‘Strictly Come Dancing’ makes major decision for show’s future

Strictly Come Dancing bosses are considering adding a third host to the mix as part of a shake-up of the program.

After the exit of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, producers have been searching new presenters for the show.

While The One Show host Alex Jones - who came fifth on the show in 2011 - remains the frontrunner for one of the slots, "nothing is off the table" when it comes to finding the right people for the job.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Alex is still very much the BBC’s favourite to land a hosting spot. The Beeb loves her and thinks she’d be perfect to take on Tess’s role on the floor.”

“Talk recently has turned to whether they could bring in a third host to really freshen it up. Nothing is off the table when it comes to sprinkling new magic over Strictly,” they added.

Screen tests and chemistry tests for the new hosts are set to take place in April, and after Holly Willoughby, Alan Carr and Amanda Holden backed out of the offer.

Names still in the frame for the Strictly Come Dancing hosting roles are said to be Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Alison Hammond, Angela Scanlon, Emma Willis and Fleur East.

A source added: “It’s likely a decision on whether it’s two hosts or three, and who will get the roles, won’t be decided until summer.”

“The BBC are making a lot of changes to the pro dancer line-up and now that is out of the way, they can get to work on who is the best fit,” they further stated.

The BBC's Chief Content Officer, Kate Phillips, has admitted she has been "inundated" with enquiries about the Strictly hosting jobs.

She told The Rest Is Entertainment podcast: "Yes - my inbox has been inundated.”

"I can't say names obviously but it is one of the best gigs in television so we have had so many people who are keen to be considered which is great. We'll think carefully about next steps on it,” Kate concluded.