Shirley Ballas backs Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder as new Strictly presenters but admits 'Anton would love to be hosting'
Shirley said she'd be 'staying in her lane' and sticking to judging
Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas is backing Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder to take over as presenters of the BBC dance show.
Speculation is rife that the presenting pals are on the BBC’s shortlist to take over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
BBC on the hunt for new Strictly presenters
Earlier this week, it was reported that a shortlist of 10 presenters were in the BBC’s sights for arguably the best job in TV. It was claimed that they would be taking part in a chemistry testing day in the New Year, before the new hosts would then be decided.
Following the reports, Amanda Holden ruled herself and Alan Carr out as the new hosts, saying they love the show but they’re both too busy to commit to the series.
Bookies have Rylan at 6/1 to host the show, with Rob currently at 13/2. But with Shirley’s backing, could the pair now be considered frontrunners to take over?
Of course, Rylan is a member of the Strictly family, having previously hosted spin-off show It Takes Two. Rob, meanwhile, is a seasoned presenter. And the pair already front their much-loved travel show for the BBC.
Shirley gives Rob and Rylan her backing
Speaking to The Independent, Shirley said: “I think Rylan [Clark] could be a good candidate. I think Judge Rinder would be wicked in the Clauditorium.
“But whoever they pick,” she added.
Shirley then said that she isn’t interested in a hosting role, admitting she’d prefer to “stay in her lane”. The same can’t be said for fellow judge Anton Du Beke, though. He’s made no secret of the fact he wants to follow in his idol Sir Bruce Forsyth’s footsteps.
“I know Anton du Beke would love to be hosting. I know that for sure. There’s an expression in life to stay in your lane. My lane is dancing,” she concluded.
So who else is in line to host Strictly Come Dancing?
As well as Rob and Rylan, Holly Willoughby, Bradley Walsh and Alex Jones are reportedly heading to the BBC’s chemistry testing day.
Rounding out the so-called “golden 10” presenters are Angela Scanlon, Zoe Ball and Alison Hammond.
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