BBC's flagship entertainment programme Strictly Come Dancing could be facing its most significant presenting shake-up in nearly two decades, with industry insiders suggesting both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are considering their futures on the show.
The End of an Era for Strictly?
According to multiple television sources, both presenters have been quietly contemplating departure from the glitterball phenomenon that has defined Saturday night television for generations. Daly, who has co-hosted the main show since 2005, and Winkleman, who took over the companion show 'It Takes Two' in 2011 before joining the main programme in 2014, have become synonymous with the Strictly brand.
An industry insider revealed: "There's a growing sense that both Tess and Claudia feel they've achieved everything they can with Strictly. They're both incredibly talented women with numerous other projects, and there's a feeling that after so many years, it might be time for a change."
Potential Successors Waiting in the Wings
The BBC is reportedly already considering potential replacements, with several high-profile names circulating within broadcasting circles:
- Rochelle Humes - The Saturdays singer and regular This Morning presenter
- AJ Odudu - Rising star who impressed during her Strictly stint before injury
- Mel Giedroyc - Former Great British Bake Off host with established BBC credentials
- Alison Hammond - This Morning's breakout star known for her infectious personality
Why Now Could Be the Right Time for Change
Several factors are contributing to the potential departure timing:
- Both presenters have established strong independent careers beyond Strictly
- The show continues to achieve record ratings, making it an attractive proposition for new talent
- BBC executives are keen to refresh the format while maintaining its core appeal
- Younger audiences demand fresh faces while retaining the show's cherished traditions
What This Means for Strictly's Future
While neither Daly nor Winkleman has made any official statement, the potential dual departure represents the biggest challenge to the show's format since Bruce Forsyth's retirement. The BBC faces the delicate task of modernising the programme while preserving the magic that has made it a national institution.
"Whoever takes over will need to bring that perfect blend of warmth, authority and spontaneity that has made Tess and Claudia so beloved by viewers," commented one television producer. "It's one of the most coveted jobs in British television, but also one of the most challenging to get right."
The BBC declined to comment on the speculation, but insiders suggest that any transition would be carefully managed to ensure the 2025 series maintains the show's unparalleled success.
