Strictly It Takes Two returns with Ellie Taylor at the helm in major format shake-up

Strictly It Takes Two is back tonight with a refreshed format and a brand-new presenter, as comedian and broadcaster Ellie Taylor takes over hosting duties.

The BBC Two companion show returns at 6.30pm, with Taylor stepping into the role as the programme follows the latest developments from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing competition.

The new-look series promises a mixture of celebrity interviews, backstage gossip, expert analysis and the latest headlines, with Taylor set to keep viewers up to date with the celebrities and their professional dance partners throughout the series.

Speaking about joining the Strictly family, Taylor said: “I am so thrilled to be back in the Strictly universe in a way that means I don’t have to remember any choreography! All the glamour and gossip but with none of the blisters! It’s a dream come true”.

The presenter will also oversee a number of changes to the format, with the show introducing new features alongside some familiar favourites.

Explaining what viewers can expect, Taylor said: **”There’ll be a great mix of old and new features. We’ll have groups of celebs on without their Pro partners, and vice versa, which will hopefully show the audience a whole new side to their Strictly experience – plus the amazing camaraderie between them all.

We’ll have a Monday Panel made up of previous contestants and Pros who can talk with real experience of what our 2026 cast are experiencing. Oh, and me! I’m new too!”**

One of the biggest additions will be the Monday Panel, bringing together former Strictly contestants and professional dancers to discuss the latest series from the perspective of people who have experienced the competition themselves.

Taylor’s arrival comes as the BBC looks to give the long-running companion programme a fresh identity and attract viewers to the show following a difficult start to the new Strictly Come Dancing series.

The broadcaster will be hoping the revamped It Takes Two can capture the enthusiasm of the show’s loyal fanbase, following a drop in ratings for the main programme.

In an unusual result for the format, the first live show of the current series attracted fewer viewers than the launch episode, with the new presenting line-up of Emma, Josh and Johannes facing a mixed reception from viewers.

The return of Strictly It Takes Two therefore gives the BBC another opportunity to bring fans closer to the contestants, professional dancers and behind-the-scenes action as the competition continues.

With Taylor promising a combination of familiar elements and new features, the revamped show will offer viewers a different perspective on the celebrities’ journeys as they prepare to take to the dancefloor each weekend.

Where to watch Strictly It Takes Two

Strictly It Takes Two returns tonight at 6.30pm on BBC Two, with episodes also available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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