As Ellie Taylor steps into the spotlight as the sole host of the 2026 series of Strictly: It Takes Two, her high-profile role has sparked renewed interest in her personal life and family dynamic. The presenter, who took over the BBC spin-off following the departures of Janette Manrara and Fleur East, recently made headlines for a hospital visit on October 5, 2026. Just hours before a live broadcast, Taylor sought treatment at a Minor Injuries Unit for a hand strain, highlighting the intense schedule of the flagship dance competition’s companion show.
While viewers are accustomed to Taylor’s comedic timing and acting roles—most notably in Ted Lasso—many are just discovering her marriage. Taylor is married to Phil Black.
A Career of Global Headlines
Phil Black’s career stands in stark contrast to the lighthearted world of ballroom dancing. He has reported from the front lines of major global events, including the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami and the inquest into the death of Princess Diana. Black also played a significant role in covering the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, establishing himself as a serious figure in broadcast news.
The couple’s origin story is far less formal than their professional backgrounds. Taylor and Black met by chance in a central London lift, a meeting that eventually led to their marriage in December 2014. Despite their demanding careers, the couple has managed a modern family dynamic that Taylor has previously described as “unusual” compared to traditional roles.
The “Stay-at-Home Dad” Dynamic
Taylor has been open about her husband’s role within their household. She has described Black as a “stay-at-home dad,” a setup that allows her to pursue high-profile presenting and acting opportunities while he manages their home life. The couple has two children: a daughter, Valentina, born in 2018, and a son born in November 2023.
This arrangement has been particularly vital as Taylor’s career continues to ascend. Beyond her hosting duties, she remains a central figure in the British entertainment landscape, serving as the primary earner during this peak phase of her professional life. The “stay-at-home” role is a shift from Black’s years spent traveling the world for breaking news, providing the stability needed for Taylor to lead the 2026 series.
Shake-ups and Format Changes
The 2026 series of It Takes Two has not been without its challenges. Taylor’s debut as a solo host coincided with a significant format overhaul that has drawn criticism from long-time fans. The new structure features a change where celebrities and their professional partners are interviewed separately on the sofa, a move reported by some viewers as a disruption to the show’s traditional chemistry.
These changes are part of a broader refresh of the Strictly franchise. The 2026 main show also debuted a new hosting trio consisting of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, following the exits of long-term presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. As Taylor navigates these format shifts and her recent hand injury, her partnership with Black remains a grounded constant behind the scenes of the glitzy production.
