Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe has emerged as a leading candidate to become the show's newest presenter, according to reports. The dancer, who has been a beloved member of the cast for eight years, is reportedly set to join Emma Willis in a new hosting lineup.
Radebe's Potential New Role
Earlier this week, it was reported that former Big Brother host Emma Willis had been offered a presenting role after impressing producers during chemistry tests. Meanwhile, contenders like Zoe Ball, Angela Scanlon, and Rylan Clark were no longer in the running. Now, The Sun reports that Radebe will be hosting alongside Willis.
A source told the publication: "Everyone involved in the auditions — including the celebs — are saying the job is going to JoJo. During the chemistry tests he was paired up with every other celeb and did incredibly well. They all think he would be the perfect partner for Emma."
Although Radebe was confirmed to return as a professional dancer for the new series, the source noted that this "doesn't mean bosses aren't going to promote him." They suggested he could take on a "slightly different presenting role" as a "roving reporter." The Independent has contacted the BBC and Johannes Radebe for comment.
Radebe's Journey on Strictly
South African-born Radebe joined the Strictly professional dancer lineup in 2018, having previously appeared on the show in his native country. He quickly became a fan favorite and made history as part of the show's first-ever same-sex pairing with Bake Off's John Whaite in 2021. Since then, he has made his musical theatre debut in the UK tour of Kinky Boots and released his memoir, Jojo: Finally Home, which is being developed into a film. In February, he revealed he had become a British citizen, telling fans on Instagram: "Britain has become my belonging."
Replacement for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman
With Strictly returning in September, speculation is rife about who will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after their exit last year. On Tuesday, former frontrunner Zoe Ball ruled herself out, revealing on her podcast Dig It with Jo Whiley: "I didn't get it, but it's OK. I have worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection over the last couple of days. No, I didn't get it, but I tell you what, if who I think has got it, we're in safe hands and our new hosts are going to be fabulous."
Strictly's new presenters are reportedly expected to be announced after the Eurovision Song Contest final on Saturday. A BBC spokesperson previously told The Independent: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course."
