Could Maura Higgins be swapping the Love Island villa for the Strictly ballroom?
The Irish TV star has emerged as one of the names tipped to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as host of the beloved BBC competition show.
Fans are still reeling after Tess and Claudia shocked viewers by announcing they’ll step down at the end of the current series, marking the end of their 21-year reign.
But according to bookies, Maura could be among the frontrunners to take up the sparkly baton.
Ladbrokes currently has the Longford native sitting at 8/1 to land the role, joining a glittering list of potential successors that includes Roman Kemp, Fleur East, Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, and former Strictly champions Stacey Dooley and Rose Ayling-Ellis.
Speaking about the speculation, Cal Gildart of Ladbrokes said: “Maura Higgins is never long off our screens, and it looks like her next endeavour could be a big one as the host of Strictly Come Dancing. Punters believe her wit and style would bring a new shine to the show.”
Maura, who first shot to fame on Love Island UK, has built an impressive career in television since leaving the villa.
She’s fronted segments on This Morning, appeared on Dancing on Ice, and recently landed the hosting gig for Love Island Aftersun in the USA.
Her quick wit, confidence, and down-to-earth charm have made her a fan favourite, and it seems the bookies think she could bring some of that sparkle to the Strictly ballroom.
Meanwhile, Roman Kemp remains the hot favourite at 6/4, but with the BBC yet to confirm any replacements, it’s anyone’s guess who’ll step into Tess and Claudia’s iconic heels.
For now, Maura has yet to comment on the rumours, but if her track record is anything to go by, she’s certainly not afraid to take on a challenge.
Keep dancing, Maura!
