Exclusive: Sara Cox and Alan Carr in the frame to host Strictly
ukreviews.co.uk Exclusive: Radio presenter Sarah Cox and comedian Alan Carr are reportedly being lined up as the next hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, following the announced departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
The BBC hit show confirmed that Tess and Claudia will step down after this year’s Christmas special, ending a decade-long era of the iconic presenting duo. Since then, speculation has been rife about who could take over the coveted roles.
Sarah Cox, best known for her work on BBC Radio 2, has become a household name for her witty, approachable presenting style, making her a fan favorite. Recently the BBC confirmed it would stop making her popular book review series 'Under the Covers' but she is still a fan favourite on the BBC's 'Morning Live'. This week, she is undertaking a challenge for BBC Children In Need which sees her running 135 miles on foot across four counties – Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire - a distance of five marathons. Sara has a loyal fan following for her teatime radio show and is now the regular Radio 2 Breakfast Show cover presenter. Despite her popularity, she hasn't yet been given a primetime tv opportunity and now bosses apparently believe the time is right for her to shine.
Meanwhile, Alan Carr brings his trademark humour and charm from years of hosting talk shows and panel shows, giving him a strong track record for live TV entertainment. Bosses are keen to capitalise on his popularity following The Celebrity Traitors and want to lock him in to an exclusive BBC deal which will see his earnings increase significantly.
Industry insiders suggest the BBC is keen to maintain Strictly’s mix of warmth and humour, whilst maintaining strong links between BBC One and BBC Radio 2 which sees popular names like Vernon Kay, Scott Mills and Rylan appear on both. The pairing of Cox and Carr is being seen as the perfect way to refresh the show while keeping it wholesome and accessible to audiences of all ages following several years of controversy. It is also thought that the hosts will share duties on the show, rather than having one lead presenter and another stationed up with the dancers.
No official confirmation has been made yet, but sources indicate that contracts have already been finalised, with an announcement expected during this year's live final.
Other names rumoured to be lined up for the coveted presenting roles include Zoe Ball, Rylan, Fleur East, and Alex Jones. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as Strictly prepares for a new era of glitter, glamour, and dance-floor drama.