Matt Willis insists Emma 'doesn't pay attention' to Strictly backlash as ratings slump after new hosts debut

From the Newshound archive · first published 8 October 2026 · last updated 9 October 2026.

Matt Willis leapt to his wife Emma's defence on 'This Morning' on Thursday, insisting she is "smashing it" on 'Strictly Come Dancing' despite a viewer backlash against the show's new three-host format. Strictly drew just 4.5 million viewers for its first live results show, down from 6.2 million last year. Josh Widdicombe has borne the brunt of criticism, with viewers calling him a "spare part", while Johannes Radebe has also faced complaints.

BBC bosses are reportedly standing firm behind all three hosts, with the three-host formula described as here to stay.

Matt Willis, 43, joked he has a 'conflict of interest' stopping him from signing up as a Strictly contestant himself.

Emma, 50, has escaped the worst of the criticism, with viewers comparing her steadying influence to former host Tess Daly.