Comprehensive Deep-Dive: Former Professional James Jordan Weighs In on Strictly’s New Presenting Trio and Major Format Shake-Up
As the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing continues to generate headlines, former professional dancer James Jordan has offered a candid and critical assessment of the BBC show’s massive new changes.
1. Critiquing the Three-Host Dynamic
Following the departure of long-term hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the introduction of a new three-person presenting team—Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe—has sparked intense debate among viewers and industry figures alike.
James Jordan, 48, has blasted Strictly’s new presenting format and has begged bosses to remove a presenter as he weighed into the controversy surrounding the BBC show
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe have received mixed reactions since they took over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman
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Questioning the Trio: Speaking out on the new lineup, Jordan admitted that having three hosts feels unnecessary and confusing compared to the classic two-person dynamic. “I found it all a little bit confusing as to why Strictly needs three presenters and not two,” he remarked.
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Mixed Verdict on Personnel: While Jordan heaped praise on Emma Willis, calling her a “seasoned presenter” who naturally suits the flagship role, he questioned whether comedian Josh Widdicombe was the right stylistic fit for the ballroom environment, reflecting a broader wave of initial viewer backlash to the shake-up.
James competed on the Saturday night show for eight years between 2006 to 2013 – alongside his ex-wife Ola, 43, who left in 2015
While heat has been firmly on the new hosts, James argued the dynamic between judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood needs to be reevaluated
2. Broader Concerns Over Show Direction
Beyond the hosting switch, Jordan warned that BBC bosses risk alienating the show’s core demographic by drifting away from traditional formats.
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Plea for Authenticity: Jordan argued that the primary audience—longtime fans of traditional ballroom and Latin dancing—wants less deviation into modern or contemporary dance styles.
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Keeping Core Values: Suggesting that the show needs to return to its roots with classic music, authentic choreography, and traditional VTs, Jordan emphasized that respecting the show’s loyal, older demographic is crucial for maintaining its long-term success.