A leading contender to front Strictly Come Dancing has dropped out of the running.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosted the show this year (Image: BBC)

One of the BBC’s leading contenders to take over the Strictly Come Dancing hosting reins has reportedly fallen out of the race, throwing the broadcaster’s plans into fresh uncertainty.  Alan Carr is understood to no longer be in the running to front the flagship BBC One show, with scheduling clashes forcing him to step aside just as the search for new presenters intensifies. The comedian, 49, had been widely tipped as a favourite to replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly following their final appearance on the ballroom show last week.

However, insiders say Alan has been unable to commit to the demanding role due to long-standing tour dates that were set years in advance. With the BBC now seeking full-time presenters beyond next year, Alan has withdrawn from January’s so-called “chemistry” tests, which are designed to see which pair of celebrities work best together on screen. A source told The Sun the decision has left senior figures at the BBC deflated.

Alan Carr is no longer in the running to front the flagship BBC One show. (Image: Getty)

They said: “Alan is out of the Golden 10 possible hosts and won’t be taking part in the tests — the BBC are gutted.”

The insider added that Alan had been viewed internally as the ideal choice for one of the presenting slots, but discussions with the broadcaster made clear his hands were tied.

They explained: “He was their favourite to take on one of the positions, but he’s spoken with the BBC, and basically he cannot move his tour.”

Alan is currently committed to dates scheduled for 2027, which sources indicate cannot be shifted without major disruption. Faced with a choice, the comedian opted to prioritise his live commitments.

The source continued: “The dates which are scheduled for 2027 cannot be rearranged, and Alan has had to choose.”

While the BBC is said to have accepted his decision, disappointment remains behind the scenes. The insider added: “The BBC understand his position, but they are hugely disappointed.”

Attention has now turned to Rylan Clark, who is being lined up as a leading replacement candidate. The broadcaster is said to see him as a strong fit for the show’s mix of warmth, humour and live-TV experience.

According to the source: “They thought Alan would be such a great choice for the job. Rylan has now replaced Alan as one of their top choices.”

The final decision, however, is far from made, with chemistry tests expected to play a decisive role.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that the BBC had drawn up a “Golden 10” shortlist of potential hosts, including Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, Zoe Ball, Rob Rinder, Alison Hammond and Holly Willoughby.

Despite missing out on Strictly, Alan may still remain firmly in the BBC’s plans. Insiders say a new quiz show fronted by the comedian could be given the green light in the New Year, ensuring he stays on our screens.