Miranda Hart Reportedly in Talks to Host Strictly Come Dancing
Comedian Miranda Hart has reportedly entered into discussions to become the new host of Strictly Come Dancing, potentially replacing Claudia Winkleman on the beloved BBC show. This development comes as Miranda makes a gradual return to public life after battling severe health issues that left her largely housebound for years.
Replacing Claudia Winkleman on the BBC Show
Claudia Winkleman, 54, and her co-host Tess Daly, 57, announced their departure from Strictly Come Dancing in December, creating a significant vacancy on the popular television programme. According to sources speaking to The Sun, Miranda Hart has emerged as a leading candidate for the role due to her longstanding relationship with Claudia and her comedic style, which is seen as similar to Winkleman's humour.
The source stated, "The feeling is that her style of comedy is very similar to Claudia's sense of humour, making her a perfect replacement." They added that Miranda is one of the few entertainers widely recognised by just her first name, and the BBC wants a host who can bring a strong comedy element to the position. Miranda's loyalty to the BBC throughout her television career is also viewed as a positive factor.
Return After Severe Health Struggles
Miranda Hart has only recently begun to re-enter public life after facing chronic health problems, specifically Lyme disease and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/chronic fatigue syndrome). These conditions left her bedbound and housebound for an extended period, with the comedian now reportedly living "one day at a time" as she manages her recovery.
Her potential appointment as Strictly host marks a significant step in her comeback, offering a high-profile platform on one of the UK's most-watched television shows. The source emphasised that she could be the "perfect replacement" for Claudia Winkleman, blending familiarity with a fresh comedic approach.
Strictly Come Dancing Undergoes Major Changes
The hosting shake-up is part of broader changes affecting Strictly Come Dancing following the conclusion of the last series. The forthcoming series will not feature several professional dancers, including Michelle Tsiakkas, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez. Earlier this month, it was revealed that Michelle Tsiakkas chose to leave the live tour after discovering her contract would not be extended.
Tess Daly had been with Strictly since its inception, initially hosting alongside Bruce Forsyth, while Claudia Winkleman joined in 2004 and took over from Forsyth a decade later. Their departure was announced in a joint statement, ending years of partnership on the show.
When contacted by The Mirror for comment, a BBC spokesman stated, "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." This leaves the door open for Miranda Hart's potential involvement, though official confirmation is still pending as the BBC finalises its arrangements for the new series.
