Reports suggest the announcement of new Strictly Come Dancing hosts could be imminent. This follows the December announcement by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman that they were leaving the show together. Rumors have circulated about replacements, with big names like Holly Willoughby, Alan Carr, and Amanda Holden reportedly shortlisted.
The selection process is down to nine final contenders, with chemistry tests scheduled for this week to determine the new hosts. Auditionees include Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, and some surprise names. According to The Sun, auditions will start tomorrow and last until Friday.
The auditions will mimic a Strictly live show with judges and a live band in a top-secret London location. Potential presenters have signed NDAs, and the crew is sworn to secrecy. Executive producer Sarah James and BBC head of entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight will oversee the auditions.
It needs to be handled with the utmost care; hence, bosses are taking a very keen interest.
Incoming director-general Matt Brittin will be kept informed. A TV source described Strictly Come Dancing as 'the crown jewel of the BBC' to Metro - Main. Bosses are vetting candidates' pasts to avoid scandals.
Rylan Clark has been a top contender, having co-hosted It Takes Two for four years and having live broadcasting experience. Emma Willis is reportedly keen to impress in auditions and has been in the running, with headlines in February claiming she was in a 'straight shoot-out' for the job. The chemistry tests are a critical part of the selection process, designed to assess how well candidates work together on screen.
The secret location in London adds an element of intrigue, ensuring the auditions remain confidential. The involvement of high-level BBC executives underscores the importance of this decision for the broadcaster. The vetting process aims to ensure the new hosts align with the show's family-friendly reputation.
With the auditions set to conclude soon, the BBC is expected to make a formal announcement in the coming weeks.