Strictly finalist Helen Skelton in talks with BBC bosses to present It Takes Two

15 April 2023 , 20:00

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Helen Skelton captured Strictly fans last year (Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston)

Strictly star Helen Skelton is being lined up to shimmy into a ­presenting role on It Takes Two.

The Countryfile regular, 39, who made it to the final with Gorka Marquez last year, has held talks with BBC bosses about hosting its spin-off series.

It is understood the conversations originally centred on a temporary role filling in for Janette Manrara – who is expecting her first child in the summer with dance pro hubby Aljaž Škorjanec.

But since Janette’s co-host Rylan Clark, 34, announced he was hanging up his sparkly shoes, there might be a more permanent role – and sources say bosses reckon bubbly Helen can fill those shoes.

Helen Skelton at the 2022 Pride of Britain Awards (Daily Mirror)

Helen cha-chas with pro dancer Gorka Marquez (BBC/Guy Levy)

One said: “Not only is Helen a very experienced and popular presenter, she captured Strictly fans last year with her warmth and charisma. She was also a hit with the team, from the top bosses to the make-up teams, production and the crew. The pro dancers all know her and as a former contestant, she knows what the celebrities are going through. It seems like she could be a perfect fit for us.”

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Helen, who found fame on Blue Peter in 2008, has hosted Countryfile since 2014 and is currently in C5’s On the Farm.

The mum of three was rocked last year when her marriage to Richie Myler ended.

The rugby star, 32, has since begun a relationship with Stephanie Thirkill, who had their first child earlier this year.

Mum-to-be Janette with Rylan (BBC/Ray Burmiston)

Helen is said to be in talks with BBC chiefs to present It Takes Two (Getty Images)

We revealed last month Helen had grown close to dancer Vito Coppola, 30.

Meanwhile, Rylan stood down this week after hosting the BBC2 show for four years – sparking speculation he will front the upcoming Big Brother revival.

The former X Factor star fronted the series with DJ Zoe Ball, 52, before former pro dancer Janette, 39, took over from her.

The BBC declined to comment. Helen was contacted for comment.

Laura Armstrong