Queen praises Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman during final Strictly live show

The Queen has paid tribute to Strictly Come Dancing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they hosted their last live show.

The pair announced in October they would be leaving the BBC dancing competition after over a decade fronting the main show together.

Following performances from the 2025 finalists, West End star Amber Davies, former Lioness Karen Carney and internet star George Clarke, tributes were paid to the two departing presenters.

In a message read out by judge Craig Revel Horwood, Camilla said: “As you prepare to take your final twirl, I just wanted to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.

“I have often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships: the bonds forged, the struggles overcome and the joy shared in undertaking a joint endeavour.

“If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest Strictly partnership of all.

“The warmth, compassion and sheer happiness you have radiated with and from each other has been at the heart of the show’s success.

“I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fab-u-lous.

“I wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next. But as one who has appreciated its lifelong benefits, do promise us one thing: Keeeeeeeep dancing!”

Camilla, who attends Silver Swans – classes for older ballet dancers run by the Royal Academy of Dance – is known to tune in to Strictly and has described herself as one of the show’s “greatest fans”.

A video montage was also played with tributes from fans, cast, crew and familiar faces including Mary Berry.

Both hosts appeared emotional as Daly said: “Thank you so much to you all for your lovely words, it has meant the world.

“Thank you for the support you’ve shown over the years.”

Winkleman said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to spend our weekends with you.”

The duo’s last appearance as a presenting pair on Strictly will be in the pre-recorded festive special airing on Christmas Day.

The pair picked up the entertainment programme gong at the Bafta TV Awards in 2024 and were made MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours for their services to broadcasting.

The Queen was not the only member of the royal family to share a message during the final with the Duchess of Edinburgh, praising Strictly contestant Ellie Goldstein, who became the first celebrity with Down’s syndrome to compete on the programme.

Goldstein returned to the Strictly dance floor on Saturday along with other 2025 cast members to perform a final group number.

In a video message, Sophie said: “I’m patron of Mencap and Ellie is one of our amazing supporters. She has dispelled quite a number of perceptions of people with learning disabilities.”