Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to Present 'Strictly' for the Last Time After nearly two decades of hosting one of the UK's most beloved television programs, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are set to bid farewell to their roles as the presenters of Strictly Come Dancing. The duo, who have become synonymous with the glitz, glamour, and excitement of the hit BBC dance competition, will oversee their final episode together during the upcoming Strictly Christmas Special on December 25th. The news of their departure has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and the legions of Strictly fans who have followed the show since its inception in 2004. Daly and Winkleman have been the constant, guiding presences throughout Strictly's incredible run, their chemistry and camaraderie captivating audiences week after week as they guided the celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners through their journeys. For Tess Daly, the decision to step away from Strictly marks the end of an era. The 53-year-old presenter first joined the show in its inaugural season, quickly establishing herself as an integral part of the program's success. "It's been the most wonderful experience of my career," Daly reflected in a recent interview, "and I feel incredibly privileged to have been a part of it for so long." Alongside Daly, Claudia Winkleman has played a vital role in the show's enduring popularity. The 50-year-old broadcaster joined Strictly in 2014, seamlessly slotting into the hosting role and forming an indelible partnership with her co-presenter. "Tess and I have been through it all together," Winkleman said, "the highs, the lows, the tears, the triumphs. It's been an absolute joy, and I'm going to miss it terribly." The pair's departure comes at a significant juncture for Strictly Come Dancing, which has weathered its fair share of challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the show to adapt, with strict protocols and reduced audience sizes becoming the norm. Additionally, the program has faced ongoing scrutiny over issues such as the professional dancers' vaccination status and the decision to feature same-sex couples. Despite these hurdles, Strictly has continued to captivate audiences, maintaining its status as one of the BBC's most popular and successful programs. The show's enduring appeal can be attributed, in no small part, to the steadfast presence of Daly and Winkleman, whose warm, engaging, and often humorous hosting style has become a fundamental part of the Strictly experience. "Tess and Claudia have been the heart and soul of Strictly for so long," said BBC Director of Entertainment Kate Phillips. "Their chemistry, professionalism, and genuine love for the show have been instrumental in its success. They will be greatly missed, but we are grateful for the countless memories they have created and the indelible mark they have left on the program." As the Strictly Christmas Special approaches, fans are preparing to bid a bittersweet farewell to the duo. The special episode, which will feature a lineup of beloved former contestants, promises to be a celebration of Daly and Winkleman's incredible tenure and a fitting send-off for two of television's most beloved personalities. "It's going to be an emotional time, there's no doubt about that," Daly acknowledged. "But we're determined to go out on a high, to give the viewers one last magical night of Strictly magic. We owe everything to the fans, and we want to give them a truly unforgettable finale." Winkleman echoed her co-presenter's sentiments, adding, "It's been the most incredible journey, and we're both so grateful to have been a part of it. We may be stepping away, but Strictly will always hold a special place in our hearts. We'll be cheering on the next generation of hosts, knowing that the show is in safe hands." The departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman from Strictly Come Dancing marks the end of an era, but their legacy as the show's iconic presenters will undoubtedly live on. Their unique rapport, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication have been integral to the program's enduring success, and they will be sorely missed by legions of devoted fans. As the Strictly Christmas Special approaches, audiences will have one last chance to revel in the Daly-Winkleman dynamic, to celebrate their contributions, and to bid a fond farewell to two of television's most beloved personalities. While the future of the show's hosting duties remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the indelible mark left by Tess and Claudia will continue to be felt for years to come.