Rylan Clark has opened up about his feelings after the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing were announced. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe have officially been confirmed by the BBC to take over the flagship show, following weeks of speculation after Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's unexpected departure last year.
Rylan's Tongue-in-Cheek Response
The 37-year-old presenter shared a humorous social media post about the decision. On Instagram, he posted a written statement alongside the infamous video of him crying on The X Factor in 2012. 'Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in “The Race” for strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh,' he wrote. 'You’re all going to have the best time. Made up for you’s. This wasn’t my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered.'
He added, 'I’m taking the news really well (see next slide) but genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three.' Celebrities including Alan Carr and Dani Dyer reacted with laughing emojis. Willis commented, 'I love you,' with a laughing emoji. Jake Quickenden said, 'You’d have been great but the others will be great also! Love ya man.' Rob Rinder, with whom Rylan won a Bafta for Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India, added, 'More time to travel & READ.' Rylan responded, 'Let’s keep this what it is. A genuine happiness for the three of them.'
New Hosts Officially Announced
The appointments of Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe were kept under wraps until this week. The BBC released a video of the trio set to the track Three Is a Magic Number, showing Willis and Radebe stepping in front of the camera, with Widdicombe revealed as the photographer. Chief content officer Kate Phillips praised their 'undeniable' chemistry, saying, 'There’s been so much speculation and hype, so I’m relieved we can share the news with the public at last! I’d like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision.'
Phillips added, 'But the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first, we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantel. Along with our amazing Strictly team, who are busy planning fabulous and unforgettable treats for this new series, I know this terrific trio can’t wait to join our judges and pros to bring us must-see TV on the BBC this autumn.'
Other Contenders
Among the names rumoured to have been in contention were Zoe Ball, Angela Scanlon, and It Takes Two hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East, alongside Rylan. Strictly Come Dancing will return for its 24th season this autumn.
