Strictly fans are in absolute meltdown after the BBC dropped a glittering bombshell: beloved former pro Janette Manrara is stepping up to host the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 – and she’s bringing three of the show’s legendary judges along for the ride!

The announcement, made on January 26, 2026, confirms that Janette – the fiery, fan-favourite dancer turned presenter – will take centre stage as the lead host for the record-breaking 30-date arena tour, which kicks off in Birmingham on January 17 and runs through to Newcastle on March 1. Joining her on the judging panel will be none other than head judge Shirley Ballas, the ever-charming Anton Du Beke, and the razor-tongued Craig Revel Horwood – the full powerhouse trio that has defined Strictly’s judging table for years.

“This is Strictly like you’ve never seen it before!” the BBC teased in a dazzling promo video that has already racked up millions of views. “Janette Manrara hosts, the judges are back in their seats, and every single couple from the 2025 series is hitting the road. Get ready for the ultimate ballroom extravaganza!”

The news has sent shockwaves through the Strictly community. Janette, who dazzled audiences as a pro from 2013 to 2022 and later co-hosted It Takes Two with Zoe Ball, has long been a fan favourite for her infectious energy, sharp wit, and deep love of dance. Her appointment as tour host marks a triumphant return to the Strictly family after stepping away from the main show to focus on family life with husband Aljaž Škorjanec and their young daughter.

“I’m beyond excited to be hosting the Strictly Live Tour 2026!” Janette gushed in an emotional Instagram post. “This show changed my life, and now I get to celebrate it with all the incredible couples, the amazing judges, and you – the fans – in arenas across the UK. It’s going to be magical!”

The inclusion of Shirley, Anton, and Craig as the full judging panel is the cherry on top. Shirley Ballas, the “Queen of Latin” and head judge since 2017, brings her trademark blend of tough love and encouragement. Anton Du Beke, the longest-serving judge and national treasure, is known for his gentlemanly charm and hilarious one-liners. Craig Revel Horwood, the show’s resident “Mr Nasty,” promises to deliver his signature savage scores and cutting commentary – ensuring every performance gets the full Strictly treatment.

“Having the three of us on the panel means the tour will feel just like the TV show – but bigger, bolder, and live in front of thousands,” Shirley said in a statement. “We’re going to give honest feedback, celebrate the incredible talent, and have a lot of fun along the way!”

The tour’s format will mirror the TV series: each night features group dances, individual routines, and a live elimination-style vote from the audience to crown a nightly winner. With all 14 couples from the current series confirmed – including frontrunners like Tom Fletcher & Nadiya Bychkova, Sarah Hadland & Vito Coppola, Jamie Borthwick & Michelle Tsiakkas, and more – fans will get to see every story play out on the massive arena stage.

Highlights will include brand-new choreography created especially for the tour, dramatic lighting, pyrotechnics, and the iconic Strictly band performing live. The judges will score each dance out of 10, with Craig’s infamous “Darling!” and “It’s a DISASTER!” expected to ring out across arenas from Birmingham to Belfast.

Ticket frenzy is already underway. Pre-sale for BBC Strictly Club members opens January 28, with general sale on January 30. Prices start at £35, with premium VIP packages offering front-row seats, meet-and-greets with Janette and the pros, and exclusive backstage access. Early indications suggest sell-outs in major cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow within hours.

The decision to bring back the full judging panel and appoint Janette as host is seen as a masterstroke by Strictly bosses. After a turbulent year behind the scenes, the tour aims to deliver pure joy and escapism. “This is about celebration,” a BBC insider said. “Janette’s warmth, the judges’ chemistry, and every couple’s journey – it’s the perfect recipe for an unforgettable live experience.”

Fans have lost their minds online. X (formerly Twitter) is flooded with excitement: “Janette hosting with Shirley, Anton AND Craig? This is STRICTLY HEAVEN!” “All couples + full judges panel? Take my money NOW!” “Janette back where she belongs – the tour just got 10 times better!”

For Janette personally, the role is a dream come true. After welcoming her daughter in 2023 and stepping away from the intense demands of live TV, she has focused on family, her podcast The Janette & Aljaž Podcast, and occasional guest spots. Hosting the tour allows her to return to the Strictly family in a new capacity – one that lets her shine without the physical demands of competing.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” she shared. “To stand in that ballroom light again, but this time guiding the show, supporting the dancers, and sharing the magic with the audience – it’s everything.”

The judges, too, are buzzing. Anton joked: “I get to sit in my favourite chair, watch incredible dancing, and tell a few jokes – what’s not to love?” Craig added with his trademark flair: “Darlings, prepare for honesty, glamour, and a few tears – it’s going to be fabulous!”

As rehearsals ramp up in the coming weeks, the countdown to January 17 is on. From the opening night in Birmingham to the grand finale in Newcastle, Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 promises to be the biggest, brightest, and most inclusive celebration the show has ever staged.

Glitter, sequins, lifts, drama, and pure ballroom joy – with Janette at the helm and the iconic judges in place, this is Strictly at its absolute best.

Tickets are selling fast – don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!