When does Strictly: It Takes Two start? Ellie Taylor reveals show's big makeover days before its return
It really is all change this yearStrictly: It Takes Two’s new host Ellie Taylor has promised a new set and refreshed format when the spin-off show returns for its 2026 run.
Ellie has promised fans there will be exciting new segments to the show, along with some of the usual fan favourites.
The actress and stand-up comedian’s appointment as It Takes Two host had already signalled a new era for Strictly Come Dancing’s companion programme.
It also comes after Strictly Come Dancing’s main show has been given a massive shake-up following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s exit last year.
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe are now presenting the flagship BBC One show.
Ellie Taylor reveals It Takes Two makeover
Ellie spilled the beans on Strictly: It Takes Two’s makeover ahead of the companion show’s return to BBC2.
She was, however, keen to stress that viewers will still recognise the popular programme despite its new look and format change.
“It’s going to have a new set, which I’m excited about, which you’ll see when it starts to air, and I think it’ll feel very familiar,” Ellie said. “It’s sort of It Takes Two reborn for 2026.
“In the way the main show is changing a lot, then this show is also changing. But there’s also going to be bits, formats that people remember, beloved sections. Like Vicky Gill doing her chats about the beautiful clothes, that sort of thing.”
“But it’s going to be sort of refreshed and just changed up a little bit. So hopefully it’ll be a really nice mix of old and new.”
The interview format is changing alongside the new set. Ellie has previously teased “slightly more candid conversation”, with a tone ‘resembling a lively WhatsApp group chat’.
She’s now revealed that the celebrity contestants and professional partners are expected to be interviewed separately. Previously, the pairs have been interviewed together on the sofa.
It’s believed this approach could offer different perspectives on the same Strictly experience.
It Takes Two to ‘always’ star a pro dancer
The show’s format also creates a regular role for professional dancers. Former pros and recently eliminated dancers can both contribute technical knowledge.
Ellie says: “We’ll also always have a pro on with us as well. Either a pro that used to be on Strictly, or a pro that, as the competition continues, has left the competition.
“So there’s always going to be someone who’s got the dance knowledge as well, and again, of course, the knowledge of Strictly.”
“So they’ll be coming in on a Friday, having a chat, making predictions,” she added. “They’ll watch the show on a Saturday, and then they’ll come back in on the Monday, which I think will be really great.
“It will be talking to people who were there in the room and really seeing things fresh.”
When does Strictly: It Takes Two start?
Strictly Come Dancing made its huge comeback last weekend, with the pre-recorded launch show airing on Saturday September 19, 2026.
The first live show takes place this Saturday. Although no one will go home this weekend, Strictly: It Takes Two starts on Monday (September 28).
You can catch Ellie’s debut at 6.30pm on BBC2. The companion show will run weeknights throughout this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing at the same time.
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Strictly: It Takes Two starts at 6.30pm on BBC2 on Monday September 28, 2026.
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