BREAKING NEWS: BBC has released the first trailer for Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Strictly 2026 launch show start date and time confirmed as BBC announce format change
The BBC has released the first trailer for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 featuring new hosts Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 trailer
The BBC has unveiled the first trailer for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 and confirmed that this year’s launch show is mere days away. Viewers will get to meet the new lineup of the beloved dancing competition on Saturday, September 19. The announcement came via a minute-long trailer showcasing new presenters Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe alongside the judging panel, professional dancers and the 2026 celebrity contestants as they perform together on a studio backlot.
The complete routine will kick off this year’s Strictly launch show, which promises more dancing than ever before, thanks to a fresh approach to pairing the 2026 celebrity lineup with their professional dance partners. In an unprecedented move, each celebrity and professional will learn the identity of their partner in front of the Strictly studio audience through three specially-choreographed group dance routines.
Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe take over former hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman (Image: BBC)
Anticipate high energy, unexpected moments, and plenty of dancing as this year’s celebrities face their greatest challenge yet. Strictly Come Dancing: The Launch Show will also offer viewers exclusive behind-the-scenes access as the celebrities commence their dance rehearsals, plus the return of last year’s champion Karen Carney, who will perform her iconic football jive with Carlos Gu.
Emma, Johannes and Josh are replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed the show following the conclusion of the 2025 series. Speaking about Strictly’s fresh presenting team at Edinburgh TV Festival last month, Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips revealed: “They’re very excited. Johannes always cries every time you speak to him. I’m hoping they’re happy tears. He’s a lovely, emotional man, Johannes, and I think they were happy tears last week.”
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 kicks off on Saturday, September 16 (Image: BBC)
Kate had previously stated: “Emma, Johannes and Josh’s chemistry is undeniable. 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 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 mantle.
“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.”
The professional dancer roster has also undergone significant changes. Popular favourites Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas and Gorka Márquez have all left the programme.
Additionally, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will allegedly remain unpartnered throughout this series. While the presenting and professional dancer line-up may have undergone some changes, the judging panel remains intact, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Head Judge Shirley Ballas all returning to cast their expert eyes over the celebrity contestants and their professional partners.
Shirley Ballas struts her stuff with Strictly professional dancers in the new trailer (Image: BBC)
The full celebrity line-up for 2026 is as follows: Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Coach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Jaime Winstone, Bethany Antonia, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Graeme Hall, Lawrence Robb, Tabby Stoecker, John Nellis and Melanie Walters.
