Departure from Strictly Come Dancing
In October 2025, Claudia Winkleman and her co-host Tess Daly made a significant announcement regarding their future on the popular television show Strictly Come Dancing. After years of captivating audiences, the duo revealed their decision to depart from the show, a move that surprised many fans. Winkleman expressed that their choice was motivated by a desire for the show to embrace new faces, stating, “The show deserves new. We wanted to leave when we were on an absolute high.” This marked the end of an era for both presenters, who had become synonymous with the beloved dance competition.
Final Episode and Special Recognition
The final live episode featuring Winkleman and Daly aired in December 2025, where they received a heartfelt message from Queen Camilla. The royal acknowledgment highlighted the impact the hosts had on the show and the joy they brought to viewers over the years. Winkleman, who had been involved with Strictly Come Dancing since 2014, had previously hosted its sister show, It Takes Two, since 2004, showcasing her long-standing commitment to the franchise.
New Ventures Ahead
As Winkleman transitions away from Strictly, she is set to embark on new projects in 2026. She will be presenting The Traitors and its celebrity spin-off, along with her own chat show on the BBC, which is scheduled to launch in March 2026. This new chapter in her career reflects her versatility as a presenter and her ability to engage audiences across different formats.
Celebrating at Crufts 2026
On March 1, 2026, Winkleman hosted the prestigious Crufts event at the NEC in Birmingham, where she expressed her love for dogs, stating, “I absolutely love dogs and there is literally nowhere else on earth I’d rather be.” The event saw Bruin the Clumber Spaniel win Best In Show, a moment that was celebrated by all, including the dog’s owner, Lee Cox, who remarked, “What can I say? I can’t believe it, it’s just wonderful for this breed and for the first time in my life I’m speechless.”
Changes in Strictly Come Dancing
As Winkleman and Daly step away from Strictly, the BBC is reportedly making changes to the show’s lineup. In a surprising move, four professional dancers, including Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas, will not be returning for the 2026 series. This decision has sparked discussions among fans about the future direction of the show and the potential impact on its dynamic.
Current State and Future Outlook
As of now, Winkleman’s departure from Strictly Come Dancing is a significant moment in the show’s history, marking the end of a 20-year association for her. The announcement of replacements for Winkleman and Daly is anticipated in the summer of 2026, as the show prepares for its next season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the new hosts, but the excitement surrounding the upcoming changes is palpable.
Claudia Winkleman’s journey from Strictly Come Dancing to new opportunities in 2026 reflects her enduring appeal and adaptability as a television presenter. Her contributions to the show and her passion for her new projects will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on her audience.