Why Are Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly Leaving Strictly Come Dancing?
End of an Era for Strictly Come Dancing
In a move that has sent shockwaves through British television, Strictly Come Dancing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced they are exiting at the end of this season, stating they “were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.” The beloved duo has been at the heart of the BBC’s flagship entertainment programme for over a decade, and their departure marks a significant turning point for the show that has captivated millions of viewers.
The announcement comes as the presenting duo revealed earlier this year that they would be leaving the dancing show at the end of 2025, with their final live show taking place on December 20, 2025. Their journey on Strictly has been nothing short of remarkable—Daly and Winkleman have been hosting Strictly since Bruce Forsyth stepped down in 2013, at which point Winkleman, who had already been helming the results show, took over.
The Decision to Leave Together
What makes this departure particularly poignant is the pair’s unwavering commitment to each other. In a statement posted on Daly’s Instagram, the pair explained, “We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream”, adding that they “will cry when we say the last ‘keep dancing’ but we will continue to say it to each other.”
The timing of their departure has raised questions, particularly given that last year, Strictly was hit with scandal as two professional dancers exited following allegations of misconduct. However, both presenters have emphasised their gratitude and love for the show. Winkleman’s stock has risen of late as she has gained iconic status for presenting The Traitors and the current Celebrity Traitors, also for the BBC, which may have influenced the timing of this decision.
Looking Ahead
BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips described it as “the end of an era,” noting that “They’ve both been such incredible hosts at the very heart of the show.” The pair’s contribution to British television has been recognised officially—they picked up the entertainment programme gong at the Bafta TV Awards in 2024 and were made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours for their services to broadcasting.
As speculation mounts about their replacements, It Takes Two presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East, as well as former It Takes Two host Rylan Clark, are already being discussed as potential replacements. Whatever lies ahead, Tess and Claudia’s legacy as primetime television’s first female presenting duo will remain an important chapter in British broadcasting history.