The glitterball era as we know it is about to change — and Strictly Come Dancing fans are bracing for one of the biggest shake-ups in the show’s history. With Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman preparing to bow out after the 2025 series, two familiar BBC faces are now stepping into the spotlight as leading contenders to take over: Bradley Walsh and Alex Jones.
According to insiders, the pair are in advanced talks with BBC bosses as plans gather pace for a refreshed Strictly in 2026. The potential duo brings experience, warmth, and star power — a combination producers hope will steady the show while ushering in a bold new era.
Alex Jones, 48, has been a trusted presence on The One Show for over 15 years, known for her calm authority and ease with live television. Bradley Walsh, 65, brings humour and gravitas in equal measure, balancing his BBC work on Gladiators with huge success on ITV’s The Chase. Together, they offer contrast — and chemistry.
Sources say both presenters have long been on the BBC’s radar. “Alex and Bradley are the favourites,” one insider revealed. “Tess and Claudia’s exit plans have been known for some time, and the BBC wanted hosts who could honour the legacy while refreshing the format.”
The dynamic is said to be key. Bradley’s quick wit and playful banter would bring lightness to the ballroom, while Alex’s steady hand and deep broadcasting experience make her a natural anchor. Insiders also note that Alex is a lifelong Strictly fan — making the role something of a dream job.
Importantly, Alex already knows the Strictly floor better than most. She competed in the show in 2011, reaching the semi-final with professional partner James Jordan. Her personal understanding of the pressure, excitement, and emotion of the competition could bring a fresh layer of empathy to the hosting role.
Beyond Strictly, Alex’s resume includes Shop Well for Less?, Saturday Kitchen, and praised documentaries such as Fertility and Me, while Bradley’s decades-long career has made him one of Britain’s most recognisable presenters.
While nothing has been officially confirmed, discussions are said to be “moving in a very positive direction.” Behind the scenes, producers are keen to modernise the show without alienating its loyal audience. The core elements — the judges, theme tune, and iconic set — will remain, but subtle changes are planned.
Insiders hint at a refreshed logo, new faces on the dance floor, and more bold guest appearances, following the successful introduction of high-profile mentors like Cynthia Erivo during Movie Week. New hosts, they believe, could inject renewed energy without losing Strictly’s heart.
As for Tess and Claudia, their departure marks the end of an era. In their emotional farewell announcement, they stressed they always planned to leave together, calling their time on Strictly “an absolute dream” and promising to keep saying “Keep dancing” — even if it’s at home in tracksuit bottoms with pizza.
With 2026 shaping up to be a turning point, the question now is whether Bradley Walsh and Alex Jones will become the new faces of Saturday night sparkle. One thing is certain: Strictly is preparing to dance into a brand-new chapter — and all eyes are on who will lead the way. ✨💃
