The beloved presenting duo say “Keep Dancing” one final time, closing a defining chapter in British television history

Introduction

It was a moment millions of viewers knew was coming — yet were still unprepared for. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have officially said their final goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing, marking the end of an era for one of Britain’s most cherished entertainment shows.

The emotional farewell aired during the pre-recorded Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2025, broadcast on BBC One on Christmas Day, as viewers across the UK tuned in knowing this would be the last time they would ever see Tess and Claudia present the show together in the ballroom.

A Festive Show With Added Emotion

The Christmas Day special brought festive sparkle as six celebrities took to the dancefloor alongside professional partners, including Scarlett Moffatt, Melanie Blatt, Jodie Ounsley, Nicholas Bailey, Babatunde Aléshé, and Brian McFadden.

But before a single step was danced, emotions were already running high. Viewers quickly realised that beyond the sequins and celebrations, this episode carried historic weight.

“The End of an Era,” Fans Say

As the programme began, social media was flooded with heartfelt reactions. Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to express disbelief and sadness that this was Tess and Claudia’s final on-screen appearance together.

“It’s officially the end of an era,” one viewer wrote, while another added, “I can’t believe this is Tess and Claudia’s last ever episode.” Many described feeling “heartbroken,” acknowledging just how deeply the duo’s presence had become woven into the fabric of Christmas television.

A Decision Made Together

Earlier this year, Tess and Claudia announced they would be stepping down from Strictly after the current series, explaining that they had always planned to leave together

Having fronted the show for more than two decades, the pair became synonymous with the programme — guiding contestants through nerves, triumphs, and eliminations with warmth, humour, and effortless chemistry.

Although they said goodbye to the live series the previous weekend, the Christmas Special marked their true final appearance together in the iconic ballroom.

The Final Moments That Moved Viewers to Tears

After all the festive performances — and following Scarlett Moffatt being crowned the Christmas Special winner alongside Vito Coppola — Tess and Claudia returned to the centre of the floor for one last message.

Tess addressed viewers directly, saying:
“Thank you again for watching us over the years. It has meant the world to us.”

Claudia followed softly:
“There’s just one thing left to do.”

“For our very final time, Claud,” Tess said — before Claudia replied, “So let’s make it count.”

Then, together, they delivered the words that have closed countless Strictly episodes over the last 20 years:

“Keeeeep dancing.”

A Perfect Farewell to a 20-Year Legacy

The moment was simple, understated, and deeply emotional — a fitting conclusion to a partnership that helped define British entertainment television.

For over two decades, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman brought warmth, wit, and genuine connection to Strictly Come Dancing. Their bond, professionalism, and ability to balance glamour with humanity made them irreplaceable in the hearts of viewers.

What Comes Next

As the curtain closes on their Strictly journey, fans are left reflecting on memories that span generations — Saturday nights, Christmas traditions, and unforgettable ballroom moments.

While the future of Strictly will move forward with new faces, the legacy of Tess and Claudia remains firmly cemented. Their final goodbye was not just the end of a presenting role — it was the closing of a chapter in British TV history.

And as millions of viewers would agree, it truly was a perfect way to say goodbye.