Strictly host Josh Widdicombe is 'out of place' in divisive three presenter line-up, claims ex show pro

New Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdicombe has been described as a 'lamb to the slaughter' by a former Strictly pro in the wake of his debut on the BBC programme.

Comedian Josh, 43, joined co-stars Emma Willis, 50, and Johannes Radebe, 39, for the glitzy pre-recorded launch show on Saturday, with the new three presenter line-up proving divisive for fans watching.

And speaking amid the backlash particularly aimed at Josh's involvement, Brendan Cole revealed that while Josh is 'fun to watch', he looked rather 'out of place' when stood next to Emma and Johannes. 

Speaking to The Sun, Brendan, 50, who was professional on the show for 14 years before his departure in 2018, said: 'I feel a bit sorry for him because he’s a bit like a lamb to the slaughter. He looked like a little lamb at times but not because he wasn’t good at his job.

'He’s not a dancer, he’s a comedian. He is a good presenter and he’s fun to watch. But on a show like Strictly, especially when Johannes Radebe is quite flamboyant and stands there all regally like only he would, and then alongside Emma Willis, the ultimate professional, she’s very strong and has quite a strong presenting style.

'That is probably the reason he’s getting the critique, it’s because it felt a little bit out of place.'

Brendan went on to say that Josh should be given 'a chance' as people have only seen the launch show, adding that he'd 'hate' to be in the presenter's shoes. 

This year, the BBC opted to rip up the rulebook and abandon the show's tried and tested formula with a new lineup of presenters, unexpected celebrity contestants and a revamp to the partnering process. 

However, some viewers took umbrage with the new hosting trio, with bemused fans asking why 'three' hosts were needed to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. 

While Emma was lauded, many expressed that they'd rather see Johannes back on the dancefloor, and see no more of third host Josh. 

Following the show, viewers penned on X/Twitter: 'I can’t understand why we need 3 presenters???'; '3 hosts are different but I love emma willis so happy she’s part of this. Why does it need 3 presenters?..

'It just doesn't work', 'Is it way too early to say I’m not sold on these hosts and I want Tess and Claud back? #strictly.'

It comes as Josh spoke out about his debut on the show, after his first episode was widely-panned by critics. 

The comedian spoke to Rob Beckett on their Parenting Hell podcast about Saturday's show, during which they skirted around the criticism and thanked fans for their support yet failed to acknowledge his naysayers. 

Josh and Rob ignored the criticism, with Josh saying on Tuesday's episode, which was recorded the previous day: 'Thanks to everyone for being so kind. Did I enjoy doing it? I loved it. Emma and JoJo a joy, it’s so joyful. I was just having a good time.'

He revealed he had hosted a watch party with 20 of his friends, however his internet faltered so he 'could not hear a thing': 'We had loads of people round at home to watch the recorded show. I couldn’t hear a thing!'

Josh also commented on the stark contrast between doing stand-up shows, in which he is the focus of all attention, as he added: 'You don’t want to make too big a thing about it because it’s not about you...

'Strangely, I’m not a huge part of this. This is a show we are a bit of.'

Ever the good friend, Rob shared a post congratulating Josh after the show, writing on Instagram: 'I sat and watched Strictly last night with Lou and the girls last night...

'We absolutely loved it. Josh, Emma and JoJo brought so much joy and energy to the show. The biggest compliment I can give them is it just felt like a normal episode of Strictly. So relaxed and confident. I can't wait for the rest of the series...

'Feels like the start of something really special. I would obviously love to see more of Josh dancing. One of my new non negotiables is watching him dance...

'My favourite unexpected part of the show was when we all got to see Josh's massive Sunspel pants when he got lifted up. Roll on next week.'

He jumped to Josh's defence when a follower wrote: 'Oh dear, I don’t mean to be negative but I found the whole thing a bit too OTT...

'It was if everyone had been paid to smile, smile, smile and laugh and pretend to dance where they stood! All a bit too false for me. ‘We’re all SO excited’ …… !!! I hope it improves when we get to the actual dancing.' 

Referencing the heartbreaking movie Marley And Me, Rob replied: 'Sally. It's strictly. It's all OTT. Have you tried the film Marley and Me. Might be more your scene'