Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman Reflect on 21 Years of Strictly

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman shared an emotional farewell during their final rehearsals for the iconic dance show, *Strictly Come Dancing*. After a remarkable tenure of 21 years, the duo prepares to step down following the Christmas special, which was pre-recorded earlier this month. The grand finale is set to air on December 23, 2025.

In a heartfelt moment captured on social media, Tess, aged 56, and Claudia, aged 53, embraced as they reflected on their journey together. The pair received gifts and hugs from the crew during rehearsals, showcasing the deep bonds formed over their long partnership. Tess expressed her gratitude, stating, “I swear I love all of you because it’s felt like we’ve shared part of our lives, our children and everything. So thank you for that.” This statement was met with applause, and producers were seen comforting both hosts as emotions ran high.

Tess shared a poignant clip on Instagram, where she mentioned, “Not even live and cried and hugged more than I can count. Nearly final time, good luck to our couples tonight, we’re rooting for you! Let’s go out with a bang (and maybe another tear or two).” This sentiment captures the bittersweet nature of their departure from the show that has captivated audiences since its inception in 2004.

Two Decades of Dedication

The announcement of their exit was made earlier in the series, where they expressed their desire to “pass over the baton.” Tess has hosted *Strictly* for an impressive 21 years and 216 days, recently earning a Guinness World Record for the longest-serving host of a dance competition. She began her journey with the show alongside the late Bruce Forsyth, who retired in 2013, paving the way for Claudia to join her.

In the joint Instagram video announcing their departure, Claudia humorously remarked, “The very sparkly baton!” She acknowledged the significant time spent together, reminiscing about how they had essentially grown up alongside their children during their time on the show. Tess added, “It’s been a huge part of our lives since our children were literally babes in arms, and now they’re adults.”

Both hosts expressed deep appreciation for the *Strictly* team, emphasizing that “Strictly is the people who make it.” Their heartfelt farewell not only highlights their personal journey but also underscores the community built around the show.

Controversy Surrounds the Finale

As the anticipation for the final builds, some contestants have faced challenges of their own. Notably, Thomas Skinner, who was the first celebrity voted off this season, has claimed that *BBC* officials rigged the official voting figures. The 34-year-old former contestant stated he is seeking legal advice regarding his early exit from the competition, convinced that he received more public support than reflected in the voting results.

A spokesperson for the *BBC* responded, asserting that *Strictly Come Dancing’s* public vote is “robust and independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy.” This controversy adds an unexpected layer to the already emotional finale.

As Tess and Claudia prepare for their last appearance on stage, their legacy within *Strictly Come Dancing* remains undeniable. Their journey, marked by laughter, tears, and countless memories, will certainly be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. With the grand finale just days away, viewers are eager to see how the show will celebrate its long-standing hosts and the contestants who have contributed to its success.