Netflix confirms Emma Willis future on hit dating show following BBC Strictly hosting announcement

WATCH HERE: Former BBC Strictly star pays tribute to 'iconic' Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman

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GB NEWS

Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 22/05/2026

- 15:55

Emma Willis has taken on the Strictly role despite fronting another popular British series

Fans of Netflix series Love Is Blind UK became concerned this week when presenter Emma Willis, who fronts the show alongside husband Matt, was announced as one of the new Strictly Come Dancing presenters.

Following a long wait from BBC Strictly fans after it was confirmed in October that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman would be leaving their roles, it was finally revealed that Ms Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe would be replacing them.


While the news has been met with a mixed response, viewers of the dating show Love Is Blind aired their worries that Ms Willis may no longer be hosting the streaming platform favourite.

However, the streaming platform has today calmed their fears by revealing to Radio Times that the 50-year-old will be continuing to present the show despite her new role at the BBC.

Emma Willis

Emma Willis was confirmed as one of Strictly's new presenters

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GETTY

Others expressed concern that Mr Widdicombe, best known for featuring in Channel 4's The Last Leg, would also be giving up his place as a staple on the comedy chat show.

Like his new Strictly co-star, the comedian has delighted fans of the Channel 4 show by confirming to The Sun he'll continue to join Alex Brooker and Adam Hills on the programme.

Fans have been speculating for months about who could be replacing Ms Daly and Ms Winkleman on the beloved dance show, and the important update was confirmed on Tuesday.

The news was shared on the show’s official Instagram page, which shared a photo of the three and captioned the post: "It's official... September 2026."

Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh WiddicombeJohannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe were confirmed as BBC Strictly's new presenters this week | BBC

Ms Daly, 56, presented the series alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth when it launched in 2004, while Winkleman, 54, fronted its weekday companion show, It Takes Two.

Ms Winkleman eventually moved on to host the Sunday night results show alongside Ms Daly, and joined the main show every Saturday from 2014, after Sir Bruce stepped down.

Mr Radebe has starred as a professional dancer on the show since 2018, and is among this year's line-up of dancers as well.

It is currently unclear how he will juggle the two roles and how much the presenting role will demand of him.

Emma and Matt Willis

Emma Willis and husband Matt have been presenting Love Is Blind since 2024

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NETFLIX

Reacting to the news, Ms Willis stated: "To be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend."

Mr Widdicombe added he was "giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television."

Strictly pro Mr Radebe shared: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined."

It's the first time the show has lined up three presenting roles, and executive producer Sarah James labelled the group "unexpected," adding: "But their magic was undeniable the moment they came together."

Claudia Winkleman and Tess DalyClaudia Winkleman and Tess Daly filmed their final BBC Strictly episode last year | BBC

It didn't take long for reactions to flood in, with both Strictly stars and fans leaving their thoughts in the comments of the social media post.

Ms Daly herself penned a response, writing: "Can’t wait to tune in. The ultimate trio."

Judge Shirley Ballas also commented on the post, writing: "Welcome to the family @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe.

"Our dear Mr Radebe, I am beyond proud of you. Superstar line up x."

The BBC also confirmed that Ms Willis will assume the primary anchor position previously held by Ms Daly.

Mr Widicombe will take on the role Ms Winkleman made famous in what was known as the "Clauditorium," while Mr Radebe will serve as a roving reporter throughout the show.