Former Strictly hosts share joyful moment weeks after tearful farewell
Former Strictly Come Dancing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly have delighted fans by reuniting just weeks after their emotional departure from the BBC series. The pair, who stepped down together in 2025 after more than two decades at the helm, were all smiles as they came together for a special personal milestone.
Reunion at Tess Daly’s new activewear launch
The reunion took place at the launch of Tess Daly’s new activewear collaboration with NAIA Beach. Tess was seen beaming as she spent time with her longtime co-host and close friend, marking their first public appearance together since their final episode aired.
Claudia later shared a photo on Instagram showing the two laughing together as she held up a blue vest and matching leggings from the collection. Alongside the post, Claudia praised Tess’s latest venture, calling the range “beautiful” and celebrating her friend’s new chapter beyond Strictly.
A friendship that continues beyond the ballroom
Fans were quick to react warmly to the reunion, with many noting how natural and affectionate the pair appeared. Tess responded directly to Claudia’s post with a simple but heartfelt message expressing her love, reinforcing that their bond extends far beyond their shared TV roles.
Emotional goodbye aired in Strictly Christmas special
Although their reunion was filmed before their final live broadcast, viewers last saw Tess and Claudia together during the Strictly Christmas special. The episode featured a deeply emotional farewell, with the duo sharing a tearful hug and dance that symbolized the end of an era for the show.
During the special, Tess thanked viewers for their loyalty over the years, saying the support had “meant the world.” Both presenters later described hosting Strictly as an “absolute dream” and emphasized that leaving together was always part of their plan.
Leaving together after more than two decades
In a statement released ahead of their exit, the pair explained their decision to step away simultaneously, saying the timing felt right. They expressed gratitude to the BBC and the production team, praising the people behind the scenes who helped make the show a success.
Despite the emotional goodbye, Tess and Claudia kept their trademark humor, joking that they would still say “keep dancing” to each other at home—just in tracksuit bottoms, possibly with pizza in hand.
Final episode filled with tributes and tears
Their final episode, filmed on December 20, was marked by emotional tributes from across the entertainment world. One of the most memorable moments came from Queen Camilla, whose message was read out during the show.
The tribute praised Tess and Claudia’s partnership, highlighting the warmth, compassion, and joy they brought to the programme and calling them one of Strictly’s greatest partnerships.
A new chapter, but a lasting legacy
While both presenters have moved on to new projects—Claudia continuing her work on The Traitors and Tess launching her fashion venture—their influence on Strictly remains undeniable.
Their recent reunion serves as a reminder that although their time on the dance floor has ended, their friendship and shared legacy continue, leaving fans hopeful this won’t be the last time they’re seen together.