Tess Daly struggled to hold back tears as Sir Bruce Forsyth’s widow delivered a beautifully touching message to her and Claudia Winkleman ahead of their emotional farewell from Strictly Come Dancing.
Lady Wilnelia Forsyth appeared in a pre-recorded video that was played to the departing hosts during Tuesday night’s episode of It Takes Two. The heartfelt tribute left both presenters visibly moved as they prepare to step away from the show they have fronted for decades.
Tess famously co-hosted Strictly alongside the late Sir Bruce from its launch in 2004 until 2013, when Claudia took over following his departure. Sir Bruce passed away in 2017, but his legacy remains deeply woven into the heart of the show.
In her message, Wilnelia, 68, warmly told the presenters:
“Hello Tess and Claudia. Sending you both my warmest wishes as you step into this exciting new chapter. Tess, you shared so many wonderful years on Strictly with Bruce and I know he would be so proud of you. And Claudia, your sparkle and wit have brought so much joy to everyone. Thank you both for the laughter, the elegance and the heart you have given to the show. All my love and the very best for the future ahead. Don’t forget, life is too short — so keep dancing!”
As the video ended, Tess looked emotional as she applauded and replied:
“That’s so lovely, thank you, Winnie, so much. What a woman. She’s just a goddess.”
Wilnelia, a former Puerto Rican beauty queen and actress, was crowned Miss World in 1975. She was married to Sir Bruce from 1983 until his death in August 2017.
Tess and Claudia announced last month that they would be leaving Strictly Come Dancing together at the end of the current series. Their final live show will take place during the December grand final, marking the end of more than 20 years at the helm of one of Britain’s most beloved programmes.
Behind the scenes, plans for their farewell are already taking shape — and there is growing excitement that the duo may even take to the dancefloor themselves.
According to a TV insider, discussions are underway about a special group routine with the professional dancers. While both hosts routinely joke about their lack of rhythm, producers are reportedly keen to give fans one unforgettable final moment.
Claudia, 53, previously laughed about her own dancing struggles, quipping:
“I’m not very good at standing, let alone dancing.”
Tess, meanwhile, has only danced once before on the show during a special Children in Need performance with Anton Du Beke.
A source added:
“Both hosts openly admit they’re not natural movers — certainly not compared to the professionals they work with weekly. But this farewell routine would be about celebration, not perfection. It’s a chance for the whole Strictly family to say goodbye to Tess and Claudia in style.”
Bosses are said to be keeping the details of the potential “last dance” firmly under wraps, though it is expected to be joyful and celebratory.
Appearing on It Takes Two, the hosts were asked whether the reality of their departure had sunk in yet.
Tess replied:
“The short answer is no. We’ve been so absorbed in this incredible series that it hasn’t really hit me yet. I think it might on the 20th… I might get emotional.”
Claudia added:
“I think we will be emotional — but of course, it won’t be about us. It will be about the winners.”
To which Tess joked:
“So we’re not allowed to cry.”
As their final weeks on the show begin to slip away, the message from Sir Bruce’s widow served as a gentle reminder of the legacy, love and memories that Tess and Claudia leave behind with every step off the dancefloor.
