Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s statements in full as they quit Strictly Come Dancing
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have both announced in a joint statement today that they have decided to ‘pass the baton’ on to new presenters as they quit Strictly Come Dancing
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have both quit Strictly (
Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced this morning they have quit the show as they shared bombshell statements.
The pair appeared together in a video, which they posted on Tess and Claudia’s Instagram pages, as they shared their decision to “pass the baton” on to new presenters. Tess, 56, has been hosting the programme for 21 years while Claudia, 53, has been her co-host for 11 years.
The pair also released separate statements to show the news. Tess’ statement read: “After 21 unforgettable 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 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. 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 — and I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.
“From that very first series, I had the great honour of standing alongside the incomparable Sir Bruce Forsyth.”
Tess continued: “Brucie set the tone for everything that Strictly became: warmth, wit, connection, and pure showbiz magic.
“I have always been in awe of our superbly talented professional dancers, our magnificent judges, and all the celebrities who have taken part. I absolutely adore our brilliant crew – every single member of the Strictly team who have worked so tirelessly to make this show what it is. You are the very best in the business – the kindest most fun, most loyal, and definitely the hardest working team in television.
“Thank you for the laughter, the friendship, and the countless memories over all these years. You’ve filled my heart in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll miss you so much.
“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.”
