Widdicombe Lands 'Strictly' Hosting Gig After Jokey Text

Josh Widdicombe has revealed that a lighthearted text message to a BBC producer secured him a presenting role on Strictly Come Dancing. The comedian, who made his debut on the show's pre-recorded launch episode alongside co-hosts Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe, described the opportunity as a significant career moment.

Widdicombe, 43, admitted that he sent a joke text to Strictly's executive producer Sarah James last October, shortly after the announcement that long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were leaving. The text read, "All right, I'll take the job." James, whom Widdicombe had met while competing on the show's 2024 Christmas special, replied the next day, stating that his message had been the only thing to make her laugh on a difficult day. This exchange set in motion a series of auditions for Widdicombe.

"I don't know. Was I unconsciously putting my hat in the ring with this text that was perhaps my greatest ever career move? I think that is something I will be dealing with with a therapist for the next 20 years," Widdicombe shared about his unconventional pitch.

Despite his initial self-doubt during the audition process, where he described his own performance as "rubbish" and feeling unnatural, Widdicombe found his stride when auditioning with Willis and Radebe. "From the moment we met, everyone was on the same wavelength, everyone was laughing," he said. Recording the launch show further boosted his confidence, leading him to feel assured in his abilities.

Widdicombe plans to balance his new Strictly duties with his podcast "Parenting Hell" and his role on Channel 4's "The Last Leg." He also reflected on how his personal life, including settling down, having children, and moving to Devon, has shaped his public persona, making him feel more suited to his current phase of life.

The new series of Strictly Come Dancing premiered on Saturday night, introducing the new presenting trio and 15 celebrity contestants. Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke returned for the show. While Willis was praised by viewers, the addition of three presenters sparked debate on social media, with some questioning the necessity of the expanded hosting team.

Widdicombe and his co-hosts are taking on the roles following the departure of long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The new presenting format is described as fluid, with Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe trying different combinations during the launch episode. The pre-recorded show saw celebrities paired with professional dancers for the competition.

Daly sent her well wishes to the new team before the show's broadcast, noting her own excitement to watch the series in flat shoes. Strictly continues on Saturdays on BBC One.