Main Character of Friday, 12 June 2026
Why Emma Willis was in the news
Emma Willis is a British television presenter and reality TV personality, best known for her work in entertainment broadcasting. In May 2026, she became the focus of significant media attention when the BBC announced her as one of three new presenters for Strictly Come Dancing, alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe. The trio were unveiled as replacements for long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, with the new presenting team set to begin hosting the 24th series of the dance competition in autumn 2026.
The announcement of Willis's appointment generated sustained coverage throughout early June 2026, with various media outlets examining her suitability for the role and analysing the chemistry between the three new hosts. Commentary in the press suggested that the presenting trio possessed strong rapport, with some observers viewing the appointment as potentially beneficial for the ailing franchise. Willis's selection as a "superfan" of the show was highlighted as a notable factor in the BBC's decision-making process.
The news cycle around Willis's new role remained active in the weeks following the May announcement, with continued discussion of her transition into the presenting position and reflections on the departing hosts.
The clues
- 1Announced as new presenter of Strictly Come Dancing on 19 May 2026, alongside Josh Widdicombe.
- 2Described as a 'superfan' of the show she is now presenting to millions of viewers.
- 3Forms a presenting trio with Johannes Radebe, whose chemistry was praised by the BBC.
- 4Hosted a reality television series called 'Delivering Babies' documented for television.
- 5Appeared on the reality competition The Voice as a coach for multiple seasons.
- 6Competed as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing herself during the show's history.
- 7Married to an American actor known for action films and television work since 2009.
- 8Became a caregiver for her spouse after he received an aphasia diagnosis in 2022.
- 9E— W—— is now one of the faces of a revamped BBC flagship dance competition.
- 10cette personnalité cette personnalité: American-born British television presenter taking helm of Strictly Come Dancing in 2026.
Sources
- Reality TV | The Guardian19/05/2026‘A potential stroke of genius’: could the new hosts save Strictly Come Dancing?
- Reality TV | The Guardian19/05/2026Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe announced as new Strictly Come Dancing hosts