It Takes Two New Host 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Strictly fans finally have an answer to one of this year’s biggest questions. The it takes two new host has been confirmed, and it’s comedian and presenter Ellie Taylor. The announcement came on 15 August 2026 during Emma Willis’s BBC Radio 2 show, ending weeks of speculation about who would front the beloved Strictly Come Dancing companion show.
If you’ve been following the drama around this year’s Strictly shake-up, this news matters. It Takes Two has been a fan favorite for over a decade, and a new face at the helm is a big deal for viewers worldwide who tune in for backstage gossip and rehearsal updates.
Why the It Takes Two New Host Announcement Matters
This isn’t just a small casting change. It Takes Two airs on weekdays throughout the Strictly season, and its host sets the tone for the entire companion show. Additionally, this announcement follows the exits of both Janette Manrara and Fleur East, who previously shared hosting duties.
As a result, fans have been eager to know who would step into such a high-profile role. Here’s why the change matters:
- It signals a broader refresh across the entire Strictly franchise for 2026.
- The new host influences how celebrity contestants are interviewed each week.
- Longtime viewers naturally compare each new presenter to fan-favorite predecessors like Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark.
Who Is the It Takes Two New Host?
Ellie Taylor’s Strictly Background
Ellie Taylor isn’t a stranger to the Strictly ballroom. She competed on the main show back in 2022, partnering with professional dancer Johannes Radebe. However, this time she’s returning in a completely different role — as the presenter, not the contestant.
What Ellie Taylor Said About the Role
Taylor expressed genuine excitement about the opportunity. She called it “a total joy” to return to the Strictly world, adding that she felt honoured to follow the show’s previous hosts. Consequently, her comedic background is expected to bring fresh energy to the format.
Key Changes Coming to It Takes Two in 2026
The BBC has described this season as “Strictly – It Takes Two, reinvented.” Therefore, viewers should expect more than just a new face. Here’s what’s confirmed so far:
Format Refresh
- A refreshed show format designed to feel more modern and fast-paced.
- Continued involvement from costume designer Vicky Gill.
- A new Strictly alumni panel offering expert commentary each week.
Timing Within the Broader Strictly Shake-Up
This change arrives alongside a larger transformation of the main Strictly Come Dancing show, including new hosts replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. As a result, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most significant transition years in the franchise’s history. [Internal link: Strictly Come Dancing 2026 full lineup]
Types of Hosting Changes Strictly Has Seen Before
Understanding the it takes two new host announcement is easier with some context. Strictly’s spin-off show has cycled through several presenters over the years:
Solo-to-Duo Transitions
Zoe Ball hosted the show for a decade before Rylan Clark took over, later becoming a duo format with Janette Manrara.
Co-Host Rotations
Fleur East joined Manrara in 2023, creating a two-host dynamic. However, both have now departed ahead of the 2026 season.
The New Single-Host Era
Ellie Taylor’s appointment appears to mark a shift back toward a solo-hosting approach, though the BBC hasn’t ruled out additional presenters joining later. [External link: BBC official Strictly announcement]
How to Follow the It Takes Two New Host Updates
If you want to stay current on this story, here’s a simple guide:
- Follow official BBC Strictly social media channels for real-time updates.
- Check entertainment news outlets like Yahoo News UK and Digital Spy for confirmed details.
- Avoid unverified tabloid rumors — the BBC previously denied incorrect reports about hosts being “axed.”
Common Mistakes Fans Make When Following This News
Many viewers jump to conclusions before official confirmations arrive. Avoid these mistakes:
- Trusting unconfirmed rumors: The BBC directly denied earlier claims that hosts were dropped before confirming the actual change.
- Assuming permanent departures: Presenters sometimes return in different roles, as seen with Ellie Taylor herself.
- Ignoring official channels: Always verify casting news through the BBC or trusted entertainment publications.
Staying Updated on Strictly’s 2026 Season
Since Strictly Come Dancing returns in September, additional details about It Takes Two will likely emerge soon. Therefore, checking back regularly is the best way to avoid missing key updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the it takes two new host for 2026?
The it takes two new host is Ellie Taylor, a comedian and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant. She was officially confirmed on 15 August 2026.
Why did It Takes Two need a new host?
The show needed a new host after both Janette Manrara and Fleur East departed ahead of the 2026 season, as part of a broader refresh across the Strictly franchise.
When will the it takes two new host officially start?
Ellie Taylor is expected to begin hosting duties when Strictly Come Dancing returns in September 2026, alongside the newly reinvented It Takes Two format.
Has Ellie Taylor hosted Strictly before?
No, this is her first hosting role on the franchise. However, she previously competed as a contestant in 2022, partnering with professional dancer Johannes Radebe.
What changes come with the it takes two new host announcement?
Along with the it takes two new host, viewers can expect a refreshed show format, continued input from costume designer Vicky Gill, and a new Strictly alumni panel.
Conclusion
The confirmation of the it takes two new host closes the chapter on months of speculation. Ellie Taylor’s appointment brings fresh comedic energy, familiar Strictly credibility, and a reinvented format to the beloved companion show. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, this change is worth watching as the 2026 season unfolds. Keep checking official BBC updates to stay ahead of every new development around the it takes two new host story.
