“THE END OF AN ERA?” — STRICTLY FANS WONDER WHAT’S NEXT AS THE SHOW ENTERS A NEW CHAPTER

With familiar faces leaving and a major presenting shake-up transforming the ballroom, viewers are asking whether more changes could be on the horizon.

For years, Strictly Come Dancing has brought glitter, dramatic performances and unforgettable Saturday-night entertainment into millions of homes. But the BBC favourite is entering a new chapter — and fans are still adjusting to a series of significant changes.

The departures of longtime presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman marked the end of a much-loved partnership. Their exit was followed by a revamped hosting team featuring Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe.

A familiar ballroom looks different

The changes have not stopped there. Five professional dancers — Karen Hauer, Gorka Márquez, Michelle Tsiakkas, Nadiya Bychkova and Luba Mushtuk — were confirmed as leaving ahead of the 2026 series.

Their departures have given the programme a noticeably different feel, with new faces joining the line-up and returning favourites adapting to a fresh format.

Are the judges changing too?

Despite speculation about further changes, the confirmed judging panel for the 2026 series remains Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.

There has been no reliable confirmation that one of the four judges has officially stepped down. For now, the biggest confirmed changes concern the presenting team and professional dancers.

What comes next for Strictly?

As the competition continues, viewers will be watching to see how the new line-up settles in and whether the revamped format wins over longtime fans.

One thing is certain: Strictly Come Dancing is moving into a new era — but its blend of music, dance and Saturday-night drama remains at the heart of the show.

Which familiar face do you miss most, and who would you like to see join Strictly next?