TV Duo Shut Down Strictly Come Dancing Hosting Rumours
In a candid revelation that has settled months of speculation, Alan Carr has confirmed that both he and his television personality best friend Amanda Holden were offered the prestigious role of hosting Strictly Come Dancing but declined the opportunity. The announcement comes following Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's emotional departure from the prime time BBC show at the end of last year.
Podcast Interview Reveals the Truth
During a recent appearance on Jessie and Lennie Ware's popular podcast Table Manners, the presenting duo faced direct questioning about the persistent rumours. When asked "You two aren't going to present Strictly together?" Alan Carr responded unequivocally: "No, we said no ages ago." This confirmation follows Amanda Holden's previous dismissal of the claims on her Heart Radio Breakfast show in December, where she stated: "I want to say now that me and Alan are 100 per cent not doing Strictly."
The television personalities, known for their long-standing friendship and successful collaboration on Amanda & Alan's Greek Job, expressed their appreciation for being considered. Holden added during her radio show: "We are so flattered to be in that mix. We both are not doing it."
Chatty Man Comeback Rumours Also Dismissed
During the same podcast interview, Alan Carr also addressed speculation about the potential return of his hit late night comedy chat show, Alan Carr: Chatty Man. When questioned about a possible comeback, Carr explained: "Oh, that was another clickbait thing during Traitors [...] It would be nice to do a chat show, I don't know, but [...] no one's approached me or anything."
The duo have recently been focusing on their new BBC series, Amanda & Alan's Greek Job, which sees them undertake another substantial renovation project, this time in the picturesque setting of Corfu.
Strictly's Hosting Vacancy Creates Speculation
The search for new Strictly Come Dancing hosts continues following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's joint announcement of their departure. Daly had been with the show since its 2004 launch, initially presenting alongside Bruce Forsyth, with Winkleman joining as co-host in 2014. Their final live show in December proved emotional for both presenters and dedicated viewers alike.
While the BBC has yet to announce official replacements, several prominent names have been circulating in media speculation:
- Alex Jones - The One Show presenter
- Bradley Walsh - Television personality and presenter
- Zoe Ball - Former BBC Radio DJ and Strictly spin-off host
Zoe Ball's Perspective on the Role
Zoe Ball, who previously hosted Strictly's companion show It Takes Two, has emerged as one of the favourites to step into the ballroom. Speaking to The Sunday Times, Ball acknowledged the speculation surrounding her potential involvement: "Obviously, there's a part of me that would love to do it. But I will still be watching, whoever hosts."
Reflecting on the show's significance and the challenge facing any new hosts, Ball added: "This is the hilarious thing, it's all anyone talks to me about. At the moment I am in mourning for Tess and Claud because I love those girls. I think everyone's name is being thrown into the mix."
She continued with genuine admiration for the programme: "I love that show. I loved performing on it with Ian Waite, who is one of my best buddies. It's so joyful, and it's live telly, which is another thing that people don't give the girls enough credit for. That show is a beast. Whoever gets to do it has a tough act to follow."
The confirmation from Alan Carr and Amanda Holden provides clarity amid ongoing speculation about who will fill the significant shoes left by Daly and Winkleman. As the BBC continues its search for new hosts, the entertainment industry and Strictly fans await official announcements about who will guide the beloved dance competition through its next chapter.
