TV Specials
Strictly Come Dancing Odds – NEW favourite Lewis Cope emerges
The countdown to the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Glitter Ball has taken another twist, with bookmakers now making Lewis Cope the outright favourite to win at 3/1 (25% probability).
The Emmerdale actor has surged ahead in the betting after a wave of weekend support, leaving early frontrunners Ellie Goldstein and Dani Dyer sharing second place at 4/1 (20% each).
Cope’s rise comes as fans tip him to be one of the strongest all-rounders on the dance floor, combining youthful energy with on-screen charisma.
Goldstein, a pioneering model and disability rights campaigner, continues to be one of the most popular contestants in the line-up, while Dyer, the ever-popular Love Island winner and actress – brings a bubbly personality and a strong fanbase that could carry her deep into the competition.
Odds expert Dave James from whataretheodds.co.uk gives us his run down of each contestant and their chances of winning Strictly.
Lewis Cope (3/1, 25%) – Emmerdale Actor
“Lewis Cope has stormed to the top of the betting and punters clearly see him as a serious contender. At 3/1 the Emmerdale actor is now the man to beat, and if his first performance goes well, those odds could shorten even further.”
Ellie Goldstein (4/1, 20%) – Model and disability rights advocate
“The internationally acclaimed model and disability rights advocate has broken barriers in the fashion industry, and now she’s turning her focus to the dance floor. Her inspiring journey and warm personality could make her a public favourite from day one. Ellie’s instantly likable presence will resonate with millions. If she nails her first routine, she could easily go on to win the whole competition.”
Dani Dyer (4/1, 20%) – Love Island winner and actress
“The Love Island winner and actress is bringing her bubbly personality and loyal fan base to the ballroom. Having already proven her popularity on reality TV, she’s tipped to make a big splash in the early weeks. With her natural charm and willingness to throw herself into new challenges, she’s the complete Strictly package. Dani is the full package – personality, popularity, and a feel-good story. If she dances half as well as she chats, she’ll go far ”
George Clarke (6/1, 14.3%) – TV architect from George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces
“Known for George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces, the TV architect has a knack for creativity and precision, qualities that often translate well into dance. His calm and composed TV persona might surprise audiences when the music kicks in.George is a surprise package. He’s not the obvious pick, but creativity often wins over the Strictly audience.”
Karen Carney (7/1, 12.5%) – Former England footballer turned pundit.
“The former England footballer and sports pundit is no stranger to high-pressure situations. Her discipline, focus and competitive edge could give her the perfect mindset to tackle both ballroom and Latin challenges. Her competitive drive is unmatched. If she treats training like a World Cup final, she’ll be dangerous in the competition.”
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (8/1, 11.1%) – Team GB sprinter
“As a Team GB sprinter, Harry has speed, strength, and explosive energy on his side. The question will be whether he can channel that athleticism into the control and grace required for Strictly’s more elegant numbers. Harry has the athleticism for the lifts and spins, but he’ll need to prove he’s more than just power.”
Thomas Skinner (10/1, 9.1%) – Businessman and The Apprentice star.
“The businessman and The Apprentice star is as well known for his cheeky humour as his entrepreneurial ventures. His infectious enthusiasm could make him a big hit with viewers, though mastering technique will be his biggest challenge. Thomas’s personality will carry him far – if he can combine it with solid technique, watch his odds shorten”.
Vicky Pattison (10/1, 9.1%) – Reality TV favourite and I’m a Celebrity winner.
“A reality TV veteran, I’m a Celebrity winner, and TV presenter, Vicky is used to public voting formats. With her confidence and determination, she could become one of the show’s most entertaining competitors. Vicky knows how to win public votes. If she connects emotionally with her routines, she’s a real threat.”
Balvinder Sopal (12/1, 7.7%) – EastEnders actress.
“As EastEnders’ Suki Panesar, Balvinder is no stranger to performing under pressure. Her ability to convey emotion could shine through in dramatic routines, and soap fans are likely to rally behind her. Balvinder’s acting background could give her an edge in storytelling dances like the Rumba or Paso Doble ”
La Voix (14/1, 6.7%) – Drag performer and comedian.
“The flamboyant drag performer and comedian brings big energy, quick wit and powerful vocals. Expect bold costumes and routines that light up the dance floor. La Voix is pure entertainment. If the judges buy into her energy, she’ll be a Saturday night highlight”
Alex Kingston (16/1, 5.9%) – Star of Doctor Who and ER.
“The Doctor Who and ER star is an accomplished actress with elegance and presence. Her poised style could suit the ballroom classics, though the fast Latin dances might be a steeper learning curve. Alex has elegance and poise – if she adapts to the fast Latin dances, she could surprise a few people.”
Chris Robshaw (20/1, 4.8%) – Former England rugby captain.
“The former England rugby captain has the physical strength for lifts and holds, but ballroom dancing demands a very different skill set. His competitive mindset could help him adapt quickly. Chris has the discipline of a pro athlete but will need to show lightness on his feet to progress.”
Kristian Nairn (22/1, 4.3%) – Game of Thrones actor and DJ.
“Best known as Hodor in Game of Thrones, Kristian’s towering presence and warm personality could make him a fan favourite. Choreographers will need to be creative to work with his height. Kristian is a crowd-pleaser, but height can be tricky in ballroom – partnering will be key.”
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (25/1, 3.8%) – Ex-Chelsea striker.
“The ex-Chelsea striker is a sporting legend with charisma to spare. He’s competitive by nature, but learning complex routines will be a different type of training challenge.Jimmy’s competitive streak could shine, but dance floor finesse is very different to football flair.”
Stefan Dennis (25/1, 3.8%) – Neighbours soap legend.
“The Neighbours icon is beloved by soap fans worldwide. His decades in the industry mean he’s no stranger to performing, though the Strictly format will still be a big test. Stefan’s loyal fanbase could keep him safe early on, but he’ll need big performances to climb the odds.”
Ross King (33/1, 2.9%) – TV presenter and entertainment correspondent.
“The TV presenter and entertainment correspondent on Lorraine has interviewed some of the world’s biggest stars. He’s personable and polished, but the odds suggest he’ll need an unforgettable Week 1 to avoid the chop. Ross is likeable, but at these odds, the market says he’s vulnerable. A standout Week 1 is crucial.”
Strictly Come Dancing looks set to be a two horse race in 2025
After a dramatic week in the ballroom, the odds have shifted once again and bookmakers have now ‘named’ their clear favourite. With BBC’s iconic dancing competition in its 23rd series, and the final run with Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, the show is heading into a pivotal semi-final weekend.
George Clarke has reasserted himself at the top of the Strictly Come Dancing betting, with William Hill trimming the internet star into the 8/11 favourite to lift the Glitterball Trophy. His resurgence comes after a brief challenge from former England footballer Karen Carney, who has now drifted to 5/4.
Dave James of What Are The Odds said Clarke’s move back into odds-on territory “signals a major shift in momentum” ahead of the semi-finals.
“George Clarke has firmly reasserted himself at the top of the Strictly market, shortening to 8/11 from 6/5, and he may now be the one to beat,” he explained.
“Karen Carney had enjoyed a remarkable surge, but drifting to 5/4 from 5/6 suggests the tide has turned again. Balvinder Sopal and Amber Davies remain lively contenders, yet at 12/1 and 28/1 the market still views them as outsiders. With the competition heating up, punters are clearly anticipating a tight two-horse race as we head into the final stages.”
Behind the front runners, there is a notable gap in the market. Balvinder Sopal is priced at 12/1, while Amber Davies who has achieved several perfect scores this series — sits further back at 28/1.
With one of the four remaining celebrities set to lift the Glitterball Trophy later this month, Saturday night’s semi-final on BBC One promises to be crucial.
Will Clarke extend his lead, or can Carney mount one final challenge?
Strictly Come Dancing will be waltzing into a brand new era as long time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have confirmed they’ll be stepping down at the end of the current series.
Tess Daly has fronted the show since its debut 21 years ago, while Claudia joined as co host in 2014, forming one of the most iconic presenting partnerships in British television. Their warmth, humour and on-screen chemistry have been key to the show’s enduring success.
With their exit confirmed, bookmakers have wasted no time releasing the Next Strictly Presenter odds on who could take over one of TV’s most glamorous hosting gigs.
Whataretheodds.co.uk have compiled the latest odds from across the bookmakers to bring the latest contenders.
Latest Odds to Replace Tess and Claudia
| Candidate | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Janette Manrara | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Fleur East | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Zoe Ball | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Roman Kemp | 4/1 | 20.0% |
| Rylan Clark | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Stacey Dooley & Kevin Clifton | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Alesha Dixon | 7/1 | 12.5% |
| Oti Mabuse | 8/1 | 11.1% |
| Alison Hammond | 9/1 | 10.0% |
| Hannah Waddingham | 10/1 | 9.1% |
| Holly Willoughby | 12/1 | 7.7% |
Whataretheodds.co.uk Celebrity Expert Dave James commented:
“I’m sure the BBC will be looking for a smooth transition and ‘Auntie’ always tends to look close to home when replacing presenters and a safe option will be paramount. Janette Manrara is the clear fan favourite and of course an expert on all things Strictly. “
“The It Takes Two presenter and former Strictly professional knows the show inside out and would bring warmth and familiarity to the role. If Tess and Claudia are the golden era of Strictly, Janette could easily be the start of the next. She’s rightly at the top of the market and I think she is the clear favourite.”
He added: “Fleur East is also another who has really impressed since joining It Takes Two and with Janette they have formed the perfect partnership. They look the perfect pairing at the moment. She’s confident and chrismatic, and really connects with the Strictly audience. She’d be a welcome addition to the flagship show and the BBC will surely be looking for a safe option.”
“At 3/1, Zoe Ball remains firmly in the running as well. She has the perfect mix of professionalism, having hosted It Takes Two for years, she’s got the experience to hit the ground running. ”
With the BBC expected to confirm their replacements early next year, all eyes will be on who can bring their own shine to the Strictly ballroom.
With I’m A Celebrity 2026 starting this week, here are the latest odds movement and Celebrity elimination odds on the potential winner over the weekend.
| Contestant | Odds | Estimated Chance of Winning |
|---|---|---|
| Martin Kemp | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Lisa Riley | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Kelly Brook | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Jack Osbourne | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Tom Read Wilson | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Alex Scott | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Angry Ginge | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| Eddie Kadi | 8/1 | 11.1% |
| Vogue Williams | 9/1 | 10.0% |
| Aitch | 10/1 | 9.1% |
| Shona McGarty | 11/1 | 8.3% |
| Ruby Wax | 12/1 | 7.7% |
What Are The Odds spokesman David James gives his opinions on the favourites.
Martin Kemp 2/1
“The 2026 series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded line-ups in years with household names from music, sport, comedy and soapland heading to the Australian jungle. Leading the betting this year is Spandau Ballet legend Martin Kemp, who’s been installed as the early 2/1 favourite to be crowned King of the Jungle. The 64-year-old ’80s icon is expected to win over viewers with his charm, charisma and inevitable campfire singalongs. Martin’s a true household name from topping the charts with Spandau Ballet in the ’80s to his unforgettable stint in EastEnders in the 2000s. He’s a fantastic signing for this year’s show, and there’s a real buzz about seeing him take on the jungle.”
Lisa Riley 3/1
“Hot on his heels is Emmerdale favourite Lisa Riley (3/1), who’s long been linked with the show. The much loved actress, known for her role as Mandy Dingle,is finally swapping the Dales for the jungle, and fans are already backing her in their droves.
Lisa’s finally stopped saying no to the jungle after years of offers and fans can’t wait to see her in action. She’s admitted she might be ‘too much of a coper’ for good telly, but knowing Lisa, she’ll bring her trademark confidence, big personality, and even a few dance routines around the campfire. She’s more than ready to take on the cockroaches!”
Kelly Brook 5/1
“Former Love Island host and model Kelly Brook (5/1) is another big name heading Down Under, reportedly signing a lucrative ITV deal after years of turning down the offer. ITV bosses have been keen to sign Kelly for years and many think she could be their sexiest contestant ever. She came across really well with audiences on Celebrity Race Across the World and is glamorous, witty, and a familiar face to viewers thanks to her time on Loose Women and other ITV shows. Kelly’s the full package and guaranteed to make perfect TV viewing.”
Jack Osbourne 5/1
“The Osbournes star Jack Osbourne (5/1) will bring rock ’n’ roll to the outback, making his jungle debut following the death of his father, music legend Ozzy Osbourne, earlier this year.Jack’s had a tough few months following the loss of his dad, but I’m A Celeb bosses are thrilled to have him on board. He’s been a star in his own right ever since The Osbournes burst onto screens over two decades ago, and viewers will be eager to see this next chapter in his story”
Joining her on those odds is Celebs Go Dating star Tom Read Wilson (5/1), whose warm wit could make him a camp favourite.
Elsewhere, Football Focus presenter Alex Scott (6/1) and social media sensation Angry Ginge (6/1) are both tipped to go far. Scott brings competitive spirit and confidence, while Angry Ginge’s passionate personality could see him win over the nation just as he has millions online.
Comedy fans will be cheering on Eddie Kadi (8/1), whose quick humour should keep spirits high. Vogue Williams (9/1) adds glamour to the line-up, while BRIT Award-winning rapper Aitch (10/1) could surprise a few people as the first rapper in camp since Tinchy Stryder.
Rounding off the confirmed stars are EastEnders actress Shona McGarty (11/1) and the inimitable Ruby Wax (12/1), whose wit and sharp questions promise to keep things lively around the campfire.”