BBC presenter Victoria Coren revealed her unexpected friendship with Strictly Come Dancing icon Claudia Winkleman during Monday's episode of Only Connect. The quiz show host, who returned to screens on July 20, made the disclosure while discussing a clue about fingerless gloves.
Fingerless gloves clue sparks revelation
In the opening sequences round, contestants were challenged to identify what links Karl Lagerfeld, weightlifters, Claudia Winkleman and Fagin. One participant correctly answered 'fingerless gloves.' Victoria explained that the late fashion designer was self-conscious about his hands, while weightlifters use them for enhanced grip.
She added: 'Claudia Winkleman, fashion icon, everybody wants to wear what she wears. It's fingerless gloves on the Traitors and Fagin on the end.' The presenter then quipped: 'As someone who's had lunch with Claudia Winkleman on many occasions, I'd say there are lots of connections between her and Fagin.' As the teams laughed, she clarified: 'That's so unfair, she's actually very quick to pick up the bill, I should say that.'
Viewers react to friendship
BBC viewers responded to the revelation in the comments section. One declared: 'No one wants to wear what Claudia Winkelman wears.' Another defended Claudia: 'I do! Trouble is, she's thinner and better looking than I am. I love the clothes that she wears in Traitors.' A third viewer observed: 'Victoria and Claudia having lunch! I'd buy tickets for that!'
Long-standing bond
Victoria and Claudia's friendship stretches back decades, rooted in childhood. The Traitors presenter served as a bridesmaid at Victoria's 2012 wedding to comedian David Mitchell. Victoria has previously called Claudia 'the most totally loveable person in the world,' praising her as 'super-smart, quick, clever and funny.' Claudia has described Victoria as her 'best friend in the whole world' and a 'cleverer, funnier, sexier version' of herself.
Only Connect airs on Mondays at 8pm on BBC Two.
