A FORMER Strictly star has dropped the biggest clue yet that he’s being lined up to replace Tess and Claudia after they quit.

The news broke on Thursday morning that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were quitting Strictly Come Dancing after hosting the show together for 11 years.

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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have both bowed out of their hosting roles on Strictly Come DancingCredit: instagram
 

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Rylan Clark’s name is among the celebrities tipped to replace the duoCredit: BBC
Tess has quit after 21 years, and Claudia after 11.

The presenters shared the shock news in separate statements on Instagram today.

Immediately after their statements were shared, fans began speculating who might replace them.

Bookmakers have also released the odds on who is likely to replace the iconic duo.

 Among the celebrities named by bookies is Rylan Clark, who has also hinted he might be in the running himself.

Rylan, who hosts It Takes Two, commented on Claudia’s Instagram post saying: “Shoes as big as the fringe to fill. Love you.”

His comment seemingly implied that he was in the mix to possibly host the show in the future.

Fans were quick to comment on Rylan’s comment and brazen declaration.

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One person penned: “@rylan you’d be great.”

A second wrote: “@rylan please let it be you and @robrinder.”

“@rylan I would LOVE to see you step into their shoes,” penned a third.

While a fourth said: “@rylan start putting those shoes on hun!”

And a fifth wrote: “He really would [be great], this would make the pain of them going a lot easier x.”

This comes as the runners and riders tipped to replace the duo have been named as: Rylan, Zoe Ball, Janette and Alijaz, Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton, Alan Carr, Fleur East, Tasha Ghouri.

Who is tipped to take Tess and Claudia’s places on Strictly?

THE bookies Ladbrooks has released a list of those tipped to step into Tess and Claudia’s sparkling shoes on Strictly Come Dancing…

Roman Kemp – 6/4
Fleur East – 2/1
Rylan Clark – 3/1
Stacey Dooley – 4/1
Zoe Ball – 4/1
Rose Ayling-Ellis – 5/1
Alison Hammond – 6/1
Vicky Pattison – 6/1
Janette Manrara – 6/1
Emma Willis – 6/1
Maura Higgins – 8/1
Chris Ramsey – 8/1
Joel Dommett – 10/1
Abbey Clancy – 12/1
Darren Gough – 33/1
Tom Skinner – 100/1

TESS’ EXIT STATEMENT

Tess, who hosted with Bruce from 2004 until his exit in 2013, said: “After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.

“It’s hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here goes…

“Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It’s felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special, but I could never have imagined the magic it would bring.

“Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together — and I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.

“From that very first series, I had the great honour of standing alongside the incomparable Sir Bruce Forsyth.”

She continued: “Brucie set the tone for everything that Strictly became: warmth, wit, connection, and pure showbiz magic.

“I have always been in awe of our superbly talented professional dancers, our magnificent judges, and all the celebrities who have taken part.

“I absolutely adore our brilliant crew — every single member of the Strictly team who have worked so tirelessly to make this show what it is.

“You are the very best in the business – the kindest, most fun, most loyal, and definitely the hardest-working team in television.

“Thank you for the laughter, the friendship, and the countless memories over all these years. You’ve filled my heart in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll miss you all so much.

“And to you — the viewers at home — the biggest thank you of all. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes for over two decades.”

The host went on: “Your love, loyalty, and unwavering support have meant the world. You’ve carried us through every series, and that has never, ever been taken for granted.

“You are the heart of this show, and I feel so lucky to have shared it with you.

“Being part of your weekend from September to Christmas for the past 21 years has been one of the greatest joys and privileges of my career.

“To my beloved Claud — what an absolute joy and pleasure it has been sharing this adventure with you.

“You’re one of a kind, and l’ll treasure every giggle, every live show, and every backstage moment we’ve shared. I’m so grateful to have you as my friend for life.

“This isn’t a goodbye to glitter, sequins, or Saturday night sparkle (I could never say goodbye to those!).

“Strictly will forever hold a special place in my heart — but it does feel like the right time to hand over the reins.

“With all my love and endless gratitude, Tess x”

CLAUDIA’S EXIT STATEMENT

Meanwhile, Claudia posted photos of her time hosting with Tess, and an emotional caption.

She said: “It’s very difficult to put into words exactly what Strictly has meant to me. It’s been the greatest relationship of my career.

“From working on It Takes Two in 2004 until now it has been my everything, the show I will be eternally grateful for.

“I will never forget Len Goodman trying to teach me what a cucaracha is (I still don’t know) and the complete thrill and honour it was to work with Tess on the results show to cohosting on Saturday nights.

“Strictly is a magical, glittery, fake tanned train and it’s been a privilege to be a tiny part of it.

“The extraordinary talent of the dancers, the band, the hair and makeup and costume teams, the unbelievable production crew and creatives – all utterly amazing.

“I’ve always believed it’s best to leave a party before you’re fully ready to go and I know the new hosts will be magnificent, I look forward to watching them take Strictly to new heights.

“As for Tess – I’m so so lucky I got to stand next to you. You’re funny, kind, whip smart and a true friend and I love you.”

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Fans are gutted that the two ladies are leaving the iconic dancing competitionCredit: instagram