Irish presenter Angela Scanlon has broken her silence on replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as host of Strictly Come Dancing, declaring she would "certainly take the call" from BBC bosses.
The 41-year-old, who competed on the show in 2023, emerged as a leading contender after the current presenting duo announced their shock departure last month. Their final live appearance is scheduled for December 20.
Scanlon told The Sun: «You know what, I am such a fan of the show and have been forever. I think Tess and Claudia are such an incredible pairing. It has always been super inspiring to me, you know, and to be uttered in the same breath as them, and some of the other brilliant names that are in the mix, is just very flattering.»
She emphasized the importance of the hosts' chemistry, adding: «Claude and Tess have the most amazing dynamic, and that's really important. So there's, you know, lots of different things to play for, but I would certainly answer the call.»
Race for hosting role intensifies
The Chase star Bradley Walsh has also emerged as a strong favorite after appearing backstage at the Strictly studio last week. Fans "went wild" when head dressmaker Theresa Hewlett shared a photo of Walsh on social media, though she clarified he was simply visiting from The Chase set next door.
The One Show presenter Alex Jones is reportedly in discussions with BBC management about taking on one of the hosting roles.
Fans on social media have voiced support for Scanlon, with one user posting: «Angela Scanlon is the best and realistic candidate to take Claudia's role running the Claudatorium.»
Final shows approach
With just three main shows, two result shows and the Christmas special remaining, Strictly fans are preparing for an emotional farewell. The spin-off show It Takes Two announced a special episode dedicated to the departing hosts.
Fleur East revealed on Monday's show: «Next Tuesday, we've got something very special lined-up for you. As you all know, this series will be Strictly's last with Tess and Claudia at the helm and to show our thanks and gratitude for all the amazing years they've given us, It Takes Two is dedicating a whole show to our leading ladies.»
Tess and Claudia announced their joint departure in October, stating: «We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.»
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
