After Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s shock decision to quit Strictly Come Dancing, there are now concerns that “a story is about to break that neither wants to be associated with”.
The past 12 months have seen scandal after scandal hit the BBC dance show. But online commenters and PR experts are now speculating that something big may be going on behind the scenes, and that’s why the ladies are leaving…
Concerns as Tess and Claudia quit Strictly
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their decision to leave the BBC ballroom dancing competition earlier this week (October 23).
In a series of statements, the ladies announced that it was simply time for them both to leave. Since then, various theories about their departure have been shared online. And the most worrying is that something neither Tess or Claudia want to be associated with is about to break.
One viewer posted online: “I reckon a new scandal is about to come out.” Another commented: “Is something bigger about to come out about Strictly?”
‘Both women are choosing to exit before it becomes public’
According to PR & Brand Strategist Sophie Rhone from Cupid PR, the simultaneous departure of both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman signals more than just a presenter refresh. She thinks “a story is about to break that neither wants to be associated with”.
Sophie commented: “When two co-hosts step down at the same time – especially from a flagship BBC One show – it’s rarely coincidental.
“My professional antenna is telling me this isn’t simply about careers or contracts. Something exists behind the scenes – a situation serious enough that both women are choosing to exit before it becomes public.”
Sophie added that Tess and Claudia releasing a joint statement “suggests coordination and shared risk, rather than isolated personal decisions”.
She also commented that “the show’s internal rhythm and public-facing messaging hints at an unresolved issue, possibly a matter of reputation or internal conduct”.
Tess and Claudia will leave the series after presenting this year’s final. They will be seen on Strictly for the last time on the Christmas special, which airs on Christmas Day.
ED! has contacted the BBC for comment.
Read more: Real reason Claudia Winkleman quit Strictly ‘revealed’ as star ‘in advanced talks for new show’
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