The newly appointed hosts of BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing"—Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe—have revealed their own surprise at being chosen for the primetime role, echoing the sentiments of many viewers.
Willis, who has previously hosted shows like "Big Brother" and "Cooking With The Stars," described the moment they were put together as "bonkers" but embraced the unexpected opportunity. "We were just as shocked as the fans were," she stated, referencing the anticipation surrounding the replacements for longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Radebe, who joined "Strictly" as a professional dancer in 2018, had envisioned a potential role as a judge rather than a presenter. "This was never on the cards," he said, noting his surprise at being asked to "speak to the magic of the show." He has assured fans that he will continue to dance, promising more dancing than ever seen before in the upcoming season's launch show.
The trio acknowledged the pressure associated with taking on such a widely beloved program. "If you weren’t feeling pressure, you’d need to go, ‘What’s wrong with you?’" Widdicombe commented, adding that the nerves indicate their commitment. Willis emphasized their awareness of the show's significance, particularly Radebe's long-standing connection to it.
Daly and Winkleman, who hosted the show for 11 years until their departure late last year, have offered their support to the new team. Willis mentioned they have been in touch, sending "love and congratulations" and encouraging them to "just enjoy it."
Willis and Radebe have a prior connection through "Strictly," as Willis had agreed to participate as a contestant alongside her husband, Matt Willis, in 2022. Although the plans were eventually scrapped, Willis had undertaken dance tests with Radebe. Her husband had previously been approached to compete alone but was reportedly dissuaded by his wife due to concerns about the "Strictly curse."