Sunday, April 12, 2026

Shirley Ballas confident Strictly will survive after Tess and Claudia departure

Strictly Come Dancing fans were left shocked when it was announced that long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly would not be returning for the upcoming season. However, head judge Shirley Ballas is confident that the beloved BBC series will continue to thrive without them.

Ballas, who has been a fixture on the show since 2017, recently sat down for an interview to discuss the changes and her thoughts on the future of Strictly Come Dancing. As one of the most experienced and respected judges, her words carry a lot of weight and fans were eager to hear what she had to say.

When asked about the departure of Winkleman and Daly, Ballas expressed her sadness but also her understanding of their decision to move on. “I have so much love and respect for Claudia and Tess. They have been incredible hosts and have brought so much energy and charm to the show. But I also understand that they may want to explore other opportunities and I wish them all the best,” she said.

Ballas also addressed the concerns of fans who may be worried about the show’s future without the familiar faces of Winkleman and Daly. “Change can be scary, but it can also bring new and exciting opportunities. I have no doubt that Strictly Come Dancing will continue to be the amazing show that it is, with or without Claudia and Tess. The heart and soul of the show lies in the incredible talent and hard work of the contestants and professionals, and that will never change,” she reassured.

As the longest-serving judge on the panel, Ballas has seen the show go through many changes over the years. She believes that the show’s ability to adapt and evolve is what makes it so successful. “Strictly Come Dancing has always been able to reinvent itself and keep things fresh. From new dance styles to guest judges, the show has never been afraid to try new things. And I have no doubt that this season will be no different,” she stated confidently.

Ballas also had a message for the new hosts who will be stepping into the shoes of Winkleman and Daly. “I know that whoever takes on this role will do an incredible job. It’s not an easy task, but I have faith in the producers and I’m sure they will find the perfect fit for the show. And as always, I will be there to support them and make them feel welcome,” she said with a smile.

As the excitement for the new season builds, fans can rest assured that Strictly Come Dancing is in good hands with Ballas at the helm. Her passion for the show and her positive attitude are contagious, and it’s clear that she truly believes in the magic of Strictly.

In conclusion, while the departure of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly may be bittersweet for fans, Shirley Ballas is confident that the show will continue to thrive. With her experience and positivity, she is the perfect person to lead the show into its next chapter. So let’s put on our dancing shoes and get ready for another unforgettable season of Strictly Come Dancing!

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