New Strictly host Josh Widdicombe admits feeling 'terrible' over eliminations
The first elimination took place last SundayJosh Widdicombe has admitted he underestimated the emotional strain of sending contestants home on Strictly Come Dancing.
Speaking to Ellie Taylor on It Takes Two on Thursday, the comedian said the eliminations had proved unexpectedly “difficult”.
Describing the atmosphere, Josh said: “It’s so intense, you feel terrible.”
Josh is part of the new Strictly presenting team alongside Emma Willis and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe. His admission follows viewer criticism of his hosting role during the early episodes.
Celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton and professional partner Amy Dowden became the first couple eliminated after Movie Week’s dance-off.
Josh Widdicombe opens up about Strictly eliminations
That wasn’t the first time Josh had spoken about the discomfort of presenting the results programme.
Appearing on Strictly: Lights Up after the elimination, he discussed the experience with hosts Abi Clarke and Tyler West.
Asked how sending someone home felt, Josh replied: “I hated that. It’s awful. Can I say that?”
Johannes agreed, explaining that eliminations were one aspect of competing he did not miss.
The impact was also clear when Chris and Amy returned to It Takes Two earlier this week after leaving the competition. A montage of his Strictly moments brought Chris to tears.
He described doubts about whether he could manage the challenge, and credited Amy’s encouragement with helping him continue.
Chris said seeing his partner smile reassured him that she was alongside him throughout the experience. He also praised the care he had received during his time on the show.
Josh Widdicombe contrasts Strictly hosting duties
It was a different atmosphere upstairs, where Josh joined Johannes to interview couples who had secured their places.
Emma stayed downstairs to announce which couples were at risk of elimination.
On Thursday’s It Takes Two, Josh said of chatting to the successful couples: “What a sweet gig that is.”
He added: “Poor old Emma downstairs.”
Even with that happier assignment, he acknowledged the sadness surrounding the departure.
Some fans questioned whether Strictly needed three hosts; others wanted Josh interviewing celebrities upstairs rather than chatting with judges.
Viewers welcomed his move to the Clauditorium during the results programme, where he spoke to contestants alongside Johannes.
The 43-year-old and his co-hosts took over following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departures. The long-serving presenters left at the end of 2025.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday October 10 from 6.15pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It Takes Two airs weeknights from 6.30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer
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