Fans of Strictly Come Dancing are abuzz with speculation following the surprise announcement that hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will depart from the BBC show at the end of the current series. The duo has been the face of this beloved dancing competition since 2014, after Claudia took over from Sir Bruce Forsyth, who previously cohosted with Tess starting in 2004. With their exit imminent, many are pondering who will take their place.
Tess and Claudia’s Departure Sparks Rumors
The announcement made waves in October, igniting discussions among fans regarding potential replacements. A recent development added fuel to the fire: Zoe Ball, a prominent figure in BBC broadcasting, will resign from her Saturday lunchtime show on BBC Radio 2, with her last episode scheduled for December 20, 2025.
Zoe Ball’s Upcoming Role Change
Emma Willis is set to step into Zoe’s role at Radio 2 starting January 2026, presenting a lively program filled with guest interviews and music. Zoe expressed her joy in a statement about her experience at Radio 2, referring to it as “an absolute hoot.” Emma echoed similar enthusiasm, acknowledging the honor of following in Zoe’s footsteps.
Fan Theories on Replacement
With Zoe leaving her radio show, fans are theorizing that this could open the door for her return to Strictly Come Dancing as a host. Many have taken to social media to voice their hopes for her involvement in the upcoming season. Some notable fan reactions include:
- “Interesting. Zoe hasn’t done that show for very long at all. Next autumn is a long way off but… could #Strictly be calling?”
- “Zoe Ball it is then for next year’s #Strictly. Hoping Rylan will join her.”
- “Ooo I hope this is because Zoe needs to be free on Saturdays for a certain dancing show.”
While fans rally around the idea of Zoe possibly returning to the Strictly stage, a representative for the show has stated that they do not comment on speculation.
Other Possible Candidates
Zoe Ball is not the only name circulating in the conversation about potential hosts. Other notable figures rumored to be in the running include:
- Janette Manrara
- Fleur East
- Hannah Waddingham
- Rylan Clark
- Oti Mabuse
As fans speculate on who will fill Tess and Claudia’s roles, the excitement continues to build in anticipation of the new season of Strictly Come Dancing. The show remains available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, allowing viewers to relive past performances as they await the next chapter in its storied history.