Comedian and presenter Ellie Taylor made her official debut on September 28, 2026, as the new host of the BBC television companion series Strictly – It Takes Two. Taking over following the departures of previous hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East, Taylor steps into the coveted role as part of a wider creative refresh for the popular entertainment franchise.
- A Familiar Face Returns to the Ballroom
- Reinvented Format and Fresh Features for 2026
- Broadcasting Shake-Up Across the Franchise
- Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Ellie Taylor debut as the host of Strictly – It Takes Two?
- Who did Ellie Taylor replace on the show?
- Did Ellie Taylor previously appear on Strictly Come Dancing?
- Where is Strictly – It Takes Two filmed?
- What new features are included in the 2026 series of It Takes Two?
Broadcast weeknights on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, the newly revamped programme originates directly from the home of the main show at Elstree Studios. The production aims to provide deeper behind-the-scenes access, exclusive interviews, training room video tapes, and official announcements for fans of the dance competition.
A Familiar Face Returns to the Ballroom
For Taylor, stepping back into the franchise marks a homecoming of sorts. The comedian previously competed as a contestant on the main show in 2022. She was paired with professional dancer Johannes Radebe and finished the competition in seventh place. Her infectious personality and comedic background made her a favorite with both viewers and senior production executives.
Speaking about her return to television screens in a hosting capacity, Taylor expressed enthusiasm for the new gig. “What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role,” she said. “I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who’ve made Strictly – It Takes Two so loved over the years. I can’t wait to immerse myself in all the gossip and sequins flying out of the ballroom.”
Reinvented Format and Fresh Features for 2026
According to BBC Studios Executive Producer Rhe-an Archibald, the 2026 season has been completely reinvented to reflect casual conversations happening in living rooms across the UK. The updated format introduces several new segments designed to offer unique insights into the weekly competition:
- Group Discussions: In-depth panel chats featuring groups of celebrities and professional dancers, frequently appearing without their partners.
- Strictly Alumni Panel: Former contestants returning to the ballroom to offer expert analysis and personal perspectives on each weekend’s performances.
- Creative Deep Dives: Behind-the-curtain looks at choreography, staging, and production elements.
- Costume Updates: Regular segments with head costume designer Vicky Gill detailing the intricate wardrobe choices for the upcoming routines.
Broadcasting Shake-Up Across the Franchise
Taylor’s appointment arrives amid a broader restructuring across the entire Strictly Come Dancing television ecosystem. The main presenting lineup underwent a significant transformation alongside the spin-off updates. It welcomed new main hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe.
BBC Commissioning Editor Helen Munson praised the incoming host while acknowledging the contributions of outgoing presenters. “We’d like to say a huge thank you to the brilliant Janette Manrara and Fleur East, who’ve been a massive part of It Takes Two’s continued success over the years,” Munson stated. “With the fun and funny Ellie at the helm, it will be an utterly unmissable companion to Strictly Come Dancing.”
Strictly – It Takes Two airs every weeknight through the autumn season, providing television audiences with complete daily coverage of the ballroom competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ellie Taylor debut as the host of Strictly – It Takes Two?
Ellie Taylor made her official debut as the host of Strictly – It Takes Two on September 28, 2026.
Who did Ellie Taylor replace on the show?
Taylor took over hosting duties following the departures of former presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East.
Did Ellie Taylor previously appear on Strictly Come Dancing?
Yes, Taylor competed as a celebrity contestant on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing. She was partnered with professional dancer Johannes Radebe and finished in seventh place.
Where is Strictly – It Takes Two filmed?
The revamped companion series is filmed and broadcast from Elstree Studios, the main production home of the Strictly franchise.
What new features are included in the 2026 series of It Takes Two?
The 2026 format introduces group discussions with celebrities and professionals, a dedicated Strictly alumni panel, creative deep-dives into choreography, and regular costume insights from Vicky Gill.
