UPDATE: In a stunning revelation, Johnny Ball, the father of Zoe Ball, has confirmed she is “in the mix” to become the next host of Strictly Come Dancing. This announcement comes just days after long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their exit from the beloved BBC show, sending shockwaves through the fanbase.
Fans were left reeling on December 20, 2025, when Tess and Claudia aired their final episode after a combined total of 36 years on the show. Johnny Ball, a well-known children’s television presenter at 87 years old, shared insights with the Express, stating that while nothing is finalized, Zoe is a strong contender for the role. “Nothing’s going to be decided until after Easter, but she’s in the mix, and people are coming to her,” he revealed.
Zoe Ball has a rich history with Strictly, having competed in the show’s third season in 2005 and hosted the spin-off show It Takes Two from 2011 to 2021. Her father expressed confidence in her abilities, adding, “I think she would love it… if anything, she did a better job than Claudia.”
The speculation surrounding Zoe intensified when she posted an intriguing horoscope message on Instagram, hinting at significant changes in her life in 2026. The post suggested a transformative year ahead, prompting fans to wonder if this could include her hosting the main show.
Johnny’s comments come on the heels of Zoe’s recent departure from her Radio 2 show, with her last broadcast airing on the same day as Tess and Claudia’s farewell. In her emotional goodbye, Zoe expressed her love for her listeners and hinted at future projects, including a Christmas special and a new show in the new year.
Tess and Claudia’s departure marks the end of an era for Strictly. Tess took to Instagram following her last episode, thanking viewers for their unwavering support and expressing her gratitude for the “memories of a lifetime.” Claudia echoed her sentiments with heartfelt emojis, reinforcing the emotional connection both hosts have with their audience.
As the search for new hosts continues, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on Zoe’s potential role. Will she step into the spotlight as the next face of Strictly Come Dancing? Stay tuned for more developments as the situation unfolds.
With the stakes so high, the decision is sure to impact the show’s future significantly. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on social media as the buzz around Zoe Ball and her potential hosting gig grows.
