Tess Daly Overwhelmed with Emotion in Final Strictly Episode

The hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, are set to conclude their tenure on the popular BBC show in just a few weeks. The duo announced their departure in October, confirming they would remain until the end of the current series. While they did not disclose specific reasons for their exit, the emotional weight of their departure became evident during the filming of a pre-recorded Christmas special, which will air later this month.

Emotional Farewell on Set

During the filming, Tess was visibly moved, experiencing a wave of emotion as she prepared for her final appearance. According to an audience member who spoke with the Mirror, the atmosphere in the studio was charged with sentiment. As the recording concluded, Tess and Claudia held hands and delivered their iconic catchphrase, “keeeeeep dancing,” with palpable emotion.

“Tess and Claudia looked pretty choked as they grabbed hold of each other’s hands… They were fighting hard to hold it together,”

the audience member shared, indicating that Tess wiped away tears during the filming, although she managed to maintain composure on camera.

Tess, who has been a fixture of the show since its inception in 2004, received a thoughtful gift from the panel of judges, including Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton du Beke. In a surprising turn, she performed a dance number with Anton, marking her first return to the dance floor since the Children in Need special in 2008.

A Special Performance and More Highlights

Audience members noted that Tess appeared to have practiced for the Argentine Tango she performed with Aljaz. “Tess was fabulous. Aljaz must have taught her how to do it, and she followed his instructions perfectly,” a source remarked. The performance was described as a rare treat, adding to the emotional weight of their farewell.

The upcoming Christmas special will feature a range of celebrity performances, including Scarlett Moffatt dancing the Cha Cha Cha with Vito Coppola, and All Saints singer Melanie Blatt performing an American Smooth with Kai Widdrington. Other participants include Jodie Ounsley, known as Fury from Gladiators, who will showcase a street dance with Neil Jones, and Nicholas Bailey from EastEnders performing a Viennese Waltz.

The emotional atmosphere surrounding Tess and Claudia’s final episodes reflects the deep connection they have fostered with audiences over the years. As the series approaches its climax, viewers can expect a heartfelt and memorable send-off for two beloved hosts of Strictly Come Dancing.