SHOCKER: Tess & Claudia REPLACED?! Strictly Star CONFIRMS It!

SHOCKER: Tess & Claudia REPLACED?! Strictly Star CONFIRMS It!

A ripple of excitement is running through the world of British television. Zoe Ball, a beloved voice on BBC Radio 2, has announced she’s stepping down from her Saturday show, handing the reins to Emma Willis. But this isn’t simply a changing of the guard on the airwaves; it’s ignited a fervent speculation about her next move.

The timing is undeniably intriguing. Just weeks ago, the dynamic duo of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman revealed they would be leaving their coveted positions as hosts of *Strictly Come Dancing* after a decade of partnership. Fans immediately began connecting the dots, wondering if Ball’s departure from Radio 2 clears the path for a glittering return to the ballroom.

Social media exploded with hopeful messages. Comments flooded in, with fans pleading for Ball to take the helm of the popular dancing competition. “Please, Zoe for Strictly!” one fan wrote, echoing the sentiment of countless others eager to see her back in the *Strictly* universe – she previously competed as a contestant in 2005 and later hosted the spin-off show, *It Takes Two*, for years.

For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only BBC handout photo of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, during their appearance on the live show of Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing show on BBC1. Picture date: Saturday November 8, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.

The BBC is reportedly taking the search for new hosts seriously, compiling a list of potential contenders. Names like Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, and Rylan Clark-Neal are circulating, alongside Holly Willoughby and Alison Hammond. But Ball’s name consistently appears near the top, fueled by her established connection to the show and the timing of her radio departure.

Insiders suggest the BBC is planning “chemistry tests,” pairing potential hosts to see who sparks the most engaging dynamic. The network understands the importance of finding a duo that can replicate the magic of Daly and Winkleman, a partnership that captivated audiences for years. The stakes are high, and the search is on for the perfect fit.

Daly and Winkleman themselves described their time on *Strictly* as an “absolute dream,” emphasizing their desire to leave together when the time felt right. Their departure marks the end of an era, leaving a void that the BBC is determined to fill with a fresh, vibrant pairing.

Host Zoe Ball speaks on stage during the concert celebrating the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, held at the historic Horse Guards Parade in central London. Picture date: Thursday May 8, 2025. PA Photo. See PA story MEMORIAL VEDay. Photo credit should read: Chris Jackson/PA Wire

As the speculation intensifies, one thing is clear: the future of *Strictly Come Dancing* is a hot topic, and Zoe Ball is firmly in the center of the conversation. The coming weeks promise to be filled with anticipation as the BBC navigates this crucial decision, searching for the next faces to lead one of Britain’s most beloved television shows.

Patsy Palmer, Zoe Ball & Bruce Forsyth