Main Character of Saturday, 11 July 2026
Why Emma Willis was in the news
Emma Willis is a British television presenter and reality TV personality who has built a career across multiple broadcasting platforms. She is best known for her work in entertainment television and her status as a superfan of the dancing competition genre.
Willis entered the news cycle prominently in May 2026 when the BBC announced her as one of three new presenters for Strictly Come Dancing alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe. The trio were set to take over hosting duties for the 24th series of the long-running dancing competition, replacing departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The announcement generated significant media interest, with observers noting that the chemistry between the three presenters could prove beneficial for the show's revival efforts.
In the weeks following the announcement, Willis remained in the public eye as she prepared for her new role. Early July saw her receive endorsement from the outgoing hosts Daly and Winkleman, while she also made public statements about LGBTQ+ allyship and her hopes for her children's future, which moved her to tears during a public appearance. As Strictly approached its autumn return, Willis continued to attract coverage related to the upcoming series and its confirmed celebrity contestants.
The clues
- 1Announced as new host of Strictly Come Dancing on 19 May 2026 alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.
- 2Described by The Guardian as a 'superfan' tipped to rescue the ailing Strictly franchise.
- 3Received seal of approval from departing Strictly hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in July 2026.
- 4Became tearful on-stage in early July 2026 sharing an emotional message about her children's future.
- 5Spoke exclusively about wanting her children to 'love who they choose to love without any fear'.
- 6Known for LGBTQ+ allyship, stepping into the role as the BBC dancing show evolves.
- 7Married to Matt, with whom she has discussed a 'big problem' in their relationship in June 2026.
- 8Began television career as a reality TV presenter before moving into mainstream broadcasting.
- 9First name begins with E; established household name in British reality television circles.
- 10Surname rhymes with 'swirls'; former Big Brother and reality TV regular turned mainstream presenter.
- 11E. W. β the superfan reality TV presenter now hosting the nation's favourite dance competition from autumn 2026.
Sources
- Reality TV | The Guardian19/05/2026βA potential stroke of geniusβ: 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
- The Independent TV & Radio10/07/2026Ariana Grande drops out of American Horror Story season 13 as it lands premiere date