In a shocking revelation that’s sending shockwaves through the Strictly Come Dancing fandom, head judge Shirley Ballas has spilled the beans on who she believes should step into the glittering shoes of departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The iconic duo announced earlier this year that the 2025 series – which just crowned its winner amid emotional farewells – would be their last, leaving fans speculating wildly about the show’s next era.

Ballas, known for her no-nonsense critiques and “Queen of Latin” pedigree, didn’t hold back in a recent interview. “They told me to keep it secret, but I think it’s time to reveal,” she teased, before endorsing a dynamic TV duo: Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder. The pair, already beloved for their on-screen chemistry in travel docu-series like Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour, could bring fresh energy to the ballroom. Rylan, a Strictly family favorite who previously hosted spin-off It Takes Two, and Judge Rinder, a 2016 contestant turned TV star, are reportedly on the BBC’s shortlist for chemistry tests.

But the real jaw-dropper? Ballas acknowledged that fellow judge Anton Du Beke desperately wants the top job. “I know Anton would love to be hosting – I know that for sure,” she admitted. Du Beke, a longtime pro dancer turned permanent judge since 2021, has idolized legendary host Sir Bruce Forsyth and often hinted at his presenting ambitions. Yet Ballas firmly believes everyone should “stay in their lane,” emphasizing her own focus on judging dancing rather than presenting.

This endorsement is bad news for Du Beke, dashing hopes among fans who saw him as a natural successor – someone deeply embedded in Strictly’s history with insider knowledge and charm. Other names in the mix include Holly Willoughby, Zoe Ball, Alison Hammond, and Bradley Walsh, but Ballas’s backing gives Rylan and Rinder serious momentum.

The timing couldn’t be more dramatic. Tess and Claudia’s emotional exit after the 2025 final – complete with tributes from Queen Camilla and tearful goodbyes – has left a void. Their partnership since 2014 made history as the first all-female primetime duo on British TV, blending glamour, wit, and warmth. The BBC has confirmed plans for 2026 will be announced soon, but speculation is rife that a bold new pairing could refresh the format while honoring its legacy.

Strictly has weathered challenges in recent years but remains a BBC juggernaut, drawing millions with its mix of celebrity transformations, dazzling routines, and high-stakes drama. Whoever takes the helm will face massive expectations, but if Ballas has her way, it could be a hilarious, heartfelt handover to Rylan and Rinder. For Anton? It might mean sticking to the judging panel – at least for now.

As fans await official news, one thing’s clear: Strictly’s sparkle isn’t dimming anytime soon. Keep dancing!