Amanda Holden explained that she decided not to host Strictly Come Dancing, even though she was asked and would have worked with her friend Alan Carr.
As someone who keeps a close eye on the entertainment world, I’m really interested in who will take over from Tess and Claudia on Strictly. Honestly, I’m hoping the BBC gives a fresh face a chance – someone new or just starting to make a name for themselves. I think it’s important to keep the hosting role with a woman, considering how brilliantly Tess and Claudia have done over the years. It’s a fantastic platform, and I’d love to see a rising star shine!
Amanda, who also hosts Heart Breakfast, has said she’s ‘underwhelmed’ by the names rumored to be considered for the next James Bond role, including Bradley Walsh, Holly Willoughby, and Alison Hammond.
After their popular travel show, Amanda & Alan’s Greek Job on the BBC, Amanda and Alan were initially considered the top picks for a new primetime television role. However, Amanda has now revealed why she’s decided it’s not the right fit for her.
I’m already committed to another project, and I’ll continue enjoying Strictly as a viewer at home. But participating takes up too much time on weekends, and I need to prioritize my family – my children and husband, of course.
I’m really hoping they keep two women hosting. That’s what I’m most concerned about. They need someone hilarious, and someone a little unexpected.
Amanda thinks the highly sought-after role should be given to a new performer who has demonstrated dedication and deserves the chance to host a major Saturday night program.
It’s incredibly rewarding to take two people who are familiar but not close, and give them a chance to shine.
It feels like many dedicated people – especially women – in this field have worked incredibly hard and deserve recognition. When I see the same familiar names constantly highlighted, it just feels uninspired. They’re all talented, of course, but I wish people would consider some fresh perspectives.
‘It’s a really wonderful moment to put two strong women in a role on a Saturday night.’
Oh my gosh, Amanda was spot on! She said if she could choose, she’d have two hilarious women running Strictly, and I completely agree! She was thinking about Katherine Ryan, which, hello, brilliant comedian, and then she said Daisy May Cooper! Daisy! Can you imagine?! Both of them are seriously established and would be AMAZING. I’m already picturing it and it’s perfect!
Amanda also thought Alex Jones would be a great choice, as she believes he doesn’t get enough airtime.
I also think Alex Jones would be a great pick. She’s a skilled presenter on The One Show, with a subtle and witty sense of humor. I don’t think she gets enough screen time, but she’d be a fantastic addition to the team.
Let’s add some sparkle and think about what the hosts will wear! I really admire Zoe Ball as a presenter, and I think it would be great to give a comedian a shot – maybe scout talent at the Edinburgh Festival and offer them a hosting opportunity!
Amanda is back as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent for her 18th season. She was one of the original judges when the show began in 2007.
Despite rumors, she won’t be appearing on the next season of Celebrity Traitors alongside Claudia Winkleman because of a conflict with her current filming schedule. She’s fully dedicated to another project right now.
She explained that she’s been asked to participate, but she’s declining. She said the rule is you’re not supposed to confirm if you’ve been asked, but she’s making an exception because it would mean missing three shows of Britain’s Got Talent, and she can’t miss those Saturday night commitments.
I appreciate the invitation, but I can’t participate in the roundtable with the current schedule. Plus, I’d prefer not to stay at the airport hotel in Inverness.
The 55-year-old celebrity consistently makes headlines with her fashionable and sometimes daring outfits on the live broadcasts of Britain’s Got Talent.
Amanda promises to be more herself than ever this year, and fans can expect to see a lot more of her personal style.
I definitely remember what I wore to the auditions – that part is over – but I still haven’t figured out what I’m going to wear for the live shows.
I’m definitely planning a revealing look – expect some cleavage, visible leg, and anything else I can show off! My stylist is already amused by my choices.
Simon returns to judge the show, joined once again by Amanda and Alesha Dixon. This year, KSI is a new, permanent judge, taking over from Bruno Tonioli, who previously starred on Strictly Come Dancing.
Amanda shared that she and KSI have grown very close, becoming ‘probably the closest’ judges on the panel. She playfully noted their 23-year age gap makes her feel like his grandmother.
She complimented Simon on successfully keeping the show fresh and appealing to a wide range of viewers. She explained that staying current and embracing change are key to success in the entertainment industry, and it’s important to stay adaptable and not take things too seriously.
KSI and I got along really well on the panel – we have a close relationship, almost like I’m his grandmother!
He recently appeared on Heart Radio, but a lot of our conversation was saved for the show’s release. We spent about an hour chatting – we get along really well, and our teams enjoy working together and socializing. He’s a great teacher, but honestly, I still can’t figure out what he’s up to when I look at his social media!
It’s great having KSI on the show. After so many seasons, I’m thankful for my role as a judge, but it’s important to keep the show fresh and exciting. KSI’s huge online following introduces our show to a whole new audience.
Amanda noted that Simon has changed since his time on The X Factor, becoming more laid-back, funny, and supportive of the people competing on the show.
She said: ‘It’s always brilliant when you see Simon leaving the table and walk on stage.
It’s amazing how much he volunteers for, though he does face tough competition with KSI. KSI is incredibly eager to perform – he practically rushes onto the stage!
Simon is unusually cheerful and easygoing these days, and he’s quick to forgive others.
It’s a bit dull to talk about, but becoming a dad to Eric has really changed him. He’s become more easygoing and doesn’t take himself so seriously anymore – he even jokes about being late.
Amanda, looking back on Simon’s impressive career, said he’s been so consistently successful and well-known in the industry for so long that he’s earned the right to take things a bit easier.
He’s incredibly driven and always pushing forward, but he’s also become more relaxed because he consistently stays ahead of the competition. He’s open to new ideas and eager to be part of what’s next – like when he decided to sign KSI. This ability to anticipate trends and innovate is the key to his continued success.
Last year, Simon shared details about his life, both personally and professionally, in the Netflix documentary series The Next Act. The show followed his journey to find his next successful project, which ultimately led to the creation of the boyband December 10.
As a lifestyle expert, I’m watching this new group with a lot of excitement! Their manager, a real pro at launching stars, is aiming to take them to the same global level of success he achieved with One Direction. And they’re already off to a fantastic start – they’ve just signed a major record deal with EMI, which is huge! It really feels like they have what it takes to become the next big thing.
After the release of their second song, “Run My Way,” Amanda complimented Simon’s foresight, saying he’s always thinking several steps ahead – especially when it comes to achieving chart success in the UK.
According to her, Simon is a master at changing and innovating. The music industry is very different now compared to the time of The X Factor. Building a successful music career now takes more time and effort, as artists need to establish a strong base in today’s streaming-focused world.
Simon is a forward-thinker with a relentlessly positive outlook on life, which is truly admirable.
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2026-02-19 23:24