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LONDON, December 26, 2025 – A final embrace and a heartfelt “Keep dancing!” marked the end of an era on British television as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman signed off as hosts of Strictly Come dancing after more than a decade together. The emotional farewell, broadcast during the show’s Christmas Day special, brought a close to a partnership that has become synonymous with the beloved ballroom competition.
For many viewers, Daly and Winkleman weren’t just hosts-they were the heart and soul of Strictly Come Dancing.
- Tess Daly has presented Strictly since its debut 21 years ago, initially alongside Sir Bruce Forsyth.
- Claudia Winkleman joined as co-host in 2010, becoming Daly’s permanent partner in 2014.
- The pair’s departure has sparked speculation about potential replacements,including Zoe Ball,Rylan Clark,and Holly Willoughby.
- The Christmas special featured a winning performance by former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola.
“Thank you again for watching us over the years, it has meant a world to us,” Winkleman told viewers at the end of the special. “There’s just one thing left to do. come on, Tess.” Daly then pulled Winkleman into a slow dance, gazing into her eyes and declaring, “For our very final time, Claud.” Winkleman responded, “Let’s make it count,” before leading the room in one last chorus of the show’s signature catchphrase.
A Fond Farewell and a Look Back
Daly has been a constant presence on Strictly as its inception 21 years ago, initially partnering with the late Sir Bruce Forsyth. Winkleman joined the show in 2010, initially hosting the results show alongside Daly, before taking over from Forsyth as his permanent co-host in 2014. Prior to that, she had already established herself as a familiar face to Strictly fans as the host of its sister show, It Takes Two, since 2004.
The duo’s chemistry and warmth made them the first female presenting duo to dominate Saturday night prime-time television. Their departure has naturally led to a flurry of speculation regarding their replacements, with names like Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Janette Manrara, Alan Carr, and Holly Willoughby frequently mentioned.
What Happened on Their Last Episode?
The Christmas Day special was filled with touching tributes to the departing hosts. early in the show, judge Anton Du Beke playfully interrupted Daly to announce that he and his fellow judges had pooled their resources to gift her an Argentinian Tango – Daly’s favorite dance – as a parting present. She was then swept off her feet and spun around by professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, exclaiming, “Best present ever!” du Beke then playfully awarded her a perfect score of 12 out of 10.
