Josh Widdicombe breaks silence after 'disgusting' Strictly backlash
He reshared an official backstage post after viewers said he missed cues during the live handovers, which drew 4.8 million BBC One viewers.
- On Saturday, September 26, 2026, comedians Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and Johannes Radebe debuted as Strictly Come Dancing's new hosting trio on BBC One, drawing immediate criticism over Widdicombe's on-air performance.
- The BBC One series introduced the trio following the October 2025 departure of former hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, as producers sought new faces for the competition.
- Online backlash followed, with viewers claiming Widdicombe kept "missing his cue." He re-shared an official Strictly Instagram post captioned "Caught on camera from week one!" alongside a backstage photo with Willis.
- BBC DJ Ed James urged viewers to "be a little kinder," while professional dancer Lauren Oakley posted on Instagram that the contestants "couldn't be in safer hands" with the new trio.
- Widdicombe told The Times he initially felt "terrified" but gained confidence after rehearsals, saying "I am confident in this. I am not a rubbish comedian." He remains part of the hosting lineup as the series continues.
9 Articles
9 Articles
Josh Widdicombe 'breaks silence' after Strictly Come Dancing shake up backlash
Josh Widdicombe took part in his first live show of Strictly Come Dancing last weekend, but the new hosts have since faced a wave of backlash. The presenting shake up seemed to leave viewers torn
The Reviews Are Out After Strictly's New Hosts' First Live Show And... Hmmm...
Strictly Come Dancing’s new season got off to something of a bumpy start over the weekend.On Saturday night, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe fronted their first live show since taking over as Strictly’s new hosts.For their inaugural show, Emma and Josh co-hosted together from the floor, occupying the space once held by Tess Daly, while Johannes spoke to the contestants upstairs in what was previously known as the “Clauditorium” …
The Independent
The Independent (US)New Strictly host reflects on divisive first live episode
Presenter is having an absolute ball as new face of BBC show
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