After months of rumours, speculation and endless fan theories, Emma Willis has finally been confirmed as one of the brand new faces of Strictly Come Dancing — and behind the scenes, the reality of replacing beloved duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman is reportedly beginning to sink in.
The 50-year-old TV favourite is said to be “over the moon” after securing what insiders describe as the biggest presenting role on British television, but sources close to the star claim she is also feeling the pressure of stepping into one of the most iconic jobs in UK entertainment history.
Emma will front the new era of the BBC ballroom competition alongside Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe following the shock departure of Tess and Claudia last year.
A source revealed: “Emma is over the moon she’s landed the top job on Strictly, but she’s got huge shoes to fill. She’s determined to put her own spin on the role, but it’s a daunting prospect and she realises the enormity of it. Her life will totally change forever.”
The insider added that Emma’s experience hosting massive live television shows including Big Brother and The Voice UK made her stand out during the BBC’s search process.
“She absolutely nailed the chemistry tests and the BBC adore her,” the source said. “She’s incredibly popular with the public too and will suit the role down to a tee. She was absolutely thrilled to have been offered the job.”
While the announcement marks a huge career high for Emma, it is also expected to completely transform her family life with husband Matt Willis.
The couple — who have been married for 17 years and share three children together — have become one of television’s most loved husband-and-wife duos in recent years after co-hosting Love Is Blind: UK and several emotional documentaries tackling addiction, therapy and modern life.
But sources say Matt is fully behind Emma’s huge solo move into the Strictly spotlight.
“Matt is delighted about her new job and is going to be there to support her through it,” the insider explained. “The schedule of Strictly is full-on and runs over many months, which means there will naturally be more time apart for Matt and Emma, but they’re strong enough to survive this.”
The source even hinted viewers may still see Matt involved in the glittering BBC show in some way, adding: “Strictly wants to try and involve Matt because they are a very likeable couple. He’s thrilled. It’s a huge money earner — the biggest show in the UK — so it’s celebrations all round.”
Emma and Matt have previously spoken openly about the struggles they faced during Matt’s addiction battles, revealing that therapy helped save their relationship.
Speaking previously, Matt admitted counselling “changed our relationship”, while Emma once said: “As we’ve got older and more mature and settled, we have realised that as long as we communicate, we can avoid sitting on resentments or creating the kind of environment that leads to getting divorced. I won’t allow that to happen to us — and I won’t let him do it either!”
Despite years of rumours surrounding the infamous “Strictly curse”, insiders insist the new role will only strengthen Emma and Matt’s marriage as they prepare to enter a completely new chapter of fame together.
