The first live episode of the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing attracted a peak audience of five million viewers and averaged 4.8 million on BBC One, making it the most-watched programme on television that night. The show marked the debut of new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, who took over from longtime presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The episode featured a redesigned stage layout and new elements on the balcony, signaling a fresh approach to the popular dance competition. Social media influencer John Nellis and his professional dance partner Katya Jones impressed the judges with their foxtrot performance, earning the highest score of 31 points. The judges—Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Craig Revel Horwood—praised their performance for its energy and precision. Meanwhile, three couples received the lowest score of 15 points, tying at the bottom of the leaderboard. These included actress Melanie Walters, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, and Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey. Unlike previous episodes, the opening live show did not include a public vote or any eliminations. This allowed all contestants to remain in the competition for the time being. The next episode, scheduled for next week, will focus on "Movie Week," with all participants returning to perform on BBC One. This format change has sparked discussions among fans about how the competition will progress in the coming weeks. Strictly Come Dancing has long been a staple of British television, combining dance, entertainment, and celebrity culture. The show's ability to adapt its format while maintaining its core appeal has kept it relevant for over a decade. As the 2026 series unfolds, viewers will be watching closely to see how the new hosts and revised structure influence the competition's direction.