The BBC has dismissed claims that hosts of the Strictly Come Dancing spin-off It Takes Two have been removed from the show, following a series of professional dancer departures.
Recent Professional Dancer Changes
Earlier this month, reports emerged about uncertainties for several long-time dancers on the popular series. Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas were among the first confirmed to depart, followed by Nadiya Bychkova. Neil Jones and Nancy Xu have been sidelined without celebrity partners for the upcoming season.
This weekend, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer, announced her exit. In a social media video, she shared: “Hey everyone, I’ve got something to tell you. It’s a tough one, but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I’ve decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I’m passionate about.” She praised the show for changing her life and introducing her to incredible people and partners.
Claims Surrounding It Takes Two Hosts
Overnight reports suggested producers aim to refresh It Takes Two by parting ways with hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East. Sources close to the production indicate executives seek “a completely new look and fresh start” after recent controversies, potentially repurposing the hosts elsewhere to create a new era.
Janette Manrara, 42, a former professional dancer for eight seasons, began hosting It Takes Two in 2021. She is married to fellow dancer Aljaz Skorjanec. Fleur East, 38, a former X Factor contestant and Strictly finalist in 2022, joined the spin-off the following year.
A BBC spokesperson clarified: “It is factually incorrect to claim that either has been ‘axed’. Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course.” No final decisions have been made on future It Takes Two hosting.
Main Show Hosting Uncertainty
The BBC has yet to announce replacements for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed the main Strictly Come Dancing show last December after two decades. They stated it “felt like the right time.”
Speculation continues on potential successors, including Alex Jones, Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Alison Hammond, Angela Scanlon, and Emma Willis. Names like Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden, and Alan Carr have ruled themselves out after initial considerations. Even Fleur East remains in discussions.
Push for a Fresh Start
Insiders reveal executives pursue a major shake-up, with dancer contract meetings ongoing. The changes follow scandals involving bullying investigations and other issues, aiming to introduce new faces and distance the show from past drama ahead of the September launch.
