The iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom witnessed an emotional and celebratory weekend as Strictly Come Dancing returned for its annual special, marking the final Blackpool show for its beloved hosts, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
A Glittering Goodbye For The Dynamic Duo
The presenting pair, who announced back in October they will be stepping down after the 2025 series, ensured their last Blackpool appearance was one to remember. Following the live show on Saturday night, they partied into the early hours, swapping their glamorous on-screen gowns for matching 'I heart Blackpool' t-shirts.
Tess shared glimpses of their epic celebrations on social media, which included taking tequila shots at the bar. Claudia was pictured clutching a bottle of the premium Patrón XO Cafe, a coffee-infused tequila that recently made headlines after a petition successfully campaigned for its return to sale.
Star-Studded Returns And A Sad Farewell
The weekend's spectacle wasn't just about the current contestants. Sunday night's show featured a spectacular performance from Strictly alumni, including Danny Mac, Ashley Roberts, Layton Williams, and Jay McGuiness.
The group delivered a show-stopping routine that masterfully blended elements of their most famous dances, such as Jay and Ashley's iconic Jives and Danny Mac's famous Samba. Danny's ripped physique and sheer, undone shirt during his samba sent fans into a frenzy on social media, with many declaring he was 'robbed' of the Glitterball trophy during his 2016 series.
The celebrations were tinged with sadness as the show bid a fond farewell to celebrity contestant La Voix, who was forced to pull out of the competition due to injury. Tess posted a heartfelt tribute, captioning a series of photos: "The only downside - having to bid the fondest of farewells to @lavoixtheshow. She’ll be very much missed by us all."
The End Of An Era For Strictly
The Blackpool special truly signalled the beginning of the end for the hosting partnership that has defined the show for over a decade. Tess Daly, 56, has been a part of all 21 series of the BBC1 juggernaut, becoming the main host in 2014. Claudia Winkleman, 54, joined her on the main stage that same year, having previously hosted the spin-off show It Takes Two.
Reports suggest that with Claudia's stock rising dramatically due to the huge success of The Traitors, she was keen to explore new opportunities. Tess, remaining loyal to their pact, decided they would leave the show together.
