Two new hosts will replace Tess and Claudia for this year’s show
Two new hosts will replace Tess and Claudia for this year’s show
Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova has given her verdict on who will make an “amazing” presenter for the show. Bosses on the BBC One dance competition are looking for a two new presenters following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the end of 2025.
Tess, 56, had hosted Strictly Come Dancing since it first came to screens in 2004, while Claudia, 54, took over from the late Sir Bruce Forsyth who passed away in August 2017 aged 89 – following his departure from the show in 2014.
Nadiya has been training celebrities for seven series on Strictly. Most recently she was paired with rugby star Chris Robshaw, and they were the second couple to be eliminated.
Nadiya had said judge Anton Du Beke would be fantastic as one of the two new presenters, having already been one of the original professionals and now a judge.
The 36-year-old Latin and ballroom dancer also said former Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two host and third series contestant Zoe Ball would be perfect as his co-host.
When asked who she would like to take over presenting duties, Nadiya said: “I think there are many good candidates out there, so let’s see. They are big shoes to fill, at the same time those people are going to bring something new and something different.
“Maybe Anton. I know he’s a judge, but who knows. I think he could be amazing.
“There are so many wonderful people who in the past are connected with Strictly some how. I absolutely love Zoe Ball. I’m sure it’s going to be two really amazing people. We’ll see.”
Anton sits on the judging panel alongside Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse.
Nadiya will be back on the hunt for the glitterball trophy in 2026 and she is expecting the next series to be “bigger and better”, just like it is every previous year.
Speaking to BANG Showbiz at the TV Choice Awards 2026 on Monday night, she said: “Every year Strictly manages to improve. It’s a incredible show, especially in terms of production, somehow it’s always getting fresher and bigger and better. I’m sure it’s going to be an incredible series.”
Nadiya was at the ceremony, which was held at the The London Hilton on Park Lane hotel, to represent Strictly Come Dancing which was named Best Talent Show on the night.
Meanwhile, the rest of the cast and crew are on the road for the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour. It arrives in Liverpool for two nights this week, when fans will be able to watch some of their favourite stars and professional dancer partnerships from the 2025 series perform two routines. They will be judged by Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood.
Host Janette Manrara (It Takes Two) will take fans through the show, which will also feature live music from the Strictly Live Tour Band and singers. The tour will take place at the M&S Bank Arena on Thursday, February 5 and Friday, February 6.
