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Scanlon Surprises in Strictly Host Race
2 May
Summary
- Irish presenter Angela Scanlon is a new frontrunner for hosting.
- Zoe Ball remains the strong favorite for the 2026 Strictly role.
- Strictly is also revamping its professional dancers and companion show.
The search for the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing for the 2026 series is intensifying following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Irish presenter Angela Scanlon, a former contestant, has reportedly impressed BBC bosses during recent auditions, becoming a surprise contender for the role. She is now among the frontrunners alongside Rylan Clark and Emma Willis.
Zoe Ball is currently considered the strong favorite to take on hosting duties. She previously expressed interest in the role and hinted at a "glamorous" upcoming project. The BBC has indicated that official plans for the 2026 series will be announced in due course.
In addition to the hosting search, Strictly Come Dancing is undergoing other significant changes. Several professional dancers, including Gorka Marquez, Karen Hauer, and Nadiya Bychkova, have recently left the show after many years. The companion show, It Takes Two, may also be refreshed and potentially become a vodcast.
