Oti Mabuse broke down in tears backstage at Loose Women after learning that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are leaving Strictly Come Dancing. The former professional dancer, 35, had to have her makeup redone before appearing on the show because she could not contain her emotions.
Speaking on the programme, Oti paid tribute to the departing presenters, calling them 'the queens' and describing their exit as 'the end of an era'. She said: 'It's a big deal, Claudia and Tess have been the queens. Two women side by side. And they care. It's the end of an era. They are my Saturday night. I think it's a shame and it came out of nowhere.'
Oti also revealed that she immediately called her sister Motsi, who is a judge on Strictly, and both were left in shock by the news. 'I called my sister like "What the hell is that?" and she's like "You're in England" and I'm like "You're a judge, you should know!" We had two minutes in silence, it came out of nowhere and we were just in shock. It breaks my heart and I wish them luck.'
Tess and Claudia announced their departure on Thursday in a video message, saying they have decided to step aside after 21 years. Tess said: 'After 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly we have decided the time is right to step aside and pass on the baton.' Claudia added: 'We're so lucky to have been part of this amazing show.'
