Will Best has confirmed he is expecting his first child with fiancée Tobi Rose, sharing the milestone just hours before the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing makes its television debut. The presenter and reality star made the announcement on September 18, timing the news to coincide with the final countdown to the BBC’s flagship ballroom competition.
The news was shared via an Instagram “summer dump,” where Best posted a collection of personal photos from recent months. Among the images was a mirror selfie of the couple and a series of items signaling their new arrival, including a polka dot baby outfit and a pair of teddy bear slippers. Best and Rose have been in a relationship for nearly 15 years and previously announced their engagement during a trip to Italy in 2024.
The timing of the announcement adds a personal layer of celebration to what is already a landmark weekend for the program. The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 launch show is confirmed to air on Saturday, September 19, at 7:25 PM on BBC One. This year’s series marks the start of a new era for the show, featuring a revamped hosting lineup of Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe.
Best, known for his work on Big Brother and his radio appearances alongside Fleur East, joins a 2026 contestant roster that includes EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, television personality Dani Dyer, singer Delta Goodrem, and Paralympic legend Dame Sarah Storey. Fans are expecting to see the official professional pairings revealed during tonight’s broadcast, which was pre-recorded to set the stage for the live competition weeks ahead.
While Best has not yet commented on how his impending fatherhood might influence his training schedule, the news has been met with immediate support from the Strictly community. The announcement comes as the BBC prepares to celebrate the show’s longevity with a series of high-production routines and the introduction of the new presenting trio, who take over during a period of significant transition for the long-running entertainment format.
