The upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing promises fresh energy and star power with the addition of Will Best, widely recognized as the co-host of Big Brother and the Hits Radio Breakfast Show. Best joins a diverse and intriguing lineup that blends television, music, and social media personalities, signaling a new chapter for the beloved BBC dance competition as it navigates changes in its presenting team and professional dancers.
Will Best’s Leap from Hosting to the Dance Floor
Will Best’s entry into Strictly Come Dancing marks a notable shift from his established roles in television and radio to the physical and performative demands of ballroom dancing. Known for his charismatic hosting alongside AJ Odudu on Big Brother, Best admits he has “no idea if I can actually dance,” yet embraces the challenge with enthusiasm. His candidness about feeling both excited and terrified reflects the intense pressure contestants face on a show that blends live performance with high stakes competition.
Best’s participation underscores the show’s appeal beyond professional dancers and actors, drawing in personalities from varied entertainment sectors. His presence also highlights the cultural crossover between reality TV hosting and performance-based contests, a trend that continues to broaden the show’s audience.
A Star-Studded and Varied Celebrity Lineup
Best is the sixth celebrity announced for this year’s series, joining an eclectic group that includes:
- Dani Dyer, a media personality and former Love Island contestant, making a comeback after last year’s injury forced her withdrawal.
- Delta Goodrem, the Australian singer and actress known for her Eurovision participation and soap opera roots.
- Lacey Turner, the acclaimed EastEnders actress with a strong fan base and award-winning career.
- Cach Mercer, the 2025 Love Island champion, model, DJ, and mental health advocate, who brings his street dance background to the ballroom.
- Chris Appleton, a celebrity hair stylist famed for styling Hollywood A-listers, stepping out from behind the scenes to the dance floor.
This lineup reflects a strategic mix of contestants who can attract different demographics, from reality TV enthusiasts to music fans and soap opera viewers, ensuring broad appeal for the show’s audience.
Adapting to Change: New Hosts and Departing Professionals
The 2024 series of Strictly is also notable for its revamped presenting team. Josh Widdicombe joins Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe as the new hosts, stepping in after the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who had become synonymous with the show over many years. The fresh hosting trio aims to bring new dynamics and chemistry to the program, a move that has intrigued both fans and critics.
On the judging front, Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke return, maintaining continuity in the show’s critical eye. However, several professional dancers, including Gorka Marquez and Nadiya Bychkova, will not be returning, making way for a reshaped professional lineup. This turnover among dancers is significant, as the chemistry between celebrities and their professional partners often defines the show’s emotional and competitive arc.
What Will This Mean for the Show’s Future?
Strictly Come Dancing has long been a staple of British television, known for combining entertainment, competition, and emotional storytelling. The introduction of Will Best and other fresh faces represents more than just casting choices; it signals the show’s intent to evolve while balancing tradition and innovation.
With the departure of iconic hosts and several professional dancers, the show faces the challenge of retaining its loyal viewership while attracting new fans. The early announcement of the celebrity lineup, months ahead of the usual schedule, suggests a proactive approach by the BBC to build anticipation and manage the transition smoothly.
Moreover, the inclusion of celebrities like Best, who are not traditionally associated with dance or performance, adds an element of unpredictability that could refresh the format. Their journeys from novice dancers to potential finalists often create compelling narratives that resonate with viewers.
Looking Ahead to September’s Premiere
As rehearsals begin and the contestants prepare to take on the demanding routines of ballroom and Latin dance, anticipation is building for what promises to be a compelling season. Will Best’s candid excitement and the diverse celebrity roster set the stage for new stories and memorable moments on the dance floor.
Fans will be watching closely to see how the new hosts and refreshed professional team influence the show’s atmosphere and pacing. Meanwhile, the competition itself remains as fierce as ever, with the coveted Glitterball Trophy driving contestants to push their limits.
This year’s Strictly Come Dancing stands at a crossroads of legacy and reinvention, with Will Best’s participation emblematic of the show’s ongoing evolution in the ever-changing landscape of British entertainment.
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For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.