Television presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman resumed their hosting duties on Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday evening, marking their first live appearance since publicly announcing their intention to depart from the program at the conclusion of the current series.
The pair — who made history as the BBC’s first all-female presenting duo — recently disclosed that the ongoing season will be their final engagement with the long-running dance competition. The announcement generated significant public attention and commentary across both traditional and social media platforms.
Commencing the live broadcast, Ms. Daly addressed the audience, stating:
“Just before we get started tonight, Claud and I announced this week that this will be our last series of Strictly Come Dancing.”
As the studio audience responded with enthusiastic applause, Ms. Winkleman continued:
“We want to thank you for your beautiful messages. We’ve got another eight weeks on this incredible show and a Strictly champion to crown.”
Ms. Daly concluded their joint remarks by affirming:
“We cannot wait to spend the rest of the series with you, with our amazing couples and these four [the judges].”
The evening’s performances commenced with Lewis Cope and professional partner Katya Jones, who delivered a Quickstep routine to Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire, earning 34 points. Subsequent performances included Karen and Carlos’ Rumba to Céline Dion’s Think Twice, which received 28 points following a technical mishap that left Karen visibly emotional. Ms. Winkleman offered reassurance, remarking: “No baby, I don’t want you to be upset.”
Ellie and Vito followed with a Salsa performed to a medley of hits by the Spice Girls. While Judge Craig Revel Horwood noted the need for greater “hip action,” Judge Motsi Mabuse praised Ellie’s progress, calling her “a force.” The contestant was further surprised by a pre-recorded message from Spice Girls member Emma Bunton, who referred to her as their “favorite.”
Subsequent performances included Alex Kingston and Johannes dancing a Foxtrot to Dolly Parton’s Here You Come Again, earning 38 points; George and Alexis’ Jive to Harry Styles’ As It Was, which garnered 27 points; and Vicky Pattison and Kai’s Couple’s Choice to Cheryl’s Fight For This Love. Ms. Pattison’s performance drew unanimous praise from the judges and a video message from Cheryl herself, congratulating her on her success and encouraging her to “fight for her place.”
Further highlights included Balvinder and Julian’s Quickstep to Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ’Em (28 points), Harry and Karen’s Argentine Tango to Usher’s Caught Up (30 points), and Amber Davies and Nikita’s Cha Cha Cha to Ariana Grande’s Break Free. Jimmy Floyd and Lauren performed an American Smooth to Prince’s Purple Rain, followed by La Voix and Aljaž closing the show with a Salsa to Cher’s Strong Enough, which earned 28 points and a standing ovation.
The episode concluded with confirmation that the bottom two contestants would participate in a dance-off during Sunday’s results show, where one celebrity would be eliminated from the competition.
Reflecting on her tenure, Ms. Winkleman stated:
“I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know) and the complete thrill and honor it was to work with Tess — from the results show to co-hosting on Saturday nights. Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake-tanned train, and it has been a privilege to be a tiny part of it.”#newsafro_
