Emma Willis Teases Surprise for Strictly Launch

Emma Willis revealed she has been secretly rehearsing dance routines for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing during an appearance on BBC's The One Show on August 20, 2026, teasing a surprise performance for the show's launch. The incoming lead presenter for the flagship dance competition made the disclosure while speaking to hosts Clara Amfo and Roman Kemp, prompting visible shock from the interviewers.

"I've been in dance rehearsals," Willis said, adding that her new co-hosts would be seeing her moves. "Look at your faces! That's all I can say. Wait for the launch show. It's gonna be fun." She told the programme she felt "hugely honoured" to be involved and was settling in well with her new presenting partners.

Willis is fronting a revamped presenting team for the 2026 series, joining comedian Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe. The trio replaces long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, marking the show's first three-person hosting lineup since 2013. The pre-recorded launch episode, where the celebrity contestants will be paired with their professional partners, is scheduled to be broadcast on Saturday, September 19. The first live...