Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Dianne Buswell has said the BBC show’s presenting role is made for her former fellow dancer Johannes Radebe.
South African performer Radebe was announced as one of the dancing programme’s new hosts alongside Emma Willis and comedian Josh Widdicombe on Tuesday.
In a comment on the Strictly Instagram page, Buswell said: “This is so exciting, particularly excited for our fellow pro @johannesradebe babe you are a true star and this role is made for you, we love you.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas added: “Welcome to the family @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe… and to our dear @johannesradebe I am beyond proud of you. Superstar line up.”
Former Strictly presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their departure from the programme in October 2025, also praised their successors, with Daly describing them as “the ultimate trio”, and Winkleman calling them “magnificent”.
Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse said: “Let’s go @johannesradebe I am crying at this point, so proud of you… welcome @emmawillisofficial and @josh_widdicombe can’t wait for the season. Can it not be September already.”
Another professional dancer Alexis Warr added: “Screaming. Omg how exciting, huge congratulations. Can’t wait.”
TV and radio presenter Zoe Ball, who recently confirmed she did screen tests for the hosting job but did not get it, congratulated the trio and added “you’re gonna rock it”.
Professional dancer Amy Dowden said: “This is going to be amazing. What a day. What a series ahead.”
Carlos Gu, who won the show’s last series with former England Lionesses footballer Karen Carney, said: “It’s an absolutely terrific news @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe welcome to the fam, @johannesradebe sista you look fab.”
Dancer Karen Hauer, who left the show following its 2025 series, said: “Now that is a line-up, can’t wait to watch.”
Judge Craig Revel Horwood said the news was “fab-u-lous” quoting his recognisable catchphrase, while another professional dancer Lauren Oakley said it was “amazing news”.
