Rylan shares statement after missing out on Strictly hosting job
His close friend Emma Wills has landed the job
Last updated 9 hours ago
Rylan Clark has been a name high up on the list of potential people to replace Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, ever since the loveable pair revealed the news they would be leaving the show following the 2025 series.
Despite taking part in the screen tests, it was announced on Tuesday 19th May that Rylan had missed out on the job, with Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe confirmed as the three new hosts.
Reacting to the news on social media, Rylan shared a statement congratulating his close friend Emma, as well as Johannes and Josh.
He wrote: 'Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in "The Race" for strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh. You're all going to have the best time. Made up for you's
'This wasn't my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered. I'm taking the news really well (see next slide) but genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three x'. (sic)
Alongside his statement, Rylan shared the hilarious crying meme that has become an Internet sensation since his appearance on The X Factor back in 2012, where he cried uncontrollably into mentor Nicole Scherzinger's cushion.
READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing 2026 - Which celebs are rumoured?
After months of rumours, the BBC finally confirmed the show's new hosts at 3pm on 19th May, revealing the programme will have three hosts for the first time in its history.
Former Big Brother presenter Emma Willis will join professional dancer Johannes Radebe, and comedian Josh Widdicombe.
Speaking about her new role, Emma said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend. It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long.
"I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!"
Josh then said: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume."
Johannes, who was previously announced as a returning pro dancer earlier this year, then said: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined.
"This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me. Love Jojo."
Now check out all of the rumoured celebs for Strictly 2026:
Dani Dyer
Reality star Dani Dyer was set to take part in the 2025 series, but she was forced to pull out just days ahead of the first live show after fracturing her ankle in training. Appearing as a guest on GK Barry's Saving Grace podcast on 30th April 2026, Dani admitted she would like to participate in the reality dance series this year.
Delta Goodrem
2026 is set to be a busy year for singer Delta Goodrem. As well as representing Australia at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, reports are rife Delta has very nearly signed up for Strictly later in the year. A source told the Daily Mail newspaper's Eden Confidential column: "It is all but a done deal. They've been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show."
Josie Gibson
As well as landing a brand new show with ITV/STV called How To Clean Up For Cash, former Big Brother star and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson is reportedly being lined-up for the 2026 series of Strictly.
A source told a national newspaper: "Josie has been on the BBC's radar for a while and they've not given up their pursuit. They're hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year's new-look show needs. Warm and engaging, she's just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans."
Stacey Solomon
Another well-known name on this year's rumoured list is Stacey Solomon! Stacey is no strange to working with the BBC, with her show Sort Your Life Out now onto its sixth series, as well as her reality show Stacey & Joe airing last year. With the mum-of-five being a fan favourite, bosses will be keen to get her signature.
Tom Parker Bowles
Food critic Tom Parker Bowles, also known as Queen Camilla's son, was reportedly top of the BBC's wish list for the 2025 series. However, after Tom didn't appear on the line-up, could we see him on the 2026 series?
GK Barry
GK Barry a.k.a Grace Keeling, a social media personality, podcaster and presenter who first blew up on TikTok with lifestyle videos during university. She is best known for hosting the podcast Saving Grace and for TV appearances including I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, Loose Women, Love Island: Aftersun, The Weakest Link and The Last Leg.
Speaking on her podcast, Saving Grace, on 30th April 2026, guest Dani Dyer asked whether Grace would ever take part in the competition. Grace didn't give a definitive answer but hinted it could be a possibility - prompting one commenter to speculate: 'So Grace is doing Strictly this year ;)'. (sic).
Strictly Come Dancing will return in September on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.