BREAKING NEWS: Strictly host’s candid response as BBC fans admit they ‘miss’ Tess and Claudia
A new Strictly Come Dancing era is here with a trio of new hosts replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
A Strictly Come Dancing star has lifted the lid on what it’s truly like to step into the shoes of the show’s much-loved former hosts. Strictly Come Dancing 2026 has arrived, bringing with it some sweeping changes, including five new professional dancers and a brand-new presenting trio taking over the reins.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman opted to bow out of the beloved series last year, leaving the BBC with the task of finding suitable replacements. In a surprising announcement, three familiar faces were confirmed for the roles: Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe.
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly left Strictly in 2025. (Image: BBC)
During a chat at tonight’s launch show, the new presenting team opened up about how they’ve genuinely been feeling about taking charge.
Turning to Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb, Emma Willis said: “Lawrence there’s a very strong pedigree that comes from Emmerdale on this show.
“If I said Kelvin Fletcher, Lewis Cope, Lawrence Robb, how do you feel?”.
“Well that’s good ain’t it? That’s lovely, that’s a lovely little ring to that”, Robb replied.
He then shifted the spotlight onto the three incoming hosts, observing: “They are very, very big and large shoes to fill. I guess I can empathise with you guys with filling Claudia and Tess I suppose.”
Emma, Johannes and Josh laughed at the remark before she quipped: “Yes literally! Our smiles are on but inside we’re like ducks under water!”
Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb said the new Strictly hosts were filling in for “big shoes”. (Image: BBC)
Reactions to the new Strictly presenting line-up have been divided, with some viewers already voicing that they “miss” Tess and Claudia.
One viewer admitted: “When the three hosts came out on stage at the start, I did feel sad, I really miss Tess and Claudia.
“It is going to take me a few weeks to get over their absence from the show.”
Another wrote: “Bring back Tess and Claudia. I’m bored already”, while a third posted: “Strictly have bagged one of the best presenters, Emma Willis. It’s just so odd not having Claudia and Tess.”
However, a more understanding viewer offered encouragement: “Must be very hard taking over from Tess and Claudia..
“Come on guys, it’s the first week. They’re all doing great and will find their niche.”
