Strictly's Johannes on 'eye-opening' experience with Emma and Josh

Strictly's Johannes Radebe has revealed that working alongside new co-hosts Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe has been an "eye-opening" experience. The pro dancer, who joined the BBC's beloved show as one of its resident professionals back in 2018, was unveiled as part of the revamped hosting line-up, alongside Emma and Josh. The trio are stepping into the shoes of former Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, and all three are delighted to be fronting the new era for Strictly Come Dancing.

The hugely popular show is set to make its return this September, and alongside the fresh hosting team, viewers can also expect to see some new professionals, a host of familiar faces, and the show's four judges. Ahead of taking on his new role, Johannes appeared on Monday's (June 1) episode of Morning Live, where he opened up about his experience working with his new co-stars, reports The Mirror.

Speaking to hosts Gethin Jones and Holly Hamilton, Johannes said: "It's a trio of fabulous people and I think we all give the main character energy in our respective fields.

"If you've met Josh and Emma, they're just the most wonderful people. We should all look in September at what is going to happen as we are all in planning but it's exciting."

Prior to securing the role, Johannes was required to undergo several chemistry tests with his now co-stars, and he candidly admitted that initially he felt somewhat out of his depth — until Emma and Josh quickly put him at ease.

The professional dancer explained: "It was absolutely wonderful and eye-opening. As you can imagine I was like 'what am I doing here'. But I think it was seeing Emma and Josh and having to emulate the setup of how the show works."

He went on to say: "We stood in our respected spaces and we did our thing. The only thing I took away from that experience from that room was the laughter - there was a lot of laughter that happened in that room."

The star further revealed: "I think it was just so wonderful because as soon as we left we were like 'aw it would be lovely if it came true'. I thank Josh and Emma for making me feel comfortable as this is something that they can do.

"Emma was very generous and that is just what I'm taking from that because I was like 'wow I didn't know what I was doing here' but at the end of the day it was just lovely."

When Johannes' new role on the beloved Saturday night entertainment programme was first unveiled, 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."

Morning Live airs weekdays from 9.30am on BBC One and iPlayer.