Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the well-known hosts of the popular show Strictly Come Dancing, are preparing to bid farewell to the series after the current season concludes. Their departure follows the conclusion of a lucrative six-figure contract signed two years ago, solidifying their status as top earners at the BBC.
Back in 2023, Tess and Claudia inked a deal to continue their hosting duties on Strictly for an additional two years. Already commanding a substantial joint salary exceeding £300,000, the new contract catapulted them even higher among the BBC’s highest-paid personalities.
With their current agreement reaching its end, both hosts have announced their decision to step down from the show, well before the season’s halfway mark.
Upon signing the contract, an industry insider revealed that BBC executives highly valued Tess and Claudia, recognizing their immense popularity with viewers despite their significant price tag. The network sweetened the deal to retain the duo as hosts, extending their tenure for the next two years until the conclusion of the 2025 series. However, Tess and Claudia have made it clear that they will not be returning for another season.
In a joint video shared on Instagram, the pair expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to co-host Strictly, stating that leaving together at this juncture felt appropriate. They conveyed heartfelt thanks to the BBC and the entire show team for their support and collaboration.
Tess has been a fixture on Strictly since its inception in 2004, initially hosting alongside Bruce Forsyth. Claudia, who began hosting the spin-off show It Takes Two in the same year, transitioned to the main show in 2014, succeeding Bruce. Although neither host has disclosed the reason for their departure, the BBC has acknowledged and respected their decision.
Various BBC executives, including Kate Phillips and Suzy Lamb, have extended their appreciation to Tess and Claudia for their exceptional contributions to Strictly over the years. Sarah James, the show’s executive producer, lauded the duo as unparalleled presenters within the industry and integral members of the Strictly family, emphasizing their profound impact on the show’s success.
As Tess and Claudia prepare to exit the Strictly ballroom, the industry mourns the loss of these beloved hosts while wishing them well in their future endeavors.