In a major development for one of the BBC's flagship shows, singer Melanie Blatt has reportedly positioned herself as a prime candidate to take over the hosting reins on Strictly Come Dancing. This follows the emotional departure of long-standing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after an iconic 21-year run.
Festival Special Paves the Way for New Host
The 50-year-old All Saints star was one of six celebrities competing in the pre-recorded Strictly Christmas Day special, which aired this week and also served as Daly and Winkleman's final appearance. While the festive crown was ultimately won by Scarlett Moffatt and her professional partner Vito Coppola, industry insiders claim it was Blatt who truly caught the eye of the show's producers.
Dancing an American Smooth with professional partner Kai Widdrington, 30, Blatt earned an impressive score of 36 from the judges. Her performance was capped with a perfect ten from head judge Shirley Ballas, demonstrating a natural flair for the ballroom that resonated with both the panel and the production team.
"The Door is Wide Open" for Blatt
A source close to the production 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 insider comment suggests Blatt has taken a significant step towards securing a permanent role on the show, filling the void left by its beloved former hosts.
The departure of Daly and Winkleman was confirmed in October via a joint video statement. They expressed that it felt like the right time to "pass over the baton" after what they described as an "absolute dream" hosting the series. Their final live show aired last Saturday, culminating in an emotional farewell during the Christmas special broadcast.
A Royal Farewell and Future Celebrations
The duo's exit was marked with numerous tributes, including a surprise letter from Queen Camilla, read aloud by judge Craig Revel Horwood during the final. The Queen Consort praised their "warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness," calling theirs "perhaps the greatest strictly partnership of all."
While the pair joined the cast at a wrap party last weekend, reports indicate they are planning a more intimate, "boozy" farewell lunch in the New Year for the show's closest team members. Claudia Winkleman reportedly left the initial celebration after just one drink, suggesting this future gathering will be their proper, private send-off.
With the search for new hosts now a pressing matter for the BBC, Melanie Blatt's standout performance has catapulted her to the forefront of speculation. As one chapter closes on Strictly Come Dancing with the departure of its iconic presenting duo, the entertainment world watches closely to see who will lead the show into its next glittering era.
