TESS DALY PAYS TRIBUTE TO SIR BRUCE FORSYTH AS STRICTLY COME DANCING CELEBRATES 20 YEARS
Tess Daly, former co-host of Strictly Come Dancing, has honored the late Sir Bruce Forsyth as the popular BBC show marks its 20th anniversary. Taking to her Instagram, the 55-year-old shared the milestone with her 867,000 followers and gave a special mention to her current co-host Claudia Winkleman.
Tess and Bruce were the show’s hosts from its inception in 2004 until series eleven in 2013. Claudia, 52, initially appeared as a guest host for three series before becoming a permanent host in 2014.
To commemorate the occasion, the mother-of-two posted pictures with each of her co-hosts along with a heartfelt message. She wrote, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY @bbcstrictly. It’s 20 years ago today since the first episode aired in 2004 with the legend Sir Bruce Forsyth (and I was pregnant then with Phoebe my eldest!) We had no idea at that time it would go on for another two decades (and counting) and become a global hit in so many overseas territories (where the show is known as Dancing with The Stars). Forever grateful to be part of a show that feels so joyful and magical and to share that with the absolute GIFT that is @claudiawinkle #keepdancing.”
Claudia responded to the tribute with five red heart emojis, and other famous friends of Tess also commented on the post. Presenter Gabby Logan praised Tess, saying, “I keep telling you.. you are the longest continuous serving presenter on an entertainment show in the UK.” Meanwhile, Strictly 2023 contestant Nikita Kanda and Stacey Dooley sent their well wishes.
The BBC Press Office also acknowledged the milestone and shared exciting news for Strictly fans. In an Instagram post, they revealed, “Strictly Come Dancing is officially 20 years young today. And we’ve got FAB-U-LOUS #Strictly news! On 15 May 2004, the first celebs and their pro partners waltzed across the ballroom floor, and we’re celebrating two decades of glitz, glamour, and memorable moves with a special episode coming to BBC One and #iPlayer later this year. Get ready for a journey through 20 years of unforgettable entertainment with iconic performances and heart-warming interviews with past celebs, professional dancers, and judges.”
While the exact airing date of the special episode is yet to be confirmed by the BBC, fans can expect a delightful treat.
