Just days ago, the BBC left the nation divided after confirming which famed faces would be replacing Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, following the Strictly Come Dancing departures. The broadcaster revealed that later this year, Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe would front the series, as a horde of new celebrities take to the dancefloor with hopes of winning the coveted Glitterball Trophy. With Johannes, a seasoned Strictly pro who would now be swapping choreography for autocue, and Emma, known for her stoic and fun presenting skills, many were left uncertain about Josh.

In addition to long-time viewers, former Strictly dancer Brendan Cole shared his verdict about the new line-up. Speaking to the Daily Express via Sky Vegas, the pro stated: "I’d heard Emma Willis was going to be involved a week or two beforehand, and I think that’s a positive signing. She’s a great presenter and has a real authority about her, almost like a stern headmistress, which I quite like. She’s also watched the show for years, so she understands what Strictly is about."

He admitted: "Josh Widdicombe surprised me. I love Josh, I think he’s a brilliant comedian with a lot of charm, and he’s a clever presenter, but I’m not entirely sure Strictly fits the mould for him.

"That’s not to say he won’t be brilliant, but when I think about hosting a ballroom and Latin show, I’ve always believed you need someone with dance and show business at their heart."

Brendan, who left Strictly in 2017 after 14 years, continued: "For me, the ideal host is a triple threat - somebody who can sing, dance and act, somebody who understands entertainment at the highest level.

"Strictly is shiny-floor Saturday night television at its best. What Bruce Forsyth brought was class, authority and old-school entertainment magic. I’m not saying you need somebody in their 80s, but you do need someone with that level of gravitas and understanding of the world they’re presenting."

As for who he wanted in the hosting trio, Brendan suggested dancer-turned-judge, Anton Du Beke, deserved the role.

After initially covering the judging panel for Bruno Tonioli, Anton became a permanent panellist in 2021, alongside Shirley Ballas, Oti Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood.

Brendan explained: "I actually thought Anton Du Beke would have been the natural progression for the role. He understands the show better than most people because he’s been there for so long, and he can present.

"I think he could have moved into hosting while perhaps someone a bit feistier took his judging seat. He’s got the age, the experience and the connection with the audience. He talks too much, but that can be trained out of you."

"I’ve always felt Strictly works best when it leans into class, elegance and a touch of comedy, rather than going too heavily into silliness. Emma could bring something special, though. I would have liked to have seen her in Claudia’s role, with Anton leading the main hosting duties," the former pro concluded.