Comedian Josh Widdicombe has opened up about the emotional toll of his new hosting role on Strictly Come Dancing, describing the elimination process as "sad" and "intense." His comments come amid a mixed reception to the new presenting trio, which also includes Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe, following the departures of long-standing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Widdicombe and Radebe on Eliminations
During an appearance on the spin-off show It Takes Two, Widdicombe shared his emotional response to the first celebrity exit. Speaking to host Ellie Taylor, he remarked, "I know this sounds weird but when I took the the Strictly job I didn’t realise how difficult eliminations was going to be, emotions would be… it’s so intense, you feel terrible." He noted that being "upstairs with JoJo talking to the couples that got through… what a sweet gig that is," but acknowledged the "really sad" task faced by Emma Willis downstairs, who reveals the couples in the dance-off.
Widdicombe reiterated these sentiments on the new post-results programme, Strictly: Lights Up, where he told host Abi Clarke that he "hated that" aspect of the show. Johannes Radebe, who is part of the new hosting line-up, agreed, stating, "You can absolutely say that, because that’s the part of the show that I do not miss."
Viewer Reaction to the New Presenting Line-up
The new hosting format has sparked considerable discussion among viewers. While some have appreciated the "breath of fresh air," others have been critical of Widdicombe’s performance, with some claiming he appeared like a "spare part" or attributing autocue issues and awkward pauses to him. There have been calls for Emma Willis to "take over more" or for her husband, Matt Willis, to replace Widdicombe. Some viewers even reported muting their televisions during the presenter segments, with one fan demanding, "Please be quiet Josh, the jokes aren’t joking."
Despite the backlash, the third week of the show saw a noticeable shift in viewer sentiment. Many fans expressed a more positive view, with comments such as "I’m enjoying the presenting tonight. Everyone seems so much more relaxed" and "Josh Widdicombe was better as he didn’t look like he was the odd one out with Emma and Johannes." Widdicombe himself has described his experience on the show as "joyous," highlighting a "team where there’s no ego" among the hosts, as reported by Wales Online.
Producers Stand Firm on New Format
Despite a dip in viewing figures for the first live results show, which drew 4.5 million viewers compared to 6.2 million last year, show bosses are reportedly committed to the new hosts. Insiders told The Mirror that producers are "staying firm" and will give viewers time to adjust to the new line-up. "The public needs a bit of time to get used to them and they need a bit of space to bed in," a source explained, adding, "this formula is here to stay so everyone needs to get used to it."
The format sees Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe on the ballroom floor, taking on roles similar to Tess Daly’s previous position, while Johannes Radebe operates from the upstairs area, akin to Claudia Winkleman’s former role. This arrangement, initially explored during rehearsals for flexibility, is now confirmed to be permanent.
FAQ
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What did Josh Widdicombe say about Strictly eliminations?
Josh Widdicombe described the eliminations on Strictly Come Dancing as "sad" and "intense," admitting he "hated that" aspect of the show and felt terrible about sending contestants home.
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How have viewers reacted to the new Strictly hosts?
Viewer reactions have been mixed. Some criticised Josh Widdicombe as a "spare part" and for awkward pauses, with some even muting their TVs. However, others have praised the new line-up, noting improved performances and a relaxed atmosphere in recent weeks.
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Are Strictly producers making changes to the new hosting line-up?
No, Strictly Come Dancing producers are reportedly standing firm with the new hosts and format. Insiders indicate that bosses will give viewers time to adjust, stating that "this formula is here to stay."
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What roles do the new Strictly hosts play?
Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe present from the ballroom floor, while Johannes Radebe serves as the new host in the upstairs area, speaking with couples who have made it through to the next week.
