Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse has expressed confidence that the show will continue to thrive even after the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The dancer, who won the series twice with Kelvin Fletcher and Bill Bailey, now serves as head judge on the Irish version, Dancing With The Stars Ireland.
Speaking to The Times, Mabuse praised Daly and Winkleman, describing them as 'brilliant'. 'Nobody really sees the work Tess has to do — that show's live, she's making sure it's not running over,' she said. 'Then Claudia's amazing … her wit, her humour. But we've lost judges, we've lost pros, we've lost producers and the show is just itself.'
Mabuse, 35, added: 'I love Strictly. I wouldn't be sitting here without that show. Strictly belongs to the people, and as long as the people still love it, it will go on for years. I think it will survive and thrive.' She expressed faith in the production team to choose suitable new hosts, noting they know the show better than anyone.
Daly and Winkleman announced their departure in October after 21 years, presenting their final episode together on Christmas Day. Fans reacted emotionally on social media, with one writing: 'This show is never gonna be the same without these queens.' Another posted: 'It's the final time we'll ever see Tess and Claudia together. It's Christmas but I am mourning.'
The BBC is now searching for replacements, with potential candidates including Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, Alan Carr, Rylan Clark, Rob Rinder, Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond, and Angela Scanlon.
