Strictly Host Johannes Radebe Offers 'A Few Notes' on New Presenting Team Amid Ratings Concerns

Johannes Radebe, a professional dancer and new host for 'Strictly Come Dancing,' has shared that he has "a few notes" regarding the initial presenting efforts of co-hosts Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe. This comes as the show's recent revamp has faced scrutiny from viewers and has not yet delivered the anticipated boost in ratings for the BBC.

While Radebe acknowledged that it takes time for new elements of the show to "prove themselves," he humorously alluded to having some observations about Willis and Widdicombe's performance. "Dancing was the easy bit! That’s my natural habitat," Radebe stated, contrasting it with the hosting duties. "Emma and Josh, on the other hand… I may have had a few notes!" He explained his advice was to "enjoy it and commit," emphasizing that "you cannot do anything by halves" on 'Strictly.'

Radebe praised his co-hosts, describing Willis as a "formidable broadcaster" who makes complex tasks look effortless, and Widdicombe as "brilliantly funny." He noted that the trio is "finding our rhythm" and bringing "very different energies" to the program.

This season marks a significant shift for 'Strictly Come Dancing,' with a new hosting trio, the introduction of five new professional dancers, and a strategic pivot to TikTok content aimed at attracting younger viewers. A new spin-off show, 'Strictly: Lights Up,' hosted by TikTok comedian Abi Clarke and presenter Tyler West, will air on BBC iPlayer.

The launch show, pre-recorded, garnered a peak of 5.8 million viewers, a slight increase from the previous year's 5.6 million. However, the average viewership for the episode was 5.3 million, a decrease from the 5.4 million average in the prior year. These figures remain below the viewership numbers recorded before recent controversies, including allegations concerning the treatment of contestants and backstage culture, which led to the departure of professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima and prompted the BBC to implement enhanced welfare measures. The launch show in 2023 peaked at 6.7 million viewers and averaged 6.3 million.

Despite the current ratings, Radebe offered advice to the new professional dancers joining the show, encouraging them to "enjoy every second," be curious, work hard, and find their identity beyond just dancing. He stressed the importance of protecting the "joy" of the show, calling it a "very special place to work."