Strictly Come Dancing’s ambitious revamp has left viewers unconvinced, despite a modest rise in its peak audience
The launch show attracted 5.8 million at its highest point, but averaged 5.3 million overall, down slightly on 2025
Much of the criticism focused on the three-presenter format, with Emma Willis receiving praise while Josh Widdicombe faced a cooler reception
Fans also found the musical-chairs-style partner reveal needlessly complicated
Producers appear keen to attract younger viewers through influencers and online personalities, but the strategy risks alienating Strictly’s largely middle-aged audience
The live competition begins on Saturday.