The beloved companion show will reportedly shift to a vodcast format, with new hosts and dancers confirmed for the upcoming season.
Category: Arts & Culture
As the popular BBC franchise *Strictly Come Dancing* gears up for its 2026 season, reports indicate that the companion show *It Takes Two* is set for a major overhaul. According to *The Sun*, the series will abandon its traditional broadcast format in favor of a vodcast, a move that reflects changing audience preferences.
The anticipated shift comes on the heels of substantial changes within the *Strictly Come Dancing* franchise itself, including the departure of long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, along with several professional dancers. This transformation aims to attract a broader audience, particularly as the vodcast format has proven successful on shows like *The Traitors: Uncloaked* and *The Apprentice: You’re Fired*.
Sources close to the production suggest that the new format for *It Takes Two* will allow hosts to film episodes for both viewers and podcast listeners, thereby reaching millions more. “More and more people of all ages and backgrounds enjoy podcasts and vodcasts, so this is actually quite a shrewd move,” a source told *The Sun*.
Amid the swirling rumors, hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East have reportedly been linked to potential departures from the show. Janette addressed these speculations during an interview with *Radio Times*, stating, "I don't know, we'll have to wait and find out. I think everyone at the moment is on standby, so we'll see what happens… That's showbiz!" She reassured fans, adding, "Strictly is definitely coming back, we can say that. I'm assuming we'll have a couple of new professionals and a couple of new presenters as well."
In response to the speculation surrounding Janette and Fleur, the BBC has firmly stated that it is "factually incorrect to claim that either has been 'axed'". The broadcaster emphasized that plans for *Strictly Come Dancing 2026* will be confirmed in due course, indicating that changes are still in the planning stages.
*It Takes Two* has been an integral part of the *Strictly Come Dancing* experience since its inception in 2004. Originally hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the show provided behind-the-scenes insights and interviews with contestants, enhancing the viewing experience for fans. Winkleman remained with the show until 2011, when Zoe Ball took over until 2021. Ball shared hosting duties with Rylan Clark from 2019 until Clark's departure in 2023, after which Janette Manrara stepped in.
As the franchise evolves, the BBC appears to be committed to refreshing its content to keep pace with changing viewer habits. The transition to a vodcast format for *It Takes Two* aligns with broader trends in media consumption, where audiences increasingly favor flexible viewing options. This change is expected to resonate particularly well with younger demographics who are more accustomed to accessing content on-demand.
The shake-up in the *Strictly Come Dancing* lineup extends beyond *It Takes Two*. With Winkleman and Daly's exit, speculation has intensified around potential replacements. Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark are reportedly in the running to fill the main hosting roles, generating excitement among fans who have followed their careers closely.
The upcoming season of *Strictly Come Dancing* promises to introduce new hosts and a fresh roster of professional dancers. This renewal is part of the show's strategy to maintain its appeal and relevance in a competitive entertainment market. The BBC has indicated that announcements about the new lineup will be forthcoming, with many fans eagerly awaiting details.
As the franchise prepares for its next chapter, the emphasis on innovative formats like vodcasts may help to broaden its reach. The BBC's experience with similar formats suggests that this could be a strategic move aimed at revitalizing interest in the show.
With the confirmed departures of Winkleman and Daly, the franchise has a unique opportunity to redefine its identity. The upcoming announcements will likely address the new hosts and the direction the show intends to take in terms of content and viewer engagement.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 season, fans can expect a blend of nostalgia and innovation. The BBC has stated that *Strictly Come Dancing* will return, and with it, a promise of exciting new developments. As the network prepares to confirm its plans, viewers are left to ponder what the future holds for this beloved series.