Shirley Ballas issues four word statement to BBC Strictly co-star as presenters finally confirmed

Shirley Ballas has welcomed the newly announced Strictly Come Dancing presenters with open arms, taking to Instagram to share her enthusiasm for the fresh hosting lineup.

On Tuesday, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Strictly's own Johannes Radebe were confirmed to be replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as hosts of the show.

Fans and fellow Strictly stars took to the show's official Instagram announcement in their droves to react to the long-awaited news.

Judge Ms Ballas expressed her delight at the news, issuing a particularly sweet message to Mr Radebe.

She wrote: "Welcome to the family @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe."

The post went on to directly address "or dear" Mr Radebe, with Ms Ballas issuing a sweet five0wird remark: "I am beyond proud of you."

She concluded the message: "Superstar line up x."

The BBC confirmed the presenting trio earlier today, revealing how responsibilities will be divided among the three new faces.

Ms Willis, whose television credits include hosting The Voice and Big Brother, will assume the primary anchor position previously held by Ms Daly.

Mr Widdicombe takes on the role Ms Winkleman made famous in what was known as the "Clauditorium," while Mr Radebe will serve as a roving reporter throughout the show.

The appointments follow a comprehensive audition process involving numerous high-profile television personalities.

Among those who screen-tested for the roles was Zoe Ball, who subsequently revealed she had experienced "the seven stages of grief and rejection" upon learning she had been unsuccessful in securing a position.

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The three presenters have each spoken about their new roles, expressing their excitement at joining the programme.

Ms Willis admitted she could barely believe the opportunity, stating: "It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Strictly - I've cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend."

Mr Radebe described his transition from dancer to presenter as something beyond his wildest dreams.

He shared: "This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward."

Mr Widdicombe referenced his memorable appearance on the 2024 Christmas Special, declaring: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television."

The entire judging panel will return when the new series launches in the autumn, with Ms Ballas joined once again by Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.

However, the professional dancer lineup will look somewhat different this year.

The BBC announced earlier this month that five of the show's professional dancers would not be returning for the upcoming series.

Fifteen of the twenty dancers from the previous season will continue with the programme.

The broadcaster has indicated these returning professionals will be supplemented by new talent from the international dance world, promising fresh faces on the ballroom floor.

The changes to both the presenting team and professional dancer roster mark one of the most significant shake-ups in the show's recent history.

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