Full Breakdown
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman Bid Farewell to Strictly Come Dancing
12/25/2025, 4:28:14 AM
Announcement of Departure
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the beloved co-hosts of BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," announced their decision to leave the show after 21 years for Daly and nearly a decade for Winkleman. The duo revealed their exit in a joint statement on Instagram in October 2025, stating, "We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time." Their last live episode aired on December 20, 2025, with the pre-recorded Christmas special set to air on December 25 marking their final appearance.
Emotional Farewell
The final live show was filled with emotional tributes, including a heartfelt message from Queen Camilla, read by judge Craig Revel Horwood. The Queen praised the pair for their "warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness," stating, "If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest Strictly partnership of all." The audience responded with a standing ovation, reflecting the deep affection viewers and colleagues have for the duo. Daly expressed her gratitude, stating, "It has been the most wonderful privilege to have shared it with you all for so many years."
Highlights of Their Tenure
Daly has been a fixture of "Strictly" since its inception in 2004, co-hosting alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, while Winkleman joined in 2014 after hosting the spin-off show "It Takes Two." Over the years, they have become synonymous with the show, known for their chemistry and humor. Their tenure included memorable moments, such as a 24-hour danceathon for Comic Relief, which raised over £1 million.
The Christmas Special
The Christmas special will feature Daly performing an Argentine tango with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, a gift from the judges. Winkleman will partake in a parody of the film "Love Actually," adding a festive touch to their farewell. The episode will also showcase six celebrity contestants competing for the title of "Strictly Christmas Champion," including Scarlett Moffatt and Brian McFadden.
Future of the Show
As Daly and Winkleman step down, speculation about their replacements has begun, with names like Rylan Clark and Zoe Ball emerging as potential successors. The BBC has not yet confirmed who will take over hosting duties, leaving fans eager to see who will fill the void left by the iconic duo.
Conclusion
The departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman marks the end of an era for "Strictly Come Dancing." Their contributions to the show have been significant, and their emotional farewell has resonated with fans and colleagues alike. As they prepare to say their final "keep dancing," both hosts leave behind a legacy of joy and camaraderie that has defined the show for over two decades.
