The world of Strictly is reacting to the unexpected announcement that Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly will be stepping aside from their presenting duties on the BBC dance show when the current series finishes. Professional dancers, judges and fans are all paying tribute to the presenters and the incredible job they did on Strictly since they both joined in 2004.
In a joint statement, Tess and Claudia said: “We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.
“We will have the greatest rest of this amazing series and we just want to say an enormous thank you to the BBC and to every single person who works on the show. They’re the most brilliant team and we’ll miss them every day.”
The presenters announced they expect things to be emotional when their final show airs, saying: “We will cry when we say the last “keep dancing” but we will continue to say it to each other. Just possibly in tracksuit bottoms at home while holding some pizza.”
Paying tribute to her presenting partner Tess, Claudia shared her own tribute. She wrote: “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.”
The presenters have been inundated with messages this morning. Professional dancer Dianne Buswell shared a post to her Instagram of her, Chris McCausland, Claudia and Tess.
She wrote: “Tess and Claud genuinely the coolest big sisters ever! So lucky to have got to work with you both for all these years! You will be missed dearly. Just a question does this mean you can now compete on the show if so I bags the all girl partnership.”
Strictly’s It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara commented: “Legends of the ballroom and Saturday night prime time TV. Have enjoyed working with you both immensely over the years and I will miss you. And, as our show’s saying goes, always and forever “keep dancing.”
Strictly professional Jowita Przystal added: “Gutted, the best duo! We will miss you so much, thank you for always being there for us, wish you all the best” and fellow dancer Amy Dowden responded “Nooooo, absolutely gutted! Our beautiful strictly queens!
“Thank you, from being a fan these past 21 years to joining the show you have both brought so much joy, elegance, fun and pure brilliant entertainment to the nation! Thank you! Going to miss you both so much! Welsh love always.”
It Takes Two host Fleur East shared a message of her own, writing: “I can’t believe it! Love you both so much. Will cherish the next few months with you” and judge Motsi Mabuse commented “Going to miss you so much! You’re an icon and inspiration. Still in shock, but wishing you love and best wishes.”
The constant stream of tributes reflects how big of a change this will be for Strictly Come Dancing as two of its biggest stars bid a farewell. Tess and Claudia made history when they became primetime television’s first female presenting duo.