Michaela Strachan: From Dancing on Ice Runner-Up to Winterwatch 2026 Star
A Busy Year for Beloved Wildlife Presenter
Michaela Strachan, one of Britain’s most cherished wildlife presenters, continues to captivate audiences across multiple platforms in 2026. The BBC Two show – presented by hosts Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams – will broadcast from the shore of Strangford Lough in County Down for Winterwatch, marking an exciting new chapter for the long-running nature series.
The 58-year-old presenter has had a remarkable start to the year. In 2025 she was a runner-up on the seventeenth series of Dancing on Ice, finishing second alongside professional partner Mark Hanretty. Sam and professional partner Molly Lanaghan emerged victorious, becoming the 2025 champions. Michaela and Mark Hanretty placed second in the competition’s finale broadcast in March 2025.
Winterwatch Returns to Northern Ireland
Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams return for Winterwatch 2026, broadcasting live from the beautiful Mount Stewart estate on the shores of Strangford Lough. Winterwatch returns Tuesday 20th January at 8pm on BBC Two. This marks a historic moment as it represents the first time the flagship programme’s main live base broadcasts from Northern Ireland.
Winterwatch 2026 will focus on Northern Ireland’s wildlife and natural beauty, and will be broadcast live from the historic Mount Stewart estate, which is owned by the National Trust. Strachan described the show’s new base camp location as “exciting”, and said that in the new series, viewers can “expect a variety of wonderful wildlife and woolly hats”.
A Distinguished Broadcasting Career
Strachan has since become known for her work as a wildlife presenter. Since 2011, Strachan has been a regular presenter on BBC’s Springwatch and its seasonal adaptations. Her journey from children’s television in the 1980s to becoming a BAFTA-Award winning presenter demonstrates her enduring appeal and versatility.
Beyond broadcasting, wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan is set to embark on a brand-new UK theatre tour in April 2026 with her live show Not Just A Wild Life, celebrating 40 years in the entertainment industry. This theatrical venture showcases her continued commitment to connecting with audiences and sharing her passion for wildlife conservation.
Looking Forward
As Winterwatch 2026 brings viewers stunning winter wildlife from Northern Ireland’s spectacular landscapes, Michaela Strachan’s presence ensures the programme maintains its trademark warmth and expertise. For British audiences, her return to the screen represents both continuity and fresh adventures in wildlife broadcasting, reinforcing why she remains one of the nation’s most trusted voices on natural history.