Angela Scanlon in Talks to Join Strictly Come Dancing as Presenter
By Katie Hind, Consultant Editor, Showbusiness
Published: 00:39 GMT, 12 March 2026 | Updated: 03:22 GMT, 12 March 2026
Angela Scanlon, known for her role on The One Show and as a former contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, is reportedly in discussions to join the presenting team of the popular dance competition. Following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down at the end of last year, the BBC has shown keen interest in bringing Scanlon on board.
Sources within the BBC suggest that executives believe Scanlon would be a fitting choice to lead the show, as they envision its future direction. Having participated in the 2023 series, where she showcased her talent alongside professional dancer Carlos Gu, Scanlon’s prior experience adds to her appeal.
At 42 years old, the Irish presenter from County Meath is also viewed favorably for her regional accent, an attribute that aligns with the BBC’s preference for diversity in representation. “Angela has engaged in talks with Strictly’s producers regarding a possible role. There is a strong belief among BBC officials that she would resonate well with audiences,” noted a source close to the discussions.
The selection process appears to be progressing, with ‘chemistry tests’ slated to occur post-Easter. Other candidates being considered include Zoe Ball, a previous host of the spin-off show It Takes Two, and Scanlon’s colleague from The One Show, Alex Jones. However, it’s reported that the latter two may have reservations about the roles.
Despite the glamorous exterior of Strictly Come Dancing, insiders acknowledge that the demands of hosting can be taxing. “The hours are long, requiring commitment from early Friday until late Saturday, particularly during the festive season,” said an insider familiar with the workload.
While discussions continue, it remains uncertain whether the BBC will move toward a gender-balanced presenting duo, as industry buzz suggests they are still searching for a male host. “For Angela, stepping into the role would be a clear path forward. She might not be a household name yet, but she has the potential to grow within the position,” added the source.
When asked in December about the possibility of replacing Daly and Winkleman, Scanlon expressed her admiration for the show, stating, “I have always been a fan of Strictly and would certainly consider any opportunity that arises.”
As negotiations unfold, fans are eager to see how this potential shift in hosting duties will impact the beloved series when it returns later this year.
Source: Original Source
