Strictly Come Dancing: BBC Denies ‘Axing’ It Takes Two Hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara
BBC Responds to Rumors About It Takes Two Hosts
The beloved BBC dance competition Strictly Come Dancing is gearing up for its 2026 season, and with it comes a wave of speculation about changes behind the scenes. Recently, rumors circulated that the BBC had decided to axe Fleur East and Janette Manrara, the current hosts of the companion show It Takes Two. This program, which airs during the week, offers fans exclusive insights into rehearsals and contestant progress, making it an essential part of the Strictly experience.
However, the BBC has categorically denied these reports, labeling them as “factually incorrect.” According to official statements, no final decisions have been made regarding the future hosting lineup of It Takes Two. The broadcaster emphasized that plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be announced in due course, putting an end to speculation for the time being.
The Context Behind the Rumors
The rumors about Fleur East and Janette Manrara’s departure emerged amid broader changes within the Strictly Come Dancing franchise. The main show is set to feature new hosts following the exit of long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Additionally, several professional dancers have reportedly been dropped or have chosen to leave, signaling a significant shake-up in the show’s format.
A report from The Sun suggested that BBC executives were aiming for a “completely new look and fresh start” for It Takes Two, which allegedly included replacing the current hosts. The source claimed that the network wanted to distance the show from past controversies and create a “new era” for Strictly Come Dancing. Despite these claims, the BBC’s official stance remains that no such decisions have been finalized.
Fleur East and Janette Manrara: Their Journey on It Takes Two
Janette Manrara has been a familiar face on Strictly Come Dancing since 2013, initially joining as a professional dancer on the main show. In 2021, she transitioned to co-hosting It Takes Two, taking over from Zoe Ball alongside Rylan Clark-Neal. When Rylan departed in 2023, singer and DJ Fleur East, who had previously competed on Strictly, stepped in as Manrara’s co-host.
Together, East and Manrara have been praised for their engaging presentation style and deep knowledge of the dance competition, helping to keep fans connected to the action throughout the week. Their chemistry and enthusiasm have made It Takes Two a must-watch for many Strictly enthusiasts.
What’s Next for Strictly Come Dancing and Its Hosts?
While the BBC has denied the axing of Fleur East and Janette Manrara, the future of the Strictly Come Dancing hosting team remains uncertain. The departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman from the main show has left a significant hosting void, and speculation is rife about who will fill these roles. Potential candidates include Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark-Neal, and Alex Jones from The One Show.
In addition to hosting changes, several professional dancers have reportedly been dropped from the upcoming season. Notably, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving professional dancer on the show, has announced her departure. Other pros such as Michelle Tsiakkas, Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Nadiya Bychkova are also rumored to be leaving, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu may remain but without celebrity partners.
These shifts indicate that the BBC is aiming for a refreshed and revitalized Strictly Come Dancing experience in 2026. Fans can expect announcements regarding the full lineup of hosts and professionals as the new season approaches.
Why the Changes Matter to Fans
Strictly Come Dancing has been a staple of British television since its debut, captivating audiences with its blend of celebrity glamour, competitive spirit, and dazzling dance routines. The companion show It Takes Two plays a crucial role in maintaining fan engagement by providing behind-the-scenes content and expert commentary.
Changes to the hosting lineup and professional dancers can significantly impact the show’s dynamic and viewer experience. While some fans may be apprehensive about losing familiar faces like Fleur East and Janette Manrara, others are excited about the prospect of a fresh start and new energy on the show.
The BBC’s commitment to transparency and timely updates will be key in managing audience expectations and ensuring the continued success of Strictly Come Dancing and its companion programming.
Conclusion
In summary, despite widespread rumors, the BBC has denied that Fleur East and Janette Manrara have been axed from It Takes Two. As Strictly Come Dancing prepares for its 2026 season, fans can look forward to official announcements about the hosting lineup and professional dancers. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to dance along with the new era of this iconic show. If you’re a Strictly fan, don’t miss out—subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and exclusive behind-the-scenes content!
