Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's Last Strictly Show Date Unveiled After Their Exit

Table of Contents

• Announcement of Departure
• Final Show Details
• Hosts' Careers
• Farewell Messages
• Future Hosts

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced their departure from Strictly Come Dancing, and the date of their final show has now been disclosed.

The duo took to social media yesterday to express their gratitude to fans and co-stars for the love and support they have received throughout the years.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s last show will be the annual Christmas specialCredit: PA: Press Association The two announced their exits yesterdayCredit: Instagram

Tess, 56, and Claudia, 53, surprised the nation yesterday when they both announced their decision to leave Strictly after the current season.

Tess has been a part of the show since it first premiered in 2004, hosting alongside the legendary Bruce Forsyth until his departure in 2013.

Meanwhile, Claudia began presenting the sister show in 2004 before becoming co-host of the main show after Bruce's exit in 2014.

The beloved duo’s final appearance will be during the annual Christmas special, which is typically pre-recorded in early December but airs on BBC One on December 25.

The main series is scheduled to conclude one week before Christmas, marking their last live show together.

In her statement, Tess mentioned that it was “time to say goodbye” and described Strictly as “a celebration of joy that brings people together.”

She also paid tribute to her co-host, stating: “To my beloved Claud – what an absolute joy and pleasure it has been to share this journey with you.”

“You’re truly one of a kind, and I will treasure every laugh, every live show, and every backstage moment we have shared.”

Tess continued by expressing gratitude to the show’s production team, professional dancers, and the viewers at home, stating that Strictly will “always hold a special place in my heart,” even though it now “feels like the right time to pass the torch.”

Claudia shared her own sentiments, saying: “Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake-tanned train, and it has been a privilege to be a small part of it…”

“I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re completely ready to go.”

She reminisced about the legendary judge Len Goodman, saying: “I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know).”

“And it was a complete thrill and honor to work with Tess on the results show and to co-host on Saturday nights.”

She praised Tess, adding: “As for Tess – I feel so fortunate to have stood next to you. You’re hilarious, kind, incredibly smart, and a true friend, and I love you.”

Stars from Strictly, both past and present, flocked to the comments section to wish the two well following the surprising announcement.

Pro dancer commented: “I love you both so much. A powerhouse duo.”

Former Strictly It Takes Two host wrote: “Absolutely a class act. Bravo ladies. Much love.”

And ex-Strictly pro dancer remarked: “Wow, how devastating. You two have been incredible to work with. Thank you for all the beautiful memories.”

“You represented women, set an iconic standard, and provided laughter and years of family entertainment. From the very beginning, you were the highlight of our weekends. Wishing you both the best. I will miss you dearly.”

It remains to be seen who will take over Tess and Claudia’s roles, but several names have already started circulating, including [insert names].

Their last appearance on the main show will be a week before ChristmasCredit: PA Tess and Claudia have hosted together since 2014Credit: Handout