Zoe Ball: ‘We were like who?’ Strictly host takes dig at newcomer Saffron Barker

Zoe Ball, 48, told her BBC Radio 2 listeners today about the news of the next Strictly Come Dancing competitor.

She revealed it had been announced YouTube star, Saffron Barker, 19, would be joining this year’s line-up.

But Zoe admitted she was unsure of who she was as she discussed the latest signing on her Breakfast Show.

She told listeners: “They’ve announced another Strictly Come Dancing competitor…”

Zoe spilled: “Social media star Saffron Barker, she’s 19 and we were all like who?”

The host of spin-off show It Takes Two compared Saffron to last year’s finalist, Joe Sugg, who was the first celebrity to appear on the BBC One competition with a YouTube background.

Zoe continued: “Maybe she’s this year’s Joe [Sugg] she could well be, she looks very lovely.”

Speaking about the other celebrities to have been announced, she went on: “David James and Chris Ramsey and Emma Barton from EastEnders, these are strong so far so I’m going to investigate now.

“Saffron Barker, she looks like a nice lass.”

After the social media influencer was confirmed, Catherine Tyldesley was also announced to be joining.

The former Coronation Street star appeared on This Morning where she was unveiled by hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford as the next signing.

Zoe will soon be back presenting on It Takes Two, where there will be a slight change.

Rylan Clark-Neal will also be presenting on the sofa, talking to this year’s contestants and their professional dance partners.

The star said of the new gig: ”I’ve always been a massive fan of It Takes Two and to be working with the amazing Zoe Ball is a dream.

“I’m extremely honoured to be joining such a television institution and can’t wait to bring a lot of mischief to the Strictly bubble. I’m looking forward to getting started and seeing you all soon.”

Zoe added: “I adore Rylan, he’s an absolute wonder. I love his daftness and naughtiness and he’s a brilliant live telly host. He’ll fit right into our It Takes Two family. Can’t wait for this new season to start, it’s going to be a hoot!”

Another change on Strictly Come Dancing this year is the judging panel.

Otis Mabuse’s sister, Motsi Mabuse, will be replacing Darcey Bussell, who quit earlier this year.

She will be judging this year’s couples with Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli.

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One next month.

source: express.co.uk