Fans were in stitches after the hilarious exchange in the BBC show’s season finale
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosted their final ever live Strictly episode tonight(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing viewers were in stitches as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman teased a surprise for the final live episode. The presenters are stepping away from the show when the latest season comes to an end.
Saturday is the last live episode and the final show that will be broadcast with the two as presenters is the pre-recorded Christmas Day special. Tess was visibly emotional as she introduced the show. The presenters kept references to the episode being their final live show to a minimum throughout the evening as the focus shifted to the dancers and the race for the Glitterball.
However, there was one hilarious exchange after Claudia announced the voting had opened for the episode. Tess went on to introduce Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin’s final dance, but was stopped in her tracks by an announcement.
The voice said: “Dancing their showdance, it’s Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.” Claudia emerged on camera ready for the two to perform a routine.
Tess joked: “Wait Claud, I was just joking when I said we were doing a showdance tonight. Sorry.” The crowd were sad as Claudia played up to the joke and walked away off camera.
She turned to a row of the professional dancers, as she said: “It was just a joke. Hats down. Apparently tonight, it’s all about the finalists.”
Viewers on social media platform X loved the moment, but were disappointed it was just a joke as they wanted to see a dance between Claudia and Tess.
Matthew said: “We have been *robbed* of a Tess and Claudia Showdance. A nation mourns.” Tara posted: “Claudia and Tess defo should’ve danced”
Liam posted: “Not Tess and Claud pretending their doing a showdance.” Viewers were gutted Claudia and Tess would be leaving Strictly after the latest season.
Sara posted: “I can’t believe this is Tess and Claudia’s last ever #Strictly. There’s going to be a lot of tears”
Grace said: “Already crying at Strictly this is too much for me guys” Katy posted: “Five mins in and I’m already crying.”
Emily said: “Tess is going to be crying all night I fear, I know it was their choice but it’s so sad that it’s her and Claudia’s last show”
Naomi commented: “I’m already crying at this being Tess and Claudia’s last live show”
Vicky posted: “Why do I already feel like crying seeing Tess and Claud walk on for their last show?!”
Tess and Claudia will host their final ever Strictly in the pre-recorded Christmas special which will be broadcast on December 25.
Announcing her exit in October, Tess said: “After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing. It’s hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here goes….
“Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It’s felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special, but I could never have imagined the magic it would bring.
“Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together – and I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.
“From that very first series, I had the great honour of standing alongside the incomparable Sir Bruce Forsyth. Brucie set the tone for everything that Strictly became: warmth, wit, connection and pure showbiz magic.
“I have always been in awe of our superbly talented professional dancers, our magnificent judges, and all the celebrities who have taken part.
“I absolutely adore our brilliant crew – every single member of the Strictly team who has worked so tirelessly to make this show what it is. You are the very best in the business – the kindest, most fun, most loyal, and definitely the hardest-working team in television.
“Thank you for the laughter, the friendship, and the countless memories over all these years. You’ve filled my heart in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll miss you all so much.
“And to you – the viewers at home – the biggest thank you of all. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes for over two decades.””
