UPDATE: Viewers are buzzing after the Christmas Day Special of Strictly Come Dancing was hailed as the “TV highlight of 2025.” The episode, released on December 25, 2025, features six beloved celebrities competing for the festive trophy alongside professional dancers.
This year’s lineup includes popular figures like presenter Scarlett Moffatt, musician Melanie Blatt, and actor Nicholas Bailey. The excitement comes just days after Karen Carney and Carlos Gu were crowned the champions of the 2025 season, igniting a wave of anticipation for the Christmas showcase.
Each couple performed festive routines, vying for the judges’ approval: Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas, as well as the studio audience. But the episode also marks a bittersweet farewell, as it is the last appearance for hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their departure earlier this year.
In a heartfelt joint statement on Instagram, they expressed, “Hosting the show has been an absolute dream… We will cry when we say the last ‘keep dancing.'” The duo emphasized their commitment to leaving together, saying, “now feels like the right time.”
The highlight of the night came when Tess Daly performed a stunning Argentine Tango with professional dancer Alijaz Skorjanec. Viewers took to social media to share their excitement. One user on X, formerly Twitter, @RyanSoapKing25 stated, “Tess Daly dancing an Argentine Tango with Alijaz has just become my TV highlight of 2025. INCREDIBLE!”
Fans expressed their sadness at the departure of the beloved hosts, with comments like @xlouclifton96x remarking, “not going to be the same next year without Tess and Claudia.” The emotional reactions on social media highlight the connection viewers feel with the show and its presenters.
The Christmas Special was filmed on December 9 and is now available for streaming on BBC iPlayer. As fans reflect on the performances, many are already speculating on the future of the show. Some viewers are even hoping for a surprise return of Tess as a contestant next year, with comments like @Thomasstevens00 suggesting, “Plot twist: Tess Daly is leaving Strictly to come back next year as a contestant.”
The fervor surrounding this year’s Christmas Special demonstrates the enduring popularity of Strictly Come Dancing and the emotional impact it has on its dedicated fanbase. With the departure of familiar faces and the promise of new talent, the future of the show remains a hot topic of discussion.
Stay tuned for more updates on Strictly Come Dancing as fans eagerly await what next season will bring!
