Shirley Ballas 'saddened' by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's departure
Shirley Ballas has reflected on the turnover of hosts on Strictly Come Dancing.
Shirley Ballas felt "saddened" when Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly announced they were leaving Strictly Come Dancing.
The 66-year-old Strictly judge had built a close bond with Claudia and Tess before they announced their departures last year - but she's enjoyed the process of welcoming new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe to the show.
Shirley told Prima: "Claudia and Tess started me off in 2017, and I had a beautiful relationship with both of them. They had the changing room next to mine so I could always hear them laughing and giggling – it was such a lovely vibe.
"So, of course, I was very saddened to hear [they were leaving] … Then, of course, I know Emma Willis, because I did Cooking With The Stars with her. And Josh Widdicombe I met several times on different shows that we’ve done, and he is extremely funny."
Shirley expressed a particular fondness for Johannes, who previously competed as a dancer on Strictly.
She said: "I’ve known him since 2018. He’s just a superstar in my book."
Claudia and Tess announced they were leaving Strictly in October 2025.
Claudia, 54, wrote on Instagram at the time: "From working on It Takes Two in 2004 until now it has been my everything, the show I will be eternally grateful for.
"I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know) and the complete thrill and honour it was to work with Tess on the results show to cohosting on Saturday nights.
"Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake tanned train and it’s been a privilege to be a tiny part of it. The extraordinary talent of the dancers, the band, the hair and makeup and costume teams, the unbelievable production crew and creatives - all utterly amazing. I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re fully ready to go and I know the new hosts will be magnificent, I look forward to watching them take Strictly to new heights.
"As for Tess - I’m so so lucky I got to stand next to you. You’re funny, kind, whip smart and a true friend and I love you. (sic)"
