Television personalities Alan Carr and Amanda Holden have disclosed that they were formally approached to take over the prestigious hosting duties on Strictly Come Dancing, following the departure of long-standing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. The duo, who currently co-host a property renovation series on the BBC, confirmed they turned down the opportunity despite feeling "flattered" by the offer.
The Hosting Offer and Immediate Decline
During a recent appearance on Jessie and Lennie Ware's popular podcast, Table Manners, Carr and Holden openly discussed the BBC's proposition. When questioned about potentially presenting Strictly together, Carr responded unequivocally, "No, we said no ages ago." This revelation comes after months of intense speculation regarding who would fill the void left by Winkleman and Daly, who stepped down after the conclusion of the most recent series in December.
Public Statements and Personal Reflections
Amanda Holden had previously addressed the swirling rumours during her Heart Radio show in December, directly informing her listeners, "I want to say now that me and Alan are 100 per cent not doing Strictly. We are so flattered to be in that mix. We both are not doing it." The conversation on the podcast delved deeper into personal territories, with both stars reflecting on past divorces and personal growth. Holden candidly shared regrets about "hurting people and causing chaos" during her divorce from comedian Les Dennis, while Carr discussed learning to assert himself and understand his own worth.
Current Projects and Scheduling Conflicts
Instead of pursuing the Strictly role, Carr and Holden have been immersed in their latest BBC venture, Amanda & Alan's Greek Job, which features them renovating properties in Corfu. Meanwhile, Alan Carr's extensive 2027 tour schedule, comprising 90 dates across the UK and Ireland for his show "Have I Said Too Much?", has effectively ruled him out of contention for the Strictly hosting position due to direct clashes with the show's broadcast period from September to November.
BBC's Search for New Hosts Intensifies
With Carr now out of the running, the BBC is reportedly focusing on other potential candidates. Former It Takes Two host Rylan Clark has emerged as a leading contender, alongside other notable names such as Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, Zoe Ball, and Holly Willoughby. Insiders suggest that the BBC is conducting rigorous chemistry tests, pairing various candidates to assess on-screen dynamics and find the perfect replacement duo. The broadcaster is keen to explore diverse pairings, including same-gender or mixed partnerships, to refresh the show's presentation style.
Industry Reactions and Future Prospects
Sources indicate that the BBC was particularly disappointed by Carr's unavailability, as he was considered a favourite following his heightened popularity from Celebrity Traitors. The search for new hosts remains a "mammoth task," with executives determined to find a pairing that can maintain the show's beloved charm while introducing fresh energy. As the selection process continues, fans eagerly await the official announcement, while Carr and Holden remain committed to their collaborative property series and individual projects.
