Home / Arts and Entertainment / Arlene Phillips backs Hannah Waddingham for Strictly hosting gig
Arlene Phillips backs Hannah Waddingham for Strictly hosting gig
28 Feb
Summary
- Arlene Phillips suggests Hannah Waddingham for new Strictly hosting role.
- Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman departed after 21 years.
- Phillips also reflects on her Damehood and Olivier Award win.
Original Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips believes actress Hannah Waddingham would excel as the show's new host. Phillips, who was a fixture on the judging panel for four years, suggested Waddingham could effectively combine the presenting duties previously held by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Daly and Winkleman recently announced their departure from the show after a 21-year tenure.
Phillips noted Waddingham's "spectacular" performance hosting Eurovision as a key indicator of her suitability. She also commented on the immense growth of Strictly, contrasting its current scale with its humble beginnings during her time on the show. Phillips reflected on receiving her Damehood in 2021 and her Olivier Award win in 2024 for her theatre work.
The choreographer also shared personal reflections on her father's battle with Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the challenges faced by unpaid caregivers in the UK. She emphasized the profound impact such illnesses have on families, describing it as a slow disappearance of loved ones.
