Strictly Come Dancing Shake-Up Continues with Presenter Axings
BBC executives are reportedly preparing to axe two more key figures from the Strictly Come Dancing franchise as part of a sweeping overhaul for the 2026 season. According to sources, Janette Manrara and Fleur East, the hosts of the popular spin-off show It Takes Two, are facing removal from their roles.
Fresh Start After Scandals
Bosses are said to be determined to give the BBC2 weeknight programme a complete refresh following a string of damaging scandals that have plagued the show in recent years. This move comes on the heels of several professional dancers being axed from the main show, including Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas.
An industry insider revealed, "Viewers will be shocked that this bloodbath has continued, but bosses want a completely new look and fresh start for the show. Nobody feels safe at the moment, but execs are determined to have a complete refresh after all the drama in recent years and create a new era."
Potential Repurposing of Talent
Despite the reported axings, there is speculation that Janette and Fleur could be repurposed elsewhere within the BBC show. Strictly has been rocked by numerous scandals over the past few years, including allegations of drug-taking, rape, and abusive behaviour towards contestants by some professional dancers.
Janette Manrara, 42, began hosting It Takes Two in 2021 after spending eight years as a professional dancer on the main show. She is married to fellow professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec. Fleur East, 38, was a finalist on Strictly in 2022 before joining It Takes Two as a host in 2023. At one point, she was considered a potential successor to Tess Daly or Claudia Winkleman, who both departed the main programme in December.
BBC Response
In response to the reports, the BBC stated, "It is factually incorrect to claim that anyone has been 'axed'. Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." This statement suggests that while changes may be underway, the corporation is not confirming the specific details at this time.
The ongoing shake-up highlights the network's efforts to revitalise the beloved dance competition amidst ongoing controversies, aiming to usher in a new era for the long-running series.
