Josh Widdicombe says he has 'pulled the drawbridge up' on social media
Widdicombe reshared a supportive Instagram post after viewers criticized his presenting, while the first live show drew an average 4.8 million BBC One viewers.
- On Saturday, September 26, 2026, presenters Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe debuted as the new hosting trio for Strictly Come Dancing, though the broadcast drew mixed reactions and criticism regarding Widdicombe's performance.
- The new trio replaced long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down in October 2025; while Willis received praise, Widdicombe and Radebe faced scrutiny during the first live programme, which attracted 5 million viewers.
- Broadcasting errors drew criticism, with viewers claiming Widdicombe kept "missing his cue," prompting the comedian to reveal on his podcast Parenting Hell that he has "pulled the drawbridge up" on his social media consumption.
- Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse and presenter Ed James have since defended the new hosts against what James described as "nasty" backlash, suggesting viewers should be "a little kinder" while the team adjusts.
- The series continues on BBC One, with Willis recently sharing a cryptic post about the value of human television presenters, emphasizing the importance of remaining "beautifully, imperfectly human.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Strictly pros defend Josh Widdicombe after backlash
Ed James defended the new Strictly host after a wave of criticism, urging viewers who are not enjoying the show to stop watching. The post Strictly pros show support for Josh Widdicombe amid calls for him to be replaced appeared first on PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news.
Richard Osman Has Some Ideas To Improve Strictly After Criticism Over First Live Show
Richard Osman has weighed in on what changes he would implement on the new season of Strictly Come Dancing.During the latest edition of his podcast The Rest Is Entertainment, the TV personality and producer reacted to the criticism Strictly has faced since new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe fronted their first live show together over the weekend.While Emma received unanimous acclaim for her first live show, critics had so…
The Independent
The Independent (US)Emma Willis posts cryptic message about Strictly hosting backlash
Josh Widdicombe takes drastic action over social media use amid BBC Strictly backlash
Josh Widdicombe takes drastic action over social media use amid BBC Strictly backlash . Josh Widdicombe has stated he's taking a break from social media amid the ongoing online storm about his Strictly Come Dancing presenting
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