Rylan Clark is stepping down as a presenter on Strictly Come Dancing spin-off It Takes Two, the BBC has announced. The TV and Radio star has co-hosted the BBC Two tea-time show since 2019, with a few of those years alongside former Strictly professional dancer Janette Manrara.
Kate Phillips, director of BBC Unscripted, said in a statement on Wednesday (April 12): "On behalf of BBC Two, BBC Daytime, and Strictly fans everywhere, I want to thank Rylan for entertaining audiences so brilliantly for the past four years on Strictly It Takes Two. Rylan’s infectious personality, his stand-out sass and his genuine love for all the glitz and glamour of the ballroom, has been a big part of It Takes Two’s continued success.
"Rylan will always be part of the Strictly family of course, but I know he‘ll be hugely missed by all the Strictly It Takes Two viewers, Janette and everyone else who works on the show."
The broadcaster said it would announce a replacement in due course. Meanwhile, Rylan has shared a moving statement as he said the BBC One dance contest will 'always have my heart."
The 34-year-old shared how the time has come for him to “pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me”, as it was announced he has quit the show.
In a statement on social media, Rylan wrote: "After 4 fantastic years it’s time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two. I’ve had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette and Zoe and I can’t thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show.
"I’ve been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me. The time has come for me to pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart… and dancing feet."
Strictly 2022 contestant Richie Anderson was among the first to respond to the announcement on Instagram, writing: "Rylan you’re a legend! Loved coming to see you on ITT always made it so fun." Rylan's 'TV mum' Ruth Langsford also said: "Won’t be the same without you."
TV presenter AJ Odudu commented: "Take a bow darling, you've been fabulous." Former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison posted: "You'll be missed petal." Steps singer Faye Tozer typed: "Noooo! Well those 4 years flew!! Love you @rylan (hope to see you on the dance floor!)."
@alisonmcpherson01 said: "You will be missed on ITT. Good luck in your new adventures." @carcs_1984 commented: "We'll miss you but no doubt you'll go onto other successes you're amazing." @catherinexeleanor replied: "Such a shame! I LOVED you as the host - you bought so much to this show. Thank-you for brightening up our winter evenings!"
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