Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have made a surprising announcement, revealing their decision to step down from the popular show, Strictly Come Dancing. The duo stated that they aim to leave the show at its peak to avoid any potential scandals in the future. Their departure will coincide with the conclusion of the current season, culminating in a final appearance together on the Christmas Day episode.
According to sources close to Tess and Claudia, the pair had informed the show’s top executives about their joint decision several weeks ago. However, the public announcement through a video on social media caught many of the show’s cast and crew off guard. It has been reported that the two hosts had been contemplating their exit for approximately a year.
An insider in the television industry mentioned that Tess and Claudia wanted to leave the show while it was still highly successful, especially after receiving MBE honors. Additionally, the timing of the announcement during the ongoing season allows them to bid farewell gracefully without overshadowing the show’s winner.
The decision to depart was influenced by various factors, including Claudia’s flourishing career with projects like The Traitors and Tess’s desire for more quality time with her family and friends. Furthermore, recent controversies surrounding the show have slightly impacted its ratings, leading the hosts to believe that it is the appropriate moment to make their exit.
Expressing their sentiments, Tess and Claudia conveyed their gratitude to the BBC and the entire production team for their support over the years. Claudia also shared her fondness for the show, emphasizing that it had been a significant part of her career.
Tess, who has been part of the show since its inception in 2004, initially co-hosted with Bruce Forsyth before partnering with Claudia in 2011. Similarly, Claudia joined the Strictly team in 2004 and later transitioned to co-present the main show alongside Tess.
The news of their departure received heartfelt responses from various personalities, including former contestants and colleagues, who praised the duo for their professionalism and camaraderie. The BBC has confirmed that new hosts will be announced in the future to continue the legacy of the beloved show.
In their official statements, key figures from the BBC and Strictly Come Dancing extended their gratitude to Tess and Claudia for their invaluable contributions and wished them well in their future endeavors. The show’s producers and crew expressed their deep appreciation for the hosts, acknowledging their unwavering dedication and positive impact on the show’s success.