Josh Widdicombe has been offered a big-money deal to join Emma Willis as a new host of Strictly Come Dancing, according to reports.
The comedian and presenter has been offered the job as BBC bosses look to fill the host roles after the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
A source told the newspaper: “Josh has been offered the job alongside Emma, and it’s his for the taking. He entered the running a little later than the others, but he nailed the chemistry tests.
“Josh is so good at live TV thanks to co-hosting The Last Leg on Channel 4 and he’s also quick-witted, kooky, awkward and funny.
“He can bring the comedy they need like Claudia Winkelman did in the ‘Claudatorium’ while Emma is seen as the sensible one, like Tess Daly.
“The BBC have told Josh he’s the man they want for the job.”
Widdecombe, 43, has previous experience of Strictly after staking part in the 2024 Christmas special.
He is best known for his appearances on The Last Leg, Fighting Talk, Mock the Week and his BBC Three sitcom Josh.
Widdicombe also won the first series of Taskmaster in 2015 and the show's first Champion of Champions special in 2017
Professional dancer Johannes Radebe is also being lined up to slot in alongside Willis and Widdecombe as a “roving reporter” to provide coverage behind the scenes, the Sun said.
A source said: “The BBC have made their offers and their dream line-up is Emma and Josh, with Johannes working alongside them.
“They think Josh and Emma will have a dynamic similar to Tess and Claudia.
“Then you’ll have Johannes bringing a whole new element.”
A BBC spokesman said: “Plans for Strictly 2026 will be confirmed in due course.”
The reports Widdecombe was being lined up for the role were met with mixed reactions from fans of the show.
“Emma is great for this but giving her Josh to work with is… not it. Would be a real shame,” one person wrote on X.
“Not Josh!! Defo not the right fit!,” another fan wrote.
