Strictly Come Dancing Begins 2026 Filming With A New Presenting Trio

The launch show will open with a performance by the entire Strictly cast, before the 15 celebrities discover their professional partners in a format featuring a new twist.
Reigning champion Karen Carney is set to return for an additional performance during the launch show, alongside the introduction of five new professional dancers.
The BBC’s schedule includes a pre-recorded results show airing every Sunday evening after the live competition begins on September 26.
Johannes Radebe said that, despite taking on presenting duties, he would continue dancing on the programme: “I will definitely be throwing some shapes and moving my hips.” He also indicated that he would undertake some informal investigative work, promising “a little bit of prying and finding out the truth.”
Strictly Come Dancing's 2026 series has started filming with a major shake-up in its hosting lineup. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe will present the revamped show, with the pre-recorded launch show airing September 19 and live episodes beginning September 26, according to GB News. The trio will replace long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, working together without a fixed backstage reporter role.
Fifteen celebrities will compete alongside five new professional dancers, with returning judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke. The Manchester Evening News reports that Willis acknowledged being unfamiliar with some contestants before researching them, sparking discussion about the 2026 lineup's profile.
The three new presenters will not operate with a traditional backstage reporter. Instead, GB News reports they will move flexibly between roles as the show evolves. Willis made clear the format differs from simply replacing Daly and Winkleman with three hosts. Radebe will juggle presenting with continued dancing performances during the series.
Radebe said he will keep dancing on the programme despite hosting duties: "I will definitely be throwing some shapes and moving my hips." He also indicated informal reporting plans, promising "a little bit of prying and finding out the truth" about the contestants and their journeys.
The September 19 pre-recorded launch opens with a performance by the entire Strictly cast. The Fashion Vibes reports that the 15 celebrities will then discover their professional partners in a format featuring a fresh twist. Reigning champion Karen Carney will also perform during the launch show, marking the first appearance of the new presenting team on air.
Five new professional dancers join the established roster for 2026. The BBC will air pre-recorded results shows every Sunday evening after the live competition launches on September 26, maintaining the show's weekly rhythm while introducing new elements to the format..
Willis, Widdicombe, and Radebe are currently rehearsing to build their on-screen chemistry during production. The Manchester Evening News reports Willis has defended the 2026 lineup after admitting unfamiliarity with some contestants. The new presenting trio must establish rapport quickly as the September launch approaches with live episodes beginning just one week later.
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