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The glitterball is spinning faster than ever as Strictly Come Dancing fans and the British media alike are buzzing with speculation about who will take over presenting duties following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s shock departures.
The iconic duo, who’ve been synonymous with Strictly for more than 20 years, confirmed earlier this year that they’d be stepping away from the beloved BBC dance competition, and the rumour mill hasn’t stopped since.
Now, reports are suggesting that Holly Willoughby is the frontrunner to join the hit Saturday night show in a high-profile comeback to primetime television.
According to top media sources, Holly “will take over” as the new face of Strictly Come Dancing, marking her first major role since stepping away from This Morning over two years ago following a terrifying incident in which she became the target of a murder plot.
Former BBC Director of Television Peter Fincham appeared to confirm the whispers, jokingly sharing that the information came from a particularly well-connected source, his hairdresser.
He said: “My hairdresser also cuts the hair of a well-known channel controller. What’s said in Harry’s the hairdresser stays in Harry’s. But he says with great confidence that Holly Willoughby will take over.”
While Fincham’s comments have sparked excitement, they’ve also fuelled fierce debate, as two other popular names are being seriously considered for the high-profile gig: Alex Jones and Bradley Walsh.
A BBC insider reportedly told The Sun: “Alex and Bradley are both the favourites to take over from Tess and Claudia. They have been in the BBC’s sights for some time, as Tess and Claudia’s exit plan has been known for a while.”
The source added: “Bradley and Alex are both seen as accomplished broadcasters. He brings the wisecracks and Alex is the calm head who knows how to handle live situations after 15 years of co-hosting The One Show. Alex is a massive fan of Strictly too, so this would be the dream gig for her.”
Fans online have been split, with many arguing that Holly’s warmth and glamour would be a natural fit for the glitzy ballroom show, while others think Alex Jones’ live TV experience, or Bradley Walsh’s unbeatable humour and audience rapport, would bring something fresh to the format.
Talks are said to still be in the early stages, but BBC executives are reportedly keen to secure a familiar, family-friendly name who embodies the Strictly spirit of fun, elegance, and Saturday night sparkle.
One thing’s for sure: with Tess and Claudia’s final Strictly season set to air later this year, all eyes will be on the BBC to see who’ll waltz into one of the most coveted presenting roles in British television.
