‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime’: Tess Daly pens emotional tribute after tear-jerking final Strictly show with Claudia Winkleman

by

Tess Daly posted a heartfelt message after hosting the Strictly Come Dancing finale, which she says was her last.

The presenter, age 56, is leaving the BBC show after 21 years of hosting. He’s leaving with his co-star, Claudia Winkleman.

With tears in their eyes, they shared a heartfelt goodbye with fans after former footballer Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu won the glitterball trophy.

After the show finished filming, Tess shared a message on social media, expressing her gratitude to the Strictly Come Dancing viewers and thanking them for creating ‘memories of a lifetime’.

Wow, it’s over! Seeing the behind-the-scenes moments with Claudia really hit me. I have to say, this final was the perfect ending to what has been, honestly, a truly amazing series for me. I’m going to miss it!

Strictly is a show created with genuine passion and joy. Everyone involved – the entire team – treats it as more than just work; it’s a special gift they deeply cherish. I’m incredibly thankful for the wonderful years I’ve had being a part of this magical experience.

Honestly, what I’ll miss most about leaving Strictly is the viewers. You truly are the best – so loyal, supportive, and just as obsessed with the show as I am! It’s been an absolute joy sharing all these years with you all, and I feel so lucky to have done so.

‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime.’

Tess received an outpouring of support from her celebrity friends, including a message from Rylan Clark who wrote, ‘I love you both dearly. You’re one of a kind.’

Zoe Ball posted: ‘Bravo Tess. you’re an absolute Goddess.’ 

Claudia shared photos on her Instagram stories of some cakes she received that were decorated with a Strictly Come Dancing theme.

She took photos with her team in her dressing room backstage, and then posed with the show’s producers.

At the end of the show, Tess and Claudia were completely shocked and delighted to receive a special message from The Queen.

Craig Revel Horwood shared a heartfelt message, saying, “Tess and Claudia, as you get ready for your last dance, I want to thank you for everything, on behalf of the millions of viewers who tune in each week.”

I’ve always believed Strictly isn’t really about the dancing itself, but about the friendships that develop, the challenges people face together, and the happiness they find in working towards a common goal.

You know, as someone who’s observed a lot of relationships, I can honestly say yours is truly special. The genuine warmth, kindness, and joy you share has been incredible to witness, and it’s been a huge part of what’s made the show so successful. It really feels like the most authentic partnership I’ve ever seen.

We all agree you’ve been amazing. We wish you the best in whatever you do next, and as someone who truly values the joy it’s brought, please promise you’ll keep dancing!

‘With the warmest gratitude and admiration, Her Royal Highness, Queen Camilla.’ 

Tess and Claudia were deeply moved by the outpouring of support and found it hard to hold back tears after reading the touching letter.

Thanking fans, a visibly emotional Tess said: ‘I can’t speak now. What an honour.

‘Thank you so much for your lovely words, from the bottom of the hearts it means so much to us.’

Claudia replied: ‘That is amazing, what a wonderful surprise. Thank you so much.

We’ve truly enjoyed being on this fantastic show and feel honored to have spent time with you all on the weekends.

Tess Daly has hosted Strictly Come Dancing for an incredible 21 years and 216 days, earning her a Guinness World Record as the longest-running host of the same dance competition just this week.

I’ve been watching this show since it began in 2004, and I remember when the amazing Bruce Forsyth first presented it with our current host! She’s been there from the very beginning, and it’s wonderful to see her still leading the show all these years later.

Bruce, who passed away in 2017, worked with her until he retired in 2013. After that, Claudia continued in his role.

Read More

2025-12-21 04:51