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Shirley Ballas has opened up about the emotional impact of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing, admitting she was “saddened” to see the presenters go.
The head judge, 66, had grown close to the pair during their time on the BBC dance competition, but says she has since enjoyed getting to know their successors, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.
Ballas told Prima: “Claudia and Tess started me off in 2017, and I had a beautiful relationship with both of them. They had the changing room next to mine so I could always hear them laughing and giggling – it was such a lovely vibe.
“So, of course, I was very saddened to hear [they were leaving] … Then, of course, I know Emma Willis, because I did Cooking With The Stars with her. And Josh Widdicombe I met several times on different shows that we’ve done, and he is extremely funny.”
Ballas expressed a particular fondness for Radebe, who previously competed as a dancer on Strictly.
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly announced their departure from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in October 2025 (BBC)
‘Strictly’ judge Shirley Ballas has admitted she was ‘saddened’ by Daly and Winkleman’s exit (BBC)
She said: “I’ve known him since 2018. He’s just a superstar in my book.”
Winkleman and Daly announced they were leaving Strictly in October 2025.
Winkleman wrote on Instagram at the time: “From working on It Takes Two in 2004 until now it has been my everything, the show I will be eternally grateful for.
“I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know) and the complete thrill and honour it was to work with Tess on the results show to cohosting on Saturday nights.
“Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake tanned train and it’s been a privilege to be a tiny part of it. The extraordinary talent of the dancers, the band, the hair and makeup and costume teams, the 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 so lucky I got to stand next to you. You’re funny, kind, whip smart and a true friend and I love you.”
Meanwhile, Daly wrote in a statement of her own: “After an unforgettable 21 years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing. It’s hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here it goes… Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It’s felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004…
“From that very first series, I had the great honour of standing alongside the incomparable Sir Bruce Forsyth. Brucie set the tone for everything that Strictly became: warmth, wit, connection, and pure showbiz magic…
“To be [sic] beloved Claud – what an absolute joy and pleasure it has been sharing this adventure with you.
“You’re one of a kind, and I’ll treasure every giggle, every live show, and every backstage moment we’ve shared. I’m so grateful to have you as my friend for life.
“This isn’t a goodbye to glitter, sequins, or Saturday night sparkle (I could never say goodbye to those!). Strictly will forever hold a special place in my heart – but it does feel like the right time to hand over the reins. With all my love and endless gratitude, Tess x.”