huffingtonpost - 9 days ago

Claudia Winkleman and Tess DalyTess Daly has announced she’s stepping down as the host of Strictly Come Dancing at the end of the current series.Since Strictly launched in 2004, Tess has co-presented the Bafta-winning series, first with the late Sir Bruce Forsyth and more recently with Claudia Winkleman.Announcing her departure on Thursday morning, she told her fans: “After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.”Tess continued: “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. 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.”Addressing Strictly’s viewers, she said: “Thank you for welcoming us into your homes for over two decades. 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 her “beloved” co-host Claudia, Tess enthused: “What an absolute joy and pleasure it has been sharing this adventure with you.“You’re one of a kind, and I’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.”She then insisted: “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.”View this post on InstagramA post shared by Tess Daly (@tessdaly)More to follow.

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