Wednesday, September 16, 2026 - Josh Widdicombe has reportedly been dealing with “stomach problems” after what proved to be an exhausting start to the new Strictly Come Dancing season.
The comedian and new presenter is part of the programme’s revamped hosting team alongside Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe, with the trio preparing to take over as the BBC show enters a new era.
The launch recording was reportedly a demanding affair, lasting from around 9am until 11pm and involving repeated takes as the new presenters adjusted to their roles.
Audience members were also reported to have left before the end of the lengthy recording, highlighting just how intense the day became. Widdicombe’s reported stomach issues now add another talking point just days before the series officially reaches BBC One.
Despite the difficult start, attention is now firmly turning to the first live shows and how the new presenting trio will settle into their roles.
The 2026 series is scheduled to launch on BBC One on September 19, with the fresh format already generating significant interest among Strictly viewers. For Widdicombe, the immediate priority will be recovering from the gruelling launch while getting ready for the demanding weeks ahead.
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