The rumour mill went into overdrive when speculation arose about who would take the helm of the beloved dance competition,Strictly Come Dancing, following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
A flurry of names surfaced, including television personalities Alison Hammond, Angela Scanlon, and even the dynamic duo of Amanda Holden and Alan Carr, with reports suggesting “chemistry tests” were underway to find the perfect pairing.
Amanda Holden swiftly addressed the swirling rumours during her Heart Radio Breakfast Show, delivering a firm and definitive response: she and Alan Carr are “100 percent not doingStrictly.” The pair were reportedly flattered to be considered, but ultimately, the timing isn’t right.
Holden explained that her commitments to judgingBritain’s Got Talentwould consume much of her weekend schedule, making it impossible to dedicate the necessary time to the demanding role ofStrictlyhost.
Carr’s career is also experiencing a significant surge in popularity thanks to the success ofThe Traitors, further solidifying his decision to step away from the possibility. He echoed Holden’s sentiment, asking to be removed from the list of potential candidates.
Holden playfully dismissed the idea of a chemistry test with Carr, pointing out their established on-screen rapport from co-hosting two successful home renovation series in Italy, Spain, and soon, Greece. Their chemistry is already well-documented.
Carr previously expressed his own reservations about the role in an interview with The Radio Times, describing the prospect as “nerve-racking” and referencing his tendency to sweat under pressure – a less-than-ideal trait for the polished dance floor ofStrictly.
Adding another layer to his decision, Carr has announced a major UK tour scheduled to begin in 2027, with many dates falling on Saturdays, the primary filming day forStrictly. A long-term commitment to the tour would make a short-term hosting gig impractical.
Despite Holden’s comments regarding herBritain’s Got Talentschedule, the show typically concludes airing in May, potentially freeing up her schedule later in the year should she reconsider a future opportunity withStrictly.
Both Holden and Carr wished the eventual hosts the best of luck, acknowledging the prestige and excitement surrounding the role. The search for the newStrictlyduo continues, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the announcement.
