Strictly viewers left frustrated by presenters as bosses fail to shake up format

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Strictly Come Dancing fans have expressed their frustration at BBC bosses for their failure to shake up the presenting format in week two.

New hosts, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe returned to their positions on the dance floor, while Johannes Radebe waited in what was previously known as the “Clauditorium” during ex-host Claudia Winkleman’s tenure, prior to her and Tess Daly’s departure in 2025.

Many viewers felt Widdicombe was a “spare part” who would have been better utilised alongside Radebe to interview contestants.

“So they ignored the public and kept Josh downstairs doing his work experience, will Jojo talk while they walk up the stairs?” one viewer complained.

Other fans added they were “really surprised” producers hadn’t listened to Strictly viewers and allowed Widdicombe to present alongside Radebe.

“I really wish they had put JoJo and Josh together upstairs,” one person wrote on X/Twitter.

Fans have dubbed Widdicombe a ‘spare part’ after his presenting performance alongside Willis on the floor (PA)

It comes after The Independent’s Isobel Lewis dubbed Widdicombe “a problem the BBC has to solve” in her three star review of the show’s opening episode.

“As soon as he and Willis strayed from the script – usually while they were comforting the contestants post-dance – things started to go haywire for the comic,” she wrote.

“Ultimately, I put it down to strong comedic impulses preventing him from being a good presenter.

“Whether he was talking over Willis (this happened a lot), clapping back at Shirley Ballas or trying to cover up Will Best’s nipples, Widdicombe was constantly “yes and”-ing.

“This gag-at-all-costs attitude works for comedy or even solo presenting, but in a group, it felt awkward and stilted.”

Viewers encouraged BBC bosses to place Widdicombe alongside Radebe in the ‘Clauditorium’ (PA)

Although the presenters are finding their feet following the departure of long-term hosts Winkleman and Daly, Radebe was praised for his noticeable improvement from week one.

“Calmer. Less nervous. Giving guests room to breath and talk. Not talking when the couples are walking up the stairs. Good job, JoJo,” one fan praised.

The show marked the first time that all 15 Strictly couples were able to perform in Strictly’s Movie Week in a bid to allow all contestants to undertake a themed performance.

You can read all of the latest updates and the Movie Night leaderboard on The Independent’s live blog here.