Strictly Come Dancing Rocked by Departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman

Strategic Insights -

BBC's flagship show, Strictly Come Dancing, is facing a significant change as both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced they will be stepping down at the end of the 2025 series. The news has been met with surprise from fans and past contestants, including James Jordan, a former professional dancer on the show. Jordan expressed confidence that the show will continue to thrive, but praised the departing hosts as the "bricks and mortar of Strictly," acknowledging that they have big boots to fill.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced they will be quitting Strictly Come Dancing at the end of the 2025 series.
  • The departure of the pair is considered "huge news" for the BBC's flagship show, with James Jordan calling them the "bricks and mortar of Strictly."
  • Jordan believes the show will continue to survive, citing the importance of the live band, big production, and warmth.
  • He praised the departing hosts, describing them as "Tess steady and elegant, Claudia funny and fearless."
  • The BBC will need to "think outside the box" when deciding who will replace Daly and Winkleman, possibly considering individuals like Bradley Walsh or Vernon Kay.
  • James Jordan has expressed his interest in returning to the show, either as a judge or in a hosting capacity.
  • Daly and Winkleman announced their departure through an Instagram post on October 23.

Statistics:

  • Strictly Come Dancing has been on the air since 2004.
  • James Jordan appeared on the show as a professional dancer from 2006 until 2013.
  • The show has been hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman since 2004 and 2009, respectively.

Sources:

  • "Strictly Come Dancing" social media post on October 25, 2025, announcing the departure of Daly and Winkleman.
  • James Jordan's interview with Free Bets on the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
  • BBC One's broadcast schedule for Strictly Come Dancing, showing the show's upcoming broadcast on October 25.