After more than two decades lighting up Saturday nights, Tess Daly has officially stepped away from Strictly Come Dancing.
The beloved presenter, 56, ended her incredible 21-year tenure on the BBC ballroom show during Saturday’s grand finale, sharing the stage one last time with co-host Claudia Winkleman.
Fans were treated to an emotional send-off as Tess and Claudia fought back tears while saying goodbye, just as footballer-turned-dancer Karen Carney lifted the glitterball trophy with her professional partner, Carlos Gu.
Heartfelt Tributes on Social Media
Once the cameras stopped rolling, Tess took to social media to reflect on her journey.
Sharing behind-the-scenes clips of herself and Claudia, she wrote about the finale:
“So that’s a wrap. What an incredible Final – fitting for what, for me, has been an absolutely brilliant series.
Strictly is a show made with love, where joy is the currency.
That love is down to every single member of the brilliant team, because to none of them is it just a job.
It is a gift, and it is truly treasured.”
She continued, expressing gratitude toward the viewers:
“I’ll miss the Strictly viewers, because they are the very best, the most loyal and supportive, and as passionate about the show as I have always been.
It has been the most wonderful privilege to have shared it with you all for so many years.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime.”
Friends and Colleagues Pour in Praise
Celebrity friends were quick to send their love. Rylan Clark called Tess and Claudia “irreplaceable”, while Zoe Ball hailed Tess as “an absolute Goddess.”
Claudia also shared snapshots of Strictly-themed cakes and backstage moments with her team, giving fans a peek into the final day of filming.
A Royal Surprise Leaves Them Stunned
The finale held one more unforgettable moment.
Tess and Claudia were left speechless after receiving a special tribute from Queen Camilla, read out by Craig Revel Horwood.
The letter celebrated their unique bond and contribution to the show:
“Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.
Strictly is not just about dancing, but about friendships, the bonds forged, struggles overcome, and joy shared together.
Yours has been perhaps the greatest Strictly partnership of all, radiating warmth, compassion, and happiness at the heart of the show’s success.
Please promise us one thing: keep dancing.”
Overwhelmed, Tess whispered, “I can’t speak now. What an honour.
Thank you so much for your lovely words.”
Claudia echoed the sentiment: “That is amazing, what a wonderful surprise. Thank you so much.”
A Legendary 21-Year Journey
Tess’s tenure on Strictly Come Dancing spanned an astounding 21 years and 216 days, earning her a Guinness World Record as the longest-serving host of the same dance competition.
She has been a constant presence since the very first episode in 2004, initially alongside the late Bruce Forsyth until his retirement in 2013, after which Claudia took over.
Looking Ahead
As Tess and Claudia close this chapter, fans are left wondering what’s next for the iconic duo.
For now, the ballroom may feel a little emptier, but the memories, glitterball magic, and heartfelt moments will surely stay with viewers forever.
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