Strictly Come Dancing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have announced their departure from the popular BBC series. The duo confirmed on Thursday, October 23, that the current 23rd series would be their last. Their final live appearance is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, during the season’s finale, with their ultimate episode being the traditional Christmas special airing on December 25. In a joint statement, Tess and Claudia expressed their love for working together and hosting Strictly, stating it had been an 'absolute dream'. They emphasized their decision to leave together and that 'now feels like the right time', extending enormous thanks to the BBC and the show's 'brilliant team', whom they will miss every day.

Tess Daly's tenure with Strictly Come Dancing began 21 years ago in 2004, where she co-presented alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth. Claudia Winkleman joined as a main presenter in 2014, having previously hosted the spin-off series 'It Takes Two' and the Sunday night results show. Fans are already speculating about their replacements. Just days after their announcement, on Saturday, October 25, the pair returned to the ballroom for 'icons week'. At the episode's opening, they were met with a huge ovation, with Tess acknowledging their impending exit. Claudia added her gratitude for the 'beautiful messages' from fans, promising 'another eight weeks on this incredible show and a Strictly champion to crown'. Tess concluded the opening, expressing excitement for the remainder of the series with the couples and judges.

Adding to the emotional week for fans, 'Neighbours' legend Stefan Dennis, who played Paul Robinson, and his professional partner Dianne Buswell were forced to withdraw from the competition. The news was confirmed on Monday, October 20, after Stefan sustained a torn calf. Stefan expressed his devastation in a statement, noting he had 'finally gained the confidence to do well' just before his injury. He conveyed his gratitude to the 'Strictly Family' and Dianne for fulfilling his dream of dancing. Intriguingly, he mentioned it was the 'same leg' as a past injury for avid 'Neighbours' fans. The pair had only just secured their place in 'icons week' during the results show on Sunday, October 19.

During the 'icons week' episode on Saturday, October 25, after addressing their own departure, Tess and Claudia informed viewers of Stefan and Dianne's withdrawal. Claudia announced, 'Now Stefan and Dianne had to sadly withdraw from the competition this week as Stefan sustained an injury. He’s here with us tonight, we love you Stefan,' as the camera showed Stefan in the audience alongside Dani Dyer, who had also withdrawn due to injury. Tess added, 'Lots of love from all of us to you Stefan.' The segment left many viewers emotional, taking to social media to share their feelings, wishing Stefan a speedy recovery, and commenting on the presence of both injured contestants in the audience. Despite the withdrawal, the show continued with its planned voting, leading some fans to question the necessity of an elimination that week.