Strictly It Takes Two’s Ellie Taylor swipes back at false claim she ‘ruins TV shows’

The new host of Strictly It Takes Two has hit back at a fan’s claim that she ‘ruins TV shows’ and the BBC hasn’t ‘got a clue’.

Last week it was revealed that comedian Ellie Taylor will be taking over from Fleur East as the host of Strictly Come Dancing’s popular spin-off show.

The shake-up comes after Fleur, 38, and Janette Manrara, 42, were both axed as presenters.

However, following an appearance on BBC Radio 2 with Emma Willis, Ellie has clapped back at a social media user who said ‘she’s ruined every show she’s been on’.

Writing in the comments section, one social media user called flyboy1972 said: ‘Unsure of why they feel they need to completely overhaul the current format of the show. It’s a much loved and solid show with fans enjoying the dancers, presenters and format. All these changes may be one step too far.’

Responding beneath, @lizzibrodie said: ‘Because they haven’t got a clue. What’s the saying if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Emma, Josh and now this non funny person who has ruined every show she’s been on.

‘The pottery show, the baking show, wasn’t she on the sewing bee too? Is she married to a BBC higher up?’

Replying to the two comments, Ellie then said: ‘Haven’t done Sewing Bee yet but I’ll ask the hubs to put in a good word.’

Ellie’s appointment on It Takes Two comes after she appeared on Strictly in 2022 alongside pro dancer Johannes Radebe where she finished in seventh place.

Speaking about her new venture, Ellie said: ‘What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role. I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who’ve made Strictly: It Takes Two so loved over the years.

‘I can’t wait to immerse myself in all the gossip and sequins flying out of the ballroom in order to bring my fellow Strictly fans everything they need to know. I’m so excited, I could cha cha! (But I won’t – don’t worry… no one needs to see that again).’

After posting about her new job following weeks of rumours, her predecessor Fleur offered her support.

‘You will be amazing!! Congratulations 🙌❤️❤️’, wrote the former presenter.

Replying, Ellie said: ‘Thanks so much Fleur ❤️ if I can do it half as well as you, I’ll be absolutely buzzing. So much love xxx.’

Meanwhile, Zoe Ball – who hosted It Takes Two from 2011 to 2021 – also sent well-wishes, alongside the likes of Shirley Ballas, Rylan Clark, Angela Scanlon, Clara Amfo, and Dianne Buswell.

Zoe wrote: ‘Best job ever ENJOY Ellie 🪩💃🏻’, with Ellie responding, ‘Thanks so much Zoe! ❤️What an honour to follow in your footsteps!! I can’t wait!!’

Strictly Come Dancing and It Takes Two return in September on BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC iPlayer.