After months of speculation, Emma Willis has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to host Strictly Come Dancing when it returns this autumn. The 50-year-old presenter is said to have impressed BBC bosses during a rigorous audition process, which included screen and chemistry tests.
The Search for a New Host
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepped down from the BBC flagship reality show at the end of 2025, leaving a major gap. The broadcaster reportedly shortlisted 10 candidates, including Alison Hammond, Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, Angela Scanlon, and comedian Josh Widdecombe.
Emma Willis Impresses
A source told The Sun that the Big Brother icon wowed bosses with her chemistry test, proving herself a 'safe pair of hands' and a 'household name'. The insider added: 'The BBC knows she will do the job justice. She's incredibly popular with the public and will suit the role down to a tee. She was absolutely thrilled to have been offered the job.'
Willis, who has hosted Big Brother, Celebrity Big Brother, and Love Is Blind UK alongside her husband Matt, is expected to accept the offer. The BBC has stated: 'Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course.'
Potential Co-Host
If Willis takes the role, the question remains who will join her. Zoe Ball is a strong contender, having mass-followed returning pros and judges on social media. Meanwhile, comic Josh Widdecombe, 43, also impressed with his 'razor-sharp' audition, making him a candidate for the first male lead since Sir Bruce Forsyth.
Other Developments
The BBC confirmed last week that new professional dancers will be announced closer to the new season, following the axing of five pros. Speculation also surrounds the fate of spin-off It Takes Two, which may become a visual podcast.
Metro has reached out to the BBC and Emma Willis' representative for comment.
