Josh Widdicombe takes drastic action over social media use amid BBC Strictly backlash
Josh Widdicombe has stated he’s taking a break from social media amid the ongoing online storm about his Strictly Come Dancing presenting.
The comedian, 43, made his live debut on the popular BBC programme on Saturday, and several moments saw social media sites awash with criticism directed at his hosting.
Mr Widdicombe, presenter Emma Willis and dancer Johannes Radebe took over as a trio of presenters after long-term hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly decided to step down from their roles after last year’s show.
The BBC’s decision immediately prompted debate, but since the series began, The Last Leg star Mr Widdicombe has come under the most fire from the public.
Josh Widdicombe made his Strictly presenting debut on Saturday night | BBCSpeaking this week on his podcast Parenting Hell, Mr Widdicombe told his co-host Rob Beckett that he has been limiting his screen time.
He shared that he has been using an app, the Brick, to help keep him off social media through its use of locks.
“I’m back on the Brick. You’ve inspired me, and I’m loving the Brick again,” he told Mr Beckett.
He continued: “It’s mad that we’ve reached this space in time where we have to buy a second phone because we’re being dragged into these apps.”
Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe made their first live presenting debut on Strictly on Saturday night | BBC
Saturday’s two-and-a-half-hour live broadcast attracted fewer viewers than the pre-recorded launch episode, the first time that has occurred in seven years.
Audience members were quick to voice their frustration, questioning why the BBC opted for three presenters to fill what had previously been a two-person role.
Many also took issue with missed cues and stumbled lines throughout the programme.
For the opening live show, the production team assigned each host a distinct position.
Josh Widdicombe said he’s stepping back from social media
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Ms Willis, widely regarded as the most seasoned broadcaster of the three, assumed Ms Daly’s former spot on the dancefloor, supporting anxious contestants as the judges delivered their verdicts.
Mr Radebe was stationed in the “Clauditorium,” chatting with professional dancers and their celebrity partners.
Mr Widdicombe, meanwhile, was positioned alongside Ms Willis to deliver comic interjections, an adaptation of Ms Daly’s original role that viewers felt left the comedian looking like a “spare part.”
His nerves showed plainly when he failed to pick up a cue from Mr Radebe, standing silently for several seconds before realising it was his turn to speak. The same problem recurred later in the broadcast.
Josh Widdicombe is a comedian and presenter | PA
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