Josh Widdicombe ‘breaks silence’ after Strictly Come Dancing backlash

Josh appears to have addressed the criticism when posting on his Instagram stories on Monday, September 28.

Strictly Come Dancing returned earlier this month following major changes made by the BBC. This includes three new presenters following Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s decision to step down from the show. In their place, hosting the popular dancing competition is presenter Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe.

Since the series kicked off, fans of the show have complained that the presenting trio “doesn’t work.” Now, one of the hosts has reportedly ‘broken their silence’ on the complaints.

Josh appears to have nodded to fans scrutinising his hosting ability when posting on his Instagram stories. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter

The comedian’s fellow cast members have been rallying behind him, as he shared what might be interpreted as a particularly significant post addressing the criticism.

Josh re-posted professional dancer Lauren Oakley’s post, which read: “We couldn’t be in safer hands than with these beautiful people.

“Strictly is about family, uplifting others, and creating a safe space for celebrity contestants to be vulnerable and do something so outside of their comfort zone.

“This trio have been so warm and welcoming, and they felt like family from the minute they stepped into the studio, and we love having them with us.

“Professional, funny, kind and fantastic at what they do. I couldn’t feel more lucky to be sharing the screen and our Saturday nights with them.”

The touching message was accompanied by a photograph of Emma, Josh and Johannes, with Josh sharing it again alongside three red hearts, evidently grateful for the encouragement. It proved to be a genuinely moving moment.

Following the launch show, viewers had plenty to say regarding new presenter Josh, who alongside Emma spoke to the celebrities on the dance floor following their routines, while Johannes remained upstairs.

Offering one assessment, a viewer said on X: “I love Josh on Last Leg but he looks so out of place here!”

Another added: “Josh doesn’t need to be there. Emma can do Tess’ job on her own.”

A third commented: “Emma really has to be on her own on the floor.”

Another pondered: “Josh should be upstairs with JoJo to have some banter with the contestants. We don’t need him with Emma.”

A fifth commented: “Josh does not need to be standing next to Emma in every introduction and performance discussion with judges. Emma is a brilliant presenter and doesn’t need Josh to make the show work. Give him another role.”

While a separate viewer remarked: “Josh needs to be upstairs and have given the opportunity to have a laugh. Having him with Emma is pointless #Strictly”

While another fan added: “If they want that comedy element and fun they should’ve put Josh upstairs and left Johannes with Emma.”

Nevertheless, someone else came to Josh’s defence and wrote: “Not loving the hate for Josh. I wish people would just give him a chance; we’re literally 15 minutes into the first live show!”.

Another stated: “Can I just say… Emma, Josh and JoJo are SMASHING it! ! ! ! The people who doubted them really cannot complain anymore.”

You can watch Strictly Come Dancing this Saturday, October 3 from 6.15pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.