In a bombshell that no one — *absolutely no one* — saw coming, the BBC has officially announced Rylan Clark as the lead presenter for *Strictly Come Dancing* starting in 2026. The beloved former *It Takes Two* host, known for his infectious energy, razor-sharp wit, and unapologetic love of all things glitter, is stepping up to the main stage after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s emotional farewell in the 2025 final.
But hold onto your sequins, because it’s not Rylan alone who’s taking the helm. In a twist that has left the nation reeling, the BBC has paired him with none other than his close friend and recent co-star, Rob Rinder — better known as Judge Rinder. Yes, the barrister-turned-TV-star who stole hearts alongside Rylan in their hit BBC travel series *Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour*. Insiders say producers kept this duo under wraps tighter than a pro dancer’s spray tan, with not a single leak until the official drop this morning.
Social media? Absolute chaos. Within minutes of the announcement, #StrictlyRylanAndRob was trending worldwide, with X (formerly Twitter) flooded by a mix of ecstatic cheers, stunned emojis, and outright disbelief. “This is the most chaotic, brilliant thing Strictly has ever done,” posted one fan, racking up thousands of likes. Another wrote: “Rylan and Rob hosting Strictly? My gay heart can’t take it .” But not everyone was on board — some die-hard fans lamented the end of the classic elegant-chaotic duo dynamic, with one viral post reading: “Tess and Claudia were perfection. Rylan and Rob? It’s going to be fabulous… but wildly different. Strictly will NEVER be the same.”
The reaction was immediate and explosive. Celebrities weighed in too: former Strictly pro Oti Mabuse tweeted fire emojis with “YESSSSS!”, while Alison Hammond (another rumoured contender) posted a supportive “Congrats kings!
”. Even head judge Shirley Ballas, who had publicly backed the pair just days ago, shared a video saying, “I called it! These two will bring the fun, the heart, and the sparkle. Can’t wait!”
So, how did this once-in-a-decade shake-up happen? Sources close to the production tell us the BBC was desperate for a fresh start after the emotional exit of Tess and Claudia, who hosted their final show on December 20, 2025, amid tears, tributes (including a heartfelt letter from Queen Camilla), and a glittering send-off. With speculation running wild for months — names like Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby, Bradley Walsh, and Fleur East dominating the betting odds — producers secretly tested chemistry between potential hosts.
Rylan, 37, has long been a Strictly darling. He co-hosted *It Takes Two* from 2019 to 2022, bringing mischief and mega-fan enthusiasm that endeared him to viewers. His departure from the spin-off was bittersweet, but he’s remained in the BBC family with Radio 2 slots and podcasts. Rob Rinder, 47, might seem like the wildcard — a serious judge from his daytime court show — but his 2016 Strictly appearance (where he reached Week 9) showed his fun side, and his bromance with Rylan on their Grand Tour series proved their on-screen magic. Viewers loved their banter, heartfelt moments, and undeniable chemistry while exploring Italy in the footsteps of Lord Byron.
Producers reportedly loved how the pair balance each other: Rylan’s camp glamour and quick quips contrasting Rob’s dry humour and warmth. “It’s like Claudia’s chaos meets Tess’s poise, but with a whole new flavour,” one insider dished. “Rylan will handle the glamour and celeb chats, Rob the emotional depth and judge interactions. Together? Electric.”
The decision comes at a pivotal time for Strictly. The 2025 series, won by footballer Karen Carney and pro Carlos Gu, was a ratings hit despite off-dancefloor dramas, but Tess and Claudia’s departure marked the end of an era. Fans worried the show might lose its heart — but this bold move has reignited excitement. Bookies had Zoe Ball as favourite right up until the reveal, with many expecting a safer, more traditional pairing. Instead, the BBC went big: two men, best mates, with zero prior main-show hosting experience between them.