JOSH Widdicombe’s future on The Last Leg has been revealed after landing the Strictly Come Dancing hosting job.
The BBC officially confirmed that the comedian will be replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, alongside co-hosts Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe.
He’s has been a part of the satirical news and comedy talk show since it began back in 2012.
Channel 4 have confirmed to The Sun that Josh will continue to carry on his duties on The Last Leg as it doesn’t clash with when Strictly will be on.
He appears on the hit show with Adam Hills and Alex Brooker as they share a review of the past week’s events.
The latest series wrapped up it’s 34th series last month, which ran from January to April and aired live on Fridays at 10pm.
After months of speculation over who would be following in Tess and Claudia’s footsteps, the BBC announced on Wednesday that Josh, Emma and Johannes have bagged the highly-coveted roles.
The Sun had already revealed the trio were in line for the top gig, starting with Emma, but the news was confirmed on Strictly’s official Instagram page, with the trio coming together.
The caption read: “It’s official….September 2026.”
In the video, Emma and Johannes were kissing each other on the cheek as they sat on stools, before Josh was seen behind the camera and invited over to join them.
Kate Phillips. BBC’s Chief Content Officer said: “Emma, Johannes and Josh’s chemistry is undeniable.
“There’s been so much speculation and hype, so I’m relieved we can share the news with the public at last! I’d like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision.
“But the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle.
“Along with our amazing Strictly team, who are busy planning fabulous and unforgettable treats for this new series, I know this terrific trio can’t wait to join our judges and pros to bring us must-see TV on the BBC this autumn.”
Johannes has been a pro dancer on Strictly since 2018, with The Sun first revealing he would be switching roles on the show last week.
Days later, we also confirmed that comedian and star of The Last Leg, Josh, would be joining as a third co-host in a first for the BBC show.
Speaking about her new role, Emma, 50, said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
“It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long.
“I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.
“I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”
Johannes added: “To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined.
“This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward.
“To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all…please bear with me. Love Jojo”.
Josh, 43, said: “Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television.
“I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume.”
Josh’s other television credits include winning the first series of Taskmaster in 2015, as well as his own self-titled sitcom on BBC Three.
