Josh Widdicombe posts on social media about his Strictly role more than two weeks after his live debut as one of three new presenters. The announcement follows criticism and speculation online about the change to the show’s presenting line-up.
Both outlets link the attention to the transition replacing former hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. They also note that Widdicombe has been relatively quiet online during the period after his debut, with only limited reactions appearing publicly. The Mirror frames the overall situation as controversial surrounding his appointment, while the Manchester Evening News focuses on his delayed, brief social media response and the fact that his earlier online stance has been scrutinized by viewers.
Together, the reports indicate the controversy centers on public reception and online commentary rather than any specific on-air incident during the early episodes. They present Widdicombe’s social media message as an attempt to address the situation, while acknowledging that his posting remains minimal compared with the attention it draws.
