BBC Strictly 'shortlist nine presenters' in search for Tess and Claudia replacements as 'dress rehearsals' commence

Olivia Gantzer
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:48:13 +0000

BBC executives are understood to be conducting confidential auditions this week to find replacements for Strictly Come Dancing's former hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who stepped down from the programme last year.

Nine television personalities are reported to have made the shortlist and are being called to an undisclosed venue in the capital for the tryouts.

Reports suggest the selection process is running from Monday, April 20 through to Friday, with candidates undergoing rigorous chemistry tests alongside their presenting assessments.

Sarah James, the show's executive producer, and Kalpna Patel-Knight, the BBC's head of entertainment, are thought to be overseeing proceedings closely.

Incoming director general Matt Brittin will also receive updates throughout the week, reflecting the significance the corporation places on securing the right talent for what insiders describe as the BBC's "crown jewel".

Among those rumoured to be vying for the coveted presenting role are Rylan Clark and Emma Willis, a duo already popular with audiences from their joint appearances on ITV's This Morning.

Comedian Tom Allen, Irish broadcaster Angela Scanlon and The One Show's Alex Jones have also been summoned to the secret location.

This Morning presenter Alison Hammond and The Chase host Bradley Walsh round out the mainstream television contingent.

Adding an unexpected dimension to the lineup is La Voix, the drag performer who competed on last year's series alongside professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec and previously appeared on RuPaul's Drag Race.

Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball, who formerly hosted the companion programme It Takes Two, completes the nine-strong shortlist of candidates being considered by BBC bosses.

The auditions involve comprehensive dress rehearsals featuring a full judging panel and live band, replicating the authentic broadcast environment.

All nine candidates have been required to sign strict non-disclosure agreements to prevent details of the tryouts from becoming public.

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A source told The Sun: "It's not just about reading autocue. They'll be looking at how people work together and humour is a massive part of it. There's everything to play for."

Producers remain open to various presenting configurations, with the possibility of retaining a female duo, experimenting with male pairings, or even introducing a third host to refresh the format.

The source added: "They really want to bring the fun this year. It's all about chemistry who clicks instantly and can keep the energy up live on air."

Alison Hammond has clarified her position after previously suggesting she was too busy for the role, telling Metro: "Do you think I would turn down Strictly if Strictly came along? Who would turn down Strictly! They'd be absolutely crazy."

She added: "I'm not too busy, I'm fitter than I've ever been before. I can do Strictly. I can do it all."

La Voix has expressed enthusiasm for any involvement, telling the Mirror: "I'm absolutely holding out for any involvement in that show. I loved it."

Should Bradley Walsh secure the position, he may face a difficult choice regarding Gladiators, the Saturday night programme he presents alongside his son Barney, which has proven a significant ratings success since its 2024 revival.