Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman met in a chemist's
Tess Daly met her Strictly Come Dancing co-host Claudia Winkleman for the first time in a chemist's.
Tess Daly first met her Strictly Come Dancing co-host Claudia Winkleman in a chemist's.
The 56-year-old TV presenter and Claudia, 53, have a "deep shared history", which spans 23 years.
Recalling their first encounter, Tess told the new issue of HELLO! magazine: "I remember the first time I ever met her was before we started on Strictly together [in 2014]. We lived near each other, and I bumped into her when her boy [Jake] was in a pram.
"I opened the chemist's door for her, she came out, and I said, 'Hello.'
"He was a newborn; now he's 23. So that's how long we've known each other, throughout our kids' lives. There's a deep shared history there."
On October 23, Tess - who has daughters Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16, with her 51-year-old husband, BBC Radio 2 DJ Vernon Kay - and Claudia announced they will be leaving Strictly Come Dancing at the end of the current series of the BBC's Latin and Ballroom dance show.
However, their final appearance will be on the programme's Christmas special, which airs on Christmas Day.
And Tess - who has hosted Strictly Come Dancing since it started back in 2004, initially alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth until Claudia took over following his departure in 2013 - said there is "never a dull moment" when working with Claudia.
The star added: "She's just so much fun, and we get on ever so well.
"I think it's a natural chemistry that makes work not like work. It's a pleasure working with her."
While Tess - who was appointed a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in King Charles' Birthday Honours List in June - is proud of her career, it is being a mum that she treasures most.
She said: "I love being a mum and it's what's defined me for the past 20 years, but I also love my work, and I'm proud of the career that I've achieved.
"I've never wanted to miss out on my children's lives as they grow, and I've never wanted to hand over that role to anyone else because I treasure it too much."
Tess and Claudia announced their departures from Strictly Come Dancing in a video posted on Instagram on October 23.
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."
Tess continued: "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 have 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.
"Your love, loyalty, and unwavering support have meant the world. You’ve carried us through every series, and that has never, ever been taken for granted. You are the heart of this show, and I feel so lucky to have shared it with you.
"Being part of your weekend from September to Christmas for the past 21 years has been one of the greatest joys and privileges of my career.
"To my beloved Claud - what an absolute joy and pleasure it has been sharing this adventure with you.
"You’re one of a kind, and l’ll treasure every giggle, every live show, and every backstage moment we’ve shared. I’m so grateful to have you as my friend for life.
"This isn’t a goodbye to glitter, sequins, or Saturday night sparkle (I could never say goodbye to those!).
"Strictly will forever hold a special place in my heart — but it does feel like the right time to hand over the reins.
"With all my love and endless gratitude, Tess x."
