The iconic pairing of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly is preparing for its final bow on Strictly Come Dancing. The beloved presenters will helm the show's live final this Saturday before making their last joint appearance for the Christmas Day special.
The End of an Era for Strictly Come Dancing
In a surprise announcement made in October, the duo revealed they would be stepping down from the BBC's flagship entertainment juggernaut after more than two decades. They stated their intention to pass on the "very sparkly baton" to new presenters. The news coincided with Winkleman's soaring popularity following the smash-hit success of The Traitors, with reports suggesting she is in advanced talks to host her own chat show.
The BBC has yet to officially name any replacements, sparking intense speculation across the media and amongst fans. Industry insiders suggest the corporation is likely seeking another presenting duo, with The Sun reporting that potential candidates are undergoing in-studio chemistry tests.
The Frontrunners for the Prestigious Role
Betting was recently suspended by bookmaker Ladbrokes after a flurry of activity, with several high-profile names in the frame.
Zoe Ball
Zoe Ball, 55, is a seasoned Strictly insider. She finished third in the 2005 competition and hosted the companion show It Takes Two from 2011 to 2021. Speculation about her taking the main role intensified last week when she announced she was leaving her BBC Radio 2 Saturday show. Boyd Hilton, entertainment director at Heat magazine, called her a "good bet" and suggested Rylan Clark could join her in a co-hosting capacity.
Alison Hammond
Alison Hammond, 50, has risen from Big Brother contestant to one of the UK's most beloved TV personalities. She competed in the 2014 series of Strictly and is considered a strong contender. However, with her busy schedule including This Morning and The Great British Bake Off, questions remain about her availability for the demanding live Saturday night commitment.
Holly Willoughby
Holly Willoughby, 44, remains one of television's most recognised faces. Following her departure from This Morning last year, landing the Strictly job would mark a major return to primetime. Hilton believes the BBC would be "quite excited about her" due to her star power and presenting pedigree.
Other Notable Contenders
Alan Carr saw his stock rise after winning Celebrity Traitors, but his newly announced 2027 tour may conflict with Strictly's sacrosanct Saturday filming schedule. Bradley Walsh, a veteran of studio formats, has also been linked to the role and is reported to have done a chemistry test, though he has publicly questioned the scale of the commitment involved.
What Happens Next?
All eyes will be on the BBC as it makes one of its most significant entertainment decisions in years. The new hosts will inherit a hugely successful programme with a devoted audience, tasked with maintaining its magic while bringing their own unique sparkle to the ballroom. The announcement is expected in the coming months, ahead of the 2025 series.
