The host, who was confirmed by the BBC on Tuesday, has revealed she tried ‘many times’ to take part in the dancing competition.
In an unearthed video from February, Emma said: “I am a huge strictly fan,
“I’ve wanted to do the show multiple times and I’ve never been able to do it. So, I’m a fan.”
While talking to BBC Midlands, she also confirmed at the time that she hadn’t yet been offered the gig.
“If you google ‘Strictly’ there’s not a presenter in the country that you won’t find connected to being the new presenter in the last few months,” she said.
“I am just one of many that are rumoured. I absolutely do not have that job. I don’t have that job, I have not been offered it, no.”
However, foreshadowing her appointment, Emma did add: “I don’t think there’s anybody in the country that would say no to it.”
Emma is fronting the competition alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe later this year.
The Sun had already revealed the trio were in line for the top gig, starting with Emma, but the news was confirmed on Strictly’s official Instagram page this week.
Alongside a video of the trio, the caption read: “It’s official….September 2026.”
Johannes has been a pro dancer on Strictly since 2018, with The Sun first revealing he would be switching roles on the show last week.
Speaking about her new role, Emma, 50, said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
“It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long.
“I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.
“I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”
