The search for new hosts of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing is intensifying, and Zoe Ball is emerging as a strong contender to take over from longtime presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The duo shocked fans in October with their unexpected decision to step down after many years leading the beloved dance series.
Zoe Ball, 55, a former Strictly contestant and previous host of the spin-off show It Takes Two, is now reportedly under serious consideration to front the main show. Her father, television personality Johnny Ball, shared rare insights on her chances. Speaking to the Express, the 87-year-old said: “Nothing’s going to be decided until after Easter, but she’s in the mix, and people are coming to her, but it’s too early to say.”
Johnny praised Zoe’s previous work on It Takes Two, where she took the reins from Claudia Winkleman from 2011 to 2021. He confidently added, “I think she would love it, I think she would love the job because she took over from Claudia on It Takes Two, and if anything, she did a better job than Claudia.”
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Further fuelling speculation, Zoe posted an intriguing horoscope message on Instagram hinting at big changes ahead for Sagittarians in 2026. The cryptic post spoke of “newness and freshness” and “clearing old karma,” which many fans interpreted as a subtle nod to potential new opportunities, including the Strictly hosting role.
Zoe recently departed from her BBC Radio 2 show, ending her final live broadcast on December 20, 2025. She warmly thanked listeners and introduced Emma Willis as her successor, who is already well known to the audience from shows like The Voice and Big Brother.
Meanwhile, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman concluded their final Strictly show on the same day. Tess, who hosted the program for 21 years, expressed heartfelt gratitude on Instagram, calling the show “a gift” and thanking viewers for their unwavering support throughout her tenure. Claudia responded with a series of red heart emojis, marking the end of an era for Strictly fans.
As the Strictly family prepares to welcome new faces, all eyes remain on Zoe Ball as a leading candidate to step into the iconic role of host.