Who is Paddy McGuinness?

Paddy McGuinness is a British television presenter who has hosted shows like Top Gear and A Question of Sport, though both were axed under his watch.

Why is Paddy McGuinness being considered for the Strictly Come Dancing host role?

BBC Studios boss Suzy Lamb believes McGuinness would be a "perfect fit" to interview contestants, a role Claudia Winkleman currently holds.

What concerns do Strictly colleagues have about Paddy McGuinness joining the show?

Strictly colleagues are "aghast" at the prospect of McGuinness joining the show, as his past hosting of the ITV dating show "Take Me Out" is seen as having "innuendos and casual sexism" that would not fit the "national treasure" status of Strictly.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Strictly Controversy: BBC Boss Pushes for Paddy McGuinness as Claudia Winkleman's Replacement

Strictly Controversy: BBC Boss Pushes for Paddy McGuinness as Claudia Winkleman's Replacement

16 Nov

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Summary

BBC Studios boss Suzy Lamb wants Paddy McGuinness to replace Claudia Winkleman on Strictly
McGuinness's past hosting of ITV's "Take Me Out" raises concerns about his suitability
Strictly colleagues are "aghast" at the prospect of McGuinness joining the show

Strictly Controversy: BBC Boss Pushes for Paddy McGuinness as Claudia Winkleman's Replacement

In November 2025, it was reported that one of Strictly Come Dancing's most senior bosses, Suzy Lamb, the managing director of BBC Studios, has put forward Paddy McGuinness as a potential replacement for Claudia Winkleman, who announced she was quitting the show.

Lamb, who previously worked with McGuinness when he hosted the ITV dating show "Take Me Out," believes he would be the "perfect fit" to interview contestants, a role Winkleman made her own. However, the prospect of McGuinness taking over Strictly has prompted "much fury" among Lamb's colleagues, with some "aghast" that she would want the show to have any connection to "Take Me Out" and its "innuendos and casual sexism."