Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman quit strictly come dancing after 21 years — What’s next for TV’s golden duo?

In a move that marks the end of an era for British television, beloved presenting duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced their departure from Strictly Come Dancing after the current series concludes. The co-hosts, who have become synonymous with the BBC’s flagship dance show, revealed the emotional news through a joint video statement shared on Daly’s Instagram account.

“We’ve had the most incredible time hosting this show side by side,” they said. “It has truly been a dream job — full of laughter, sequins, and unforgettable Saturday nights. We always knew we’d leave together, and now feels like the right moment.”

The pair added that they intend to cherish the remainder of the ongoing series, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the BBC and the entire production team: “We will forever be thankful to every dancer, celebrity, and crew member who made this show the joyful spectacle that it is. They are family, and we will miss them every day.”

With characteristic warmth, they ended their message with a touch of humour: “We’ll cry during our final ‘Keep Dancing!’ — but we’ll keep saying it to each other, probably in tracksuits at home, holding slices of pizza.”

A Glittering Legacy

Tess Daly, 56, has been the face of Strictly Come Dancing since its debut in 2004, co-presenting alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth for nearly a decade. Claudia Winkleman, 53, joined the main show in 2014 after years of hosting the spin-off It Takes Two and the Sunday results show. Together, they became the first all-female duo to front a primetime entertainment series on British television — a milestone in broadcasting history.

Reflecting on her 21-year journey, Daly described the experience as “so much more than a television programme.”
“Strictly has been like a second family — a mix of sparkle, emotion, and community that has shaped my life for over two decades,” she said. “From that very first night with Brucey, I knew this show was something magical. I’m proud to have been part of something that brought so much happiness to millions.”

She also paid tribute to her late co-host, recalling, “Bruce set the tone for everything that Strictly became — warmth, wit, and showbiz magic. His spirit has lived on through every step and every smile.”

An Outpouring of Tributes

The announcement triggered an emotional response across the entertainment industry. Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse commented, “I’m reeling from this news. You’ve both been the heartbeat of this show — your absence will leave a huge void.”
Her sister, former professional dancer Oti Mabuse, also praised the pair: “You’ve represented women in television so beautifully. Thank you for the laughter, the memories, and the years of joy.”

Former contestant Helen Skelton told BBC Radio 5 Live, “For every celebrity who’s ever been on that dance floor, Tess was the calm after the storm, and Claudia was the laugh that made it all worthwhile. Whoever replaces them has enormous shoes to fill.”

The Future of Strictly

With Daly and Winkleman stepping down, attention now turns to who will inherit the show’s famously glamorous hosting duties. The BBC has yet to announce any successors, but insiders suggest the roles will be among the most coveted in British television.

Whatever happens next, Tess and Claudia’s departure closes a sparkling chapter in Strictly history — one that will be remembered for its warmth, camaraderie, and laughter. For two decades, they’ve kept the nation “dancing,” and as they bow out, their legacy continues to glitter.

FAQs

1. Why are Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman leaving Strictly Come Dancing?
They said it simply felt like “the right time” to move on, emphasizing that they always planned to leave together.

2. How long have they hosted the show?
Tess Daly has hosted since Strictly began in 2004, while Claudia Winkleman joined as co-host on the main show in 2014.

3. Who will replace them?
The BBC has not yet announced replacements, but speculation is high given the prominence of the roles.

4. Will they work together again?
Although they haven’t announced future joint projects, their statement suggests a lasting friendship and possible collaborations down the line.