‘I worked with Emma Willis on TV show and uncovered the reason behind her success’
A TV producer believes Emma Willis could be the ideal replacement for Claudia Winkleman or Tess Daly as Strictly Come Dancing host, and has explained the traits that make her a perfect fit for the BBC role
Emma Willis(Image: Kate Green/BAFTA, Getty Images for BAFTA)
Following the announcement that both Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly were stepping down as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing last year, speculation has been rife about their successors.
While numerous names have been suggested, one figure widely tipped to secure the position is seasoned television presenter Emma Willis.
Emma, 50, has fronted numerous television programmes throughout her career, including The Voice UK, Love Is Blind, Big Brother, Cooking with the Stars, and The One Show.
One producer has explained to The Telegraph why they believe Emma would be an ideal choice for the beloved BBC programme.
The producer, who wished to remain anonymous, said Emma possesses a unique combination of presenting qualities that will resonate with viewers.
They said: “If anyone can turn things around for Strictly, it’s her. There’s something she has on screen, a mix of vulnerability and confidence, that everyone just falls in love with.”
They added: “She is one of the most of determined professionals I’ve ever worked with. If you look at to her track record, you’ll see what I mean. This won’t be the first show she’s joined when things were looking shaky and she’s always worked some magic.”
The producer’s remarks follow reports suggesting Emma is poised to be confirmed as one of the programme’s new hosts.
Emma had previously been cautioned against going anywhere near the renowned BBC ballroom by one of the show’s former professional dancers.
During an episode of This Morning last August, Emma presented the programme alongside Joel Dommett while the usual presenters Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard were on leave.
The day’s guests included former Strictly professionals Ian Waite, Brendan Cole, James Jordan, and Pasha Kovalev.
Before the interview commenced, Emma declared her passion for the programme and demonstrated a spot of dancing. At the time, she said: “I’m a bit of a sofa dancer. Have you ever heard of one of them? I love Strictly, and I’m a massive fan.”
Showing what she meant, she swayed from side to side on the sofa and continued: “I sit there and watch it and do this on the sofa while watching them dance, and my toes are pointing. And before I know it, everyone is looking at me, thinking, ‘what are you doing?’.”
Reacting to Emma’s movements, James, who competed on Strictly between 2006 and 2013, said: “If you do it like that, don’t ever do Strictly.”
Addressing speculation about Strictly’s presenting line-up, a BBC spokesperson told the Mirror: “Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course.”
