Overview
- BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips says the formal search for new hosts will begin in the New Year because production is focused on delivering the current series with two live shows each week.
- Phillips reports her inbox has been inundated with interest and emphasises that screen tests will prioritise chemistry over simply hiring a big name.
- Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will depart after the current run, and Phillips says they chose to announce early due to concerns the news might leak.
- The pair completed their final Blackpool Tower Ballroom show last weekend, sharing farewell photos as tabloids reported post-show celebrations.
- The series is expected to conclude on 20 December, with recruitment steps to follow the finale.