Emma Willis fires back at being ‘judged’ over BBC Strictly role amid backlash to new-look trio
Presenter Emma Willis has seemingly responded to some of the negative feedback that has come her and her co-stars’ way since the launch of the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Ms Willis, along with comedian Josh Widdicombe and dancer Johannes Radebe, has made their hosting debuts on the beloved show following the departure of long-term presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
The big change, as well as several other format differences, has prompted some viewers to become critical of the new series, with specific complaints aimed at the presenters.
Former The Voice host Ms Willis has subtly broken her silence on the narrative, taking to social media with a lighthearted but pointed message.
Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe made their first live presenting debut on Strictly on Saturday night | BBCAlongside a series of behind-the-scenes snaps, the presenter wrote: “Week one, done. I’ve never had so much fun! What a way to kick things off.”
One image featured Ms Willis posing in a white gown put together by stylist Leah Binnall.
Among the pictures was a quote that read: “You will get judged either way, so may as well pick the fun option.”
The message is likely a response to ongoing criticism the trio of hosts has faced, with the 50-year-old apparently unwilling to be impacted by the backlash.
It comes after disgruntled fans took to X after Saturday’s broadcast to voice their frustrations.
“Having three hosts doesn’t work,” one viewer wrote, while another declared: “Three hosts are too much.”
Others felt the transitions between presenters were awkward, with one suggesting the format was responsible for the programme stretching to two and a half hours.
Former professional dancer Vincent Simone acknowledged the discontent but attributed it to the sheer volume of alterations made in a single series.
Emma Willis shared a message on social media
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INSTAGRAM – EMMAWILLISOFFICIAL
“I think the only downside of this year is that there’s been way too many changes all in one go,” he told the Mirror. “Some people like changes, like me. Some people don’t.”
Fellow celebrities rallied behind Ms Willis in the comments beneath her post.
Both Mr Radebe and dancer Vito Coppola simply left heart emojis, while one follower penned: “Photo 6 is so true. Hope the negatives you 3 presenters are getting, obviously by professionals [yeah right].
“You know it’s the small [minded] majority. The rest of us are enjoying you 3 presenters bringing something different to Strictly. I for one are loving you all doing You and bringing the individuality to a great show each way. Love to You, Josh and JoJo.” (sic)
Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdicombe and Emma Willis made their first live presenting debut on Strictly on Saturday night | BBC
“We’re really looking forward to the rest of the series with you, Josh and JoJo in our house,” another enthused.
Someone else added: “Brilliant as always. As are Josh and Johanes!!!”
“You are such a breath of fresh air and beautiful with it,” a different fan commented.
Another reassured the presenter: “You guys were brilliant, everyone will warm up. It’s all about change. Loved it! Great show! You 3 did a fab job.”
Perhaps the most significant endorsement came from Ms Winkleman, who presented Strictly from 2014 until departing at the close of 2025.
The Traitors host left a comment hailing Ms Willis as a “knockout,” offering a clear seal of approval from her predecessor.
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