View 4 Images
Strictly’s Tess Daly emotional after Bruce Forsyth wife’s message ‘he would be so proud’(Image: BBC)
Strictly’s Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were moved to tears after receiving a heartfelt message from the late Bruce Forsyth’s wife.
The presenting duo stunned viewers when they revealed in September that they would be departing the glamorous BBC One programme.
Tess and Claudia have co-hosted the show together since 2014, with Claudia taking over from Sir Bruce Forsyth, who originally presented alongside Tess from 2004.
During their appearance on It Takes Two on Tuesday (December 9) to discuss their departure, the atmosphere became particularly touching when Bruce Forsyth’s widow, Wilnelia Merced, had recorded a special tribute for the pair.
View 4 Images
The pair appeared on It Takes Two
“Hello Tess and Claudia. Sending you all my warmest wishes as you step into this exciting new chapter,” Wilnelia said, reports Wales Online.
You agree you are 18 or over. We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. Unsubscribe at anytime. More info
She continued: “Tess you so shared so many wonderful years on Strictly with Bruce and I know that he would be so proud of you.
“And Claudia your sparkle and wit have brought so much joy to everyone. Thank you both for the laughter and heart you have brought to the show. And don’t forget life is too short, so keep dancing!”.
View 4 Images
Bruce’s wife sent a message
Clearly touched by the tribute back in the studio, Claudia responded: “That’s beautiful,” whilst Tess replied: “That’s so lovely thank you Winnie so much.”
During another segment of the programme, the duo chatted with Fleur East about her experience on the show, with Tess making a heartfelt confession.
She revealed: “We haven’t had time to think about it because we’ve been so into the series, so absorbed by it – such a brilliant series. All our focus is on that really, so it’s going to be a bit of a shock on the 20th. I might get emotional.”
Article continues below
View 4 Images
She used to host Strictly with Sir Bruce(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Claudia continued: “I think we will be emotional, but of course, it won’t be about us, it’ll be about the winners, so that’s quite good,” with Tess responding: “We’re not allowed to cry.”
Tess revealed her departure in September through an Instagram post. She penned: “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.”
