‘This wasn’t my time sadly’: Rylan reveals he was turned down for Strictly role
By Casey Cooper-Fiske, Press Association Senior Entertainment Reporter
TV presenter Rylan Clark has revealed he was turned down for a role presenting Strictly Come Dancing, saying it “wasn’t my time sadly”.
The 37-year-old posted a joking video of himself crying after it was announced on Tuesday that former professional dancer Johannes Radebe, comedian Josh Widdecombe and presenter Emma Willis would be presenting the BBC dancing show from its 2026 series.
In an Instagram post, Clark said: “Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in ‘the race’ for strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh. You’re all going to have the best time. Made up for yous.
“This wasn’t my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered. I’m taking the news really well (see next slide) but genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three.”
In a comment on the post, he added: “Let’s keep this what it is. A genuine happiness for the three of them.”
It comes after Strictly professional dancer Dianne Buswell has said the BBC show’s presenting role is made for her former fellow dancer Radebe.
In a comment on the Strictly Instagram page, Buswell said: “This is so exciting, particularly excited for our fellow pro @johannesradebe babe you are a true star and this role is made for you, we love you.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas added: “Welcome to the family @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe… and to our dear @johannesradebe I am beyond proud of you. Superstar line up.”
Former Strictly presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their departure from the programme in October 2025, also praised their successors, with Daly describing them as “the ultimate trio”, and Winkleman calling them “magnificent”.
Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse said: “Let’s go @johannesradebe I am crying at this point, so proud of you… welcome @emmawillisofficial and @josh_widdicombe can’t wait for the season. Can it not be September already.”
Another professional dancer Alexis Warr added: “Screaming. Omg how exciting, huge congratulations. Can’t wait.”
TV and radio presenter Zoe Ball, who recently confirmed she did screen tests for the hosting job but did not get it, congratulated the trio and added: “you’re gonna rock it”.
Professional dancer Amy Dowden said: “This is going to be amazing. What a day. What a series ahead.”
Carlos Gu, who won the show’s last series with former England Lionesses footballer Karen Carney, said: “It’s an absolutely terrific news @emmawillisofficial @josh_widdicombe welcome to the fam, @johannesradebe sista you look fab.”
Dancer Karen Hauer, who left the show following its 2025 series, said: “Now that is a line-up, can’t wait to watch.”
Judge Craig Revel Horwood said the news was “fab-u-lous” quoting his recognisable catchphrase, while another professional dancer Lauren Oakley said it was “amazing news”.
