The Strictly Come Dancing world has been thrown into chaos — and now, former pro dancer Kevin Clifton has spoken out for the first time about explosive rumours suggesting that he and his partner Stacey Dooley could be lined up to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as the BBC show’s new hosts.

The beloved presenting duo announced their emotional departure last week after 11 glittering years together, leaving fans heartbroken — and sparking wild speculation about who could possibly fill their sequinned shoes.Now, Kevin — who famously met Stacey on Strictly back in 2018 when they waltzed their way to victory and into each other’s hearts — has finally addressed the whispers… and his reaction has only added fuel to the fire. 🔥

💥 “It’s the End of an Era”

Appearing live on Good Morning Britain, Kevin joked with hosts Ed Balls and Charlotte Hawkins about the surprise exit of Tess and Claudia, teasing:

“It’s the end of an era for them… and maybe the start of the Ed and Charlotte era, isn’t it?”

But when Charlotte pressed him directly — asking what he thought about him and Stacey being tipped for the job — Kevin couldn’t hide his amusement.

“Well, so I hear, yeah — someone told me that,” he said with a grin.

When Ed declared the couple would make “the dream team,” Kevin laughed:

“I don’t know about that! Stacey would be amazing, though. We’ve had no conversations about anything like that — but she’d be perfect.”

His words immediately sent fans into meltdown, with many taking to X (formerly Twitter) to declare that Stacey would be a “natural fit” for the role.

“Stacey has charm, warmth and humour — everything Tess and Claudia brought. She’d be perfect,” one viewer wrote.

💃 From Glitterball to Family Life

Kevin and Stacey’s story began under the Strictly spotlight. In 2018, the BBC paired the fiery redhead journalist with the fan-favourite professional dancer — and together, they danced their way to the Glitterball Trophy, and soon after, into a real-life romance.

Today, the couple share a two-year-old daughter, Minnie, and are currently balancing parenthood with their busy careers.

Kevin revealed that life after Strictly is “beautiful chaos”:

“We’re both performing in the West End show 2:22 A Ghost Story. One week Stacey’s on stage, the next it’s me — and the grandmas take turns looking after Minnie,” he laughed.

Their teamwork and chemistry off-screen have only strengthened speculation that the BBC might be eyeing them as Strictly’s next iconic duo.

“They’re the only couple who could take over seamlessly,” one fan commented. “It’s full circle — from contestants to hosts!”

🎤 “We’re Just Fans Now”

While Kevin didn’t confirm any talks with BBC bosses, he admitted he still holds a deep affection for the show that changed his life.

“I don’t miss the workload, but I still love it,” he confessed. “Now me and Stacey watch it like everyone else — we’re obsessed! We’ve become super fans.”

He even joked that they now critique the routines from their sofa, “like a pair of retired judges with snacks.”

It’s clear that Strictly remains in their blood — and that only fuels rumours that producers could be preparing a homecoming twist.

🌟 The End of an Era for Tess & Claudia

The announcement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departure last week marked the end of one of television’s most beloved partnerships.

After over a decade of Saturday night sparkle, the duo revealed they would bow out following this year’s Strictly Christmas Special on December 25.

“After 11 years of laughter, glitter and glorious memories, it’s time to pass the baton,” Tess said in a tearful statement.

Claudia added:

“Strictly has been my family for over a decade — I’ll miss every single person, but it feels like the right moment to dance off.”

Fans flooded social media with emotional tributes, calling them “the heart and soul of the ballroom.”

But while viewers mourn the loss of the iconic pairing, BBC insiders are already buzzing about what’s next.

👀 Who Could Take the Sparkly Baton Next?

A BBC source told The Sun:

“Stacey Dooley’s name is absolutely on the table. She’s warm, witty, confident and has the Strictly sparkle. Kevin would bring the insider perspective the audience loves. They’d be gold together.”

Other names reportedly in the mix include Rylan Clark, Claudia Jessie, and AJ Odudu — but none have the same sentimental connection to the show as Stacey and Kevin.

Entertainment analyst Lisa Harper told HELLO! magazine:

“If the BBC wants continuity and chemistry, Stacey and Kevin are the obvious choice. They’ve lived the Strictly experience from every angle — as contestants, as champions, and now as fans.”

💖 From Dance Floor to Destiny?

Whether or not the rumours come true, there’s no denying that Kevin and Stacey’s love story feels written in glitter.

From their first dance to parenthood and now whispers of a television comeback, their journey continues to captivate fans who’ve followed every step.

As one viewer posted:

“It all started with a cha-cha… and now it might end with a microphone. Full circle.”

For now, Kevin insists there have been “no official talks” — but his knowing smile tells fans everything they need to know. 😉

Could Stacey Dooley really take over the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom next year?
Only time — and a little sparkle — will tell. ✨