Claudia Winkleman is one of Britain’s most beloved television presenters, best known for her quick wit, signature fringe, and effortless charm on screen.
She has spent more than two decades in broadcasting, building a career that spans entertainment, lifestyle, and primetime television.
In this article, we take a closer look at Claudia Winkleman’s biography, including details about her husband Kris Thykier, children, career milestones, age, and net worth, as well as her enduring partnership with Tess Daly on Strictly Come Dancing.
Quick Facts About Claudia Winkleman
- Full Name: Claudia Anne Irena Winkleman
- Date of Birth: 15 January 1972
- Age (2025): 53 years
- Nationality: British
- Spouse: Kris Thykier (m. 2000)
- Children: 3 children
- Notable Shows: Strictly Come Dancing, The Traitors
- Estimated Net Worth ~£8.7 million
- Honour: MBE (2025)
Early Life & Biography
Claudia Anne Irena Winkleman was born on 15 January 1972 in London, England.
She grew up in Hampstead and attended the University of Cambridge (New Hall) before embarking on a career in television and broadcasting.
Known for her distinctive full fringe, bold eyeliner and warm presenting style, she developed a reputation early on as a talented interviewer and host of lifestyle and entertainment programmes.
Claudia Winkleman Age
As of 2025, Claudia Winkleman is 53 years old.
Claudia Winkleman Husband
Claudia Winkleman is married to Kris Thykier, a British film producer known for projects such as Kick-Ass, Woman in Gold, and The Debt. The couple tied the knot in June 2000 in a private ceremony in Westminster, London.
Despite both being in the entertainment industry, Claudia and Kris have maintained a notably private relationship, keeping their family life out of the spotlight.
Claudia Winkleman and Kris Thykier
Winkleman has often mentioned in interviews that her husband’s support and grounding influence have been vital throughout her demanding television career.
Their marriage has lasted more than two decades, a testament to their strong partnership and shared values away from fame and red carpets.
Claudia Winkleman Children
Claudia Winkleman and her husband, Kris Thykier, share three children: Jake Thykier (born 2003), Matilda Martha Thykier (born 2006), and Arthur Thykier (born 2011).
In 2014, Claudia’s daughter Matilda suffered a serious accident during Halloween when her costume caught fire — an incident that led to major safety awareness campaigns about flammable materials in children’s clothing.
Claudia later spoke publicly about the event, thanking the medical staff who treated her daughter and using her platform to promote safer manufacturing standards.
The Winkleman–Thykier family continues to live in London, and Claudia has shared that she prioritizes spending time with her children and limiting screen time when off work — a balance that has earned her admiration as both a presenter and a parent.
Career Highlights
- Claudia’s early TV work included travel-reporting, contributions to lifestyle magazines and appearances on BBC’s Holiday in the 1990s.
- She became widely known for her role on Strictly Come Dancing (BBC One), where she served as co-host from 2010 and full main host from 2014.
- More recently she has hosted major shows such as The Traitors (UK edition) from 2022 onward.
- In March 2025 she was appointed MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to broadcasting.
Strictly — Tess and Claudia
One of the defining moments of Claudia Winkleman’s career came with her role on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. After joining the show in 2010 as co-host for Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, she stepped into a main hosting role in 2014, teaming up with long-time presenter Tess Daly.
Together, Tess and Claudia brought a perfect balance of warmth, humour, and glamour to Saturday-night television. Their chemistry quickly became a fan favourite, and the pair were praised for modernising the show’s tone with their relaxed banter and genuine affection for contestants.
Tess and Claudia
In October 2025, both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced they would be leaving Strictly Come Dancing after more than a decade, marking the end of an era for the BBC hit.
Their departure sparked emotional tributes from fans and colleagues who credited the duo for helping Strictly remain one of the most-watched shows on British television.
Claudia Winkleman Net Worth & Earnings
Claudia Winkleman’s estimated net worth is around £8.7 million (UK pounds) as of recent estimates.
Much of her income stems from her long-running television roles, presenting fees, brand endorsements (including work with major beauty brands), and her production company, Little Owl Productions.
Why Claudia Winkleman Stands Out
- She has built a long-standing presence in UK broadcasting and has become one of the most recognised TV presenters of her generation.
- Her trademark fringe and presenting style make her instantly identifiable.
- She has transitioned successfully from entertainment magazine style TV into major primetime programmes and hosting roles.
- Her achievements reflect both longevity in the industry and broad appeal across audiences.
Conclusion
Claudia Winkleman is a veteran of British television whose name has become synonymous with popular entertainment and high-profile presenting.
From her early days in travel and lifestyle journalism to her major hosting roles, she has built a strong and respected career. Her marriage to Kris Thykier, her family life with three children, and her clear success in the broadcasting industry further solidify her as a key figure in UK media.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is Claudia Winkleman so famous?
Claudia Winkleman is best known for co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing alongside Tess Daly on BBC One. Her quick wit, distinctive fringe, and unique presenting style have made her one of Britain’s most recognizable television personalities.
Beyond Strictly, she has hosted shows like The Great British Sewing Bee, Film 2016, and The Traitors: Uncloaked, cementing her place as a versatile broadcaster and national favorite.
2. What health condition does Claudia Winkleman have?
Claudia Winkleman has spoken publicly about seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — a form of depression that occurs during darker months. She’s also mentioned struggles with anxiety and the importance of self-care, sunlight, and maintaining balance during busy filming schedules.
3. What happened to Claudia Winkleman’s daughter?
In 2014, Claudia’s daughter Matilda was severely injured when her Halloween costume caught fire. The incident led Claudia to campaign for stricter fire safety regulations on children’s clothing in the UK.
Matilda made a full recovery, and Claudia continues to raise awareness about costume safety during Halloween.
4. How does Claudia stay so slim?
Claudia Winkleman credits her slim figure to a balanced diet and active lifestyle rather than extreme workouts. She has mentioned that she prefers walking and staying busy with work and family life over structured gym routines.
Claudia is also known for her moderate, realistic approach to fitness and body image, emphasizing comfort and confidence over dieting.
