Strictly Come Dancing has finally confirmed Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe as the next hosts, and I am already convinced to watch for the first time. Despite Strictly becoming a beloved British cultural institution over the past two decades, I have never been an active watcher of the show. It was never a staple in my household, and by the time I was an adult, I felt the moment had passed. The fanbase was long established, viewership declining, and aside from passive watching over the years—such as when it happened to be on in the background or a major moment gripped the nation—I have never sat down and followed a whole season from start to finish.
But if the new hosting lineup is anything to go by, I think that may be about to change. The BBC has made clear they are looking to make a fresh start. Of course, it will be familiar enough with the same competition format, a gaggle of wary but excited celebrities, and a quartet of judges. However, with a batch of new professionals entering the ballroom and Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly handing the mantle over to this plucky new trio, the reset has enticed me to give it a try.
A Fresh Perspective with Josh Widdicombe
The choice of comedian and The Last Leg host Josh Widdicombe especially intrigues me. It feels like a rogue and leftfield choice for the BBC and may just be wild enough to work out. Clearly, the executives saw a spark in him that they think could work, and with Josh comes a whole new audience who may not have given Strictly a try before. I am excited to see what his dynamic with Emma and Johannes will be like, as I feel they are all bringing something different to the table. Josh brings fresh eyes, trusty awkward British humour, and a dash of charm; Emma has years of presenting experience to offer, helming the ship with a steady hand; and Johannes's plethora of dance expertise and wonderful association with the Strictly brand speaks for itself.
Chemistry in the Promo Video
Even in the promo video, I was endeared by their chemistry, which seemed playful and slightly teasing. Even though it is early days, with Strictly losing steam and recovering from back-to-back scandals, this is the fresh jolt it needed to guide it into its next era. In the past week of rumours, I have seen people quickly writing off Josh and even Johannes, which seems a terrible shame. By some fans, Josh has been dubbed a 'charisma vacuum', a 'poor fit', and hardly a 'prime time presenter', while others have cast doubt over Johannes's place in the trio, calling it 'redundant' and the dancer himself 'untested'. I would argue that if the show is going downhill anyway, now is the time to take bold gambles and see if they pay off.
Give the Trio a Chance
The new season returns in September, and it only seems fair to give each of the trio a chance to prove why they are up there. After all, several stellar candidates were passed over for the job in their place, including Rylan, Alison Hammond, Zoe Ball, and more. I understand the weariness for change, especially as Claudia and Tess cultivated such a trusted brand over their decade together on screen. But it would have been far worse for the BBC to try to replicate it and fail. Completely switching up the onscreen vibe was the best decision. With a new era dawning, I am ready to tune in and see what this trio can do.
