Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman open their last ever Strictly live show as this year’s finale kicks off
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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have opened the latest Strictly Come Dancing live show.
The duo, who announced they would be stepping down as presenters of the hit BBC show in October, gave viewers an emotional welcome to this year’s finale.
While it will be an emotional night for the duo, remaining stars Amber Davies, George Clarke and Karen Carney compete to lift the iconic Glitterball Trophy.
Claudia wore her signature black jacket with a white blouse, revealing the words “keep dancing” sewn onto the back; this was an homage to his and Tess’ famous catchphrase.
Tess opted for a striking rose gold sequined gown with a bold, thigh-high slit and off-the-shoulder design.
Opening the show, the pair emotionally said: ‘Thank you to our cast and choreographer Jason Gilkison for the amazing opening of the show and thank you for joining us for a fantastic last night in the ballroom.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman open the latest Strictly Come Dancing live show
Claudia wore her signature black jacket with a white blouse, revealing the words “keep dancing” stitched on the back; this was a nod to his and Tess’ famous catchphrase
Proud husband Vernon Kay was photographed standing to support Tess alongside their eldest daughter Phoebe, with whom Tess is pregnant, in the first series of Strictly.
‘In September, 15 celebrities hit the dance floor, followed by one celebrity. Only three of our most exciting competitions ever remain.
‘Amber, George and Karen are your finalists and you will decide who will be champion tonight.’
Amber opened the show performing Paso Doble, chosen by head judge Shirley Ballas, alongside her professional partner Nikita.
After the dance, the judges gave the couple 39 out of 40 to Aerosmith’s song Dream on; Craig Revel Horwood’s nine prevented them from achieving a perfect score.
Tess performed for a whopping 21 years and 216 days on the show, and was awarded the Guinness World Record earlier this week as the longest-serving host of the same dance competition.
The host has been a part of the series since its first episode in 2004, when he co-hosted with the late Bruce Forsyth.
She starred alongside Sir Bruce, who died in 2017, until his retirement in 2013 and Claudia took over.
