IN THE wake of the sad news of Tess Daly & Claudia Winkleman bowing out of their hosting roles on Strictly – it has come to light that there were several clues they would pack the show in.
The pair seemingly dropped a few hints over that they might be quitting Strictly, which comes as they wave goodbye to the show after teaming up together 11 years ago.
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Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly have sensationally quit the iconic show togetherCredit: instagram
The pair announced they were both stepping down on Thursday after 11 years hosting togetherCredit: PA
Tess has quit after 21 years, and Claudia after 11.
The presenters shared the shock news in separate statements on Instagram today.
They teamed up in 2014 and took over from departing host Bruce Forsyth.
But what were the clues that they would quit the iconic show for pastures new?
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Well, The Sun has taken a look…
ALL IN THE TIMING
It’s an anniversary year for Tess – 21 years hosting the dancing competition – so some might say this is a good milestone to bow out on.
After all, 21 years is like the end of an era.
SECRET PACT
Both Tess and Claudia have grown incredibly close since they began hosting the show together in 2014.
They have always said that they would leave together.
Their pact seemingly meant that is Tess was ready to leave, as she has done longer, Claudia made a promise to follow suit.
“Tess and I will leave at the same time,” Claudia previously told The Mirror.
“We’ve made that pact over pizza. We’ll go together, whenever they’re done with us.”
The duo had previously made a pact to leave togetherCredit: PA
Claudia joined the show in 2014Credit: instagram
IN DEMAND
Claudia has a really demanding work load with The Traitors and The Celebrity Traitors, as well as The Piano.
Not only does she have several TV commitments, but she is very in demand, too.
According to YouGov, Claudia is the “29th most popular contemporary TV personality and the 39th most popular TV personality”.
Almost two years ago, The Sun reported that Claudia could be offered at least £500,000 to host shows on ITV.
A TV insider said in January 2024: “ITV very much see Claudia as the presenter of the moment. She’s smart, fun, witty, hard-working and is so sharp she’s considered a safe pair of hands when it comes to live TV.
“That means she could pretty much tackle any project bosses could throw at her, and it might offer her the next step up in her stellar career.
“There’s no suggestion that Claudia is about to quit Strictly, or that the BBC are concerned about her quitting the corporation entirely.
“But she has been exploring more avenues recently, guest hosting on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway on ITV and The Piano for Channel 4.
“And since The Traitors became such a huge hit, everyone has been after a piece of Claudia. It’s just that an ITV show is seen as a natural move for her.
“But they’ll need to offer her a deal that will make it attractive enough as she is believed to earn at least £150,000 to front Strictly with Tess and is likely to get more for doing the solo presenting job on The Traitors.
“Together with The Piano, much of her year is already taken up with filming big shows.”
BACKSTAGE SCANDAL
It’s been a tough time for Strictly Come Dancing in the last few years.
The BBC One show has been hit by quite a few scandals, so it’s safe to say that the scandals may have played a part in the pair quitting.
Recent Strictly scandals include the bullying and misconduct allegations against Giovanni Pernice in 2024.
As well as investigation into comments made by performer Wynne Evans.
There had even been rumours Claudia has wanted to quit for some time.
Back in September, Closer Magazine reported that bosses were anxious over Claudia possibly leaving.
The magazine reported that bosses had been “leaning on Claudia to help steady the ship”.
A source told the magazine: “She’s the face the public trusts. She’s hugely popular, and they know she’s the safest pair of hands they’ve got.
But the truth is, she’s under enormous pressure and fears are growing that it could all lead to her quitting the show.”
Fans love the two women presenters hosting togetherCredit: instagram
Claudia is a very in-demand presenterCredit: instagram
FAMILY TIES
Both Tess and Claudia have talked about needing to spend more time with family.
In 2021, Claudia nearly quit when filming clashed with her son’s first day of university, a moment she described as dramatic and tearful.
This incident underscored the difficulty of balancing her work and family life.
Claudia has three children: Jake, Matilda, and Arthur, with her husband, Kris Thykier.
Meanwhile, Tess is also a doting mother. She has two teenage daughters – 20-year-old Pheobe and 15-year-old Amber.
Tess shares her daughters with her husband of 22 years, Vernon Kay,
TESS’ EXIT STATEMENT
Tess, who hosted with Bruce from 2004 until his exit in 2013, said: “After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.
“It’s hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here goes…
“Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It’s felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special, but I could never have imagined the magic it would bring.
“Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together — and I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.
“From that very first series, I had the great honour of standing alongside the incomparable Sir Bruce Forsyth.”
She continued: “Brucie set the tone for everything that Strictly became: warmth, wit, connection, and pure showbiz magic.
“I have always been in awe of our superbly talented professional dancers, our magnificent judges, and all the celebrities who have taken part.
“I absolutely adore our brilliant crew — every single member of the Strictly team who have worked so tirelessly to make this show what it is.
“You are the very best in the business – the kindest, most fun, most loyal, and definitely the hardest-working team in television.
“Thank you for the laughter, the friendship, and the countless memories over all these years. You’ve filled my heart in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll miss you all so much.
“And to you — the viewers at home — the biggest thank you of all. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes for over two decades.”
The host went on: “Your love, loyalty, and unwavering support have meant the world. You’ve carried us through every series, and that has never, ever been taken for granted.
“You are the heart of this show, and I feel so lucky to have shared it with you.
“Being part of your weekend from September to Christmas for the past 21 years has been one of the greatest joys and privileges of my career.
“To my beloved Claud — what an absolute joy and pleasure it has been sharing this adventure with you.
“You’re one of a kind, and l’ll treasure every giggle, every live show, and every backstage moment we’ve shared. I’m so grateful to have you as my friend for life.
“This isn’t a goodbye to glitter, sequins, or Saturday night sparkle (I could never say goodbye to those!).
“Strictly will forever hold a special place in my heart — but it does feel like the right time to hand over the reins.
“With all my love and endless gratitude, Tess x”
CLAUDIA’S EXIT STATEMENT
Meanwhile, Claudia posted photos of her time hosting with Tess, and an emotional caption.
She said: “It’s very difficult to put into words exactly what Strictly has meant to me. It’s been the greatest relationship of my career.
“From working on It Takes Two in 2004 until now it has been my everything, the show I will be eternally grateful for.
“I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know) and the complete thrill and honour it was to work with Tess on the results show to cohosting on Saturday nights.
“Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake tanned train and it’s been a privilege to be a tiny part of it.
“The extraordinary talent of the dancers, the band, the hair and makeup and costume teams, the unbelievable production crew and creatives – all utterly amazing.
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“I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re fully ready to go and I know the new hosts will be magnificent, I look forward to watching them take Strictly to new heights.
“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.”
They shared an emotional video as they announced the sad news on ThursdayCredit: Instagram
