Birmingham-born presenter Emma Willis has already won over Strictly Come Dancing fans after her debut as co-host, with viewers praising her as a “natural” and a “seasoned professional” who could “carry the show” on her own.
Willis joined comedian Josh Widdicombe and former Strictly professional dancer Johannes Radebe for the first time as the trio took over hosting duties from Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who had fronted the BBC dance competition for 15 years.
The new hosts walked onto the stage together, sharing a group hug before Radebe admitted they never expected to be hosting the landmark show “in a million years”. Widdicombe confessed “it's a little bit overwhelming to be here” before adding: “But we are so delighted.” Willis told the audience: “It is a pure genuine honour to be here and we can't wait to spend the next 13 weeks with you!”
Viewers React to Emma Willis as Strictly Host
Within minutes of the new series starting, viewers took to social media to sing Willis's praises. One fan, Ryan Ashmore, wrote: “Emma, a natural. I hope the guys follow suit.” Another viewer, Dee, said: “Already hugely preferring the professional and lovely Emma to wooden Tess. Liking the hosts so far.”
Jude commented: “Strictly liking Emma so far, clearly used to being main host.” Rhys went further, saying: “Emma could have hosted by herself. I’m just really hoping Josh does just the backstage stuff. Leave the fabulous stuff to the Queen.” Roscoe Barnes added: “Emma is already smashing it.”
Liv observed: “Far too obvious emma is a seasoned professional at hosting, she could’ve done this alone.” Hampshire V3 suggested: “Emma should be the main presenter with Johannes as the supporting host doing the scores etc.” Ryan Glendenning concluded: “Emma has settled in instantly! The way she could carry this whole series on her back on her own and I would be happy.”
A Seasoned Presenter with a Nod to Her Nerves
The Sutton Coldfield-born presenter has spent years in front of the cameras, hosting major shows including Big Brother, The Voice UK, and Netflix's Love Is Blind alongside her husband, Busted star Matt Willis.
Despite her experience, Willis admitted to feeling nervous about taking over from Tess and Claudia. Speaking to new professional dancer Lawrence Robb, he said he could “empathise” as he had “large shoes to fill,” adding: “I guess I can empathise with you guys for filling Claudia and Tess.”
Without missing a beat, Willis displayed her natural charm, replying: “Our smiles are on but inside we're ducks under water paddling!”
What's Next for the New Strictly Hosts
The launch episode of Strictly Come Dancing is available to catch up on BBC iPlayer ahead of the first live show on Saturday September 26. Willis will continue to co-host the series for the next 13 weeks alongside Widdicombe and Radebe.
