The BBC has released a sneak peek of the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special – and it’ll mark the final time we see Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman present the show.
Tess and Claudia announced the news on their own respective Instagram pages in October. However, the duo confirmed they will remain in place until the current series draws to a close.
This includes the upcoming Christmas Day special, which has been pre-recorded.
Claudia and Tess will front the show one last time on Christmas Day (Credit: BBC)
First look at Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Christmas Special
In a first look at the presenters on the Christmas special, both Tess and Claudia stick to a wintry, festive theme.
While Tess, 56, dons a white suit adorned with snow-like sequins, 53-year-old Claudia keeps things simple in a maxi length white dress.
The Strictly Come Dancing judges will match the hosts, with clips revealing the fantastic foursome also dressed all in white and silver shades.
It’ll be the professionals bringing the colour to proceedings. The pro dancers are dolled up in greens, pinks and reds as they perform a cracker of group number.
The judges will raise a toast for a fabulous Christmas special (Credit: BBC)
Who will be taking part in the Strictly Christmas special?
As always, the festive special will see a number of celebrities try their hand at Latin and ballroom routines. All will feature a Christmas theme.
Former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt will be taking to the floor, alongside singer Melanie Blatt. Rugby player and Gladiators star Jodie Ounsley will be joining them, as well as EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey and comedian Babatunde Aléshé.
The pros and performers will add a splash of colour (Credit: BBC)
When will the Strictly Christmas special air?
The Strictly Christmas special will take place on Christmas Day at 5.30pm onwards.
With the feature-length special being Tess and Claudia’s final outing on the programme, expect surprises. But one thing’s for certain – get some tissues at the ready, as it’s going to be an emotional finale…
Strictly hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman ended their final Blackpool show with a big party with stars of the show, past and present.
From enjoying tequila to having a drink with some famous faces, here’s a closer look at the Strictly Blackpool afterparty 2025…
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman party after final Strictly Blackpool party
This weekend (November 22), marked Tess and Claudia’s final time hosting the BBC dance show in Blackpool. The presenting duo announced earlier on in the season that they will be leaving the show this year.
After the Blackpool special results show aired on Sunday, Tess shared some snaps on her Instagram. And it seems the blonde TV presenter said goodbye to the iconic Tower Ballroom in style.
In one photo, Tess and Claudia posed for the cameras, with Claudia holding an open bottle of tequila in her hands.
Both stars are wearing white T-shirts with I HEART BLACKPOOL printed on them.
“Blackpool, you didn’t disappoint! From the warmest of welcomes to some truly incredible routines from our brilliant couples; the only downside – having to bid the fondest of farewells to @lavoixtheshow [heart emojis] She’ll be very much missed by us all xx,” Tess captioned the post.
Claudia looked to be in high spirits in the pic. Meanwhile, other partygoers could be seen milling around in the background of the snap.
Strictly hit Blackpool (Credit: BBC)
The afterparty
According to The Sun, this year’s Blackpool afterparty was cancelled by the BBC.
“The stars of this year’s show don’t want to be in a position where they could be linked to any wrongdoing,” a source claimed.
“There’s a feeling that if people are in the wrong place at the wrong time, it could reflect very badly on them.”
However, a party clearly did happen, as proven by some of the stars’ posts on social media! Read on and we’ll tell you all we know!
Carlos and Ben after the show (Credit: @amydowden / Instagram)
In a post shared by Amy Dowden, the Welsh dancer, Carlos Gu and her husband, Ben Jones, could be seen enjoying some time together after the show. Ben, 34, can be seen in one photo planting a big kiss on Carlos’ cheek. And, from the background, it seems like they were at the same location as Tess and Claude.
“We love you and are so very proud of you @gkx_carlos,” Amy captioned the post.
In another picture, Amy shared a picture of Carlos resting his head on Ben’s shoulder. Ben, meanwhile, could be seen with a drink in his hand.
“These two [heart eye emoji],” Amy captioned the story.
Enjoying a drink with Gogglebox stars and partying with Strictly alumni
Meanwhile, Lewis Cope and Craig Revel Horwood headed for a drink with Paul Chuckle! Yes, really!
The Chuckle Brothers star was also joined by his nephew and niece, Gogglebox favourites Pete and Sophie Sandiford. And, according to reports, the shindig took place at the Holiday Inn, where the Strictly stars were said to be staying.
Pete and Sophie are, of course, from Blackpool.
“I didn’t think anything could top one of the best #bbcstrictly episodes I’ve ever seen except a late-night catch-up with the phenomenon that is @lewiscope AND the growing Chuckle TV Dynasty that is @officialpaulchuckle @sophiesandiford1 @sandifordpete who are all as hilarious as each other,” Craig wrote on Instagram.
“Perfect candidates for 2026 if you ask me.”
Ashley and Layton joined the party (Credit: @jmanrara / Instagram)
Tess Daly and fellow Strictly co-host Claudia Winkleman shocked the nation last week after they announced they would be leaving the show after the 2025 series is complete.
The pair said it “feels the right time” to leave and admitted they have “loved working as a duo”.
Claudia joined the show as a co-presenter on the main show in 2010. Meanwhile, Tess has fronted the beloved BBC programme since its very first series in 2004.
Claudia and Tess announced they are leaving Strictly this year (Credit: Splashnews.com)
‘Real reason’ Tess Daly is leaving Strictly
Having been dedicated to the show for over 20 years, insiders have revealed that Tess would like to be able to spend more time with her family. She and husband Vernon Kay share two daughters — Phoebe, 21 and Amber, 16.
“Strictly is a real whirlwind – it is chaotic and they don’t have much time together,” a source told the Mirror.
“Vernon has been understanding and knows this. Tess has been on Strictly forever but it’s been heartbreaking for her not to have as much time as she wants with her family – it’s the juggle so many women have.”
Once the 2025 series has wrapped, Tess and Vernon are set to have “more special time” with her children.
“They’re seeing her taking time away from work briefly as their fresh start – a chance for her and Vernon to have some space for their relationship. Once Strictly has stopped, she can have so much more family time, more holidays, more special time with the kids and for work opportunities. It’s going to be very positive for them as a couple,” the insider continued.
ED! has contacted Tess’ reps for comment.
Tess reportedly wants to spend more time with her family (Credit: Splashnews.com)
Tess and Claudia’s replacement
While no name(s) have been announced as the replacement for Tess and Claudia, several names have been circling.
According to exclusive odds from SportsCasting, Roman Kemp is an early favourite. Former This Morning host Holly Willoughby is also a contender, as well as former Strictly contestant Alex Scott.
It Takes Two hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara could also be in for a chance.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have thanked Strictly Come Dancing fans on the live show for their support, following the news of their exit.
This week, it was announced that the hosting duo had decided to leave together, having fronted the show for 21 years. The women stated they felt it was “the right time” to walk away.
And on Saturday night (October 25) Strictly returned to screens for its Icons Week, with Tess and Claudia back to host. And it didn’t take them long to address their upcoming exit…
The audience went wild for the hosts (Credit: BBC)
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman address exit
On Saturday (October 25) Tess and Claudia spoke about their exit for the first time on Strictly’s live show.
Opening the programme, Tess and Claud were met with a roar of applause from the live studio audience. Tess then told viewers: “Before we get started, Claud and I announced this week that this will be our last series.”
The live studio audience then expressed their sadness and collectively shouted “awww”.
Claudia then added: “We want to thank you for your beautiful messages. We’ve got another eight weeks on this incredible show and a Strictly champion to crown.”
Tess chimed in: “And we cannot wait to spend the rest of the series with you, with our amazing couples, and of course, with these four,” as she introduced the show’s judges.
The pair will be leaving the show (Credit: BBC)
Fans react to Tess and Claudia
Fans meanwhile, were left emotional over Tess and Claudia’s message at the start of the show. On X, one person said: “Need to savour the remaining weeks now with Tess and Claudia leaving [crying face emoji].”
Another shared a meme of a crying person, while a third person said: “They dealt with that swiftly and brilliantly.”
Echoing their thoughts, someone else wrote: “The reception for Tess and Claudia tonight is so well deserved just like it has been every single week for all the years they’ve done it together and both of them talking about their departure.”
Tess and Claudia’s exit
Tess and co-star Claudia Winkleman shocked the nation this week by revealing the 2025 series will be their last.
TV host Tess has been part of the flagship programme since it began in 2004. Claudia joined her as co-host in 2014 in the wake of Bruce Forsyth’s retirement.
In her own lengthy statement, Tess paid tribute to Strictly’s professional dancers, “magnificent judges” and the countless celebrity competitors.
“You’ve filled my heart in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll miss you all so much,” she said.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman made a shock announcement yesterday (October 23) that they were leaving Strictly Come Dancing at the end of this series.
The hosting duo decided to leave the show together, having fronted the show for 21 years. Strictly fans and dancers were left heartbroken by the statement. The women stated they felt it was “the right time” to walk away.
There have already been calls for them to return to the dance-floor again. But not as hosts… And exclusive odds from SportsCasting show us just how likely that is.
Tess and Claudia made the shock announcement yesterday (Credit: BBC/Guy Levy)
Calls for Tess and Claudia to compete on Strictly
Tess and Claudia shared a joint video on Instagram, and also gave their own personal statements. And have been hugely supported by those closest to them.
The announcement may have only happened 24 hours ago, but there is already quite a lot of speculation on their replacements. And there have been a lot of calls to get them on the show.
Pro-dancer Dianne Buswell, shared her hopes for them to be able to compete in an Instagram post dedicated to both of them.
She penned: “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!”
Joanne Clifton also shared her hopes for them to be contestants. She penned: “I still can’t believe it. These two legends. Such a privilege to have been on the show with them. Now PLEASE come back as celebs and DANCE! Let’s make this happen!”
Fans are also hopeful that it might be happening next year. Taking to X, one penned: “Telling myself Tess and Claudia leaving is all a big hoax because they’re going to be contestants next year. Then they will just continue to present from the year after.”
Another added: “So, what I’m hearing is Tess and Claudia will be available as contestants next year…”
Tess is more likely to return (Credit: BBC/Guy Levy)
What are the chances of either of the stars to come back?
But could it actually happen? According to exclusive odds from SportsCasting, it seems likely that one of them will return in dancing shoes.
Currently the most likely is Tess (2/1), while Claudia is more of a “wildcard” (8/1).
Spokesperson Shane Orton told ED!: “With both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepping down from their iconic Strictly hosting roles, there’s growing speculation about what’s next for the duo. A possible return to the dance floor in the future isn’t being ruled out. And it’s a move that would certainly surprise fans.
“Tess already has some form, scoring an impressive 36 for her American Smooth with Anton Du Beke on the 2008 Children in Need special. Claudia remains more of a wildcard.”
Shane continued: “At 2/1 for Tess and 8/1 for Claudia to appear as contestants, our traders at SportsCasting think a Strictly comeback could make for one of the show’s most-talked-about twists yet.”
Would you like to see Tess or Claudia compete in Strictly Come Dancing? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix. We want to hear your thoughts!
It’s fair to say it’s been a dramatic 12 months for Strictly Come Dancing – and it’s not even the end of the year yet.
The glitzy BBC One show kicked off the new series in September, with the likes of Vicky Pattison, Alex Kingston and Stefan Dennis taking part.
However, the series so far has been hit with a ton of drama, most recently, this week, when hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkelman announced they had quit the show. There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes, too, in the run-up to their exit.
Here, ED! takes a look back at the scandals that have hit everyone’s favourite dancing show over the past 12 months…
The opera singer appeared on the show last year (Credit: BBC)
Wynne Evans’ Strictly controversy
Wynne Evans appeared on Strictly in 2024 – and the singer and presenter had an eventful time on the show. This ended with him stepping back from the live tour at the start of the year.
He left the tour shortly after a video emerged of him making a lewd comment about Strictly co-stars Janette Manrara and Jamie Borthwick. After the scandal, Wynne issued an apology for his words.
In May though, Wynne reportedly launched legal action against tour producers for alleged medical negligence. The 53-year-old Welsh tenor is said to have suffered a double fracture and two torn ligaments after a fall during the Strictly Live tour earlier this year.
However, insiders claimed that instead of receiving proper medical attention, Wynne was bandaged up and told to carry on performing, despite being in “agony”. He is now said to be suing Phil McIntyre Entertainments, the company responsible for the tour, bringing more negative headlines for the series.
Jamie’s behaviour landed him in hot water (Credit: BBC)
Jamie Borthwick’s BBC axe
In April, EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick found himself in the headlines following a scandal that apparently saw him brandishing a sex toy backstage on the Strictly tour.
It was reported by The Sun that 30-year-old Jamie, who played Jay Brown on the soap, had been told off by BBC bosses after filming himself waving the sex toy around backstage, along with Go Compare man Wynne Evans.
Holding up the flesh-coloured rubber toy, Jamie is reported as saying: “Look at what he bought me. I opened it up, and he surprised me with this, didn’t he? It’s so funny.”
What’s more, Jamie also found himself in hot water when a recording emerged of him using a slur against disabled people behind the scenes at a Strictly live event. The BBC then suspended Jamie for three months before confirming his exit from the soap.
In a clip obtained by The Sun on Sunday earlier this year, and casting a further cloud over the show, the actor appeared to describe the people of Blackpool as “absolute [bleep]s”.
In his statement regarding the incident, Jamie said: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool Week on Strictly.”
A drugs scandal reportedly hit the show this year (Credit: BBC)
The Sun reported that the BBC has launched an investigation into alleged drug use by two Strictly Come Dancing stars. The BBC said it had “clear protocols and policies in place” for dealing with any serious complaints raised.
According to The Sun, the claims of drug use were made in a legal submission to the BBC in March by law firm Russells on behalf of Wynne Evans, a 2024 contestant. Additionally, it was claimed that others have also reported allegations of drug taking on Strictly to the BBC.
In an update surrounding the story, the Metropolitan Police issued a statement to the Mirror. “On Tuesday 12 August, the Metropolitan Police received an allegation about drug-related offences,” they said.
“Police are assessing the information, and further enquiries are taking place to establish whether there is evidence of a criminal offence being committed. We won’t be commenting further at this time.”
Strictly host Tess was alleged to have been “horrified” by the reports at the time.
Thomas’ stint on the show ruffled a few feathers (Credit: BBC)
Thomas Skinner backlash
The news of TV personality Thomas Skinner taking part in Strictly 2025 was met with criticism by fans when it was announced in August.
Recognised as this year’s most controversial celeb, Thomas has been very open about being a Donald Trump fan. He has been accused of having “flirtations” with Reform UK too.
The Apprentice winner also admitted to cheating on his wife weeks after they tied the knot. Thomas claimed it was a one-off. However, the other woman insisted it was a three-month affair.
What’s more, Thomas ended up in the headlines again when he walked out of the competition’s first press event after allegedly grabbing a journalist’s phone.
However, Thomas’ Strictly journey didn’t last long. He and pro partner Amy Dowden were eliminated in the very first week.
Giovanni hasn’t returned to this year’s series (Credit: BBC iPlayer)
Gioanni Pernice
Another scandal that could tarnish Strictly’s reputation is the Giovanni Pernice drama…
In 2023, the Italian pro dancer was paired with Sherlock actor Amanda Abbington, who quit the show due to a disagreement over his training methods and raised concerns over his behaviour.
Following a nine-month investigation, the results saw Giovanni cleared of the most serious claims. These claims included ‘physical aggression’. However, the corporation upheld six of the 17 complaints.
For the 2023 series, Giovanni was axed and he moved from the UK’s Strictly to the Italian version of the show. This year’s series was the first time, since the findings were reported, that Giovanni didn’t return as a pro dancer.
The pair quit the show this week (Credit: BBC)
Tess and Claudia quits Strictly
On Thursday (October 23) Strictly hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman quit the BBC One show, with the presenters sharing a joint statement on social media.
Tess has hosted Strictly since the show’s launch 21 years ago. Claudia joined her in 2014. She previously hosted spin-off show, Strictly: It Takes Two.
The pair explained to fans that it “feels the right time” to leave. They also admitted they have “loved working as a duo”.
The BBC reacted to the shock news in a series of emotional statements. Kate Phillips, Chief Content Officer for the BBC, said: “I can’t quite believe I’m saying this. But it’s the end of an era with Tess and Claudia’s decision to bid farewell to the Strictly ballroom.
“They’ve both been such incredible hosts at the very heart of the show. Their passion and dedication has gone above and beyond. They’ve been integral to Strictly’s success over the last 20 years. But I understand why they’ve decided it’s time to hang up the glitter ball and get their weekends back.”
Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturday (October 25) at 6:20pm on BBC One.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced they will be leaving Strictly Come Dancing after the latest series ends. The pair announced the news on Instagram on Thursday and said in a joint statement that “now feels like the right time” for them to depart the BBC show.
In a video, Tess said, “After 21 wonderful years on Strictly, we have decided that the time is right to step aside and pass over the baton.”Tess and Claudia’s statement”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.
“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.”What have viewers said about the announcement?Viewers shared their devastation in the comments section, with one person writing: “NOOOOOOO. The best presenting team on telly,” while another added: “End of an amazing era! What a team!”
Strictly star Tess Daly offered an insight into her relationship with Claudia Winkleman with a hilarious confession in a new interview.
Tess is set to host her 23rd series of the hit BBC show, having been a part of the programme since its launch in 2004.
Claudia and Tess are returning to host the show this year (Credit: BBC)
Strictly star Tess Daly on behind-the-scenes bond with Claudia Winkleman
In a new interview with the BBC ahead of the Strictly launch, Tess revealed that Claudia makes her “cry her mascara off” behind the scenes.
During the chat, Tess was asked what she’d learned from working alongside Claudia for so long.
Claudia has been a part of the Strictly family since its launch, fronting It Takes Two between 2004 and 2010, before co-hosting the results show between 2010 and 2013.
Since 2014, she has co-hosted the main show and results show alongside Tess.
“Claude and I have worked together for so many years now that we have watched each other’s children grow into young adults,” she said.
“Working with her is an absolute joy. What has she taught me? That I should never wear mascara to our script meetings because she has me laughing so much I end up crying it all off,” she then added.
Tess cited Chris and Dianne’s dance as a highlight of the last series (Credit: BBC)
Tess on Strictly ‘highlights’
When asked what she was most excited for with Strictly every year.
“I think the most exciting part of the entire series for me, bar the final, has to be meeting the new cast of celebrities. The highlight of the launch show is watching that first group dance; the very first time we see the celebrities step on the dance floor. From that moment, I’ve learnt to spot who has the potential to make it all the way through the competition,” she said.
Tess then went on to discuss a highlight from last year that still stays with her.
“A real highlight I will personally never forget was during last year’s series when Chris McCausland danced the waltz to You’ll Never Walk Alone. it was incredibly moving and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. You never forget how a performance made you feel and this one will always stay with me,” she said.
Tess has been on the show 21 years (Credit: BBC)
Tess on ‘key components’ of a winner
The Strictly host was then asked what components she thinks celebs need to win the Glitterball Trophy.
“This is a brilliant question and it’s quite a straightforward answer since, ultimately, a winner (and by the way it’s not just about lifting the trophy, there are always multiple winners each series!) – is someone who simply throws themselves into the show; the dancing, the hair, the makeup, the amazing costumes, the themed weeks-all of it,” she said.
“Ed Balls doing Gangnam Style is the perfect example of someone who did just that to brilliant effect. As did last year’s champion, Chris. I think when the audience sees someone who’s really embracing the competition and giving it their all; they tend to really get behind them,” she the added.
BBC Radio 2 star Vernon Kay has paid a touching tribute to his daughter Phoebe in honour of her 20th birthday.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, the TV star uploaded a pair of heartwarming images through the years.
One image showed Phoebe sweetly posing with her famous father at a recent event while a second snapshot showed Vernon and Tess Daly’s daughter in her youth, beaming for the camera with a white flower in her hair.
Heaping praise on his loved one, Vernon, 50, wrote in his caption: “20yrs of Happiness! Happy Birthday @phoebekay___ Love ya so much.”
The star’s fans and friends were quick to flood the comments section with birthday well-wishes.
“Oh wow she looks identical to her beautiful mummy! Happy birthday,” noted one, while a second wrote: “Awwww so sweet, beautiful photos Vern, and memories to keep,” and a third chimed in: “Phoebe is the image of her mother!! Gorgeous girl!”
Strictly host Tess also marked her eldest daughter’s big day in the sweetest way. To mark the special occasion, the presenter shared a carousel of photos, including holiday snaps, red carpet pictures and a heart-melting throwback photo.
“20 YEARS of loving you. Can’t wait to celebrate your birthday with you,” she gushed in her caption.
Lovebirds Tess and Vernon welcomed Phoebe on 17 October 2004. She was born the same year that Tess began hosting the BBC dance show, Strictly Come Dancing.
In her book, The Baby Diaries: Memories, Milestones and Misadventures, the mother-of-two opened up about her labour, explaining how she had a caesarean birth.
You may also likeWATCH: Vernon Kay and Tess Daly’s love story
Tess recalled: “The sensation of having a caesarean, of the doctor feeling around to pull our baby into the world, was like having a builder with huge boots on inside me, pulling at random bits from the wall of my womb as he stomped about.”
The couple, who tied the knot in 2003, went on to welcome their second daughter, Amber, on 30 May 2009. Amber weighed 7lb 15oz, with Vernon telling the Sunday Mirror at the time: “She is absolutely beautiful and I am thrilled.”
While Phoebe has slowly started stepping into the limelight alongside her parents, Vernon has maintained that he’s keen for his two daughters to maintain a sense of independence.
Vernon hopes his daughters will remain independent
“We let them be independent when it comes to their futures because it’s important that you allow them to find themselves, which is character building and personality development,” he told MailOnline.
