Strictly star hints at Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman replacement in biggest clue yet

A former Strictly Come Dancing presenter has issued the biggest clue yet he could potentially take over Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's hosting gig. The news was announced last month that the Strictly hosts would be quitting after presenting the show together for 11 years. Tess, 56, has fronted the show since its launch in 2004 and co-presented alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth. Claudia, 53, who previously fronted the spin-off show, It Takes Two, until she joined the main show in 2014.

The presenters shared the shock news in separate statements on Instagram. Fans immediately began speculating who might replace them with bookmakers placing Holly Willoughby, Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones and Zoe Ball as frontrunners.

Among the celebrities named by bookies is Rylan Clark, who has also hinted he might be up for the role.

Rylan, who previously hosted It Takes Two, commented on Claudia's exit post, writing: "Shoes as big as the fringe to fill. Love you."

Fans were quick to react to his declaration as one person gushed: "@rylan please let it be you and @robrinder."

Another echoed: "@rylan you'd be great."

A third teased: "@rylan start putting those shoes on hun!" A fourth shared: "He really would [be great], this would make the pain of them going a lot easier x."

Another said: "@rylan start putting those shoes on hun!"

Meanwhile, insiders have suggested The One Show presenter, Alex Jones, and The Chase host Bradley Walsh are in final talks to takeover their roles.

Alex, 47, previously competed on Strictly in 2011 and left the competition one week before the final with her professional partner James Jordan.

A source told The Sun: "Alex and Bradley are both the favourites to take over from Tess and Claudia. They have been in the BBC's sights for some time as Tess and Claudia's exit plan has been known for a while.

"Bradley and Alex are both seen as accomplished broadcasters. He brings the wisecracks and Alex is the calm head who knows how to handle live situations after 15 years of co-hosting The One Show.

"Alex is a massive fan of Strictly too so this would be the dream gig for her.

"Nothing is set in stone yet but the discussions are moving in a really positive direction."

It comes amid reports Strictly would be getting a huge shake-up in 2026.