Strictly viewers blast Josh Widdicombe for second week running and demand BBC shakes up presenting format

From the Newshound archive · first published 5 October 2026.

Josh Widdicombe faced a fresh wave of online criticism after Strictly Come Dancing's Movie Week live show on Saturday, with viewers calling him an "absolute embarrassment" and a "spare part" who adds nothing alongside Emma Willis on the main floor. Fans argue producers ignored complaints from week one and failed to move Widdicombe upstairs to present alongside Johannes Radebe. One viewer wrote that the ballroom had become "a funeral procession" with Widdicombe's humour "as wooden as the coffin lid."

Radebe remains stationed in what was formerly the 'Clauditorium' while Widdicombe and Willis host from the floor — a format fans say is wasting all three presenters.

Supporters argue Widdicombe is being let down by over-scripted lines, saying his quick wit shone on 'The Last Leg' when he was free to ad lib.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman departed in 2025 after long-running tenures, leaving the new trio to fill shoes fans clearly feel remain very much unfilled.