Strictly host Josh Widdicombe limits social media as viewers react to his new job
Josh said he had started using a screen-time blocking deviceJosh Widdicombe has revealed he is limiting social media and blocking distracting phone apps.
The update comes after his first live Strictly Come Dancing show, when the new presenting trio drew criticism.
Speaking on the Parenting Hell podcast, Josh said he had started using a screen-time blocking device known as the brick again. His discussion focused on phone use rather than the reaction to Strictly.
Josh Widdicombe uses device to block apps on his phone amid Strictly stint
He told co-host Rob Beckett: “I’m back on the brick. You’ve inspired me and I’m loving the brick again.”
Josh said people were being drawn into apps so strongly that they now needed extra hardware.
He had previously admitted being addicted to his mobile. The pair also joked about how little recent online content Josh consumes.
Rob suggested he had shut the gates on anything made after 2003.
Josh replied: “I pulled the drawbridge up at 2008 when I started stand up.”
Strictly criticism puts new hosts under pressure
His online update arrived days after he appeared live with Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe last Saturday night. The new trio have replaced Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Josh stood beside Emma on the dancefloor, adding punchlines while she guided the links and supported contestants. Johannes handled debriefs with the professionals and their celebrity partners in the Clauditorium.
However, reaction has been mixed to the trio. Josh has sparked criticism in particular, with some viewers saying he’s not a good fit for the show.
MailOnline reported that the first live show attracted fewer viewers than the launch. It said this was the first time that pattern had occurred in seven years.
Viewers also questioned why three people had been hired for roles previously handled by two.
Fans question Strictly host roles
Some fans suggested moving Josh to the Clauditorium, where his comedy could operate more freely.
That criticism reflected frustration with the arrangement, not a unanimous verdict on Josh. His supporters pointed to 14 years of live comedy television on Channel 4’s The Last Leg.
Read more: Strictly Come Dancing 2026’s Lacey Turner suffers first injuries of the series: ‘She’s in pain’
Josh also found room for jokes during an exchange with judge Motsi Mabuse. After he called for Shirley Ballas early, Motsi playfully asked whether they would be friends or enemies.
The audience laughed, and Josh joined in. That moment offered a glimpse of the quick humour viewers believe could suit a different position.
Strictly Come Dancing continues at 6.15pm on BBC One on Saturday October 3, 2026.
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