‘Strictly Rylan!’ Fans Call on BBC to Make Rylan Clark the Next Host as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman Step Down “It HAS to be him!”
Strictly Come Dancing looks set for a huge shake-up, with TV star Rylan Clark emerging as the frontrunner to replace long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman following their surprising exit.
Rylan, formerly of It Takes Two, fueled speculation this week after leaving a playful comment on Claudia’s farewell post, sending fans into a frenzy and sparking widespread rumours about his potential new role.
“Shoes as big as the fringe to fill. Love you.”

Strictly fans were quick to flood the comments with pleas for Rylan Clark to take over, posting messages like “Please let it be you!” and “Start putting those shoes on, Rylan!” 👠
While the BBC has remained tight-lipped, insiders reveal Rylan is firmly in the mix. Having co-hosted It Takes Two for four years, he’s seen as a natural fit full of charm, quick wit, and adored by audiences.
“Rylan knows Strictly inside out. He’s got the sparkle, the humour, and that effortless warmth viewers love. He’d slide into the role perfectly,” said one source.
BBC executives are reportedly weighing a shortlist of big names, including Zoe Ball, Alan Carr, and Fleur East, but Rylan’s connection to the show and devoted fanbase have pushed him to the top of many wish lists.
A natural showman, 36-year-old Rylan has long been one of British TV’s most charismatic personalities. From The X Factor to This Morning and The One Show, he’s praised for his infectious laugh, energy, and ability to blend humour with warmth. Insiders believe he could inject a modern, fresh vibe into the ballroom while honouring Strictly’s glamour.
With Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepping down, producers face the challenge of finding presenters who can match the duo’s magic. BBC bosses are said to be taking their time to ensure the replacements capture the essence of the show.

Fans are already convinced Rylan is the perfect choice. One wrote: “He’s funny, genuine and loves Strictly give him the mic already!” Another suggested: “Rylan and Fleur East together would be a dream team!”
For now, the BBC remains silent, leaving viewers eager and hopeful as the countdown to a new Strictly era begins.
Could Rylan Clark be the next star of the ballroom? Fans are certainly rooting for it.