Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe is reportedly set to take on a new role as a host alongside Emma Willis for the upcoming 2026 series. The 39-year-old dancer has impressed producers during chemistry tests, positioning him as a strong candidate to replace longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down at the end of 2025.
Johannes Radebe's New Role
According to a source close to the show, Johannes has performed exceptionally well in auditions. "Everyone involved in the auditions – including the celebs – are saying the job is going to JoJo," the insider revealed. "During the chemistry tests, he was paired up with every other celeb and did incredibly well." This comes after rumors of a professional dancer cull and his successful run in the West End production of Kinky Boots. Johannes had hinted at his return to Strictly, telling the i paper, "When that finishes, Strictly will come around again."
Emma Willis as Frontrunner
Emma Willis, 50, has emerged as the favorite to take over the main hosting duties. Known for her work on Big Brother, she is described as a "safe pair of hands" and is reportedly "thrilled" to have been offered the job. A source stated, "She's incredibly popular with the public too and will suit the role down to a tee." The BBC has not confirmed the lineup yet, with a spokesperson saying, "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course."
Format Changes and Reactions
The new hosting duo may bring format changes, with Johannes potentially serving as a "roving reporter." The insider added, "He has been announced as one of the returning professional dancers but that doesn't mean bosses aren't going to promote him." Meanwhile, Zoe Ball, who was also in the running, confirmed she did not get the job, saying she is "working through the seven stages of grief and rejection" but is "thrilled" for the new hosts. The 2026 series promises to be a fresh start for the beloved show.
