Paddy McGuinness could be in line to take over from Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing, according to BBC insiders.
The veteran host, who previously fronted Top Gear and A Question of Sport, is reportedly being backed by one of the corporation’s most senior executives to step into the much-loved quiz segment with celebrity contestants.
A BBC Executive’s Bold Suggestion
Suzy Lamb, managing director of BBC Studios, is said to be the driving force behind the idea.
She previously worked with McGuinness on ITV’s Take Me Out and believes his playful style would translate seamlessly to the glittering dance floor.
In Take Me Out, McGuinness was known for his cheeky commentary and quick-fire quips, famously telling men trying to impress 30 women: “No likey, no lighty.”
Concerns Among Colleagues
Not everyone at the BBC is convinced. Several insiders have reportedly raised eyebrows at linking Strictly — often described as a “national treasure” — with a format that leaned heavily on innuendo and casual sexism.
“He hardly has the track record to be doing such a role,” one source said.
“Neither Top Gear nor A Question of Sport lasted under him, and Strictly deserves someone with more experience in this kind of format.”
McGuinness’s BBC Journey
McGuinness, 52, has had a rollercoaster career at the BBC.
Lamb was instrumental in landing him Top Gear shortly after joining the corporation in 2018, and he later took over A Question of Sport following Sue Barker’s departure.
However, ratings for the long-running sports quiz plummeted from eight million to just two million viewers, leading to its eventual cancellation after 53 years.
Personal Life and Public Interest
Off-screen, McGuinness’s life has also made headlines.
He split from his wife Christine in 2022 after 11 years of marriage, and his personal challenges have often been public fodder.
Fans and colleagues alike are now watching closely to see if he can reinvent himself on the nation’s favourite dance show.
Who Will Fill the Strictly Seats?
Claudia Winkleman, 53, and Tess Daly, 56, are set to leave Strictly at the end of the current series, leaving two high-profile hosting spots open.
Other names reportedly being considered include Alan Carr, Bradley Walsh, Holly Willoughby, and Hannah Waddingham, ensuring the BBC has a shortlist full of talent.
BBC Responds
A BBC Studios spokesperson has denied that any formal discussions about McGuinness taking over the role have taken place.
Despite the rumours, the corporation insists that no decisions have been made, keeping fans guessing about the future of the show.
What Comes Next
Whether McGuinness will dance into Strictly fame remains to be seen, but the speculation alone has reignited conversation about the future of the nation’s most glamorous Saturday night show.
Fans can expect official announcements once the BBC finalises its plans for the new presenting line-up.