Strictly It Takes Two Host Ellie Taylor Faces Criticism Amid Format Changes and Ratings Dip
Viewers express disappointment with new host and alterations to the spin-off show, coinciding with a decline in live show ratings.
Ellie Taylor, the new host of Strictly Come Dancing's spin-off show It Takes Two, has faced criticism from viewers for her debut performance, with some describing her as 'forcing funny lines.' Taylor, who competed on Strictly in 2022, took over from Fleur East and Janette Manrara for the Monday broadcast.
This new criticism follows a ratings slump for the main Strictly Come Dancing live show, which saw fewer viewers than its pre-recorded launch episode, a first in seven years. The spin-off show It Takes Two has also come under fire for its revised format, which sees celebrity contestants appearing without their professional dance partners. Viewers have labeled these changes a "changes to It Takes Two as a 'total downgrade,'" lamenting the loss of the dynamic between celebrity and professional.
Fans took to social media to voice their dissatisfaction. Comments included observations that Taylor's jokes "feel flat" and that the show felt "over scripted with too many forced 'funny' lines." Many expressed a preference for the previous format where couples were interviewed together, and a desire to see the professional dancers alongside their celebrity partners. The new set design also drew negative remarks.
The main Strictly Come Dancing show has also seen audience numbers decline since the introduction of a new presenting team: Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and Johannes Radebe, who replaced long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Viewers have complained about the new presenters missing cues and stumbling over lines. The decision to have three presenters for roles previously handled by two has also been questioned, with some viewers feeling that Widdicombe appeared as a "spare part" next to the more experienced Willis.
During the first live show, Willis presented from the dancefloor, while Radebe offered commentary from the 'Clauditorium' with fellow professionals and their partners. Widdicombe was positioned alongside Willis, but his perceived inexperience led to awkward moments, including missed cues. One notable incident involved judge Motsi Mabuse playfully admonishing Widdicombe. Critics argue that the issue lies not solely with Widdicombe but with the BBC's decision to employ three hosts and their assigned roles, suggesting Widdicombe's comedic talents might be better suited to Radebe's position.
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