Lights. camera, Blackpool as new Strictly era hosts faces projected on to Tower
Just hours after presenter Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe were officially unveiled as the new faces of Strictly Come Dancing their names were emblazoned on to Blackpool Tower for all to see.
Blackpool received special recognition of its importance to Strictly Come Dancing this evening as the BBC paid a special tribute.
Just hours after presenter Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe were officially unveiled as the new faces of Strictly Come Dancing their names were emblazoned on to Blackpool Tower for all to see.
The trio will be taking over the reins after 20 years from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
To mark the occasion the BBC chose to give a huge nod to the resort and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom where it films the live shows.
The names of the three presenters were projected onto the side of Blackpool Tower this evening shortly before 9.30pm.
Despite the terrible weather skilled photographer Dave Nelson braved the rain to get these fab shots.
Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: “Anticipation has been building around the announcement of the new Strictly Come Dancing hosts, so it felt only fitting to share that excitement by lighting up the iconic Blackpool Tower with their names.
“We can’t wait to give Emma, Johannes and Josh a truly special Blackpool welcome when they arrive in November.”
There had been much speculation and hype about who would take over two of the biggest jobs in TV.
Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Alex Jones, Bradley Walsh and Rob Rinder had all been linked with the rumoured shortlist.
Other names linked with the role early on included Holly Willoughby, Alan Carr, Amanda Holden and Alison Hammond, although they have all since reportedly ruled themselves out.
Speaking on her Dig It podcast to co host Jo Whiley, former Radio One presenter Blackpool-born Zoe Ball who had been one of the favourites, confirmed she had not been offered one of the roles following an audition process.
The 55-year-old said: “Well I can tell you that I didn’t get it, but it is OK Jo, I have worked through the seven stages of grief/ rejection over the last couple of days.”
Strictly bosses have confirmed the show will return to the Iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom for it’s live shows later this year.