Queen Camilla pays tribute to ‘completely fabulous’ Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they are saying a tearful goodbye of their final Strictly ultimate
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Strictly Come Dancing has no shortage of devoted fans, and among them is Queen Camilla, who has followed the ballroom show for years.
And to mark Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman last final on Saturday night the pair received a truly royal send off from the Queen herself.
During their final live show, the pair were left stunned when a surprise message arrived just moments before the results were revealed.
The tribute, delivered by long-standing judge Craig Revel Horwood, who has been part of Strictly since its 2004 launch, revealed to be from Queen Camilla herself.
An emotional Craig read: ‘Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want 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.
Queen Camilla pays tribute to ‘utterly fabulous’ Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they say a tearful goodbye in their last Strictly final
An emotional Craig read: ‘Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.
‘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 fabulous. 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, keep dancing.
‘With the warmest gratitude and admiration, Her Royal Highness, Queen Camilla.’
Tess and Claudia were overwhelmed by the tribute as they struggled to contain their emotion after the heartfelt letter.
Thanking fans, Tess said: ‘Thank you so much for your lovely words, from the bottom of the hearts it means so much to us.
‘We have loved being part of such a wonderful show. It has been a privilege to be a part of your weekends.’
Tess has co-hosted the flagship BBC series since its launch alongside Bruce Forsyth, while Claudia first became part of the Strictly universe on It Takes Two before stepping into a main presenting role years later.
Earlier this year, the pair announced they would be leaving the show, bringing an end to an era on the ballroom floor.
