Strictly 2026 : THE LAUNCH SHOW 19.25hrs How will our new presenters fare ? NO SPOILERS

[EineReiseDurchDieZeit]

A shiny new thread for a shiny new series. Please bring your dancing shoes over here.

Not sure whether I am doing weekly threads or not yet. Yet to decide, but I’m doing one for the first episode anyway.

The preshow chat thread has been quiet and I’m wondering if lots of people aren’t watching due to the departure of Tess and Claude. I have my reservations about the new presenting team but I’m willing to give them a chance.

KEEP DANCING 💃

Sparkly hi 🪩

haven’t watched strictly with any real commitment in recent years.

am drawn back in by the reboot!

big fan of Widdecombe and Johannes. EW is fine.

had forgotten no Gorka - that is sad. Wonder why they binned him?

@Piggywaspushed surely all the more reason to watch Strictly live instead?!

I think Gorka just moved to the Spanish version, as a judge.

They don't clash tonight. Voice is on now. Next week I will have to see!

Gorka wasn’t pushed he went of his own accord @jumpintheline

He has a judging role on the Spanish version. Timings meant he wasn't available to be partnered up so was just in the Pro dances last year.

Oh really. Well that’s less sad.

but man he is hot. And seems such a nice partner too

Think lots will watch week 1 for nosing but it will be interesting if they will like it and keep watching

I guess like Jojo moving to presenting they are aware that there will be an end point to their dancing roles so decide to take roles that have potential longevity.

Well if the Voice wasn't on dodgy ground already, that's me done 😢

I was incredibly meh about the contestant line up, and thought I’d remain unenthusiastic.

But instead I’m finding myself counting down the minutes! Dinner is cooking, wine is chilling.

Bring it on.

I fucking love Strictly. I also love all the judges, especially Shirley.

I'm worried about it though. I've always thought Emma Willis was a poor man's Claudia so not sure about her. Johannes is going to annoy people I reckon. I can't bear it if it's not liked though as I can't imagine life without Strictly!

This is my conundrum. Claudia was a perfect fit when Bruce retired…THREE new presenters is a LOT all at once. I’m the long term OP now, I would be devastated if I hated it because I’m such a fan. Day One Fan really. I’ve rarely missed it.

I hope I don't find the 3 presenters too cringy but if I do will have to fast forward to the dances and read this thread.

I can’t help but feel that the producers have overestimated Johannesburg’ popularity.

Highly regarded as a dancer and partner? Absolutely.

Good at the talkie bits? Not so much.

I’ll give it a good go though.

This combo is the result of months of testing, there is hope!

Yes, God love him, I’m not sure he’s a natural presenter.

Thanks Eine. Hoping to be convinced by the new presenters but I really wanted Zoe.

Da da da da da da daaaa!!!! Looking welcome back everyone! Nice to see you all again 😅❤️💃

Name changed a few times since last year but love the threads - really improves the experience to watch alongside the commentary. I'm not sure about this year, bet the new hosts are shitting themselves right now. But hoping it goes well.

I love Johannes but as a dancer, he's so elegant. Im sure he's a lovely guy but I want to see him dance rather then present.

Oh darn it, didn’t notice the autocorrect before posting!

Place marking, thanks @EineReiseDurchDieZeit

This is it, Autumn/Winter has officially started! 🩷

There's always a goosebump moment of the series you need to discuss - I wasn't that sold on Karen as the winner (Lewis was robbed) but the first dance when she came out and danced like that so unexpectedly was that moment last series.

My apologies I forgot my manners, thanks very much @EineReiseDurchDieZeit.

Also a big fan of the weekly threads. Those who don’t like it? Jog on.