The search for new hosts of the beloved BBC dance competition Strictly Come Dancing is intensifying, and Angela Scanlon, currently a presenter on The One Show, is emerging as a leading contender. Following the departure of long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the end of last year, the BBC is reportedly keen to find a successor who embodies the spirit of the show, and Scanlon appears to fit the bill.
Sources within the BBC suggest that Scanlon has been in discussions with show bosses regarding the role, with meetings taking place in recent weeks. The broadcaster is looking for someone who understands the show’s legacy and can connect with its broad audience. Scanlon’s previous experience as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023, where she partnered with Carlos Gu, is seen as a significant advantage, as is her established presence within the BBC.
The appeal of Scanlon, 42, extends beyond her familiarity with the program. Insiders emphasize that the BBC values having a presenter with a regional accent, a characteristic Scanlon possesses as a native of County Meath, Ireland. “Angela has been talking to Strictly’s bosses about a role on the show extremely recently,” a source connected to the program told the Daily Mail. “She is BBC through and through and is regarded as a top professional. The BBC knows she is loved as a presenter of The One Show and that is what those making the hire are really looking at.”
Chemistry Tests and Potential Co-Hosts
The next stage in the selection process is expected to involve “chemistry tests” after Easter, according to reports. Alongside Scanlon, two other women are reportedly under consideration: Zoe Ball, previously the host of Strictly’s spin-off show It Takes Two, and Alex Jones, Scanlon’s co-host on The One Show. However, sources indicate that Ball and Jones may be less enthusiastic about taking on the role, despite BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips’ interest in having them as options.
The demanding schedule associated with hosting Strictly Come Dancing is also a factor. Friends of Daly and Winkleman have described the role as “gruelling,” requiring long hours every Friday and Saturday, particularly in the lead-up to the Christmas special. Despite the challenges, Scanlon herself has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity. When asked in December about potentially replacing Daly and Winkleman, she stated, “You realize what, I am such a fan of the show and have been forever, I would certainly answer the call.”
There is also a suggestion that the BBC is unlikely to opt for another all-female hosting duo and is actively seeking a male presenter to complement the new lineup. This search adds another layer of complexity to the selection process.
Scanlon’s ‘Strictly’ History and Broad Appeal
Scanlon’s performance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023, where she and Carlos Gu reached the sixth round before being eliminated in a dance-off against Layton Williams, demonstrated her commitment to the show and her ability to connect with viewers. Her profile on the BBC website highlights her versatility as a broadcaster, having hosted shows on BBC Radio 2 and launched her own podcast, Angela Scanlon Thanks a Million.
The BBC’s preference for a presenter who is “BBC through and through” and “no trouble whatsoever” suggests a desire for stability and a seamless transition following the departure of Daly and Winkleman. Scanlon’s established relationship with the corporation and her professional reputation make her a strong candidate in this regard.
As the search continues, all eyes are on Angela Scanlon. Whereas no final decision has been made, her name is consistently at the forefront of discussions, and the possibility of seeing her lead Strictly Come Dancing into its next chapter is becoming increasingly likely. The upcoming chemistry tests will be a crucial step in determining whether she will waltz her way into the coveted hosting role.
The BBC has not yet announced a timeline for naming the new hosts, but an announcement is expected before the next series begins production. Fans of the show will be watching closely to see who will ultimately take the reins of this iconic British television program.
