the race for the Glitterball trophy begins in earnest.