9 Strictly Come Dancing presenter contenders tipped to be in auditions and chemistry tests

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Sources say nine famous faces are secretly auditioning and testing their on-screen chemistry for the upcoming presenting roles on Strictly Come Dancing.

Ever since Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly stepped down from the show last year, there’s been a lot of guessing about who will take their place.

Auditions are happening this week, and nine well-known performers are competing for leading roles.

According to a source, the show isn’t just about reciting lines. Producers are also evaluating how well the contestants collaborate and whether they’re funny. Anything could happen, and no one is guaranteed a spot.

TopMob has reached out to the BBC for comment.

I’m hearing some really interesting names are in the running to host the new show! Apparently, Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, Tom Allen, Angela Scanlon, and Alex Jones all went for auditions. It’s a strong lineup, and I’m definitely curious to see who lands the job.

Alex Jones and Bradley Walsh were early contenders, and both reportedly took part in secret auditions.

According to a source, Alex and Bradley are the leading candidates to replace Tess and Claudia. The BBC has been considering them for a while, as the plans for Tess and Claudia to leave were already in motion.

Bradley and Alex are both well-respected broadcasters. Bradley is known for his humor, while Alex brings a steady and experienced presence, honed over 15 years of co-hosting The One Show and expertly navigating live television.

Other stars who have said to be called for auditions include Alison Hammond, La Voix and Zoe Ball.

According to a source, the producers are prioritizing contestants who have immediate chemistry and can create engaging energy during live broadcasts this year.

The show could continue with its two female hosts, as that format has been very successful. However, producers are also considering other options and are open to changing things up.

Rylan and Tom Allen working together could be really funny. They might even add another host to make the show even more interesting.

Hammond revealed in an interview with Emma Cox for TopMob that she was offered the job of hosting the popular BBC dance competition.

When asked whether she is likely to take on the role, Hammond seemed more pessimistic.

She explained she’s too busy to commit right now. While thrilled to have been considered, she said it just won’t work with her current schedule, similar to how she had to decline ‘Traitors’ due to conflicting commitments.

Richard Hammond recently told Metro that he’d absolutely love to be on Strictly Come Dancing. He explained that he previously seemed hesitant because all the talk about him potentially joining was actually hurting his chances. He jokingly asked people to stop mentioning it, hoping it would improve his odds of being selected for the show.

I’m really feeling up to the challenge and in great shape, so I could definitely do Strictly Come Dancing. A lot of people say they’re too busy, but I honestly could handle it – I want to make that clear.

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Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.

Don’t miss Strictly Come Dancing! Add it to your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download the app now for daily TV recommendations and exclusive content.

Authors

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality TV to important documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she focused on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a journalism degree.

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2026-04-20 13:41