A new name is gaining serious momentum behind the scenes of Strictly Come Dancing — and it’s one few fans saw coming.
Sara Cox is reportedly being closely considered by BBC executives as a potential new host for the flagship dance show, following the emotional departure of long-time presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
According to insiders, bosses believe Sara would be a “natural fit” for the role — praising her warmth, quick wit and ability to connect effortlessly with audiences.
“She has exactly what Strictly needs”
Sources say Sara’s name has been repeatedly mentioned in internal discussions, thanks to her long-standing reputation as one of the BBC’s most trusted and versatile broadcasters.
“Fans of Sara’s Radio 2 drivetime show know she has that off-the-cuff humour down perfectly,” a source revealed. “She’s quick, authentic and incredibly professional — exactly the kind of presence Strictly thrives on.”
Sara Cox, 51, is reportedly ‘being eyed up by Strictly Come Dancing’s bosses’ as they said she is a ‘good fit’ to replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly
The Radio 2 DJ, could take over as the BBC’s show host after Claudia and Tess left the BBC show last year, according to The Sun
Sara, 51, is best known for her time fronting the Radio 1 Breakfast Show in the early 2000s and for her continued success on BBC Radio 2, including Drivetime and Sounds of the 80s. Her relaxed authority and natural warmth have kept her firmly in the public’s favour for decades.
Not the only name in the frame
A source told the publication: ‘Fans of Sara’s Radio 2 drivetime show know she has that off-the-cuff patter down to a tee and has a brilliant reputation as an honest, hardworking pro’
Sara isn’t the only presenter being considered.
It has previously been reported that Emma Willis and Zoe Ball are also in the mix for one of the hosting roles.
Emma Willis, 49, is a familiar face to BBC audiences through shows like The Voice and Love Is Blind UK, while Zoe Ball — who previously hosted Strictly: It Takes Two — has openly admitted she would “love” to take on the main presenting job.
One insider described the situation as a tight race:
“It’s being viewed as a straight shoot-out. Only one person will get it — not both.”
Preserving the Strictly magic
Behind the scenes, executives are said to be keen on maintaining the balance that made Claudia and Tess so successful.
“The plan is to pair a more traditional presenter with someone who brings a left-field, comedic edge,” a source explained. “Claudia’s humour, especially in the Clauditorium, became a huge part of the show — and that spirit needs to continue.”
A huge role to step into
Zoe Ball has previously acknowledged just how big the challenge would be, calling Strictly “a beast” and praising Claudia and Tess for handling the pressure of live television week after week.
Whoever lands the role will be stepping into one of the most coveted — and scrutinised — jobs on British television.
A new era for Strictly?
Claudia and Tess officially bowed out during last year’s Christmas special, closing the curtain on 21 years of presenting the nation’s favourite dance show.
Now, as the BBC quietly shapes the next chapter, fans are left wondering: could Sara Cox be the fresh face to guide Strictly Come Dancing into its new era?
For now, nothing is confirmed — but one thing is clear: the competition to replace two television icons is very much underway.
