Arlene Phillips and Darcey Bussell give verdicts on Strictly's new hosting trio

Centre · 2Former Strictly Come Dancing judges Arlene Phillips and Darcey Bussell have given their views on the show's new presenting line-up, speaking to Radio Times at the Sky Arts Awards 2026. 1 2 Centre · 2This year's series is hosted by a trio, Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe, who took over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman; Radio Times called it perhaps the biggest change in the show's history. 1 2 Centre · 2Phillips, a judge from 2004 to 2008, said she loves the new hosts but is "still not sure", feeling that "there's something that feels like it holds the boys back". 1 2

Centre · 1She called Willis "a delight" whose work is "impeccable", and said the male hosts need to be "their version of Emma": outspoken and warm, adding "That's all it needs, and it'll be fabulous." 1 Centre · 2Bussell, a judge from 2012 to 2018, said she had not been able to watch the series fully, though she watches clips and is mainly interested in the dancing. 1 2 Centre · 2Bussell described the change in presenters as a "teething problem" and a natural part of the process, and said people should "let go a bit and relax. Give them a chance." 1 2

Centre · 1Radio Times also cited Gareth Davies, a former senior BBC producer who helped launch Strictly, who called Willis a "great choice" but said Radebe had not yet "come into his own" and was giving a "slightly watered down version" of Winkleman's role. 1 Centre · 1Davies added that there is little room for Widdicombe to be funny alongside Willis, and that producers should define the two men's roles and make the trio look more cohesive in how they dress. 1