Rylan Clark has expressed his genuine delight at seeing his close friend Emma Willis land one of the most prestigious roles on British television as one of the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing. The announcement last month that Emma, alongside professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe, would be taking over from long-standing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman marked the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved BBC dance competition.

While Rylan himself had been among the names speculated to be in contention for the high-profile gig, he has spoken warmly and supportively about the chosen trio, showing no signs of bitterness over missing out.

In a recent interview with Metro, Rylan shared his heartfelt thoughts on the matter. “I’m so over the moon for Em. She’s perfect for that job,” he said. He went on to praise Johannes, affectionately referring to him as JoJo, stating, “whom I absolutely adore.

I think he’s just going to be amazing and I hope we still get to see him dance as well because his talent is just ridiculous.” Rylan also spoke positively about Josh Widdicombe, noting, “I’ve always got on with him really well.” His comments reflect the strong personal and professional bonds he shares with the new hosts, particularly with Emma, with whom he has collaborated extensively in the past.

Rylan’s connection to Strictly Come Dancing runs deep. He previously hosted the companion show It Takes Two, becoming a familiar and popular face within the Strictly family. His infectious energy, witty commentary, and genuine enthusiasm for the series made him a natural fit for many fans who hoped he might step into a bigger presenting role. Reports earlier suggested that BBC bosses had spent months conducting talks and auditions with a range of well-known personalities, including Rylan, as they searched for the right successors to Tess and Claudia.

The decision to go with a trio of presenters was seen by some as an innovative move to refresh the format while maintaining the show’s beloved spirit.

The official announcement of the new hosting team came with an engaging Instagram video captioned “It’s official…September 2026.” In the clip, Emma and Johannes were seen taking their seats in front of a camera operated by Josh, with the iconic song “Three Is The Magic Number” playing in the background. Emma delivered the line, “Come on, we can’t do this without you,” highlighting the collaborative dynamic the trio aims to bring to the ballroom.

The announcement generated significant excitement across social media and in the press, with many viewers eager to see how this fresh lineup would handle the glitz, glamour, and emotional highs of the competition.

Emma Willis, 41, brings a wealth of presenting experience to the role. Known for her work on Big Brother during its Channel 5 era, as well as co-hosting This Morning alongside Rylan during the absences of the main presenters, she has earned a reputation for warmth, professionalism, and relatability. Rylan and Emma’s on-screen chemistry has been widely praised, making their friendship a highlight of daytime television. Stepping into Strictly represents a major career milestone for Emma, who has openly expressed her lifelong fandom of the show.

In her official statement, she said, “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly. I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years. So to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.”

Emma acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting the iconic status of Tess and Claudia. “It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.” She expressed anticipation for working with her co-hosts and the dancers, adding, “I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges.

Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”

Johannes Radebe, a fan-favorite professional dancer on the show, brings his extraordinary dancing talent and charismatic personality to the presenting panel. His performances have consistently dazzled audiences, and many hope he will continue to showcase his skills on the dance floor while taking on hosting duties. Josh Widdicombe, known for his sharp comedy and appearances on various panel shows, adds a layer of humor and accessibility that could appeal to a broad demographic. Together, the trio represents a blend of experience, dance expertise, and comedic timing that bosses believe will invigorate the series.

Tess Daly, one of the outgoing hosts, publicly congratulated the new team. “Can’t wait to tune in. The ultimate trio,” she shared, showing gracious support for the transition. Claudia Winkleman’s departure alongside Tess after many successful years had left big shoes to fill, as the pair had become synonymous with the show’s elegance and emotional connection with contestants and viewers alike. Their chemistry and ability to navigate both celebratory and challenging moments on live television set a high standard.

Rylan’s positive reaction stands out in an industry where professional disappointments can sometimes lead to tension. Instead of focusing on missing out, he embraced the “new era” of Strictly. “I’m so excited to see how that’s going to look. I think we were all like, ‘this is a bit random’, but I’ve got no doubt that it’s going to be absolutely amazing,” he told Metro. He also highlighted the courage required to follow in Tess and Claudia’s footsteps: “Anyone that’s following Tess and Claud, you’ve got to have some big balls to do it.

But I think with the power of three, they’ll have a lovely time.”

This shift comes at an important time for Strictly Come Dancing. The show has faced various challenges in recent years, including adjustments post-pandemic and ongoing efforts to maintain its status as a flagship family entertainment program. The introduction of three hosts offers opportunities for dynamic interactions, fresh perspectives, and potentially more in-depth coverage of the behind-the-scenes elements that fans love. Speculation about the new format has been rife, with viewers wondering how the presenting duties will be divided and whether the traditional elements like the glitzy opening numbers and heartfelt interviews will evolve.

Rylan Clark’s own career trajectory demonstrates his versatility. From his early days on The X Factor to hosting duties across BBC and ITV, he has become one of Britain’s most endearing television personalities. His honest and humorous approach resonates with audiences, and his support for Emma and the new team reinforces his standing as a generous figure within the industry. Fans of both Rylan and Strictly have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm, with many appreciating Rylan’s gracious response and looking forward to seeing how the new era unfolds when the show returns in September 2026.

The appointment of Emma, Johannes, and Josh also reflects the BBC’s desire to inject new energy into the long-running series while honoring its heritage. Emma’s deep affection for the show, combined with Johannes’s insider knowledge of the dance world and Josh’s comedic flair, creates an intriguing mix that could attract both loyal viewers and new audiences. As rehearsals and preparations get underway, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a memorable season.

In interviews and public appearances, those involved have emphasized themes of excitement, respect for the past, and optimism for the future. Rylan’s comments serve as a reminder of the camaraderie that often exists behind the scenes in British entertainment, even amid significant changes. While he may have been a strong contender for the role, his focus remains on celebrating his friends’ success and looking ahead to another sparkling season of Strictly Come Dancing.

As the countdown to September begins, the television landscape awaits the debut of this new hosting trio. Their chemistry, passion for the show, and individual strengths are expected to deliver the magic that audiences have come to expect from Strictly, albeit with a modern twist. Rylan Clark’s supportive words add an extra layer of warmth to the narrative, underscoring friendship and positivity in what could have been a more competitive story. The new era is set to sparkle, and fans across the UK and beyond are ready to dance along.