Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse criticises fans for 'tearing apart' new hosts as ratings slump reveals battle ahead

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 September 2026 · last updated 30 September 2026.

Josh Widdicombe, 43, faced a wave of online abuse after missing his cue twice during Strictly's first live show, with viewers branding him a "spare part" alongside Emma Willis. Motsi Mabuse fired back on Threads, warning that critics were "tearing apart real human beings" and that AI may one day replace the imperfect humanity they are busy mocking. The backlash comes as the show's first live episode drew just 4.8 million viewers, down sharply from 6.2 million at the same stage last year.

Widdicombe broke his silence by re-sharing a fan support post on Instagram, while Willis posted a cryptic quote: 'You'll get judged either way, so may as well pick the fun option.'

It is the first time since 2019 that Strictly's first live show has rated lower than its pre-recorded launch show, piling pressure on the new trio.

Professional dancer Lauren Oakley rallied to the hosts' defence, saying the trio 'felt like family from the minute' and that the show 'couldn't be in safer hands.'