The BBC shared a message from Buckingham Palace as Strictly was interrupted.

 

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman

Tess and Claudia were left in tears (Image: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing was interrupted with a message from Buckingham Palace on Saturday evening. The BBC show was due to crown the 2025 competition winner when a message from Queen Camilla was shared, bringing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly to tears.

It was the presenting duo’s final ever time at the helm of the BBC show, making it an emotional one. After all the dances from the finalists had taken place, a montage played showing their highlights from many years on the show. Then, judge Craig Revel Horwood interrupted the show to deliver a very special message. He said: “Darlings, sorry, stop the show. We have had a letter from a superfan that I simply have to read to you.” He donned his glasses before reading from a clipboard. The message said: “Dear Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take a final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who have watched you each week.

Tess, Claudia and Craig

Emotions were high in the Strictly studio (Image: BBC)

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

“If that is true then perhaps yours has been the greatest Strictly partnership of all. The warmth, compassion and sheer happiness that 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 that you have been utterly fab-u-lous. I wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next.”

It rounded off by saying: “Do promise us one thing… Keep dancing!”

Craig then delivered a bombshell as he shared how the touching letter was signed off. “With warmest gratitude and admiration, your Royal Highness, Queen Camilla.”

The friends and co-stars then gasped as their hands flew to their mouths and they gripped each other tightly with tears in their eyes. “From Buckingham Palace no less darlings,” Craig exclaimed as Tess cried: “Oh my goodness. That is unbelievable!”

She was so choked up as she admitted: “I can’t speak now.” Claudia agreed emotionally as she said: “Wow, what an honour.”