BBC Addresses Strictly Spin-Off Hosting Rumors
The BBC has firmly denied widespread reports suggesting that the hosts of Strictly Come Dancing spin-off series It Takes Two have been "axed" from the show. This clarification comes amid a significant shake-up within the long-running dancing competition, which has already seen several professional dancers depart or face uncertain futures.
Professional Dancer Departures Set the Stage
Earlier this month, speculation mounted regarding the fates of multiple Strictly stars. Professional dancers Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas were initially reported to have been removed from the show, with Nadiya Bychkova later added to this list. Additionally, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu were said to have been "benched," meaning they would not be assigned a celebrity partner for the upcoming series.
In a significant development over the weekend, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional on the show, confirmed her departure. Hauer shared a heartfelt video on social media, expressing gratitude for her 14-year tenure and stating her desire to pursue new projects.
Claims of It Takes Two Hosts Being Removed
Following these exits, reports emerged suggesting that show executives were seeking a "refresh" for It Takes Two. A source told The Sun that hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East had been "shown the door" as part of a broader effort to create a "completely new look and fresh start" for the program. The source emphasized that this move was intended to distance the show from past controversies and usher in a "new era."
Janette Manrara, a former professional dancer on Strictly, began hosting It Takes Two in 2021 after eight years on the main show. Fleur East, a former X Factor star and Strictly finalist in 2022, joined the spin-off the following year.
BBC Issues Firm Denial
In response to these reports, a BBC spokesperson told Metro: "It is factually incorrect to claim that either has been 'axed'. Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." However, Metro understands that no final decisions regarding the future hosting of It Takes Two have been made at this time.
The BBC also faces the task of confirming hosts for the main Strictly Come Dancing show after Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly announced their departure last year, ending a two-decade run. Speculation about their replacements has included names such as:
- Alex Jones
- Zoe Ball
- Rylan Clark
- Alison Hammond
- Angela Scanlon
- Emma Willis
- Fleur East
Notably, Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden, and Alan Carr have already ruled themselves out of contention.
Behind the Scenes: A Desire for a Fresh Start
Insiders have indicated that executives are pushing for a significant "shake-up" and "fresh start" following numerous scandals and negative press in recent years. These issues have included bullying investigations and drug use probes, which have tarnished the show's reputation.
A source previously stated: "There are major changes taking place, with dancers having meetings about their contracts over the next few weeks. Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era."
As the BBC prepares for the 2026 season, the future of Strictly Come Dancing and its associated programs remains in flux, with further announcements expected in the coming months.
