Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have confirmed they are saying goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing. Their departure will come at the end of the ongoing series as new presenters take on the challenge. Tess and Claudia have co-hosted Strictly Come Dancing together since 2014.
Tess has presented the show since its very first episode alongside Sir Bruce Forsyth and Claudia originally presented Strictly: It Takes Two before moving over to host the results show alongside Tess in 2010. They began hosting the main show together just over ten years ago.
The presenters were the first all-female duo to host a primetime entertainment programme on British TV and in June 2025, Tess and Claudia were both made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for their services to broadcasting.
BBC has reacted to the shocking news this afternoon. Kate Phillips, Chief Content Officer for the BBC said: "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.
"They've both been such incredible hosts at the very heart of the show, their passion and dedication has gone above and beyond. They've been integral to Strictly's success over the last 20 years, but I understand why they've decided it's time to hang up the glitter ball and get their weekends back."
A further message came from Suzy Lamb, Managing Director, Entertainment, BBC Studios, she said: "On behalf of the entire production team at Strictly, we are so going to miss Tess and Claudia. Tess brought elegance, poise, and a genuine love for the show that never waned from the very start.
"And with Claudia's charm and razor-sharp wit joining us from It Takes Two in 2014 - it cemented a partnership that has kept our audience captivated ever since. Tess and Claudia are much more than presenters to us - they are part of the Strictly production family - and whilst we'll miss them dearly, we wish them nothing but the best."
The BBC has revealed that their last appearance together on the show will be on the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special, which airs on December 25. Celebrities have been quick to react to the departure of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, including dance professionals and Strictly judges.
It Takes Two host Fleur East shared a message of her own, writing: "I can't believe it! Love you both so much. Will cherish the next few months with you" and judge Motsi Mabuse commented "Going to miss you so much! You're an icon and inspiration. Still in shock, but wishing you love and best wishes."
Reigning Strictly champion Dianne Buswell shared a post to her Instagram of her, Chris McCausland, Claudia and Tess. She wrote: "Tess and Claud genuinely the coolest big sisters ever! So lucky to have got to work with you both for all these years! You will be missed dearly. Just a question does this mean you can now compete on the show if so I bags the all girl partnership."
Paying tribute to her presenting partner Tess, Claudia shared her own tribute. She wrote: "As for Tess - I'm so so lucky I got to stand next to you. You're funny, kind, whip smart and a true friend and I love you."
Sarah James, Executive Producer, Strictly Come Dancing said: "Tess and Claudia are quite simply the best duo of presenters in the business and we are so lucky to have had them as our Strictly anchors for so many years.
"They have championed countless celebrities on the dancefloor, led us all through two series during the pandemic but more importantly they have a deep and genuine bond with the show and every single member of the team."