With the announcement from long-term presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman that they will leave the hit show after the current series, speculation is rife as to who will replace the duo as the next permanent Strictly Come Dancing host or hosts. And it is singer, songwriter and presenter Fleur East who has emerged as the bookies’ favourite.
Next Permanent Strictly Come Dancing Host Odds: Race to Replace Tess and Claudia
A number of famous names appear to be in the mix to replace current hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Daly has been presenting the show for 21 years while Winkleman became a main presenter in 2014 after hosting the Sunday evening results show. Check out the latest odds from the best bookmakers in the UK.
| Next Strictly Host | Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Fleur East | 5/2 | bet365 |
| Hannah Waddingham | 4/1 | William Hill |
| Zoe Ball | 9/2 | bet365 |
| Janette Manrara | 9/2 | William Hill |
| Rylan Clark | 5/1 | Coral |
| Holly Willoughby | 6/1 | bet365 |
Odds correct on 30/10/2025 at 07:00. Odds subject to change.
Let’s have a look at the leading candidates.
Fleur East: Strictly It Takes Two Co-Host is Bookies’ Favourite
Fleur East is strongly fancied to become the main host of Strictly in 2026. She currently co-hosts the BBC's Strictly It Takes Two alongside Janette Manrara and is a candidate to take on the main role. This could be alongside Manara or on her own. She has experience of being a contestant on Strictly, as well as presenting It Takes Two and has been involved X Factor and I’m a Celebrity. We think that she is currently looking the most likely.
Hannah Waddingham: Odds Have Shortened as BBC May Want Fresh Approach
Should the BBC opt for a host with no links to the show then Hannah Waddingham could be in the mix. She proved a success when presenting Eurovision and her odds have shortened. One to watch.
Zoe Ball-Room? Ex Radio 2 Breakfast Show Host in the Mix
Zoe Ball was the early favourite with the bookies, but her odds have lengthened. She was the host of It Takes Two from 2011 to 2021 and has also presented the live tours. Ball recently quit the Radio 2 Breakfast Show and is currently on the Saturday lunchtime slot on that station. We believe that this is still a possibility.
Check out our guide to betting on Strictly for more information on this year's series.
No Expiry Date
