BBC bosses are reportedly eyeing a 90s pop icon to take over the coveted hosting roles on Strictly Come Dancing following the seismic departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Festival Special Star Catches the Eye
According to insiders, Melanie Blatt, the 50-year-old member of the legendary girl group All Saints, made a significant impression on producers during her appearance on the show's recent Christmas special. Although she was beaten to the Glitterball Trophy by Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt, it is Blatt's performance off the dancefloor that has seemingly put her in pole position for a major career shift.
Blatt, who performed a Jazz routine to 'Santa Baby' with professional partner Kai Widdrington, scoring 35, is said to have demonstrated the charisma and professionalism the BBC is seeking. Fellow contestant Brian McFadden, the former Westlife singer, also reportedly impressed during the special, where he scored a 39 for his Jive. However, McFadden's touring commitments with Boyzlife next year are understood to have ruled him out of contention.
The End of an Era for Strictly
The search for new presenters was triggered in October when the iconic duo of Daly and Winkleman announced they would be stepping down after a remarkable 15-year partnership at the helm. Their departure marks the end of an era for the Saturday night staple, with Daly having been involved since the show's early days alongside the late Bruce Forsyth.
In an emotional joint video announcement, Winkleman stated, "We have decided the time is right to step aside and pass on the baton... the very sparkly baton." Daly reflected on their tenure, saying, "It's been a huge part of our lives... we have cherished every second." The pair paid tribute to the show's production team and loyal audience, who have supported them throughout their 21-year association with the programme.
What's Next for the Glitterball?
A source told The Sun: "Melanie and Brian McFadden really caught the eye. Brian is on tour with Boyzlife next year which rules him out so the door is wide open for Melanie!" This suggests Blatt is a serious frontrunner as the BBC looks to appoint a fresh pairing to guide the show into its next chapter.
While Scarlett Moffatt triumphed in the festive edition with a perfect-scoring Cha-Cha-Cha alongside Vito Coppola, it appears the behind-the-scenes conversations are focusing on who can fill the substantial shoes left by Daly and Winkleman. The BBC has yet to make any official announcement regarding the new hosts, leaving fans to speculate on who will next take up the "very sparkly baton."
