Helen Skelton 'in talks' to present Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two
Helen reached the Strictly final last year
Last updated 17th Apr 2023
Strictly Come Dancing finalist Helen Skelton is said to be being considered for a presenting role on Strictly: It Takes Two. The 39-year-old Countryfile presenter made it to the Strictly final last year alongside professional dancer, Gorka Marquez.
As initially reported by the Mirror, Helen has apparently been in talks with BBC bosses about hosting the popular dancing show's spin-off series. These conversations were said to be initially about a temporary role filling in for Janette Manrara, who is expecting her first child in the summer with her dancer husband, Aljaž Škorjanec.
However, after Janette's co-host Rylan Clark announced his departure from the show, there may be a more permanent role up for grabs. An insider told the Mirror: "Not only is Helen a very experienced and popular presenter, she captured Strictly fans last year with her warmth and charisma.
"She was also a hit with the team, from the top bosses to the make-up teams, production and the crew. The pro dancers all know her and as a former contestant, she knows what the celebrities are going through. It seems like she could be the perfect fit for us."
Rylan announced his departure from the show last week after a four-year stint which saw him work alongside Janette Manrara and Zoe Ball. In a statement posted on social media, the 34-year-old said: 'After 4 fantastic years it's time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two.
'I've had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette and Zoe and I can't thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show. I've been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me. The time has come for me to pass on the baron to someone else and explore what else life has for me. Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart...and my dancing feet.'
Despite the rumours, the BBC are yet to confirm who will replace Rylan on the show.
Take a look at some of the stars who are rumoured to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2023:
Delta Goodrem
2026 is set to be a busy year for singer Delta Goodrem. As well as representing Australia at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, reports are rife Delta has very nearly signed up for Strictly later in the year. A source told the Daily Mail newspaper's Eden Confidential column: "It is all but a done deal. They've been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show."
Josie Gibson
As well as landing a brand new show with ITV/STV called How To Clean Up For Cash, former Big Brother star and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson is reportedly being lined-up for the 2026 series of Strictly.
A source told a national newspaper: "Josie has been on the BBC's radar for a while and they've not given up their pursuit. They're hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year's new-look show needs. Warm and engaging, she's just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans."
Stacey Solomon
Another well-known name on this year's rumoured list is Stacey Solomon! Stacey is no strange to working with the BBC, with her show Sort Your Life Out now onto its sixth series, as well as her reality show Stacey & Joe airing last year. With the mum-of-five being a fan favourite, bosses will be keen to get her signature.
Tom Parker Bowles
Food critic Tom Parker Bowles, also known as Queen Camilla's son, was reportedly top of the BBC's wish list for the 2025 series. However, after Tom didn't appear on the line-up, could we see him on the 2026 series?
Dani Dyer
Reality star Dani Dyer was set to take part in the 2025 series, but she was forced to pull out just days ahead of the first live show after fracturing her ankle in training.
Appearing as a guest on GK Barry's Saving Grace podcast on 30th April 2026, Dani admitted she would like to participate in the reality dance series this year.
GK Barry
GK Barry a.k.a Grace Keeling, a social media personality, podcaster and presenter who first blew up on TikTok with lifestyle videos during university. She is best known for hosting the podcast Saving Grace and for TV appearances including I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, Loose Women, Love Island: Aftersun, The Weakest Link and The Last Leg.
Speaking on her podcast, Saving Grace, on 30th April 2026, guest Dani Dyer asked whether Grace would ever take part in the competition. Grace didn't give a definitive answer but hinted it could be a possibility - prompting one commenter to speculate: 'So Grace is doing Strictly this year ;)'. (sic).
Now read:
Strictly Come Dancing 2023: All of the rumoured celebrities
Take our ultimate Strictly Come Dancing quiz 💃
Rylan Clark QUITS hosting role on Strictly: It Takes Two