The search for new hosts of the BBC's flagship dance show, Strictly Come Dancing, has taken a significant turn, with a well-known ITV personality now emerging as the leading contender.
A New Frontrunner Emerges
Following the emotional departure of long-standing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after the 2025 series, speculation has been rife about their successors. Names like Alan Carr, Angela Scanlon, Zoe Ball, and Bradley Walsh have all been linked to the coveted roles. However, industry insiders now suggest that Christine Lampard has become the firm favourite.
The 46-year-old presenter, who recently left her Friday hosting slot on ITV's Lorraine after eight years, is said to be 'a name on everyone's lips' within BBC production circles. A source close to the show told The Sun that her combination of live TV expertise, established fanbase, and prior Strictly experience makes her an ideal candidate.
Why Producers Are Keen on Christine
The insider highlighted several key factors in Lampard's favour. 'She has a huge fanbase from her years fronting breakfast TV and is a pro at handling live TV, which is no mean feat,' the source stated. Crucially, they pointed out that producers love the idea of casting a former contestant, a strategy that worked well for the spin-off show It Takes Two.
Christine Lampard first appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2008 during its sixth series. Partnered with professional dancer Matthew Cutler, she was eliminated in fifth place, losing a dance-off to Rachel Stevens and Vincent Simone. That series was ultimately won by Tom Chambers and Camilla Dallerup.
'As well as being glamorous and great to work with, Christine is incredibly likeable and has excellent interview skills,' the source added, emphasising her all-round presenting pedigree.
A Wealth of Broadcasting Experience
Lampard's career provides a solid foundation for the high-pressure Strictly role. She co-hosted The One Show with Adrian Chiles in 2007 before moving to ITV in 2010 to front Daybreak. She also served as maternity cover for Holly Willoughby on Dancing On Ice between 2012 and 2014 and has been a regular panelist on Loose Women.
Her departure from Lorraine was announced in December 2025, with Christine posting a heartfelt message on social media thanking the team. 'After many years of being part of the @lorraine family it is now coming to an end,' she wrote, signalling a new chapter in her career that could now include a return to the Strictly ballroom.
With her schedule now more open, the wife of former England footballer Frank Lampard and mother of two appears perfectly positioned to step into one of British television's most high-profile presenting duos. The BBC has yet to officially comment on the ongoing speculation.
