Brief

Ellie Taylor takes over as host of Strictly: It Takes Two amid format shake‑up

The spin‑off’s new presenter and interview format have divided viewers on social media.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 29 Sep 2026 21:40:01 GMT

Ellie Taylor has been announced as the new host of Strictly: It Takes Two, replacing Janette Manrara and Fleur East, as the programme revamps its interview format.

For the opening episode on Monday, September 28, the three celebrity contestants – Delta Goodrem, Jaime Winstone and Chris Appleton – were interviewed on a new set without their professional dance partners, a departure from previous seasons where celebs and pros shared sofa chats.

Social media users expressed a split response. Some criticised the removal of the professional partners, calling it a "ruining of the winning formula" and urging producers to restore the "zoo" set lighting. Others praised the change, saying they enjoyed hearing the celebrities talk without the pros and complimented Taylor’s hosting.

In a statement, Taylor said she was "honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line‑up of hosts" and looked forward to delivering gossip and "sequins flying out of the ballroom" for fans.

Key facts

Ellie Taylor replaces Janette Manrara and Fleur East as host of Strictly: It Takes Two. (standard.co.uk)
The September 28 episode featured celebrity contestants interviewed without their professional dance partners. (standard.co.uk)
Viewer reactions on social media were mixed, with some criticizing the format change and others praising it. (standard.co.uk)
Ellie Taylor said she feels "honoured" to host and is excited to bring gossip to fans. (standard.co.uk)