Strictly 2026 details as line-up confirmed after shake-up to presenters and professionals
Strictly judges Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron)
Strictly Come Dancing has officially unveiled its complete 2026 line-up, prompting BBC audiences to question when the programme will return and what the upcoming series will deliver. YouTube sensation John Nellis, renowned for his sporting content, and Swansea-born actress Melanie Walters, most famous for portraying Gwen in the beloved sitcom Gavin and Stacey, have rounded off the roster following months of reveals and hints from the BBC.
The 2026 instalment is eagerly awaited after the departure of long-serving presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. The duo stood down at the conclusion of the 2025 series and have been succeeded by the programme’s inaugural presenting trio, Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe.There has also been an overhaul of professionals, with just 15 of the 20 familiar faces from the previous year returning for the forthcoming series. Those who have left the programme include audience favourites Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez. Here’s everything we know about Strictly Come Dancing 2026
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Strictly Come Dancing 2026 new presenters
Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdicombe and Emma Willis who have been announced by the BBC as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing (Image: Ray Burmiston/BBC/PA Wire)
Following the surprise departure of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly last year, the BBC has brought in a trio of hosts for the very first time to replace the celebrated pair.
Presenter Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe will take charge of the Strictly ballroom this year.
The announcement was made in May last year, with Strictly’s executive producer Sarah James describing the combination as “unexpected, but their magic was undeniable the moment they came together”.
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 rumoured start date
The BBC have revealed this year’s Strictly Come Dancing line-up (Image: BBC)
While the BBC is yet to announce an official return date, it is understood that the annual competition will commence as expected next month in September.
The BBC has stated that precise air dates for the autumn competition are yet to be confirmed, although based on the schedule of previous years, it has been widely reported that the pre-recorded launch show could be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer on Wednesday, September 19.
Strictly 2026 professionals
Strictly Come Dancing’s Karen Hauer has left the show (Image: Karen Hauer Instagram)
There will be several new additions to the professional line-up this year following the departure of five established faces. Those who have departed include Karen Hauer, the show’s longest-serving female pro, Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas.
They have been succeeded by Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby, and Mark Karmalita.
Making their comeback to the ballroom are Dianne Buswell, Julian Caillon, Amy Dowden, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Jowita Przystał, Aljaž Škorjanec, Alexis Warr, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley and Vito Coppola.
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 judges
Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke will all return as usual.
