The BBC is stunned after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced they are stepping down as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing after a whopping 21 years.
Tess and Claudia Break the News in Emotional Video
The iconic duo shared the bombshell news in a heartfelt video on Tess’s Instagram. “Hi, it’s Claud and Tess. There have been some rumblings, and we want you to hear this from us,” Claudia began.
Tess added, “After 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly, we have decided the time is right to step aside and pass over the baton.”
Claudia cheekily interrupted, “The very sparkly baton!” before the pair reflected on their incredible journey.
BBC ‘In Shock’ as Hosts Call Time on Era
Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, admitted, “I can’t quite believe I’m saying this, but it’s the end of an era with Tess and Claudia’s decision to bid farewell to the Strictly ballroom.”
She praised the pair’s passion and dedication, saying, “They’ve been integral to Strictly’s success for two decades. But we understand why they want to hang up the glitter ball and reclaim their weekends.”
“They are fab-u-lous presenters and even more fab-u-lous friends,” Phillips added. “We’ll miss them hugely.”
Why Are They Leaving?
Tess and Claudia revealed the decision was mutual and long-planned. “We’ve loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream,” they said in their social media caption.
“We were always going to leave together, and now feels like the right time.”
They’ll finish the current series, thanking the “most brilliant team” behind Strictly and promising plenty of tears when they say their final “keep dancing.”
Legacy of Two TV Legends
Tess has been with Strictly since its very first series in 2004. Claudia joined the spin-off It Takes Two the same year and became co-host of the main show in 2011. Together, alongside Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke, they’re among the longest-standing members of the Strictly family.
Tess paid tribute to the late Bruce Forsyth, saying his “warmth and showbiz magic set the tone” for the show’s success.
Claudia opened up about her journey: “Strictly has been the greatest relationship of my career. A magical, glittery, fake-tanned train I was privileged to be part of.”
Fans and Stars Left Reeling
- Motsi Mabuse: “I’m reeling from the news, Tess! Your absence will be deeply felt on Strictly. What an end of an era!”
- Rylan Clark: “Adore you both. The biggest pleasure working with you both. Pair of icons.”
- Karen Haue: “I love you both so much. Powerhouse duo.”
The countdown begins for their final bow on Strictly, but their legacy as the ultimate hosting duo will shine on forever.
