Strictly Come Dancing Faces Major Overhaul as Spin-Off Show Adopts Vodcast Format
Strictly Come Dancing is shaking things up ahead of its new series, with reports indicating that another significant change is imminent. This follows a series of exits from the hit BBC show, including professional dancers and hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
It Takes Two Set for Radical Vodcast Transformation
The spin-off show It Takes Two is poised for a major overhaul, with plans to adopt a vodcast style when it returns in September 2026. This move comes after hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara were confirmed to be leaving the programme.
The new format will mirror the approach taken by popular BBC aftershows such as The Traitors: Uncloaked and The Apprentice: You’re Fired. A source told The Sun: "There is definitely a creative renewal on the table for It Takes Two, and they are poised to sign off on the radical option of a vodcast."
The source added: "Beeb bosses have seen it embraced on other huge BBC One shows, particularly The Traitors, where the Uncloaked aftershow got millions tuning in. More and more people of all ages and backgrounds enjoy podcasts and vodcasts so, despite being quite a departure, it’s actually quite a shrewd move."
Main Show Also in Flux as Host Search Intensifies
While It Takes Two prepares for its transformation, the main Strictly Come Dancing show remains in a state of uncertainty. Following the announcement that Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly would be departing, fans have been eagerly awaiting news about who will front the programme going forward.
Reports this week suggest that auditions are ongoing, with a shortlist of nine possible presenters being considered. Those in the running will reportedly go head-to-head during a full-scale rehearsal for the show, performing in front of a complete judging panel and a live band.
A source explained: "It's not just about reading autocue. They'll be looking at how people work together and humour is a massive part of it. There's everything to play for."
Names that have been suggested for the hosting role include Bradley Walsh and Rylan Clark. Strictly's executive producer Sarah James and the BBC's head of entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight are said to be closely monitoring the audition process.
The source continued: "Strictly is the crown jewel of the BBC. With Claudia and Tess now gone, it needs to be handled with the utmost care. Bosses are taking a very keen interest."
BBC Confirms Plans Will Be Announced in Due Course
A BBC spokesperson stated: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." This indicates that while changes are certainly in the pipeline, official announcements regarding the new format and hosts are still pending.
The upcoming series promises to be one of the most transformative in the show's history, with both the main programme and its spin-off undergoing significant evolution to adapt to changing viewer preferences and media consumption habits.
