Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced their departure from Strictly Come Dancing to leave on a high note and avoid potential show controversies. The decision, revealed in a video, surprised fans, with their final appearance set for the Christmas Day episode.
Sources close to the pair, who had previously agreed to exit together, indicated that they had informed show executives weeks ago. However, the public announcement via social media caught many of the show’s cast and crew off guard. It was disclosed that Tess and Claudia had been contemplating this move for about a year.
An insider from the TV industry revealed that the duo aimed to exit while the show was still at its peak, especially after receiving MBE honors. The timing of their announcement mid-series was seen as a way to give them a proper send-off without overshadowing the show’s winner.
One source mentioned that Claudia, currently enjoying success with The Traitors and other TV projects, is at her career zenith. Meanwhile, Tess, after hosting the show for over two decades, looks forward to spending more time with her family and friends.
The recent show-related controversies have slightly affected ratings, prompting Tess and Claudia to weigh their options and decide it was the right moment to step down.
In a joint statement, the pair expressed their gratitude for their time on Strictly, mentioning their plan to leave simultaneously. They thanked the BBC and the show’s team, emphasizing their fondness for their colleagues and the unforgettable experiences.
Later, Claudia Winkleman shared her sentiments, describing Strictly as a significant chapter in her career and expressing excitement for the new hosts taking the show forward.
Tess has been part of the show since its inception in 2004, alongside the late Bruce Forsyth. Claudia joined in the same year, initially presenting the spin-off show It Takes Two, before moving on to co-host the main program with Tess.
Notable figures in the entertainment industry, such as Judge Motsi Mabuse, Zoe Ball, and Rylan Clark, paid tribute to the departing hosts and expressed admiration for their contributions to the show.
The BBC confirmed that new hosts will be announced in due course, with speculation swirling around potential replacements. The network also revealed that Tess and Claudia’s final appearance will be on the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.
High-ranking BBC officials praised Tess and Claudia for their dedication to the show, acknowledging their pivotal roles in its success over the past two decades.
The news was met with surprise by other members of the show’s production team, who praised the departing hosts for their professionalism and camaraderie.
As Tess and Claudia bid farewell, the Strictly Family, as they are affectionately known, shared heartfelt messages of appreciation for their longstanding contributions to the show.