Alison Hammond has fuelled speculation that she may be stepping into the iconic hosting roles left behind by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing, after she addressed the rumours head-on during an appearance on Loose Women. The This Morning presenter, who has long been a favourite among viewers for her warmth, humour, and chaotic charm, did little to quiet the conversation surrounding the show’s next chapter — in fact, she seemed to amplify it.

During her interview, Alison openly admitted that taking over as host on Strictly would be a “dream job,” making it clear she would absolutely be interested in standing under the glittering lights of the ballroom once again. At one point, she playfully leaned into the speculation by looking straight into the camera and joking, “Let’s announce it now, I am the new host of Strictly Come Dancing!” The studio immediately erupted into laughter and applause as she added, “The BBC don’t even know it yet,” leaning fully into the humorous moment while simultaneously making her ambitions unmistakably clear.

She went on to reflect on Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s decision to step down, acknowledging the enormous legacy they leave behind after more than a decade co-hosting one of Britain’s most beloved TV programmes. “Whoever gets that job – what an amazing job to get,” Alison said sincerely. Then, with her signature comedic timing, she added, “It is the dream job – I’d absolutely do it.”

But Alison didn’t stop there. Still joking yet seemingly hinting at her genuine interest, she remarked, “Let’s be honest, they’d be silly not to have me. Anybody who does that job, I wish them the best, but you’ll always be thinking, ‘If it’s not me, it should be Alison,’ so they might as well just give it me.” The blend of humour and confidence resonated strongly with viewers who have been vocal on social media about wanting to see her take on the role.

Her history with the show adds to the intrigue. Alison competed on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2014, partnered with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec. She was the sixth celebrity to be eliminated, but her sense of fun made her a memorable contestant. Her experience on the show, her popularity with audiences, and her strong rapport with fellow presenters all make her a compelling candidate in the eyes of viewers and bookmakers alike.

Meanwhile, attention remains fixed on Tess and Claudia’s emotional departure after 11 years at the helm. Ahead of the announcement of their replacements, it was revealed by The Sun that the pair will be dancing together for the very first time on their final episode. This farewell performance, prepared alongside the show’s professional dancers, will feature in the upcoming Christmas special.

A TV insider described the decision as a heartfelt tribute to their time on the series. “Both hosts are the first to admit they’re not natural movers, certainly not compared to the pros they’re surrounded by every week,” the insider shared. “But they know this is a special occasion, and this special routine is as much an opportunity for everyone on the show to say goodbye to Tess and Claudia as it is for the viewers at home. What better way to bid farewell to Britain’s biggest dance show than with a good dance?”

After more than a decade of laughter, emotional backstage moments, dramatic live shows, and countless sequins, the partnership between Tess and Claudia has become iconic in British television. Their chemistry, friendship, and very different presenting styles have created a balance cherished by fans. Replacing them will not be easy — something Alison acknowledged even as she expressed excitement at the idea of stepping into the role.

Her comments on Loose Women came as part of a wider conversation about her busy year and recent experience appearing on I’m A Celebrity. Viewers have seen Alison bring her trademark unfiltered humour to every project she touches, and many believe that energy would translate seamlessly to the Strictly ballroom, bringing a fresh dynamic while still honouring the show’s classic format.

Speculation has continued to grow online, with fans debating who could possibly fill the void left by Tess and Claudia. Besides Alison, other names such as Rylan Clark and Alex Scott have also circulated in rumours, prompting lively discussion among Strictly loyalists. Still, Alison’s bold remarks have placed her squarely at the centre of attention.

For now, no official announcements have been made by the BBC. The network has remained fully focused on giving Tess and Claudia their well-deserved send-off, while fans await confirmation about what the next era of Strictly Come Dancing will look like. In the meantime, Alison’s cheeky declaration — “I am the new host of Strictly Come Dancing!” — has only added fuel to an already burning fire.

Whether she was simply having fun with the rumours or subtly signalling interest in taking over one of the most coveted roles in British entertainment, one thing is clear: Alison Hammond has captured the audience’s imagination. And until the BBC confirms otherwise, many viewers will continue to hope that she may one day step back into the ballroom — not as a contestant this time, but as the face of the show’s next chapter.