In a hilarious and touching farewell, the cast of Strictly Come Dancing pulled off a surprise prank on presenter Claudia Winkleman during the show's 2025 grand final. As Winkleman prepared to open the public vote for the last time on Saturday 20 December, she was met with a sea of her own doppelgangers.
A Fitting Tribute for a TV Icon
The professional dancers suddenly appeared sporting Winkleman's trademark look: voluminous black-fringed wigs and thick, dramatic eyeliner. The camera then cut to the judges' desk, where even the notoriously critical Craig Revel Horwood was seen wearing a delightfully messy version of the same wig. Winkleman's shocked and delighted reaction became an instant highlight of the emotionally charged evening.
This signature style has become synonymous with Winkleman herself, a central part of her persona as she has fronted BBC primetime hits like Strictly and The Traitors. The prank served as a warm-hearted tribute to her unique contribution to the show's vibrant atmosphere.
The End of an Era for Strictly Presenters
The 2025 final marked a significant moment in the show's history, as it was the last time both Claudia Winkleman and her co-host Tess Daly would present the live final. The pair, who have become a beloved fixture on British television, jointly announced their departure in autumn 2025, stating it "feels like the right time."
Tess Daly has been with the programme since its first series 21 years ago, initially hosting alongside the late Bruce Forsyth. Claudia Winkleman joined the main show in 2014, after a decade presenting the companion programme It Takes Two. Their final episode together will be the pre-recorded Christmas Special, broadcast on 25 December.
Speculation and Emotional Goodbyes
Since the announcement, speculation has been intense regarding who could possibly fill the void left by the duo's perfect blend of Daly's poised elegance and Winkleman's joyful chaos. A host of names from the BBC stable have been rumoured, including:
- Zoe Ball
- Alison Hammond
- Rylan Clark
- Stacey Dooley
- Fleur East
The emotional weight of the occasion was felt off-screen as well. On the eve of the final, Tess Daly's husband, BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay, paid a moving tribute on his show. He reflected on the show's 21-year journey within their family, noting their daughter Phoebe was "in the belly during the first series and now she's 21" and would be in the audience for the final. Kay admitted he would find it "virtually impossible" to hide his tears while watching.
The wig-clad prank provided a moment of levity in a finale brimming with nostalgia, celebrating two presenters who have helmed one of the nation's most cherished entertainment programmes for over two decades.
