Strictly’s new presenters begin to find their rhythm after rocky start

Strictly Come Dancing’s new presenting trio appear to be settling into their roles after a mixed reception at the start of the series, although critics say comedian Josh Widdicombe still needs to find the right balance on the live show.

Emma Willis and Widdicombe present together, while former professional dancer Johannes Radebe interviews contestants after their performances. They replaced Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, whose long-running partnership was a tough act to follow.

The first episodes drew sharp reviews. The Daily Telegraph called the trio a “disaster”, while the Daily Express said Widdicombe seemed like “the work experience boy”. But Independent critic Isobel Lewis says he now appears more comfortable when introducing acts alongside Willis, particularly when the pair follow the autocue.

Lewis says the brief interviews with judges can feel rushed when Widdicombe tries to improvise. She argues that his comic instincts can make it seem as if he is interrupting or seeking the last laugh, while stressing that this does not mean he is deliberately trying to take attention from others.

Radio Times editor Caroline Frost also sees the presenters gradually relaxing into their roles. She says Willis and Widdicombe have relied visibly on scripts and gags, but would like them to become more spontaneous. Frost suggests Radebe could offer dance expertise from rehearsals, while keeping his current interview role has allowed him to support contestants after their performances.

Strictly on the Sofa podcast co-host Flo Sayers praises Radebe’s warmth and says he has made the post-dance interviews his own. She is unsure whether the new hosts have contributed to the audience decline: about six million people are tuning in each week, roughly one million fewer than last year.

Coventry University dance researcher Karen Wood says the trio are beginning to find their rhythm. She praises Radebe’s technical knowledge and Willis’s experience, and says the most recent episode was the first time she found Willis and Widdicombe funny together.

The change in hosts comes after the BBC stood by its decision to obscure the words “Protect the Dolls” on contestant Bethany Antonia’s T-shirt during a broadcast, saying the approach was consistent with its guidelines on prominent slogans. The earlier dispute over the edit drew criticism from viewers online.