Nicole Wootton-Cane23 October 2025 11:45
‘These ladies will be missed’: Former Strictly contestants and professionals pay tribute to ‘incredible’ Tess and Claudia
Former Strictly contestant and DJ Clara Amfo said: “This is quite surreal. Salute to you both, shouldn’t be radical for two women to present prime time TV together, you two do it with such genuine joy towards each other. Big respect!”
Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell said “these ladies will be missed,” as she reposted Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s Instagram video announcement.
Former Strictly professional Oti Mabuse said: “Wow! How devastating. You two have been incredible to work with – thank you so much for all the beautiful memories, for representing females presenters, being iconic, the laughs and years of family you’ve given all us.””From the beginning you were the highlight of our weekends! Wish you both luck – I will miss you so much!!!”
Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell with Stefan Dennis (BBC)
Joe Middleton23 October 2025 11:32
Claudia Winkleman statement in full
Claudia Winkleman has issued a statement following the news she will leave “magical” Strictly Come Dancing at the end of the year.
In it, she praised the “extraordinary talents” of the dancers and other staff, and said she was “so lucky” to get to stand next to co-presenter Tess Daly.
“Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake tanned train and it’s been a privilege to be a tiny part of,” Claudia Winkleman said.
“The extraordinary talents of the dancers, the band, the hair and makeup and costume teams, this unbelievable production crew and creatives – all utterly amazing.
“I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re fully ready to go and I know the new hosts will be magnificent, I look forward to watching them take Strictly to new heights.
“As for Tess – I’m so lucky I got to stand next to you. You’re funny, kind, whip smart and a true friend and I love you.”
Claudia Winkleman at the Bafta TV Awards 2024 (Jordan Pettitt/PA) (PA Archive)
Nicole Wootton-Cane23 October 2025 11:29
Tess reveals her top Strictly moment
Tess Daly has revealed her top Strictly moment after more than 20 years presenting the show.
Speaking to The Mirror, when asked about her favourite memory of the contestants she said: “Ed Balls and his now infamous Gangnam Style routine. Once seen never to be forgotten!”
Ed Balls performs Gangnam Style on Strictly
Nicole Wootton-Cane23 October 2025 11:20
Ladbrokes floats early odds on Tess and Claudia replacements
Bookies Ladbrokes have floated some early odds on who could follow in the footsteps of Tess and Claudia.
Posting on X, the bookmaker shared famous TV names such as Alison Hammond and Stacey Dooley, with telly star and former radio host Roman Kemp taking thr top spot.
Nicole Wootton-Cane23 October 2025 11:12
Fans react to news of Tess and Claudia quitting
Fans have been quick to react to the news of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman quitting Strictly Come Dancing.
Posting on X, one fan wrote: “Strictly without Claudia will not be the same”.
“tess and claud leaving strictly???? nah that’s ruined my week,” another commented.
Others were already speculating on who might be in line to replace the pair.
“Okay so BBC hear me out. What about Dan and Helen as the new pair for strictly ,” one posted.
“I think Carol Kirkwood would be a smashing Tess replacement for Strictly,” another added. “She’s friendly, bubbly and can put people at ease, has done the show so knows how the contestants feel. I might start a petition lol”.
Nicole Wootton-Cane23 October 2025 11:06
Strictly Come Dancing 2025: All the scandals that have threatened show’s future
Roisin O’Connor23 October 2025 11:00
Full story: Tess and Claudia quit Strictly
Roisin O’Connor23 October 2025 10:50
Tess Daly shares separate statement about her time on the show
In a separate statement, Daly said it was “hard to put into words” what the show had meant to her over the years.
“Strictly has been more than just a television programme,” she said. “It’s like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special, but I could never have imagined the magic it would bring.
“Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together… I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.”
Roisin O’Connor23 October 2025 10:45
VIDEO: Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to leave Strictly Come Dancing at end of seriesTess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to leave Strictly Come Dancing at end of series
Roisin O’Connor23 October 2025 10:40