Strictly Debut Defense
Josh Widdicombe Defends His Strictly Come Dancing Debut Amid Mixed Viewer Reactions
Anonymous
Josh Widdicombe has defended his debut as a new host of Strictly Come Dancing, saying he enjoyed the experience and praising co-hosts Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe. The trio replaced longtime presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, but viewers gave mixed reactions, with some criticizing the three-presenter format and describing Widdicombe as awkward or unsuited to the show, while others urged audiences to give him time. Widdicombe discussed the response on the Parenting Hell podcast, where he thanked supporters and joked that complaints about the cast being overly cheerful were fitting for Strictly. He has also said he avoids reading reviews of his work to protect his sanity.
Key Points
1
Widdicombe said he hosted a watch party for about 20 friends to view the pre-recorded programme, but a poor internet connection meant he could not hear the show properly.
2
He contrasted Strictly with stand-up comedy, explaining that presenting the programme is not about him because the contestants and dancing are the focus; he said he is only “a bit” of the show.
3
Former Strictly professional Vincent Simone described Widdicombe as a “lost lamb,” while suggesting that nerves during the first show may have contributed to his hesitant performance and may also have affected Emma Willis.
4
Widdicombe said his tendency to worry has been part of his approach since his first comedy gig in 2008, adding that performers should focus on doing the job as well as possible rather than reading commentary about themselves.
Sentiment
Mostly NegativeNEGATIVENEUTRALPOSITIVE
Publishers
16
Articles
25
Reach
41
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