Former Bake Off star Mel Giedroyc is reportedly being 'eyed up' by Strictly bosses as a replacement for Claudia Winkleman.

The comedian, 57, might be the next in line to step up to the role as Claudia, 54, bid farewell the show in December after 11 years. 

BBC bosses are said to be on the hunt for someone 'with a gentle touch' and that can 'relieve tension' while hosting the 'Clauditorium' segment on the series.

'The Clauditorium is the section where the dancers go to receive their scores from the judges and decompress after their routines,' a TV insider told The Sun.

'So it needs to be hosted by someone with a gentle touch, who can use humour to relieve the tension.

'Mel is seen as a great swap for Claudia as they're both smart, funny, and have a reputation within the TV world for being easy to work with.'

Stating what Claudia and Mell had in common, they said they are both 'highly professional' and 'well-liked by the public', while boasting the 'right balance of confidence and self-deprecation'.

The Daily Mail has contacted Strictly and Mel's representatives for a comment. 

The TV presenter is well-remembered for hosting the baking contest alongside her long-time pal Sue Perkins, when it was on the Beeb between 2010 and 2016.

Mel has also previously hosted the Strictly Live tour and even competed in 2021's Christmas special of the hit dancing show, making her a familiar face for Strictly fans.

Meanwhile former host Claudia, has credited Mel and Sue in the past for paving the way for all-female presenter duos in television.

The Sun on Sunday revealed recently that it's a race between Zoe Ball and Emma Willis to be the new Tess, while bosses want a female comedian to replace Claudia.

A BBC spokesman said: 'Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be announced in due course.'

But last year, an ITV quiz show hosted by Mel was reportedly axed after just one series due to 'poor ratings'.

Pictionary, based on the legendary classic board game, was turned into a TV show inspired by its US version and hosted by the ex The Great British Bake Off presenter.

But reports emerged that the guessing competition won't going forward, according to The Sun.

'There are no plans at this stage to make any more Pictionary,' an ITV spokesperson told the publication.

'So many quiz shows have been inspired by beloved board games and the assumption was Pictionary would become an instant hit.

'Sadly the ratings were poor and celebrity-led panels require a budget, which in this case wasn't deemed worth expending.'

The Daily Mail contacted ITV's representatives for a comment at the time.