Brief
Matt Willis defends Emma amid Strictly presenter criticism
The Busted frontman told This Morning his wife is “so happy” and “smashing it” on Strictly despite viewer backlash.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Matt Willis stepped onto This Morning on 8 October to defend wife Emma Willis after viewers criticised the new Strictly Come Dancing presenting trio.
What happened
Emma, 50, joined comedian Josh Widdicombe and dancer‑turned‑presenter Johannes Radebe as the third presenter following the exits of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. After several live shows, some viewers questioned the need for a third host and singled out Widdicombe and Radebe for negative comments.
What the reports add
The Independent notes that the first results show on 4 October saw Radebe and Widdicombe debrief contestants while Emma performed solo on the dance floor, earning praise from some viewers. A three‑star review by Isobel Lewis described Widdicombe’s comedic style as “awkward and stilted” in the group setting.
What was said
Matt Willis told This Morning, “She doesn’t pay attention to anything, she’s very good at doing her job… She loves working with Josh and Jojo (Radebe) and they’re great and they’re brilliant and they’re lovely people.” He added that Emma is “so happy” and “smashing it” on the show.
How it came about
Emma’s appointment was part of a broader presenter revamp announced in September, detailed in Felo’s earlier coverage of the new Strictly era. The trio’s dynamic has been under scrutiny since the first episode aired on 26 September.
Key facts
- Matt Willis defended Emma Willis on This Morning on 8 October. (independent.co.uk)
- Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe are the new Strictly presenters. (independent.co.uk)
- Viewers criticised the new trio and questioned the need for a third presenter. (independent.co.uk)
Timeline
- 2026-09-26 — First episode of new Strictly season aired with Emma, Josh and Johannes as presenters.
- 2026-10-04 — First results show featured Radebe and Widdicombe debriefing contestants while Emma performed solo.
- 2026-10-08 — Matt Willis appeared on This Morning to defend Emma.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Emma Willis ‘doesn’t pay attention’ to Strictly criticism, insists husband Matt”
