The BBC has unveiled a series of heartfelt surprises for Tess Daly as she prepares to make her final appearance as host of Strictly Come Dancing. The 56-year-old presenter, who announced her departure alongside co-host Claudia Winkleman in October, will bow out during the show's pre-recorded Christmas special.
A Dancing Send-Off for Tess
In a fitting tribute to her long tenure, the programme's judges have arranged a special performance for Daly. Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke will present her with an Argentine tango during the broadcast. Furthermore, Daly herself will take to the ballroom floor for one last dance, partnered with 35-year-old Slovenian professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec.
Claudia's Love Actually Homage
Co-host Claudia Winkleman will also be part of the festive send-off in a memorable sketch. The 53-year-old will star in a parody of the iconic scene from the 2003 film Love Actually. In the segment, she will open a door to be greeted by Dave Arch, the 63-year-old composer of the Strictly band, who will be holding large placards. The signs will read 'say it’s carol singers' and 'to me, you are perfect', directly referencing the romantic moment between Andrew Lincoln and Keira Knightley's characters.
The Christmas Special Line-Up
The festive episode will also feature the traditional celebrity dance competition. Six stars will compete for the Christmas champion title, judged by the panel, although the studio audience vote will decide the ultimate winner. The competing pairs are:
- TV star Scarlett Moffatt with Vito Coppola
- All Saints singer Melanie Blatt with Kai Widdrington
- EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey with Luba Mushtuk
- Actor Babatunde Aleshe with Nancy Xu
- Westlife's Brian McFadden with Michelle Tsiakkas
- Gladiator Jodie Ounsley with Neil Jones
The revelations of these special plans come after some fans expressed anger online due to the early leaking of the Christmas special results. Despite the spoiler controversy, the show is set to air as planned. The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer from 5.30pm on Christmas Day.
