Rylan Clark was one of the favourites to get the Strictly Come Dancing hosting job after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepped down but instead three other stars bagged the role13:36, 23 Jun 2026Updated 13:36, 23 Jun 2026Rylan Clark has spoken out for the first time about the new Strictly Come Dancing hosts.‌The TV presenter was a popular choice amongst fans for the lead role after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepped down, but instead it went to Emma Willis, Josh Widdecombe and Johannes Radebe.‌At the time of the BBC announcement, Rylan was one of the first to joke about not making it into the line-up by re-posting his viral crying meme from X Factor all those years ago.‌Speaking for the first time about it, Rylan has now said he's "over the moon" for his friend Emma Willis. He said: "I’m so over the moon for Em. She’s perfect for that job. And JoJo, who I absolutely adore. I think he’s just going to be amazing and I hope we still get to see him dance as well because his talent is just ridiculous. And Josh, I’ve always got on with really well.""I’m so excited to see how that’s going to look. I think we were all like, 'this is a bit random', but I’ve got no doubt that it’s going to be absolutely amazing. It’s a new era for Strictly. And anyone that’s following Tess and Claud, you’ve got to have some big balls to do it. But I think with the power of three, they’ll have a lovely time," he told the Metro.‌Last month, it was announced the trio would be taking over the ballroom's hosting duties.Emma said at the time: "It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend."It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges."‌Johannes added: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward."To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me. Love Jojo."Josh shared: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume."Article continues belowLike this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.