BBC Strictly bosses consider 'third host' for Tess and Claudia replacements: 'The Beeb loves her!'

“Talk recently has turned to whether they could bring in a third host to really freshen it up,” a source told The Sun.

“Nothing is off the table when it comes to sprinkling new magic over Strictly.”

Sources say the field of potential presenters has been narrowed from an initial “golden ten” shortlist to what insiders are calling a “magnificent seven”.

Alongside Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Alison Hammond, Angela Scanlon, Emma Willis and Fleur East, The One Show presenter Alex Jones has emerged as the leading candidate to land a role on the ballroom show.

“Alex is still very much the BBC’s favourite to land a hosting spot. The Beeb loves her and thinks she’d be perfect to take on Tess’s role on the floor,” the source added.

Several high-profile names have already withdrawn from consideration. Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden and Alan Carr were previously linked to the role but are now believed to be out of the running.

The casting process has also experienced delays, with screen tests and chemistry assessments now scheduled for April rather than the originally planned January timeframe.

BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips has previously acknowledged being “inundated with applicants” for the coveted presenting roles, highlighting the fierce competition to succeed Ms Daly and Ms Winkleman.

The potential shake-up comes amid wider changes behind the scenes on the BBC show.

Producers are also reportedly planning a clear-out of professional dancers as part of a major revamp ahead of the 2026 series.

Long-serving performers Gorka Márquez and Luba Mushtuk, along with newer cast member Michelle Tsiakkas, are believed to be among those who will not return to the ballroom.

According to reports, bosses are seeking a fresh start after several turbulent years for the show.

“There are major changes taking place with dancers having meetings about their contracts over the next few weeks,” a source said.

The insider added: “Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era.”

The reported decision has sparked backlash from some Strictly fans on social media.

Reacting to the news online, one viewer wrote: “Axing Gorka and Michelle over Neil! Truly abysmal decision.”

Another added: “WHAT. NO. NOT GORKA, LUBA AND MICHELLE. This is honestly absolutely shocking.”

A final decision on whether Strictly will move forward with two or three presenters is not expected until the summer.

The source said: “It’s likely a decision on whether it’s two hosts or three, and who will get the roles, won’t be decided until summer."