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Strictly's Next Host: Willis vs. Ball Showdown
8 Feb
Summary
- Emma Willis and Zoe Ball are contenders for Strictly hosting role.
- Zoe Ball has expressed strong desire to host the popular show.
- The BBC seeks a traditional presenter paired with a comedian.
The race to become the next host of Strictly Come Dancing is heating up, with Emma Willis and Zoe Ball reportedly emerging as the front-runners for the prestigious BBC role. The competition follows the announcement of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's departure last year, leaving a significant vacancy. While sources suggest it is a direct contest between Willis and Ball for a single spot, the BBC is reportedly seeking a pairing of a traditional presenter with a more unconventional, female stand-up comedian to fill the void.
Zoe Ball has publicly expressed her keen interest in hosting Strictly, a show she previously covered on its spin-off, It Takes Two. Her recent decision to step down from her BBC Radio 2 Saturday slot has further fueled speculation that her schedule is being cleared for the top television job. Despite not yet being officially approached, Ball stated her strong desire for the role, acknowledging the immense challenge of live broadcasting.
Ball's departure from her Radio 2 show was attributed to personal reasons, including the grief from losing her mother in April 2024 and a desire to focus more on her relationships with her children. She has also mused about potential co-hosts, mentioning Rylan and Vernon Kay as possibilities, while confirming that Alan Carr and Amanda Holden have ruled themselves out.
