Tess and Claudia to Leave Strictly; Replacements Rumoured

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman surprised colleagues and viewers by announcing they will both step down as Strictly Come Dancing hosts at the end of the current series, with their final appearance due during the Christmas Day special. At Wimbledon BookFest, head judge Shirley Ballas said she “absolutely” knows who should replace them but would not reveal her pick, and said her 88‑year‑old mother favours former It Takes Two host Rylan Clark; other names being mooted include Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby, Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton. Kevin Clifton praised Stacey Dooley as a strong candidate, addressed rumours about him hosting the show and said he and Stacey now watch Strictly as “super fans.” Shirley paid tribute to Tess and Claudia’s contributions, predicted the programme will “thrive” despite the presenting shake‑up, and said audiences would warm to the new presenter(s) after a few shows.