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9 Strictly Come Dancing presenter contenders tipped to be in auditions and chemistry tests

Who will get the coveted presenting gig?

Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly stood next to each other, smiling and laughing.

BBC/Guy Levy

Published: Monday, 20 April 2026 at 10:34 am

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Nine celebrities are reportedly taking part in secret auditions and chemistry tests for the Strictly Come Dancing presenting gigs.

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There has been plenty of speculation as to who could replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who left the entertainment show last year.

In a new update, it has been reported that a number of auditions are being held this week, with nine famous faces going head-to-head for a chance to take over the prime positions.

A source told The Sun: "It's not just about reading autocue. They'll be looking at how people work together and humour is a massive part of it. There's everything to play for."

A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing told Radio Times: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course."

Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly stood next to each other holding hands in a dancers pose.

Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. BBC/Guy Levy

Among the stars said to have been called into auditions are Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, Tom Allen, Angela Scanlon and Alex Jones.

Jones was one of the first names rumoured alongside Bradley Walsh, who is also said to be part of the secret auditions.

Other stars who have reportedly received auditions include Alison Hammond, La Voix and Zoe Ball.

Alex Jones at the press day of The RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Alex Jones. Chris Gorman/Getty Images

In an interview with Emma Cox in Radio Times, Hammond said that she had been approached about taking on the presenting role with the beloved BBC dance show.

When asked whether she was likely to join, Hammond seemed more pessimistic.

"I’m so busy, babes, that I’m not sure it’s going to happen," she revealed. "It’s unrealistic. I’m so happy they considered me but, like Traitors, I can’t do it because everything clashes."

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In a recent interview with Metro, though, Hammond appeared to make a u-turn, telling the publication: "Do you think I would turn down Strictly if Strictly came along? Who would turn down Strictly! They’d be absolutely crazy.

"I was trying to back them off because ultimately everyone keeps putting my name in the mix and they’re ruining my chances of even getting on to Strictly, d’you know what I mean? You all need to stop talking about it because I need to get in.

"I’m not too busy, I’m fitter than I’ve ever been before. I can do Strictly. I can do it all. All these people saying, 'I’m too busy, and I can’t do it'... I could do Strictly. Let’s put that on the record."

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Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.

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Authors

Black and white cut-out portrait headshot of Katelyn Mensah, smiling against a lime green background.

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah is the Senior Entertainment Writer for Radio Times, covering all major entertainment programmes, reality TV shows and the latest hard-hitting documentaries. She previously worked at The Tab, with a focus on reality TV and showbiz news and has obtained a BA (Hons) in Journalism.

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