Emma Willis, 50, has begun training for her new role as a host of the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," joining comedian Josh Widdicombe, 43, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, 39, for the upcoming season. The trio is preparing for the show's launch on September 19, following the departures of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Widdicombe shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of the rehearsals on Instagram, including images of Willis appearing focused during a dance session and the three presenters reviewing scripts. "Lovely couple of days in London prepping and learning a dance with these legends. Oh my, not long now…" Widdicombe posted.
The new season of "Strictly Come Dancing" will feature a revamped lineup, including new professional dancers. The first episode, which will reveal the celebrity and professional pairings, is pre-recorded. The live shows commence the following week on September 26, with the first elimination scheduled for October 4 after the second weekend of performances and public vote. The season finale is slated for December 19, just days before Christmas.
Additionally, former contestant Ellie Taylor has been confirmed as the new host of the spin-off show, "It Takes Two." Taylor's appointment was announced on BBC Radio 2 by Willis during a special segment.
"I am over the moon! I feel giddy. So nice to get the secret out," Taylor said, expressing her excitement about returning to the "Strictly" universe. "I've had the theme tune in my head since I found out... I was like 'stop it woman!'"
Taylor will follow in the footsteps of previous "It Takes Two" hosts, stating in a release, "I feel incredibly honored to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who've made Strictly: It Takes Two so loved over the years. 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."
Among the celebrities confirmed for the upcoming season are Lacey Turner, Delta Goodrem, C以下Cach Mercer, Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, Bethany Antonia, Graeme "The Dogfather" Hall, skeleton racer Tabby Stoecker, Melanie Walters, Dani Dyer, celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton, TV presenter Will Best, actress Jaime Winstone, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb, and YouTube personality John Nellis.