Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse has voiced her strong belief that the hit BBC show will continue for many years to come, despite the imminent departure of its iconic presenting duo.
An End of an Era for Strictly Hosts
Mabuse, 35, who recently took on the role of head judge on Dancing With The Stars Ireland, paid an emotional tribute to Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The two presenters announced in October 2025 that they would be stepping down after 21 years at the helm, hosting their final episode together in the Christmas Day special.
Speaking to The Times, Mabuse said: "Claudia and Tess are … I get emotional when I talk about it, because they are just so brilliant." She highlighted the unseen work of Daly in particular, noting the pressure of keeping a live show on time. "Now I'm a judge I appreciate the job even more," Mabuse admitted, referencing producers telling her to be "snappy" with her comments.
The Show Must Go On
Despite the significant change, the two-time Strictly champion is confident about the programme's future. "I love Strictly. I wouldn't be sitting here without that show," she declared. "Strictly belongs to the people, and as long as the people still love it, it will go on for years."
Mabuse pointed out that the show has weathered many changes before. "But we've lost judges, we've lost pros, we've lost producers and the show is just itself," she reasoned. "I think it will survive and thrive." She expressed faith in the show's producers to choose suitable replacements, stating anyone offered the job would be "so lucky" and would do it "splendidly".
Fan Reaction and Future Presenters
The announcement of Daly and Winkleman's exit prompted a wave of sadness from devoted viewers. During the Christmas special, fans took to social media to express their feelings, with one calling it "the end of an era" and another stating the show would "never gonna be the same".
The BBC has now begun the search for new hosts. A wide range of well-known presenting names are reportedly in the frame, including:
- Bradley Walsh and Alex Jones
- Alan Carr and Rylan Clark
- Rob Rinder, Zoe Ball, and Holly Willoughby
- Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond, and Angela Scanlon
Whoever steps into the coveted roles will have the task of maintaining the show's unique magic, which Oti Mabuse firmly believes is bigger than any single individual.
