Strictly Come Dancing is set for a major overhaul. With Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepping down from presenting duties, the show is poised for a fresh start. It Takes Two, the beloved companion show, will transition to a vodcast format—marking a significant shift in how fans engage with the series.
The BBC has confirmed that auditions for new hosts are underway, with a shortlist of nine possible presenters. This change comes as the show aims to rejuvenate its appeal following the departure of longtime faces. Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas will not return, while Katya Jones is reportedly staying in the line-up.
Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Motsi Mabuse are likely to remain on the judging panel. Their chemistry has been part of what makes Strictly so beloved. But with new hosts on the horizon, it’s unclear how this dynamic might evolve.
Reflecting on her journey, Karen Carney expressed gratitude: “I cannot believe it. I just wanna say thank you to everyone that’s supported our journey… We are a team and I couldn’t have done this without you.” Her sentiment resonates deeply among fans who have followed these dancers through their ups and downs.
As for the upcoming season? The official cast for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 has yet to be announced. Traditionally, the show returns in mid to late September—a timeline that adds urgency to these changes.
While It Takes Two hasn’t been officially confirmed as cancelled, its transformation into a vodcast signals an exciting new direction. “There is definitely a creative renewal on the table,” sources indicate. This could open up fresh avenues for audience interaction.
Observers note that with Claudia and Tess gone, Strictly needs careful handling—”Strictly is the crown jewel of the BBC,” one insider remarked. The stakes feel high as fans await news on who will take over hosting duties and how the revamped format will play out.
The BBC has promised that plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course. For now, excitement brews among fans eager to see how these changes unfold.
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