Josie Gibson is reportedly on the brink of becoming the first major celebrity signing for this year’s revamped Strictly Come Dancing, as the BBC scrambles to inject fresh energy into the show following a turbulent period behind the scenes.
The This Morning presenter, 41, is said to be in advanced negotiations with bosses, with insiders claiming she has long been on the BBC’s wishlist. After missing out on signing her in 2023 to ITV rival I’m A Celebrity, executives are now determined not to let her slip through their fingers again.
A source revealed that Josie has remained firmly on the BBC’s radar, adding that producers believe this could finally be the year she joins the ballroom. Talks are said to be progressing well, with bosses convinced her down-to-earth charm could be exactly what the show needs to reconnect with viewers.
They explained that Josie’s warm and relatable personality makes her a perfect fit for the programme’s new direction, insisting she would be an instant hit with fans craving authenticity.
The move comes as Strictly prepares for a major shake-up, with several professional dancers already axed and long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly also reportedly facing replacement as part of a bold relaunch set for September.
Despite her growing TV success, Josie has recently opened up about the reality behind the scenes, admitting she is struggling to balance her career with life as a single mum to her seven-year-old son Reggie.
Speaking candidly, she said: “Mums don’t look up to me. I’m juggling, I’m struggling, I’m stressed. I am just like any other mum out there… I’m just trying to hold it together.”
She also revealed she has deliberately avoided taking on a full-time role on This Morning, explaining: “I only get to be a mum once and you never get that time back.”
Away from the spotlight, Josie has chosen a surprisingly modest lifestyle, even moving into a caravan with her son while renovations continue on her home. Insiders claim she would happily live that way long-term, valuing simplicity over luxury.
While she may be thriving professionally, her love life has proven more complicated. Recent speculation linking her to a “world’s hottest farrier” fizzled out after it emerged he is already engaged, leaving Josie still searching for a partner she can truly rely on.
According to sources, she remains hopeful about finding love, with one insider saying she dreams of settling down and giving her son a stable family life, despite having been hurt in the past.
With Strictly in need of a relatable star and Josie looking ready for a new challenge, all signs suggest this could be the perfect match — if talks go through.
