Emma Willis will take the lead as the new host of Strictly Come Dancing, joining Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departures.

The trio’s hosting arrangement marks Willis’s first time fronting Strictly, while she continues her The Voice duties, prompting scheduling and cross-network considerations.

A scheduling clash arises as The Voice’s launch episode and Strictly’s live show could overlap in the early evening, prompting discussions on audience confusion.

The launch show teaser hints at on-screen footwork and promises it will be fun, with playful moments from the hosts.

The new series kicks off with a September reveal of celebrity and professional pairings, followed by the first live show later in September, with eliminations after the weekend performances and voting and a finale in December.

Willis has been practicing dance routines ahead of Strictly’s launch, signaling extensive prep for the new season.

Her preparation has included moments of tense anticipation, including a visible grimace during rehearsal, underscoring the rigorous build‑up to the show.

BBC insiders acknowledge the potential awkwardness of the clash but believe Strictly’s larger audience will boost Willis’s visibility, potentially benefiting the new trio.

Industry sources describe the situation as a headache, noting Willis fulfilled The Voice commitments while still being in Strictly production and rehearsal during its launch week.

Willis has expressed feeling privileged and has been bonding with her new co-hosts as part of early preparation.

There’s buzz that the famous ‘keep dancing’ sign‑off may be revised or dropped as part of format changes for the new season.

With three hosts and ongoing production days, the team is testing hosting arrangements and may introduce an alternative sign‑off or ritual.