Alan Carr Finally Breaks His Silence on Strictly Come Dancing Host Rumours

Alan Carr has officially addressed the swirling speculation about him potentially replacing Strictly Come Dancing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, following weeks of intense public discussion and media chatter. The comedian and TV personality, who recently won Celebrity Traitors earlier this month, has been repeatedly mentioned as one of the frontrunners to take over hosting duties on the BBC’s flagship dance competition. Reports across entertainment media have suggested that the BBC is preparing to reshape Strictly after Tess and Claudia’s surprise exit (BBC News).

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s Departure Stunned Viewers

Last month, fans were blindsided when Tess and Claudia announced that they would both be stepping down from the beloved show at the end of the year. The hosting duo, who have fronted Strictly Come Dancing together since 2014, said that it “feels the right time” to move on, emphasising how much they have “loved” working together on one of the BBC’s biggest programmes. Their departure marks one of the most significant behind-the-scenes changes to the series in over a decade, sparking widespread speculation about who could possibly replace them (The Guardian).

Alan Carr Responds to Strictly Hosting Rumours

With rumours continuing to circulate—and bookmakers even adjusting their odds—Alan Carr has finally spoken out about whether he is considering taking the job. Speaking to Radio Times, Alan confirmed that he has heard the rumours but insisted that he has had no formal discussions with BBC executives.

“Apparently, my name is in the hat, which is an honour, but I haven’t spoken to anyone at the BBC,” he explained, clarifying that the speculation appears to be coming exclusively from the public rather than official channels.

In classic Alan fashion, he added a humorous twist: “You saw how sweaty I was in the castle, imagine me live on a Saturday night coming down those stairs – people would slip in a pool of my sweat while doing the fandango.”

He concluded by saying that although it’s flattering to be considered, hosting Strictly may be “a bit too nerve-racking.” Insiders have noted that while Alan is a fan favourite, the BBC may ultimately opt for a more traditional broadcaster (Metro UK).

Dermot O’Leary Pulled Into the Rumour Mill

Alan isn’t the only celebrity whose name has been floated. This Morning presenter Dermot O’Leary has also emerged as a possible contender. During an appearance on Ireland’s The Six O’Clock Show on November 12, hosts Brian Dowling and Katja Mia directly asked Dermot whether the BBC had approached him.

Turning dramatically to the camera, Dermot quipped: “Confirm or deny?” before simply responding, “Deny.”

Dermot went on to reference his long history with The X Factor, joking, “You know, being an X Factor kid, that’s like Julia Roberts in Sleeping With The Enemy.” Brian Dowling then teased that Simon Cowell would “never allow that,” prompting Dermot to laugh and say, “Even though the show’s not on TV anymore, he’d still hunt me down!”

According to reports, Dermot has previously been asked to take part in Strictly as a contestant, but he ultimately turned it down, admitting that he “didn’t think it was for me” (Digital Spy).

What Happens Next for Strictly?

With the BBC expected to make a decision soon, speculation continues to rise about who will step into one of the biggest presenting roles in British television. Other names rumoured include Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, and AJ Odudu—though the BBC has not confirmed or commented on any potential shortlist (BBC News).

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