Strictly Come Dancing professional Lewis Cope has thrown his support behind Alan Carr as a potential replacement for departing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, creating excitement about who might next lead the BBC's flagship dance competition.
A New Era for Strictly Presenting
With the beloved presenting duo set to leave the ballroom, speculation about their successors is mounting throughout the entertainment industry. Lewis Cope, currently competing on the show, didn't hesitate when asked about his preferred candidate. "I think Alan would be brilliant," the dancer enthusiastically revealed. "He's funny, people love him, and he's really current."
Cope went further, imagining how Carr's unique humour would transform the dynamic with the judges. "Why not? He'd be hilarious with the judges – he'd probably go, 'I don't know what you're talking about, but you were brilliant!'" The professional dancer's endorsement comes after Carr's recent triumph on The Traitors, which has significantly raised his profile.
However, Cope's dance partner Katya Jones offered an alternative perspective while acknowledging Carr's potential. "Alan would be great fun, but I think Jeannette Manrara would make an amazing host," Jones suggested. "She knows the dancing, she knows what we go through. She'd bring real heart."
Life Under the Spotlight
Beyond the hosting speculation, Lewis Cope opened up about adjusting to life in the public eye, revealing how his girlfriend, Call the Midwife actress Rachel Maya Lopez, provides crucial support throughout his Strictly journey. "She's absolutely loving it," he shared with the Mirror. "She's bursting with pride. I show her rehearsal videos and she's the best confidence booster."
The dancer described how Lopez's unwavering support lifts him during challenging moments. "Even when I think we're struggling, she'll say, 'I love this – it's your best one yet!'" When questioned about whether they practise routines together at home, Cope laughed and explained his structured approach. "No – I'm quite regimented. I like rehearsing in the same space, keeping things structured. I don't want to confuse my brain!"
Overcoming Challenges and Criticism
Lewis also addressed critics who have highlighted his previous dance training, firmly setting the record straight about his background. "It was a long time ago and only for a couple of years," he clarified. "I've been an actor for 12 years. You can't fake what we do out there – I'm drenched in sweat every day trying to keep up with the pros."
His professional partner Katya Jones strongly supported this view, defending his work ethic against any suggestions of an unfair advantage. "People think he's had it easy, but he's working harder than anyone," she stated. "It's not a given – it's earned." Jones emphasised that teaching Cope presents unique challenges rather than making things easier. "Compared to my previous partners, this isn't easier or quicker. If anything, it's more challenging because I can ask more of him."
Following their spectacular achievement of a perfect score of 40 the previous week, both dancers remain determined to stay grounded. "We never try to top it," Lewis explained about their mindset. "From the start we've focused on working as hard as we can each week. What happens at the weekend happens – then we move on. Every dance is new."
Katya highlighted that the competition demands as much mental strength as physical ability. "You need stamina in your body, but even more in your head," she elaborated. "Every week you're resetting – new choreography, new story, new pressure. That's why having someone like Lewis who can stay positive makes such a difference."
The physical demands remain intense throughout the competition, with Katya noting that expectations continue to rise. "As the years go on, you feel it more," she admitted. "Viewers are more educated now – they know what to look for, and the standard's higher." She shared a telling encounter that illustrates the public's investment in the show. "I once popped into Boots and someone said, 'Aren't you meant to be rehearsing? I need a good show tonight!' You really feel that responsibility."
Each week brings fresh technical challenges for the partnership, with Lewis specifically mentioning difficulties mastering their Cha Cha to Pete Rodriguez's 'I Like It Like That'. "You're learning a new way of moving every time," Lewis explained. "This week it was about transferring weight – that was tricky."
Katya praised her partner's dedication to improvement, noting his exceptional commitment to the process. "He's an incredible student," she said. "Even when we hit a low midweek, he'll watch the videos, critique himself, and come back the next morning ready to go. His resilience is amazing."
Lewis grinned as he reflected on their ultimate goal. "We just want to entertain people – that's what the show's about," he said. "If we can give people joy on a Saturday night, that's a win." With his combination of talent, work ethic, and genuine enthusiasm for the competition, Lewis Cope continues to make his mark both on and off the dance floor.
