Josh Widdicombe Defends 'Joyful' Strictly Debut Amidst Critical Reception

Comedian Josh Widdicombe has responded to criticism following his debut as a host on Strictly Come Dancing, stating that he found the experience "joyful" and "good." The show's new three-presenter format, which also includes Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe stepping in for longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, has faced mixed reactions from viewers.

Widdicombe, speaking on his and Rob Beckett's "Parenting Hell" podcast, acknowledged the public's response, though he and Beckett largely bypassed direct discussion of the negative feedback. "Did I enjoy doing it? I loved it," Widdicombe said. "Emma and JoJo a joy, it’s so joyful. I was just having a good time."

Viewers expressed mixed opinions on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Some questioned the necessity of a third presenter, while others voiced a preference for the previous hosting duo of Daly and Winkleman. Comments included "I can’t understand why we need 3 presenters???" and "It just doesn't work."

Widdicombe also reflected on the difference between hosting a show like Strictly and his stand-up performances, where he is the sole focus. "Strangely, I’m not a huge part of this. This is a show we are a bit of," he noted.

Despite the critical commentary, Widdicombe reported hosting a viewing party with friends, though technical difficulties prevented him from hearing the broadcast. He also shared that he and his friends had "loads of people round at home to watch the recorded show."

Rob Beckett offered his support to Widdicombe, sharing a post on Instagram praising the new hosting trio. "Josh, Emma and JoJo brought so much joy and energy to the show," Beckett wrote. "The biggest compliment I can give them is it just felt like a normal episode of Strictly. So relaxed and confident."

Beckett also defended Widdicombe against a viewer who described the opening as "a bit too OTT" and "false." Beckett retorted, "Sally. It's strictly. It's all OTT. Have you tried the film Marley and Me. Might be more your scene."

The BBC's decision to alter the show's established formula, including changes to the presenter lineup, celebrity contestants, and the partnering process, has been met with a notable response. The pre-recorded launch show achieved a peak viewership of 5.8 million, a slight increase from the previous year's 5.6 million. However, the average viewership across the episode settled at 5.3 million, a decrease from the 5.4 million recorded in 2025.