The glitterball will soon be passing to a new pair of hands. After more than two decades at the helm of Strictly Come Dancing, the beloved presenting duo of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are preparing for their final bow.
The End of an Era for Strictly Come Dancing
Winkleman and Daly, who have become synonymous with the BBC's Saturday night juggernaut, will make their last appearance together during the show's Christmas Day special. This follows their presentation of the live final this Saturday night. The pair announced their shock decision to step down in October, stating they would pass on the "very sparkly baton" to new hosts.
The announcement sent waves through the entertainment industry, not least because Winkleman's profile has soared to new heights following the phenomenal success of The Traitors. Reports suggest she is now in advanced talks to host her own chat show. With no official replacement yet named by the BBC, the rumour mill is in overdrive.
Frontrunners for the Prestigious BBC Role
Speculation is intense, with several high-profile names being linked to one of British television's most coveted jobs. Industry insiders suggest the BBC is likely seeking another presenting pair and that potential candidates are undergoing in-studio chemistry tests.
Zoe Ball has emerged as a strong contender. The 55-year-old broadcaster, who came third on Strictly in 2005 and later hosted the spin-off show It Takes Two, fuelled rumours last week by announcing her departure from her BBC Radio 2 Saturday show. Boyd Hilton, entertainment director at Heat magazine, called her a "good bet," suggesting she could be paired with Rylan Clark.
Another favourite is Alison Hammond. The 50-year-old's remarkable journey from Big Brother contestant to national treasure, coupled with her own stint on Strictly in 2014, puts her in pole position. However, her packed schedule, including This Morning and The Great British Bake Off, may be a hurdle.
Other Names in the Frame
The list of potential successors is long and varied. Alan Carr saw his stock rise after winning Celebrity Traitors, but he has since announced a 2027 tour, which could clash with Strictly's sacrosanct Saturday commitments.
Bradley Walsh, the veteran host of The Chase, is also in the mix. The Sun reported he has already done a chemistry test with The One Show's Alex Jones. When questioned, Walsh called the role a "big old commitment" but praised the show.
Meanwhile, Holly Willoughby is considered a major contender. Her return to the spotlight after a difficult period could be cemented by landing the Strictly job. Hilton noted she is "such box office" and that "the BBC would be quite excited about her."
What Happens Next for Strictly Come Dancing?
With the Christmas special marking the end of the Winkleman-Daly era, the BBC faces a monumental decision. The new hosts will need to capture the unique blend of warmth, humour, and authority that has been central to the show's success for over twenty years. The search for the perfect pair continues, with the nation waiting to see who will lead the next dance in the iconic ballroom.
