TV star Rylan Clark has revealed he was "in the race" to become the new host of Strictly Come Dancing.
The former X-Factor star-turned-TV presenter was one of the names rumoured to be in with a chance of replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman for the BBC dancing show.
However, it was confirmed today that Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe would be replacing the long-standing duo.
Rylan has since issued a statement following the news and wished the trio luck.
Rylan Clark reveals he did not get Strictly hosting job
The statement from Rylan said: "Just wanted to say as it was reported I was in 'the race' for Strictly, the biggest congrats to my Emma and equal congrats to Johannes and Josh.
"You're all going to have the best time.
"Made up for yous."
He went on to add: "This wasn't my time sadly but am extremely grateful to even have been considered.
"I'm taking the news really well (see next slide) but genuinely looking forward to the new series with you three x."
The next slide was the famous clip of the star getting emotional after being told he had made it through to the live shows on the X Factor.
There were many other names rumoured to be in for the Strictly job, including Alison Hammond and Bradley Walsh.
BBC radio presenter Zoe Ball was also among the favourites for the job, but confirmed before the announcement that she didn't get the gig.
She said on her podcast: "If it's who I think has got it, we're in safe hands and our new hosts are going to be fabulous."
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe confirmed as new Strictly hosts
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe were confirmed as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing today (May 19).
Presenters Willis and Widdicombe have both hosted TV and radio shows.
Willis is best known for her work on Channel 5’s Big Brother, The Voice UK, Love is Blind: UK, Cooking with the Stars and The Circle.
She said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
"It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long.
"I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.
"I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!"
Widdicombe is a popular comedian, presenter and actor, having appeared on shows such as The Last Leg, Fighting Talk and Mock the Week.
The comedian has featured on Strictly before in a previous special episode, scoring 36 with partner Karen Hauer.
He said: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television.
"I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them.
"I’ll dust off the penguin costume."
Johannes is one of the professional dancers on the show and was recently confirmed to be among the 15 returning for the new series.
It is unclear whether the star will still be dancing alongside his presenting role.
He said: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined.
"This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward.
"To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special.
"I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me. Love Jojo."
What do you think of the new hosting trio for Strictly? Let us know in the comments.
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