Strictly Host Rumours Intensify as Bradley Walsh Visits Set
Speculation surrounding the new host of Strictly Come Dancing has reached fever pitch after a surprise visit from Bradley Walsh. The popular presenter, best known for hosting ITV's The Chase, was pictured at the show's Elstree Studios, sending rumours into overdrive.
Fuel to the Fire
The visit occurred on Friday and was confirmed by the show's own head dressmaker, Theresa Hewlett. She shared a photograph with the star on social media, captioning it: "We had a visitor in BBC’s Strictly yesterday. The Chase is filmed next door and he popped in to say hi. What a lovely man Bradley Walsh is!"
This friendly encounter has been interpreted by many as a significant clue. It comes just a month after the current hosts, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, announced they would be stepping down from the beloved BBC ballroom show at the end of the current series. In a joint statement, the duo said presenting the programme had been "an absolute dream" but that it felt "like the right time" to leave.
Why Bradley Walsh is a Top Contender
According to reports, BBC bosses are keen for Bradley Walsh to take over hosting duties. A source told The Sun that his appearance "has certainly set tongues wagging" behind the scenes.
The insider elaborated on why Walsh is seen as the ideal candidate, stating: "He is a real pro and has brilliant experience hosting live shows. Producers need a safe pair of hands to steady the ship amid so much change. Of course, he’d have a female alongside him as part of a duo."
Walsh's broad appeal is also considered a major asset. The source added that "Bradley is popular with both old and young and would bring humour and some old-school showbiz quality" to the role. To complete the new hosting team, The Sun also reported that The One Show’s Alex Jones is being lined up to join him on the famous Strictly dancefloor.
With the current series drawing to a close, all eyes will be on the BBC to make an official announcement, but Bradley Walsh's surprise set visit has undoubtedly made him the frontrunner in the public eye.
