Emma Willis, newly announced as a co-host for the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," is facing an unusual scheduling conflict this autumn, potentially pitting her against herself in primetime television. Willis will be fronting both "Strictly" and ITV's "The Voice," a show she has hosted for 12 years.
The conflict arises because the latest series of "The Voice" was filmed in 2025, prior to Willis being named as part of the new "Strictly Come Dancing" lineup in May. ITV postponed the screening of "The Voice" for over a year, a decision that reportedly caused frustration among contestants.
This delay means that new episodes of "The Voice" are set to air this autumn, coinciding with the return of "Strictly Come Dancing" on September 19. "The Voice" launched its new series on August 22, with episodes typically starting at 7 p.m., while "Strictly" airs live and usually begins around 6:20 p.m., creating a high likelihood of a transmission clash.
Industry insiders suggest ITV executives are concerned that promotional efforts for "The Voice" are being overshadowed by the high-profile news of Willis's new role on the BBC. "It has been a headache for ITV, there is no doubt about it," one source told The Mail on Sunday. "They are frustrated The Voice has been completely overshadowed. Nobody is talking about The Voice, they only want to discuss Strictly. It is all Emma is being asked about."
A BBC insider acknowledged the awkwardness for Willis but noted the perceived greater reach of "Strictly." "Strictly bosses can see that it is an awkward situation for Emma to be in. But they know that they are the bigger show and will attract many more viewers than The Voice," the insider stated.
Willis was unveiled in May as one of three new faces for "Strictly Come Dancing," joining comedian Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, who will replace departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Willis began her tenure on "The Voice" in 2014, when the show was still broadcast by the BBC.