Strictly Come Dancing Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman Announce Joint Exit After 15 Years

Strictly Come Dancing is losing its iconic presenting duo. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will step down as hosts of the hit BBC dance competition. They confirmed the news in a joint social media statement. Their final show together will be the annual Christmas Day special.

The pair have fronted the main show together for over a decade. Their departure marks the end of an era for one of British television’s most beloved programs. The BBC has not yet announced their replacements.

A Partnership Forged in Fun and Friendship

Tess Daly first joined Strictly in 2004 alongside Bruce Forsyth. Claudia Winkleman became her co-host in 2010 after hosting the companion show It Takes Two. Their unique chemistry quickly became a hallmark of the series.

According to the BBC, their on-screen partnership was celebrated for its warmth and humor. In their announcement, they emphasized they always planned to leave together. They felt now was the right time for a change.

“We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream,” Daly wrote. The co-hosts expressed deep gratitude for the production team and loyal viewers. They assured fans their friendship would continue off-screen.

Navigating a New Era for a National Institution

The search for new hosts presents a significant challenge for the BBC. Daly and Winkleman have become synonymous with the Strictly brand. Their departure is the biggest shakeup the show has faced in years.

The Christmas special will serve as their farewell episode. This timing allows for a celebratory send-off. It also gives producers several months to find a new hosting team before the next season.

Industry analysts suggest the change could refresh the long-running format. However, replacing such a popular duo carries inherent risks. The new hosts will need to quickly establish their own rhythm and rapport.

The exit of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman concludes a defining chapter for Strictly Come Dancing, leaving big shoes to fill for the next generation of hosts.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who will replace Tess and Claudia on Strictly?

The BBC has not yet announced any replacements. A search for the new hosting team is now underway. An announcement is expected in the new year.

When is their final Strictly appearance?

Their last show together will be the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. It is scheduled to air on BBC One on Christmas Day. This will serve as their official farewell.

How long have they hosted the show together?

Claudia Winkleman became Tess Daly’s co-host in 2010. They have presented the main show together for 15 seasons. Their partnership is one of the longest in UK television.

Why are they leaving Strictly Come Dancing?

They stated it simply felt like the right time for a change. They emphasized it was a joint decision to leave together. Both expressed a desire to pursue new challenges.