Tess Daly reportedly brought the house down with a rousing rendition of 'Three Lions' as she celebrated her final episode of Strictly Come Dancing at an intimate BBC afterparty. The 56-year-old host, who is departing the iconic Saturday night show after a remarkable 21-year tenure alongside co-host Claudia Winkleman, 53, partied into the early hours following Karen Carney and Carlos Gu's glitterball victory.
A Poignant Farewell Celebration
Despite the BBC opting for a more low-key affair compared to previous years, insiders confirm the atmosphere was electric. Tess Daly made sure everyone knew it was a party, leading the singing in honour of former Lioness footballer Karen Carney's win. The celebration, held at BBC Elstree studios, featured a free bar with guests finally heading home around 1am.
In a poignant moment, the show's famous dance floor was being dismantled in the background as the festivities continued. Claudia Winkleman, however, only made a brief appearance, popping in for a quick drink before leaving the main celebrations to her long-time presenting partner.
A Family Affair and Emotional Tributes
The emotional finale was also a family moment for Tess Daly. Her lookalike daughter, Phoebe, 21, shared a series of behind-the-scenes snaps from her mother's last show. The stunning pair matched in gorgeous gold gowns as they posed together on the iconic dance floor.
Phoebe, whom Tess shares with husband Vernon Kay along with 16-year-old Amber, penned a heartfelt tribute on social media. She wrote: 'Mum you are a true inspiration to me... It’s been in my life since the day mum was pregnant with me so I don’t know life without Strictly.' Fans were quick to suggest Phoebe as a potential new host, praising her natural camera presence alongside judge Anton Du Beke and winner Carlos Gu.
The Final Curtain on a Glittering Era
The 2025 final saw footballer Karen Carney, 38, crowned champion with professional partner Carlos Gu. An emotional Carney was left speechless by the win, stating it had been 'the biggest privilege and honour.'
Before the result was announced, Tess and Claudia were treated to a special tribute video montage of the series' highlights. The emotional send-off reached its peak when judge Craig Revel Horwood read out a special letter from Her Majesty The Queen, leaving both veteran presenters visibly moved.
This final party marked the end of an era for British television, closing a chapter on one of the BBC's most beloved and enduring entertainment formats. The search now begins for successors to fill the formidable shoes left by Daly and Winkleman.
