George Clarke backs social media stars to host Strictly Come Dancing
Strictly Come Dancing finalist and TikTok star George Clarke believes that the BBC could "ruffle feathers" by getting social media personalities to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as hosts of the show.
George Clarke believes that a "content creator" could host Strictly Come Dancing.
The 26-year-old social media star reached the final of the BBC Latin and Ballroom competition and thinks that the corporation could "ruffle feathers" by turning to the internet personalities to take over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as presenters.
George told The Sun newspaper's TVBiz column: "A content creator could take that job. I think it will ruffle feathers, but if it's the right person, it's the right person.
"When Strictly started, Tess and Claudia weren't the huge stars they are now.
"You want someone to come in and make it their own, you don't want anyone to emulate them, and we've got presenters coming from TikTok now. It would be exciting and it will add a new lease of life to the show."
George is one of a number of internet personalities to break into mainstream TV – with YouTuber KSI now a judge on Britain's Got Talent and streamer Angry Ginge winning I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! last year – and thinks that 2026 will see more content creators becoming regulars on the small screen.
He said: "It took a while for people like me and Ginge to get on TV. We're over the moon and excited for what happens next.
"The younger generation is growing up. It's so much more accessible to jump onto YouTube or TikTok or Twitch, whatever it is.
"Online platforms are a springboard for people to find their place and it makes sense for TV to tap into that demographic."
The TikTok star reached the Strictly final last year with his professional partner Alexis Warr but revealed that he was a nervous wreck when he first signed up for the BBC show.
He penned on Instagram after December's semi-final: "Honestly, last night was hands down the most fun we've had this whole competition. The general theme for us throughout has been to let go and I think it's safe to say we did! In the launch show it looked uncomfortable to simply stand on some steps and clap, 12 weeks later and we're devoting a twerk solo to Craig (Revel Horwood)."
He signed off the post: "I'm not a performer, never mind a dancer, but I think nights like last night make me believe that maybe changing, fingers crossed that we get one final week to prove it! Love you all, Team Warrkey."
