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Strictly Come Dancing spin-off 'set for major overhaul' amid show shake-up
Reach Daily Express | April 23, 2026 5:40 PM CST

Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts should brace themselves for further changes to their beloved programmes, as another significant shake-up has been reported.

Following the departure of several professional dancers from the BBC series - alongside presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman - the companion show is also preparing for transformation.

The major It Takes Two revamp follows the rumoured exits of hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara.

When the programme returns this September, it is reportedly set to adopt a vodcast format, mirroring the successful approach employed by The Traitors: Uncloaked and The Apprentice: You're Fired.

It's unclear who will be hosting the show, however, it seems one of the most substantial overhauls since the spin-off's inception is on the horizon.

An insider revealed to The Sun: "There is definitely a creative renewal on the table for It Takes Two, and they are poised to sign off on the radical option of a vodcast. But Beeb bosses have seen it embraced on other huge BBC One shows, particularly The Traitors, where the Uncloaked aftershow got millions tuning in."

They added: "More and more people of all ages and backgrounds enjoy podcasts and vodcasts so, despite being quite a departure, it's actually quite a shrewd move," reports the Mirror.

A BBC spokesperson stated: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course."

While It Takes Two gears up for a significant transformation, the flagship programme continues to leave viewers in suspense.

Following Claudia and Tess' departure announcement during the previous series, audiences have been eagerly awaiting confirmation of who will helm the show moving forward.

Several potential candidates have been mooted, with Bradley Walsh and Rylan Clark amongst those mentioned. It appears a final decision may be imminent.

This week's reports indicate that auditions are underway, with a shortlist of nine prospective presenters now identified. It's been claimed that the contenders will compete against one another during a full-scale dress rehearsal, performing in front of the complete judging panel alongside a live band.

An insider revealed: "It's not just about reading autocue. They'll be looking at how people work together and humour is a massive part of it. There's everything to play for."

According to reports, Strictly's executive producer Sarah James and the BBC's head of entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight will be keeping a watchful eye on the candidates throughout the process.

The source continued, telling The Sun: "Strictly is the crown jewel of the BBC. With Claudia and Tess now gone, it needs to be handled with the utmost care. Bosses are taking a very keen interest."

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


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