Comedian Ellie Taylor will be the new host of "Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two," the BBC announced. Taylor, who competed on "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2022, will take over the presenting role for the upcoming series.

The news was revealed by Emma Willis during her BBC Radio 2 show, where Taylor appeared as a guest. Taylor expressed her excitement, stating, "What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role. I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who've made Strictly - It Takes Two so loved over the years."

Taylor will succeed previous hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara. The show has undergone a significant revamp, with reports indicating producers sought to inject new energy into the spin-off. Taylor's popularity as a contestant in 2022, noted for her "infectious personality," is believed to have been a key factor in her selection.

This appointment comes as part of wider changes to the "Strictly Come Dancing" franchise. Earlier this year, it was announced that main show hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman would depart after many years, to be replaced by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. Radebe, who partnered Taylor in her 2022 "Strictly" appearance, is also transitioning into a main hosting role.

After months of speculation, in May it was announced Emma and Johannes, 39, would be joining Josh Widdicombe in hosting the show, following a bloodbath among the line-up of pros – of which Johannes was previously included

The lineup for the upcoming season has also drawn attention, with a mix of well-known personalities and individuals with significant social media followings. Producers have reportedly aimed to appeal to younger demographics, though this approach has led to some confusion among long-time viewers.

Taylor, who discovered she would be hosting "It Takes Two" a month ago, shared the news with her partner and mother but kept it from her children until the public announcement. She noted her excitement about returning to the "Strictly world" in a new capacity.

"I can't wait to immerse myself in all the gossip and sequins flying out of the ballroom in order to bring my fellow Strictly fans everything they need to know," Taylor said in a statement. "I'm so excited, I could cha cha! (But I won't - don't worry… no one needs to see that again.)"