A wave of emotion swept through Elstree Studios on Saturday night as Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly hosted their final live broadcast of *Strictly Come Dancing*. The ballroom, a stage for countless dazzling performances, became a backdrop for a deeply personal farewell.
The audience rose as one, a thunderous ovation greeting the duo who have become synonymous with the beloved BBC show. Even Vernon Kay, Tess Daly’s husband, was visibly moved, witnessing the end of a remarkable chapter. It was a moment charged with gratitude and a touch of melancholy.
The evening unfolded with a heartfelt tribute, culminating in a letter from Queen Camilla herself. Read aloud by judge Craig Revel Horwood, the message acknowledged the hosts’ enduring contribution to the national treasure that is *Strictly*.
The announcement of their departure, made earlier in the year, had sent shockwaves through the television world. While a Christmas Day special remains, it’s a pre-recorded event, making Saturday’s show the true final live performance for this iconic pairing.
This year’s competition reached its climax with Karen Carney lifting the coveted glitterball trophy, a hard-fought victory after a thrilling final against Amber Davies and George Clarke. But even the joy of a new champion was tempered by the bittersweet atmosphere.
Tess Daly’s journey with *Strictly* began in 2004, alongside the legendary Sir Bruce Forsyth. Claudia Winkleman, initially the face of the spin-off show *It Takes Two*, gradually ascended to the main event in 2014, forming a partnership that captivated audiences for years.
The pair reflected on the profound impact the show had on their lives, noting they both joined when their children were young. *Strictly* wasn’t just a job; it was a shared experience woven into the fabric of their families.
Their decision to leave together felt inevitable, a testament to their close bond. As they stated, “We were always going to leave together, and now feels like the right time.” It was a graceful exit, acknowledging the natural evolution of a beloved program.
The BBC acknowledged the magnitude of their loss, with Kate Phillips, Chief Content Officer, praising their “passion and dedication” and recognizing their place “at the very heart of the show.” Their influence extended beyond entertainment, earning them recognition with a Bafta and MBEs for their services to broadcasting.
