Introduction
As the excitement builds for another season of Strictly Come Dancing, enthusiasts are buzzing with speculation about which celebrities will take to the dance floor in 2026. Following the previous season’s triumph of Lioness Karen Carney and her partner Carlos Gu, fans are eager to see who will follow in their footsteps and compete for the coveted glitterball trophy.
This year has brought significant changes that will undoubtedly impact the show. With the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, viewers are left anticipating a fresh dynamic. In addition, there’s been considerable turnover among the professional dancers, setting the stage for an intriguing new lineup that has fans guessing.
Notable Changes in the Show’s Format
New Hosts on the Horizon
The absence of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman has left a considerable void, and the replacement hosts are already generating buzz. Names like Rylan Clark, Bradley Walsh, Zoe Ball, and Angela Scanlon have entered the conversation, each with a distinct style that could bring new energy to the show.

A Shift in the Professional Roster
In addition to the new hosting team, the professional dancer lineup will see some notable changes. Dancers such as Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, and Michelle Tsiakkas have not had their contracts renewed, while Gorka Márquez may also be leaving. Furthermore, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu are reportedly ‘benched’ without partners, creating opportunities for new collaborations in the upcoming season.....




