Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly could “definitely” leave the BBC show following its scandal, an expert claims.
The beloved BBC show has come under fire in recent weeks due to claims celebrities were mistreated by the show’s professionals. An internal investigation has been launched and two pro dancers – Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, have left following claims of misconduct.
Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington has claimed she suffered “bullying” and “aggressive” behaviour during her time on Strictly, when she was partnered with Giovanni. Giovanni has denied all wrongdoing and has vowed to clear his name.
READ MORE: Strictly bosses ‘hire extra security’ for dancers as BBC scandal escalates further
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Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show’s line-up earlier this month ahead of the upcoming series. It emerged that he’d kicked Love Island star Zara McDermott in rehearsals, something he’s apologised for.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Now, a PR expert has warned fans that they may not be the only stars to leave the show after the 20th anniversary series. Speaking exclusively to Daily Star, celebrity culture expert Rochelle White claimed it is very likely Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman could “bow out” of the long-running show.
She told us: “Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman could definitely leave Strictly Come Dancing this year. The show has seen a decline in recent years and with the recent abuse allegations as well and the show reaching 20 years, it could be a good time to bow out.
“I feel that Tess’ next move could be to focus more on her brand Naia Beach for which she is a co-founder. The brand is continuing to go from strength to strength and has recently announced that it is being stocked in John Lewis.
(Image: TV Times via Getty Images)
“With that, she might take this opportunity to double down on the brand and work more on that. She could also look at more brand partnerships and collaborations and build her brand while doing it.”
Rochelle added: “Meanwhile, Claudia could continue to grow her BBC One reality show Traitors which grabbed the nation when it launched back in 2022. It has already launched a US version which has grown a loyal fanbase across the pond.
“The broadcaster could also return to her Radio 2 afternoon show which she stepped back from in March.” Tess has been fronting the long-running show since it first hit the airwaves back in 2004 alongside the late Bruce Forsythe.
(Image: Instagram)
In 2010, Claudia became the co-host of the Sunday night results show. When Forsyth died back in 2014, Claudia stepped in to present the main show alongside her close friend Tess.
Since then, the dynamic duo has delighted viewers with their witty banter on the ballroom competition as the stars battle it out to win the Glitterball trophy. It comes after Claudia revealed during an appearance on BBC Women’s Hour that both she and Tess have made a pact to leave the Strictly together when the time is right.
She told listeners: “Tess [Daly] and I have agreed we will leave together when they’re done with us. When one of us is done, we go together. So she’s not allowed to leave.”
Fans will have to stay tuned to see if the dynamic duo will leave the show this year. Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
