Motsi Mabuse Defends Strictly Hosts Amid Fan-Noticed Tension
Judge Motsi Mabuse has spoken out against criticism of Strictly Come Dancing's new hosting lineup, asserting that the team is establishing its rhythm.
Strictly Come Dancing judge Motsi Mabuse has defended the show's new trio of hosts, addressing claims that viewers have observed tension between her and presenter Josh Widdicombe. The second live show of the 2026 series, featuring the celebrity cast's Movie Week performances, aired on Saturday.
New hosts Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe have faced scrutiny following the first live show, which saw the presenting format criticized by viewers, with Widdicombe at one point labeled a 'spare part.' During the second week's broadcast, viewers began to perceive a 'simmering tension' between Mabuse and Widdicombe, suggesting Mabuse was growing tired of Widdicombe's interjections.
Mabuse, however, pushed back against the ongoing critique, stating in an Instagram post that the team is "finding our rhythm." She added, "After 21 years, a big change needs time. Why do we expect everything new to be perfect immediately? Critique matters, but so does how we deliver it. We can be honest and still be kind. Imagine if we all only got ONE chance to get things right. Give it time."
Earlier in the competition, an exchange between Mabuse and Widdicombe during the feedback segment garnered attention. After judge Craig Revel Horwood offered his critique, Mabuse indicated her agreement, prompting Revel Horwood to jokingly suggest moving on to Shirley Ballas. Widdicombe then quipped "Shirley!" in a manner that appeared to skip Mabuse's turn. Mabuse responded playfully, "Well I have to do my job too!" and then to Widdicombe, "Well are we going to be friends or enemies, you choose now!" Social media reactions to the moment included one user stating, "Josh feared for his P45 in Week 1. Motsi ate him up."
The new hosting arrangement has had a challenging start, with the BBC reportedly not achieving the anticipated ratings boost. However, subsequent episodes have seen shifts in the presenting pairings. For the pre-recorded results show, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe were paired together, a combination that viewers on X hailed for its chemistry, with comments suggesting it was a "much better" format. Widdicombe was seen upstairs with Radebe, chatting with the celebrities, a placement fans felt allowed him to appear less nervous and more natural.
In terms of the competition, hair stylist Chris Appleton became the first contestant eliminated. He faced the dance-off against actress Jaime Winstone after receiving the lowest number of public votes. The judges unanimously voted to save Winstone and her partner Carlos Gu, with Craig Revel Horwood indicating he would have made the same decision. Appleton's cha cha to "I'll Be Ready" from Baywatch scored 17 points, only one more than his previous week's performance.
The remaining 14 couples are set to compete next week. Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6:15 p.m. on October 10.