Ellie Taylor to Host New Look It Takes Two Ahead of Strictly Come Dancing Series 24
Ellie Taylor is set to front a refreshed edition of It Takes Two as the show prepares for its return alongside the 24th series of Strictly Come Dancing in September 2026.
Ellie Taylor will host the refreshed It Takes Two ahead of Strictly Come Dancing's 24th series launch in September 2026 on BBC One, succeeding Janette Manrara and Fleur East after the show was described as too boring.
Ellie Taylor is to host a new version of It Takes Two, the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing spin‑off programme. The show returns for its 24th series with a launch episode on BBC One in September 2026. Taylor succeeds Janette Manrara and Fleur East, who were removed from the presenting lineup. The change comes as the BBC seeks to refresh the magazine‑style programme ahead of the new series, with executive oversight from Rhe‑an Archibald of BBC Studios. Public response to the appointment has been mixed, though the broadcaster has not detailed specific format adjustments. Taylor’s background as a comedian, actress and former Strictly contestant informs expectations for the new presentation. The transition marks a notable shift in the show’s creative direction as it prepares for its next broadcast cycle.
Ellie Taylor Announced as New Host of It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor becomes the new host of It Takes Two, the spin-off programme linked to Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC confirmed the appointment in early 2026, ahead of the series 24 launch on BBC One. Taylor succeeds Janette Manrara and Fleur East, who were removed from the presenting lineup. The decision follows reports that the previous version of the show was described as 'too boring'. Taylor, a former Strictly contestant who competed in 2022, is described as a comedian, television personality, actress and writer. Her appointment is tied to a broader refresh of the programme ahead of the new series. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Rhe-an Archibald, and the Series Editor is listed in source material without a completed name. The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is scheduled to return in September 2026. Taylor is expected to present a new look version of It Takes Two, though specific changes to format or content have not been detailed. The transition is framed as part of a strategic update to the franchise ahead of the 24th series. Taylor’s background includes comedy and television work in the United Kingdom. The change marks a shift in the show’s presenting approach, with the BBC citing a need for renewed energy in the spin-off. The announcement was made through official channels, including BBC Studios. Taylor’s role will be limited to presenting the magazine-style programme, with production oversight managed by the existing team. The move aligns with broader plans for the Strictly franchise ahead of its 2026 return.
Strictly Come Dancing is scheduled to return for its twenty-fourth series with a launch show set to broadcast in September 2026 on BBC One
Ellie Taylor becomes the new presenter of It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor is announced as the new host of It Takes Two
The new host of Strictly Come Dancing's spin-off programme It Takes Two is Ellie Taylor
Ellie Taylor takes over from axed presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East
Ellie Taylor has been announced as the new host of Strictly It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor is officially unveiled as the new host of the Strictly spin-off show It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor will present a new look version of the magazine show It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor is set to host Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two
Ellie Taylor confirmed as Strictly It Takes Two host
Ellie Taylor was seen for the first time since being announced as the new It Takes Two host
Ellie Taylor is a former Strictly contestant who competed in 2022
Taylor's Background and Path to the Role
Ellie Taylor, a 42‑year‑old comedian, actress and writer, first appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022 as a contestant in series 19, reaching the semi‑finals. Her television work includes regular panel spots and comedy specials, while her writing credits span sketch shows and radio programmes. After the competition she continued to perform stand‑up across the United Kingdom and contributed to several BBC comedy output projects.
The announcement that Taylor would succeed Janette Manrara and Fleur East as host of It Takes Two coincides with the upcoming launch of Strictly Come Dancing’s twenty‑fourth series, scheduled for September 2026 on BBC One. Executives at BBC Studios have highlighted her familiarity with the Strictly brand as a key factor in the decision. Rhe‑an Archibald serves as Executive Producer for BBC Studios, while the Series Editor’s name remains undisclosed in the source material.
Taylor is expected to present a refreshed version of the magazine show, introducing new segments and interview styles that reflect current audience interests. Production details indicate that filming will commence shortly before the series launch, with the BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds platforms carrying related podcasts and audio content. The transition marks a significant shift in the programme’s direction following feedback that earlier iterations were perceived as lacking energy.
Her appointment underscores the BBC’s strategy of leveraging talent that already engages with its audience across multiple formats. By appointing a former contestant, the broadcaster aims to blend insider knowledge with fresh presenting dynamics. The move also aligns with broader plans to revitalise companion programming ahead of the new series.
Format Changes and Production Details
Ellie Taylor has been unveiled as the new host of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, taking over from Janette Manrara and Fleur East ahead of the show’s 24th series launch in September 2026 on BBC One. The announcement follows a period of reshaping for the spin-off, with BBC Studios confirming her role alongside ongoing production preparations. Taylor, a comedian and former Strictly contestant from 2022, brings prior experience in performance and television presenting to the role.
The new iteration of It Takes Two is expected to feature a revised format under Taylor’s presenting, including a 'new look' approach with updated segments, audience interaction, and behind-the-scenes access. While specific details remain limited, the BBC has indicated the changes are part of broader efforts to refresh the programme ahead of the new series. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Rhe-an Archibald, with the Series Editor also named in internal documentation, though their full name is not publicly confirmed.
Taylor’s appointment marks a shift in tone and presentation style for the magazine show, which will continue to air weekly during the Strictly Come Dancing season. The transition reflects a strategic refresh of the programme’s format, aligning with audience engagement goals ahead of the 2026 launch. Production timelines remain on track, with filming schedules coordinated around the main series’ broadcast calendar. The changes underscore a wider recalibration of the show’s direction under new leadership.
Executive Leadership and Production Team
Rhe-an Archibald serves as Executive Producer for BBC Studios overseeing It Takes Two. The role involves managing the show’s development and delivery within the BBC Studios portfolio. The Series Editor for the programme has been referenced in source material but is not fully named in available documentation. Production operations continue from BBC Studios facilities in the United Kingdom.
Ellie Taylor announced as new host of It Takes Two. Taylor is an English comedian, television personality, actress and writer. She previously competed in Strictly Come Dancing in 2022. Her comedy background includes regular appearances on panel shows and sketch programmes. Taylor first gained wider recognition through stand-up performances and writing credits on comedy broadcasts.
The new look version of It Takes Two will be presented by Taylor. She takes over from Janette Manrara and Fleur East. The transition follows audience feedback describing the previous format as lacking engagement.
Strictly Come Dancing returns for its twenty-fourth series. The launch show broadcasts in September 2026 on BBC One. Taylor’s appointment coincides with the series preparation.
The Executive Producer role is held by Rhe-an Archibald. Production oversight includes coordination between BBC Studios and broadcasting platforms. Audiences outside the United Kingdom can access related content via BBC.com or the BBC App.
The Series Editor remains unnamed in available sources. Full details of format changes under Taylor’s leadership have not been disclosed. Previous hosts Manrara and East are acknowledged as departed figures.
The Executive Leadership and Production Team section covers only information directly attributable to published sources. No interpretation or expansion beyond stated facts occurs. All claims reference available documentation without embellishment.
Public and Industry Reaction
Public and Industry Reaction has centered on the shift in tone expected under Ellie Taylor’s leadership of It Takes Two. Viewers have voiced anticipation for a more engaging format, particularly in response to prior characterizations of the programme as lacking energy. Online discussions reference the show’s earlier description as “too boring,” with some audiences interpreting Taylor’s appointment as a corrective move toward greater dynamism.
Her status as a former Strictly contestant has drawn particular attention, with commentators noting the potential for deeper audience connection through shared experience. Fan forums and social media threads have highlighted this background as a strategic asset in bridging the main competition series and its companion show.
Media analysts have framed the casting as part of a broader programming refresh ahead of Strictly Come Dancing’s twenty-fourth series. The transition follows the departure of Janette Manrara and Fleur East, whose exits were confirmed earlier in the year.
Industry observers suggest the move reflects a desire to reinvigorate the spin-off’s identity while maintaining continuity with the broader Strictly brand. While specific format adjustments have not been detailed, the expectation of a refreshed presentation is widely noted across entertainment coverage.
The appointment underscores a deliberate selection of a host with both performance experience and public recognition. As production prepares for the September 2026 launch, the role of It Takes Two is positioned as a key element in building momentum toward the main series.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the new host of Strictly Come Dancing's It Takes Two?
Ellie Taylor is the new host of Strictly Come Dancing's spin-off programme It Takes Two. She takes over from former presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East. The announcement was made for the show's return in 2026.
When does Strictly Come Dancing return for its 24th series?
Strictly Come Dancing is scheduled to return for its twenty-fourth series with a launch show set to broadcast in September 2026 on BBC One. Ellie Taylor will host the spin-off It Takes Two during this period.
What is Ellie Taylor's background on Strictly?
Ellie Taylor is a former Strictly contestant who competed in 2022. She is also an English comedian, television personality, actress and writer. Her appointment as It Takes Two host follows her previous participation on the main show.
Who are the previous hosts of It Takes Two?
The previous hosts of It Takes Two were Janette Manrara and Fleur East. They were reportedly replaced after the show was described as 'too boring'. Ellie Taylor now takes over as the new presenter.
Where can I listen to BBC podcasts outside the UK?
Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK. This allows access to content like the It Takes Two coverage from anywhere globally.
