Strictly Come Dancing officially announces new It Takes Two host

Strictly Come Dancing's It Takes Two Show Makes a Jarring Change, But What Does it Mean for Ellie Taylor and the Show's Future?

Ellie Taylor, a 42-year-old comedian and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, has been named as the new host of the popular spin-off show It Takes Two. This move comes after Fleur East, 38, and Janette Manrara, 42, were let go from their hosting duties, with Manrara emotionally confirming she was 'no longer a part' of the show. The BBC's decision to shake up the hosting lineup has left fans wondering what this change means for the show and its new host.

Ellie Taylor's appointment as It Takes Two host is not a surprise, given her popularity with viewers when she appeared as a contestant on Strictly in 2022. Her infectious personality and charisma on the dance floor made her a standout, and it's no wonder the senior production team wanted to bring her on board for the spin-off show. As Taylor herself said, "What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role. I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who've made Strictly It Takes Two so loved over the years."

The axing of Janette Manrara and Fleur East from their hosting duties has been met with a mix of emotions from fans. While some have expressed disappointment at the loss of the duo, others see this as an opportunity for fresh blood and new energy on the show. Manrara's emotional confirmation that she was 'no longer a part' of the show has sparked concerns about the BBC's treatment of its talent. However, Helen Munson, BBC Commissioning Editor, has praised the duo, saying, "We'd like to say a huge thank you to the brilliant Janette Manrara and Fleur East, who've been a massive part of It Takes Two's continued success over the years."

The introduction of new hosts, including Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, has raised questions about the show's identity and direction. As Rhe-an Archibald, Strictly It Takes Two Executive Producer, BBC Studios, put it, "This is Strictly, It Takes Two, reinvented for the 2026 season. With a wealth of new features and deep dives, we want to reflect the conversations happening in living rooms up and down the country, full of opinions, laughs, surprises and those moments everyone wants to talk about." While this may seem like a notable step, it's unclear what this means for the show's loyal fan base and its ability to maintain its signature charm.

As Ellie Taylor takes the reins of It Takes Two, fans will be watching closely to see how she brings her unique energy to the show. With a new lineup of hosts and a revamped format, the show is bound to undergo significant changes. Whether these changes will ultimately benefit the show remains to be seen.In the coming weeks, we can expect to see Ellie Taylor bring her A-game to the hosting duties, and with a little luck, the show will emerge from this shake-up stronger than ever. Will the new hosts be able to recapture the magic of the show, or will this be the beginning of the end for It Takes Two?