Claudia Winkleman and Kris Thykier Celebrate at Exclusive Pre-BAFTA Gathering
Claudia Winkleman, the renowned host of The Traitors, and her husband Kris Thykier were captured in a lively moment as they departed from the prestigious Charles Finch and Chanel pre-BAFTA party. The couple, both aged 54, exhibited evident joy and enthusiasm while leaving the exclusive 5 Hertford Street Club in London on Saturday evening. Their animated display highlighted a night of celebration preceding Sunday's main BAFTA ceremony.
Stylish Appearances and Evening Festivities
Claudia Winkleman radiated sophistication in a chic ensemble, featuring a black velvet blazer paired with a crisp white shirt and leggings. She elevated her look with pointed black boots, a bold swipe of red lipstick, and a sleek black clutch, adding inches to her frame. Meanwhile, Kris Thykier presented a dapper figure in a black velvet jacket, complemented by a grey tie and smart trousers. The pair seamlessly made their way into a taxi, concluding an evening filled with festivities and anticipation for the upcoming awards.
Personal Insights and Career Updates
In a recent revelation, Claudia shared that her beloved spaniel sleeps in bed with her and film producer husband every night. She expressed to The Sun, 'He sleeps in our bed, we chat to him constantly, I kiss his paws and we can no longer go anywhere without him.' The couple, who met through mutual friends in 2000 and married later that year, have maintained a private relationship over two decades, raising three children while both thriving in the entertainment industry.
Earlier this month, it was announced that Claudia Winkleman is joining the Channel 4 presenting team for Crufts, following her departure from co-hosting BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in December 2025. She will collaborate with broadcaster Clare Balding, Paralympic champion swimmer Ellie Simmonds, and TV presenter Radzi Chinyanganya to bring the four-day dog show from Birmingham's NEC to viewers. Claudia remarked, 'I absolutely love dogs and there is literally nowhere else on earth I'd rather be. I can't wait to join this incredible team, and I'm so grateful to Channel 4 for allowing me to be part of it. I have a pocket rammed with treats.'
Industry Reactions and Future Plans
Clare Balding, who has led Channel 4's Crufts coverage since 2010 and participated in the first series of BBC's The Celebrity Traitors in 2025, expressed excitement about working with Claudia. She stated, 'I'm really looking forward to working with Claudia, who is a fantastic addition to the team. She really loves dogs and will bring an additional element of fun, as well as an intelligent curiosity and, of course, style.' Pete Andrews, Head of Sport at Channel 4, added, 'Crufts holds a special place in the hearts of Channel 4 viewers. There is no other event like it, and it is such a thrill to be welcoming Claudia to our brilliant gang of presenters and adding to our celebration of all things dog.'
Crufts, featuring breed judging, agility, flyball, and Heelwork to Music competitions, along with the prestigious Best in Show title, will broadcast over 20 hours of live television across Channel 4 and More4 from Thursday, March 5 to Sunday, March 8. This new role marks a significant career move for Claudia Winkleman, blending her passion for dogs with her presenting expertise.
