Former It Takes Two host Rylan Clark couldn’t resist commenting on Claudia Winkleman leaving the iconic BBC show, Strictly Come Dancing.

Earlier this week, Strictly fans were left stunned when Tess Daley, the original host, and Claudia Winkleman, co-host since 2014, announced they would be leaving the show after this season.

Their departures mark a new era for Strictly, leaving many wondering who will take over hosting duties. However, Rylan couldn’t help making light of the situation.

The BBC Radio 2 host commented on Claudia’s Instagram post about her exit:

“Shoes as big as the fringe to fill,” referencing her iconic black hairstyle.

Rylan, who hosted It Takes Two for three years, wasn’t the only one to speak out about this unexpected news.

Former professional dancer and It Takes Two host Janette Manrara also praised Claudia and Tess on the spin-off show:

“Tess has presented the show since the very first episode alongside the legendary Sir Bruce [Forsyth].
Claudia originally presented our spin-off show before moving over to host the results show with Tess in 2010. They’ve been hosting both the main show and the results show together since 2014.
Ladies, we are going to miss you both so much! But luckily, we still have you for the rest of what promises to be a brilliant series and the Christmas special!”

Elsewhere, former Strictly professional dancer Oti Mabuse, another potential candidate to replace Tess or Claudia, got emotional on Loose Women this week about the announcement.

Oti shared:

“They had to redo my makeup because I actually started crying.”

She also spoke about a private phone call with her sister and Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse:

“We were silent for two minutes, both of us in shock. It all came out of nowhere.
It really broke my heart because I absolutely love them. I wish them luck and all the best.”

Oti emphasized that her reaction came from both surprise and genuine affection for Claudia and Tess, who have been long-time pillars of Strictly Come Dancing, leaving fans and colleagues alike feeling emotional and sad about their departures.

Strictly Come Dancing returns tonight, Saturday, October 25, following the announcement of the hosts’ exits.

The show marks the first episode since the MCs announced they were leaving. Fans are not only eager to see how the hosts will address the news, but tonight also features celebrities taking on “Icons Week”, with West End star Rachel Zegler joining the judging panel.