BBC's 10-person shortlist for Strictly Come Dancing job 'leaked by source'

BBC bosses are reportedly drawing up a shortlist of ten presenters as they prepare for one of the biggest restructurings in Strictly Come Dancing history.

With long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman set to step down from their central presenting roles, executives are said to be planning a fresh approach, according to the Sun. The first stage reportedly involves putting a group of high-profile stars through a series of on-screen chemistry tests to determine who could take on the roles.

Insiders say the network has narrowed the search to what one source described as a “Golden Ten,” with all shortlisted names expected to attend a top-secret audition process in January.

Rather than selecting presenters based solely on skill or charisma, bosses are said to be prioritising the perfect pairing.

“Replacing Claudia and Tess is a mammoth task, but the BBC have whittled down the talent to ten people,” the source said.

Among those believed to be on the shortlist are Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, and Alan Carr, with Carr reportedly emerging as a leading contender. The insider added that he is the preferred choice among senior figures at the corporation.

The reported shortlist also includes Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, Rob Rinder, and Holly Willoughby, with Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond, and Angela Scanlon also said to have made the cut.

"They will go to a studio and be put into different pairs to see who works together best. It could be two mix. They will ultimately choose whoever has the best chemistry in each partnership."

The BBC is believed to be particularly interested in pairings that have either already demonstrated on-screen chemistry or could bring something entirely new to the show.

“Rylan and Rob present a travelogue series together on the BBC, so they already have great chemistry. It's the same for Alan and Amanda, with their home renovation show,” the insider explained.

Zoe Ball’s experience within the Strictly universe is also thought to count in her favour. "Zoe hosted Strictly's spin-off show, It Takes Two, and they know she is a very steady pair of hands. It's just finding the right fit for her.”

Bradley Walsh and The One Show host Alex Jones were tipped as early favourites, but insiders now say Alan Carr’s chances have risen following his recent television successes, including winning Celebrity Traitors and securing a new BBC quiz show.

"The idea of Alan in the Claudiatorium is getting the BBC top brass frothing at the mouth. They think he would be perfect.”

Sources say the aim is to mix things up rather than replicate the existing dynamic. Tess has co-presented Strictly since its launch in 2004, initially alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, while Claudia joined the programme ten years later.

The pair announced in October that they would step down after this season, with their penultimate main-series episode airing tonight. They have also pre-recorded the final festive special, set to air on Christmas Day.

Those present at the recording described an emotional atmosphere. “Tess was wiping away tears. The last Strictly episode next week is going to be emotional,” a source said.

The BBC declined to comment on the reports.