Strictly Come Dancing star Katya Jones has shared her thoughts on who she believes should become the show’s next host, while also revealing how she envisions her own future within the entertainment industry. Celebrating her 10th year as a professional dancer on the hit BBC show, Katya appears to be reflecting more deeply on her long-term direction, especially after a decade that has seen her rise as one of Strictly’s most recognisable and respected figures. This season has also been a standout for her: just weeks ago, she and her celebrity partner Lewis Cope became the first pair to score a perfect 40, a milestone highlighted by several major UK outlets (BBC News). Their momentum continues to grow, but even amid this success, Katya is considering the next chapter of her career.

Katya Jones on the new Strictly Come Dancing host

Appearing on Loose Women on November 12, Katya was asked who she personally felt should succeed Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who recently announced their departure after an extraordinary 21-year tenure. The news sparked widespread discussion and media coverage as fans and critics speculated about potential replacements (The Guardian). When asked for her opinion, Katya didn’t hesitate: her top choice is Janette Manrara, former Strictly professional and current host of It Takes Two. She explained that Janette’s combined experience as a dancer and presenter gives her a unique advantage, saying: “Naturally for me, it’s Janette, Janette Manrara. She has done it all… She knows what we are all going through.”

Katya emphasised the emotional intensity dancers experience backstage after their performances—whether a routine goes perfectly or falls short—and noted that having a presenter who understands that rollercoaster would make Janette the ideal fit. Many entertainment analysts have also praised Janette’s on-screen empathy and natural connection with contestants since moving into hosting (Radio Times). Given her long history with the show, combined with her warm and approachable presenting style, Janette has increasingly become a fan favourite in predictions for the new hosting role.

Janette’s credentials further support Katya’s endorsement. She competed as a Strictly professional from 2013 to 2020, reaching the final with HRVY and consistently being highlighted for her choreography and performance quality (The Independent). Her transition to It Takes Two in 2021 was widely welcomed, with viewers praising her chemistry with contestants and her ability to bring out their personalities in interviews. Katya’s admiration reflects a sentiment building across the Strictly fanbase: that Janette may be the most seamless successor to continue the show’s spirit.

What’s next for Katya?

During the interview, the Loose Women panel suggested that Katya herself might make a great host for Strictly, given her charisma, insight, and long-standing connection with the show. Although she was flattered, Katya revealed that she sees a different opportunity ahead. She shared that after serving as a guest judge on Dancing With The Stars in Belgium last summer, she discovered an unexpected passion for judging, describing the experience as deeply fulfilling. “I really, really thoroughly enjoyed that,” she said. “I could feel what the contestants were going through… and I understood how much hard work goes into everything.” Her comments align with reviews from Belgian media outlets praising her thoughtful feedback and emotional intelligence on the judging panel (Le Soir).

Katya noted that members of the public often underestimate the countless hours of rehearsal behind every Saturday performance. From choreography to perfecting technical details, contestants push through exhaustion, frustration, and breakthroughs that aren’t seen on camera. Her dual experience—as both a performer and now a judge—gives her a unique perspective she hopes to apply more seriously in the future. While she remains dedicated to competing, the idea of eventually joining the Strictly judging panel clearly excites her.

In the immediate future, Katya continues to focus on her partnership with Lewis Cope. This weekend, the pair will perform a Tango to “12 to 12” by Sombr, a routine fans are eagerly anticipating. With their strong track record this season and growing popularity among viewers, many expect them to deliver another memorable performance as the competition intensifies.