Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have presented their final episode for the BBC, with a pre-recorded Christmas special packed with emotional tributes and surprise gifts. The pair, who announced their joint departure earlier this year, bid an unforgettable goodbye to the ballroom.
A Festive Farewell Filled With Surprises
The special episode, set to air on Christmas Day, saw the judges honour Tess Daly, 56, who has been with the show since its inception. As a parting Christmas gift, they arranged for her to be swept off her feet in a stunning Argentine Tango with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec.
Meanwhile, Claudia Winkleman, 53, received a grand send-off from the show's musical director, Dave Arch, 63. The duo, known for their long-running on-screen 'romance' gag, recreated a famous scene from the beloved film Love Actually. Dave held up handwritten cue cards in a touching and humorous tribute to their working relationship.
A Royal Tribute From Queen Camilla
The emotional climax of their last live final—which was won by former Lioness Karen Carney and pro Carlos Gu—featured a remarkable tribute delivered by judge Craig Revel Horwood. He read a heartfelt letter from none other than Queen Consort Camilla.
The message praised Tess and Claudia's partnership, stating: "I have often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships... If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest strictly partnership of all." The Queen Consort added, "The warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness you have radiated... has been at the heart of the show's success." She concluded by urging them to "keep dancing."
Both presenters were visibly overwhelmed. A tearful Tess Daly responded, "I can't speak now. What an honour." Claudia Winkleman added, "That is amazing, what a wonderful surprise... It has been a privilege to be a part of your weekends."
One Last Glittering Turn in the Ballroom
In first-look images from the festive special, the iconic hosts posed together beneath the glitterball. Tess dazzled in a white suit adorned with silver sequins, while Claudia looked radiant in a flowing blush-pink maxi dress.
The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special, marking the end of an era for its beloved hosts, will be broadcast on BBC One at 5:30pm on December 25. It promises to be a fittingly spectacular and sentimental farewell to two of British television's most cherished personalities.
