After weeks of speculation about Johannes Radebe’s future on Strictly Come Dancing, the new host has finally addressed the concerns. It has been just over a week since the BBC confirmed that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and fan-favourite pro dancer Johannes Radebe would be taking over from Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
The trio are excited to lead the show into a new era when it returns in September with a mix of new pros, familiar dancers, and four judges. However, Johannes’ transition from a professional dancer to a host has raised questions about whether he will still be performing on the dance floor.
These concerns were heightened when he was removed from promotional materials highlighting the returning pros and when Emma mentioned on BBC Radio 2 that he wouldn’t be dancing anymore. But now, Johannes has clarified that he will still be dancing, though he hasn’t provided many details.
He told The Sun: “The question I’m getting asked the most is, ‘Are you not going to dance any more?’ Now listen, I’m not hanging up my dancing shoes yet. I will definitely be throwing some shapes and moving my hips – I can’t not, that’s my life. For it to be just taken away would be a travesty for me. There’s a plan in action, that’s all I’m going to say. You’re going to see JoJo!”
Dancing with a celebrity is not the only way to appear on the ballroom floor. Pros also participate in group dances, which is likely where Johannes will fit in, although it’s not guaranteed. Fans are eager to see him continue to dominate the dance floor.
One Reddit user wrote: “He has the warmth and charisma to be absolutely spectacular at [being host]. But selfishly, I’m a bit heartbroken about what this means for the Sunday results show group numbers.”
Another user, PrincessMoon, added: “My guess would be that he won’t get a partner this year, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed that he’ll still be part of the group routines!”
If Johannes’ latest promise is anything to go by, these concerns can finally be put to rest. While fans may need more convincing that Emma, Josh, and Johannes are the right choices for the job, they seem ready to give them a chance.
Judge Shirley Ballas expressed her confidence in the new hosts. She said: “I think it was a surprise to everybody that it was three and not two, so now it’s where they fit and what those little changes are. Of course, everybody loves JoJo. He’s just a well-loved figure. He’s been in Kinky Boots; he’s a professional dancer, but more than that, it’s half his character. He wears his heart on his sleeve, so it’s an absolute delight that we got him.”
She later added: “I think the BBC has really got this right.”
Meanwhile, comedian Josh Widdicombe recently admitted he wasn’t sure if he would take up the role. He said: “When the call came initially just for the meeting, I thought: ‘I really like my life, would I want to throw it into flux?’ Because it’s a big thing, it’s a defining thing that you’re suddenly doing it. But I just thought: ‘What an incredible thing to experience.’”
Strictly Come Dancing is set to return to BBC One in September. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, you can get in touch with the team by emailing [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145, or visiting the Submit Stuff page.
