Claudia Winkleman Reveals True Reason for Strictly Come Dancing Departure
Claudia Winkleman has publicly disclosed the genuine motivation behind her decision to step down from Strictly Come Dancing, while also shedding light on the authentic nature of her relationship with fellow presenter Tess Daly. This revelation comes after months of speculation and silence from the duo, who announced their exit from the BBC's flagship dance competition last year.
Dispelling Rumours of Scandal-Driven Exit
When Winkleman and Daly confirmed their departure in 2025, widespread conjecture suggested they aimed to distance themselves from controversies that had marred the show's image. Notably, in 2023, actress Amanda Abbington alleged inappropriate conduct by professional dancer Giovanni Pernice during rehearsals, leading to her early exit from the competition. An investigation later cleared Pernice of most allegations, but further accusations emerged, including claims by Zara McDermott against dancer Graziano Di Prima for alleged verbal and physical abuse.
Despite these scandals, Winkleman firmly denies they influenced her choice. In an interview with the Daily Mail, she stated, "Absolutely not, it is a genuinely beautiful show to be part of. Almost every single person who’s taken part is happy they did. So no, it wasn’t that. The show deserves new. We wanted to leave when we were on an absolute high." She emphasised that the decision was mutual and timed to coincide with a peak in their careers, rather than any negative associations.
The Emotional Farewell and Lasting Bonds
Winkleman described the emotional weight of her final moments on the show, which she had been part of for two decades. "We did our last piece to camera, then I went to my husband and sobbed. Really, really cried. It was 20 years of my life. I know it was the right time. I will always be friendly with the team, we’re going out for dinner in a couple of weeks. It was emotional," she recounted. She attributed her strong reaction to the "momentous" nature of the occasion, highlighting the deep personal connection she felt to the programme.
Her friendship with Tess Daly remains robust off-screen as well. The pair have planned a weekend together to watch the first episode of the upcoming series, with Winkleman noting, "Tess and I are spending the weekend together and watching the first one. It’s diarised." This underscores a camaraderie that extends beyond their professional roles, countering any rumours of discord.
Future Prospects and Show Succession
Following her exit, Winkleman is set to launch her own talk show on the BBC, produced by So Television, part of ITV Studios. The show, scheduled to air from March 13, will feature interviews with celebrities in front of a live audience, marking a new chapter in her broadcasting career.
Regarding her replacement on Strictly Come Dancing, Winkleman declined to speculate, expressing confidence in the show's producers. "Sarah James, who runs this sparkly, fantastic ship, will choose correctly. I can’t wait to watch it," she said. It was previously reported that comedian Alan Carr was offered the role but declined due to work commitments, though no official successor has been announced yet.
This candid insight from Claudia Winkleman not only clarifies the reasons behind her departure but also reaffirms the positive legacy she leaves behind on one of Britain's most beloved television programmes.
