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Strictly's It Takes Two Gets Major Makeover with New Host
2 Aug
Summary
- Ellie Taylor, known for Ted Lasso, reportedly set to host
- Show undergoes major changes and potential format revamp
- Previous hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East departing

Comedian Ellie Taylor is reportedly set to become the new host of Strictly Come Dancing's It Takes Two, a show that is slated for a major revamp later in 2026. Taylor, who previously competed on the dance competition in 2022, is said to have reached an agreement with producers to front the companion program. Her infectious personality was a hit with viewers and the production team.
This development follows reports that hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East will not return for the 2026 series. The BBC has stated that Manrara and East were not "axed," though Manrara confirmed her departure in June. The show's executive producer, Eve Winstanley, has also left after a decade, citing a need to "freshen things up."
It Takes Two is reportedly considering a significant format change, potentially becoming a "vodcast" similar to the companion show for The Traitors. This creative renewal aims to inject new energy into the program, which was described as needing a major overhaul. The main Strictly Come Dancing series will return on September 19, 2026, with ten celebrity contestants announced.