Former Strictly Come Dancing sensation Oti Mabuse has opened up about her emotions regarding rumors of her potentially hosting the iconic show. This revelation comes after hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman unexpectedly announced their departure from the show midway through the last season, leaving two sought-after positions vacant.
Numerous names have been linked to taking over these roles, with ex-Strictly pro Oti being one of the frontrunners. Oti’s impressive track record includes winning the Glitterball trophy in consecutive years with Kelvin Fletcher and Bill Bailey, making her one of the only two professionals to achieve this feat. Despite her deep affection for Strictly, Oti remained non-committal about stepping into the presenting role.
In an interview with The Times, Oti expressed her gratitude for the show that propelled her career, acknowledging the talents of Tess and Claudia while getting sentimental about their contributions. She emphasized the dedication required for hosting such a live show and praised the producers for their expertise in selecting the right successors.
Oti, aged 35, affirmed that despite the upheaval caused by Tess and Claudia’s exits, Strictly is ultimately shaped by its audience and will persist in its success. Bookmakers have already listed potential replacements, including Fleur East, Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, and Hannah Waddingham.
Although Oti departed from Strictly in 2021 to explore new avenues, such as joining the judging panel for the Irish Dancing with the Stars, she expressed her inability to return to Strictly this year due to prior commitments. Her recent ventures include motherhood, appearances on The Masked Dancer, Dancing on Ice, and a stint on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman recently reunited at the launch of Tess’s activewear collection in a heartwarming display of friendship. Tess, in collaboration with NAIA Beach, showcased her new range, capturing joyful moments with Claudia, who is currently starring in The Traitors. Their reunion marked a touching moment following their farewell from Strictly.