When Tess Daly, the face of Strictly Come Dancing since its launch, and Claudia Winkleman confirmed on October 23, 2025 that they’ll hand over the mic after two decades, fans felt the room go quiet. The duo posted a joint video on Instagram and Twitter, saying they’ll stay on for the 23rd series but will bow out permanently after the Christmas special on December 25, 2025. The news landed at a time when the show, produced by BBC Studios, is gearing up for a star‑studded lineup that includes former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and TV personality Vicky Pattison.
A Two‑Decade Partnership Comes to an End
In her Instagram caption, Daly wrote, "After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly. It’s always been about joy, celebration and bringing people together – I’m proud to have played a small part in something that means so much to so many." A day later, Winkleman echoed the sentiment, adding, "I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re fully ready to go. I know the new hosts will be magnificent and I can’t wait to watch them take Strictly to new heights."
The pair emphasized that their exit was planned together, describing it as "the right time" after a 21‑year run that began alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth. Both women were honoured with MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours of June 2023 for services to broadcasting, a fact that adds a regal touch to their legacy.
What the 23rd Series Looks Like
The current series kicked off in September 2025, filmed at BBC Elstree Centre in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire. Alongside the new celebrity contestants, professional dancers such as Karen Hauer, Giovanni Pernice and Neil Jones are set to rehearse for a season that promises fresh choreography and a few surprise guest performances.
Judging duties remain with the familiar panel – Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and the recently‑promoted Anton Du Beke. Du Beke, who also hosts a radio show on BBC Radio 2, was quick to label the news "the saddest" he’s heard in years.
Reactions from Colleagues and Fans
“Tess, I remember back in 2004 in a London hotel introducing this wonderful new show to the world,” Du Beke said in a live interview on October 24, 2025. “You’ve been a torch‑bearer from the beginning. More importantly, you’ve been a wonderful friend and colleague. I’m going to miss you dearly on a Saturday night.” His words resonated on social media, where thousands of fans shared nostalgic clips of Daly’s first “ballroom” introduction and Winkleman’s witty banter from the early days of Strictly Come DancingBBC Elstree Centre.
BBC executives, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the decision was mutual and that the network is already scouting a “dynamic duo” to take over in series 24. Production insiders hinted at a possible mix of fresh faces and a familiar BBC presenter, but stressed that any announcement will come before the new year.
What’s Next for the Iconic Dance Show
- Christmas special as a farewell: The final episode, scheduled for December 25, 2025, will feature a special tribute montage and a surprise guest performance.
- New hosts on the horizon: Rumours point to a partnership between a younger BBC radio star and a veteran TV presenter, aiming to retain the show’s “sparkly baton” feel.
- Potential format tweaks: Early talks suggest more digital integration, possibly livestreaming behind‑the‑scenes rehearsals to boost younger audience engagement.
Historical Perspective on the Presenters
When the show first aired on May 15, 2004, Daly was the sole face, sharing the stage with Forsyth’s trademark top hat. Winkleman entered the scene in 2004 as host of the companion programme It Takes Two, eventually stepping into the main co‑presenter role after Forsyth retired in 2014. Together they navigated over 200 episodes, three royal weddings, and a pandemic‑forced hiatus that forced the production team to innovate with socially‑distanced dances.
Both women have used their platform for charitable causes – Daly championed mental‑health charities, while Winkleman has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. Their departure marks not just a change in on‑screen chemistry, but also a shift in the show’s cultural footprint, which has become a staple of British pop culture for more than two decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman leaving now?
Both presenters said the decision was mutually agreed with the BBC and felt it was the right moment after 21 years. Daly mentioned a desire to explore new projects, while Winkleman referenced wanting more family time after a busy decade of TV work.
Who will replace them as hosts for series 24?
The BBC has not officially named successors yet. Industry buzz points to a mix of a younger BBC Radio 2 personality and a veteran television presenter, aiming to keep the “sparkly baton” tradition alive.
What special events will mark Daly and Winkleman's final episode?
The Christmas special on December 25, 2025, will feature a tribute montage, guest performances from past winners, and a final on‑stage goodbye from both presenters.
How have the presenters impacted the show’s popularity?
Ratings consistently rose during their tenure, with the 2022 series hitting an average of 11.2 million viewers. Their chemistry is credited with keeping the show fresh, even as dance trends and audience demographics evolved.
Will Daly and Winkleman continue any involvement with the show?
Both have said they’ll remain supportive fans and might appear as guest judges or mentors in future specials, but they have no plans for regular on‑screen roles.