Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe smile while speaking about their new TV hosting duties.
Reality TV

New 'Strictly' Hosts Slam 'Roving Presenter' Rumors Ahead of Debut

Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdicombe, and Emma Willis insist their ballroom roles aren't locked into rigid categories.

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 2 min read

The lineup behind *Strictly Come Dancing* is getting a major shake-up, but the newest faces on the ballroom floor are setting the record straight about what they will actually be doing on screen. Professional dancer Johannes Radebe, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and veteran TV host Emma Willis have addressed recent reports claiming they were hired as mere "roving presenters" for the flagship BBC dance competition. According to reports, viewers shouldn't expect the trio to be boxed into standard sideline roles. Rumors previously suggested the stars would simply wander the studio floor, grabbing quick backstage soundbites and off-the-cuff banter with nervous contestants. However, the newly appointed talent insists their responsibilities are far more fluid than early leaks made them out to be.

What are Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe doing on Strictly?

Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe smile while speaking about their new TV hosting duties.
Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe smile while speaking about their new TV hosting duties.

Speaking about their upcoming duties, the new hosting team clarified that their involvement in the show remains adaptable rather than strictly structured. Willis, who brings decades of high-profile entertainment presenting experience to the ballroom, indicated that the production team is avoiding rigid job titles. Instead of sticking to traditional formulas, the broadcast will lean into the natural chemistry and distinct skill sets of each co-host. For Radebe, transitioning into a broader presenting presence marks an exciting chapter in his long-running association with the series. As one of the show's most beloved professional dancers, his insider perspective gives the hosting desk an authentic link to the training rooms and live performance nerves. Widdicombe, meanwhile, adds a comedic edge aimed at keeping the atmosphere light between tense judging panels.

Dancers and judges on the Strictly Christmas show salute outgoing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, seen dressed in all white
Image caption, Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly said farewell to the show together last year

Is the Strictly Come Dancing hosting format changing?

Karen Carney and Carlos Gu with their trophy after winning the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Image caption, Former footballer Karen Carney and dancer Carlos Gu won last year's giltterball trophy

The clarification comes as fans eagerly watch how the beloved series updates its production style. While traditional UK television formats often rely on strict divisions between main stage anchors and floor reporters, the updated *Strictly* strategy appears to favor a modern, seamless ensemble feel. The co-hosts confirmed that no single presenter is locked into a single zone of the set. By keeping their assignments dynamic throughout the live broadcasts, the team hopes to deliver a fresh energy to the long-running reality staple. The trio expressed enthusiasm for the unscripted nature of their upcoming duties, assuring audiences that whatever label the press applies, their primary goal is simply keeping the ballroom entertainment moving seamlessly week after week.

The photos · 3

Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe smile while speaking about their new TV hosting duties.
Image caption, Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly said farewell to the show together last year
Image caption, Former footballer Karen Carney and dancer Carlos Gu won last year's giltterball trophy

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People also ask

Who are the new presenters joining Strictly Come Dancing?
Professional dancer Johannes Radebe, television presenter Emma Willis, and comedian Josh Widdicombe are joining the show's hosting team.
Are Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe roving reporters on Strictly?
No, the new co-hosts denied reports labeling them as roving presenters, stating their roles on the live show will be flexible rather than fixed.