Zoe Ball Hints at Hosting Role for Strictly Come Dancing

Zoe Ball has intensified speculation about her potential role as a presenter on Strictly Come Dancing, following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. On April 15, 2026, during an episode of her podcast Dig It with Jo Whilst, Ball hinted at an upcoming "glamorous" job, leading many to believe she is a frontrunner for the coveted hosting position.

In the podcast, Ball, 55, coyly stated, "Absolutely nothing going on my end, nothing going on my end at all – she said suspiciously." This playful ambiguity only fueled the fire of speculation surrounding her future with the show. She added, "Hopefully afterwards I’ll be able to tell you about it all, but obviously at the moment I can’t say anything about it."

Ball's hints came as she discussed her newly styled hair, which included dyed roots and extensions. When asked by co-host Jo Whitley about the reason for her glamorous look, Ball joked, "Oh, you know, for doing the garden. I just caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, and I’ve just been going down the shops." Whitley cheekily suggested, "Strictly gardening," to which Ball quickly changed the subject.

Since the announcement of Daly and Winkleman’s exit from Strictly in 2025, Ball has emerged as a firm favorite to take over the hosting duties. The BBC Radio 2 presenter previously expressed her desire to host the show, stating, "I would love to do it," but also acknowledged, "whoever is selected will have a tough act to follow." Ball’s history with the show is extensive; she competed as a contestant in 2005 and later hosted the spin-off show Strictly: It Takes Two until 2021.

In the aftermath of the duo's departure, the betting odds have placed Ball at the forefront, with Rylan Clark and Emma Willis following closely behind. Other potential candidates reportedly include current It Takes Two hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara, as well as popular figures like Hannah Waddingham and Stacey Dooley. With such a strong lineup of contenders, the anticipation among fans is at an all-time high.

Ball's father, Johnny Ball, previously hinted at her being considered for the role, stating in March 2026, "People are coming to her, but it’s too early to say. I think she would love it, I think she would love the job because she took over from Claudia on It Takes Two, and if anything, she did a  great job." This endorsement from her father adds yet another layer to the growing speculation.

The departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who co-hosted the show for 11 years, has left a notable void in the Strictly family. Fans have expressed their sadness over the change, but many are excited about the fresh direction the show may take with new hosts. The BBC has yet to confirm the new presenters, but the buzz surrounding Ball and her potential role continues to grow.

In addition to the changes in hosting, the BBC has announced adjustments to the professional dancers on the show. Four dancers, including the longest-serving female pro Karen Hauer, will not be returning this year. Other confirmed departures include Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Nadiya Bychkova. There are also reports that Gorka Márquez might be next to leave, though he has not publicly commented on these rumors.

As the anticipation builds, fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the new presenters. Ball’s playful hints and the backing of her father have only heightened interest in her potential role. With her extensive experience and deep connection to the show, many believe she would be a fitting choice to step into the spotlight.

As the BBC prepares for the next season of Strictly Come Dancing, the question remains: who will take over the hosting duties? With Zoe Ball among the leading contenders, the coming weeks promise to be filled with excitement and speculation. Fans are hopeful for a swift announcement, allowing them to embrace the new era of Strictly with their favorite presenters at the helm.