Josh Widdicombe is waltzing into the Strictly spotlight as one of three new hosts – but he almost decided to turn down the opportunity.
The comedian will present the show alongside Emma Willis and former professional Johannes Radebe, two years after appearing as a contestant on the Christmas special.
However, he wasn’t initially sure he wanted to step into Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s shoes after being offered a chance to audition for the role due to the high-profile nature of the gig.
“When the call came initially just for the meeting, I thought, ‘I really like my life, would I want to throw it into flux?’ Because it’s a big thing, it’s a defining thing that you’re suddenly doing it. But I just thought, ‘What an incredible thing to experience’.”
Widdicombe said he was more shocked than anyone to get the job, stating on his Parenting Hell podcast: “When I started out in stand-up, no one foresaw this. It’s wild. It’s one of the biggest shows in the 21st century, alongside I’m a Celeb.
He said he’s glad the news is out there as he’s been having to lie to people, including his kids as he couldn’t trust them.
“I’m incredibly excited — there is a real fun vibe to the three of us, there is something for everyone, it’s the ultimate modern family. It feels weird now, as it’s four months away.”
Rumours had been swirling ever since Daly and Winkleman announced they were stepping away from the BBC competition, and Willis emerged as a frontrunner in recent weeks.
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However tough the task, producers are hoping to recapture Daly and Winkleman’s dynamic styles, with the former’s sleek professionalism in the main studio and Traitors presenter Winkleman’s mastery of controlled chaos in the “Clauditorium”.
Willis and Widdicombe are expected to be the main hosts, with Radebe rumoured to be taking on a “roving reporter” role.
He said of his promotion to host: “This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready – sequins, nerves, and all, please bear with me.”
Meanwhile, former Big Brother host Willis said that she’s a “huge fan” of Strictly and “can’t quite comprehend” becoming a presenter on the show. “It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long.
“I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”