COMEDIAN Josh Widdicombe is poised to sign a big-money deal to join Emma Willis as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, The Sun can reveal.
Insiders also say professional dancer and fan favourite Johannes Radebe is being lined up to slot in alongside the duo as a “roving reporter” behind the scenes.
It comes six days after The Sun on Sunday revealed BBC bosses had made telly presenter Josh one of their new favourites after they were impressed by him during auditions.
A source said: “Josh has been offered the job alongside Emma, and it’s his for the taking. He entered the running a little later than the others, but he nailed the chemistry tests.
“Josh is so good at live TV thanks to co-hosting The Last Leg on Channel 4 and he’s also quick-witted, kooky, awkward and funny.
“He can bring the comedy they need like Claudia Winkelman did in the ‘Claudatorium’ while Emma is seen as the sensible one, like Tess Daly.
“The BBC have told Josh he’s the man they want for the job.”
Josh, 43, is no stranger to Strictly, and signed up to the 2024 Christmas special after his super-fan daughter urged him to take part.
He scored 36 after dancing a Charleston with his pro partner Karen Hauer — but lost out to drag artist Tayce, who landed a perfect 40.
Earlier this week, we told how BBC bosses had approached Johannes, 39, over a hosting role.
Emma, 50, who presents The Voice on ITV, is understood to have been the first star to be offered the Strictly hosting job.
Stand-up star Josh entered the competition after bosses considered comics like Alan Carr, Miranda Hart and Mel Giedroyc.
A source said they wanted someone to “match Claudia’s quick wit” who could “respond to hecklers off the cuff.”
They added: “The BBC have made their offers and their dream line-up is Emma and Josh, with Johannes working alongside them.
“They think Josh and Emma will have a dynamic similar to Tess and Claudia.
“Then you’ll have Johannes bringing a whole new element.”
A BBC spokesman said: “Plans for Strictly 2026 will be confirmed in due course.”
