Ian Waite defends new Strictly hosts amid backlash

Former Strictly Come Dancing pro Brendan Cole has voiced his concerns over the show’s new presenting trio, calling their Sunday results show outfits 'sloppy' and missing the glamour expected of the programme ^[1]. The 50-year-old ballroom legend, who danced on the show from 2004 to 2017, praised Emma Willis as the anchor but said the trio still feel like they're 'finding their hosting feet'. He noted the contrast with past hosts like Craig and Anton, who wore tuxedos, and stressed that the hosts should 'look like they are the head of the show'.

Cole also addressed the elimination of Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, who was voted off in week four. He acknowledged her lack of dance ability from the start, saying she was 'never really going to be a contender' and that her exit was 'the right couple to go' ^[1]. He praised her final performance, saying she 'got into character' and 'had a lovely time'.

Meanwhile, Ian Waite, another ex-pro, has stepped in to defend the new hosts after backlash over Josh Widdicombe’s inclusion. Waite admitted the trio felt 'odd' at first, especially with their differing heights and styles, but believes they're improving ^[2]. He highlighted that Josh is now embracing his role as the 'funny man', while Johannes Radebe is engaging more with dance themes.

Waite also revealed that Zoe Ball, Ian’s former dance partner and former host of Strictly: It Takes Two, was among those who auditioned and was 'devastated' when she didn’t get the job ^[2]. She reportedly went through 'seven stages of grief' before expressing support for the new trio. Waite suggested the BBC may have wanted 'fresh blood' rather than returning to past hosts.

The idea that the hosts' differing heights and mismatched styles could be key to their success has been suggested by Waite but has not been confirmed ^[2]. Despite early criticism, Waite remains confident the trio will return next year, predicting they’ll 'find their niche' by series’ end. The show continues Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One ^[1]. The story was first reported by Daily Star Showbiz and Daily Star.