The British public was surprised last week by the joint announcement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the hosts of the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, that they would be leaving the program. Tess, aged 56, and Claudia, aged 53, have been co-hosting since 2014, with Tess being part of the show since 2004.
During their recent appearance on Strictly, the duo acknowledged the news and expressed gratitude for the support they have received. Claudia mentioned their excitement for the upcoming episodes and the crowning of a new Strictly champion.
Speculation has arisen about the future plans of both presenters following their decision to depart. Tess humorously dismissed the idea of joining Claudia on Celebrity Traitors, citing her lack of a poker face and jokingly relying on Claudia for secret signals.
In an interview, Tess, who was honored with an MBE this year, highlighted the importance of her role as a mother to her daughters while also expressing pride in her broadcasting career. She emphasized the balance she maintains between work and family responsibilities.
There have been suggestions that Tess and Claudia’s exit may have been influenced by their recent MBE awards, indicating a desire to leave the show on a high note. The decision to announce their departure mid-series was seen as a way to have a proper send-off without overshadowing the show’s finale.
Claudia, at the peak of her career with The Traitors and other TV opportunities, while Tess, after hosting for over two decades, looks forward to spending more time with her family and friends.