Strictly 2026 Launch Show Debuts New Host Trio and Format

Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe are the new hosts for Strictly Come Dancing 2026. The launch show, which aired on Saturday, 26 September, introduced a restructured presenting format, with Willis and Widdicombe stationed downstairs near the judges and Radebe placed upstairs in the auditorium-a role previously held by Claudia Winkleman. The distinct studio roles long occupied by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have been scrapped for an 'evenly distributed' format among the three new presenters.

Johannes Radebe’s upstairs role draws viewer feedback on audibility and clarity

Johannes Radebe spoke to celebrities and their professional partners after each routine. Viewers noted Johannes Radebe was often difficult to hear when couples walked up the stairs. One viewer on X questioned why he spoke before camera cuts and noted it was barely audible. Another said they were confused by what was happening during his segment. A third claimed earpieces weren't working, preventing Radebe from hearing feedback. A fourth remarked that he was made to read terms and conditions while celebrities ran up the stairs cheering, making him inaudible. Some viewers suggested the new hosting format needs tweaking. Despite this, Radebe's calm and gentle demeanor was generally praised.

Audience suggests Josh Widdicombe may be better suited for upstairs role

Some viewers thought comedian Josh Widdicombe would be better suited to the upstairs hosting role. They cited his strengths in engaging with crowds and quick wit compared to Radebe’s more subdued delivery.

Launch show reveals all 15 celebrity pairs and features themed week changes

The launch show introduced 15 celebrity couples through three specially choreographed routines, each revealing five partner pairings. The full list of pairings is as follows:

Bethany Antonia and Nancy Xu form the 2026 same-sex celebrity couple and danced a Quickstep to 'Stop This Flame' by Celeste. Lawrence Robb is the bookies' favourite to win. Johannes Radebe revealed that Movie Week will be moved to Week 2 as part of a restructuring that will see themed weeks arrive earlier than in previous series.

Professional dancers’ backgrounds and pre-show chemistry highlighted

The show spotlighted new professionals. Maddie Ingoldsby is a 21-year-old from Bournemouth, a former child star from the West End production of Annie, the UK National Ballroom Champion, and an eight-time Amateur 10-Dance World Champion. Mark Karmalita is a 23-year-old Latin champion, twice named National Latin Champion in Canada. Returning favourites were also highlighted. Lacey Turner and Vito Coppola were described as early favourites to reach the final. Jaime Winstone is paired with Carlos Gu, who won the Glitterball Trophy with Karen Carney in the previous series. Will Best said his professional partner Dianne Buswell made him cry with laughter during chemistry tests. The launch show also featured a segment where celebrities descended the Strictly stairs for the first time and a Jive routine from returning professional Karen Hauer. Johannes Radebe spoke to celebrities and their professional partners after each routine.