The Strictly Come Dancing ballroom has witnessed triumph, heartbreak, and countless emotional goodbyes over the years — but nothing quite prepared viewers for the raw, unforgettable moment that unfolded during Tess Daly’s final appearance on the show.
In a scene already being hailed as one of the most moving moments in British television history, the long-serving presenter was left fighting back tears after a surprise video message from her husband, Vernon Kay, brought the glittering studio to a standstill.
As the final confetti settled on the 2025 grand final, millions of viewers expected a graceful farewell. What they got instead was an unscripted outpouring of love that reduced the nation to tears.
Tess, 52, has been the calm, elegant heartbeat of Strictly for more than two decades. From the show’s very first episode in 2004 to its evolution into a Saturday-night institution, she has remained its constant presence. But when the lights dimmed and Vernon’s face appeared on the screen behind her, even the most seasoned professional couldn’t hold back the emotion.
“Hi love,” he began softly — and from that moment, the atmosphere shifted.
In a deeply personal message, Vernon reflected on their shared journey: meeting before Strictly existed, navigating Tess’s pregnancy during the show’s very first series, and watching her grow into one of the most beloved figures on British television. He spoke not as a TV host, but as a husband — proud, emotional, and visibly overwhelmed.
“You started this journey with a baby bump under those dresses,” he said, his voice breaking. “Now you’re finishing it watching our daughter grow up. Full circle. You’ve given everything to this show, but the greatest thing it ever gave you was the chance to show the world who you really are.”
As archival clips played behind him — a pregnant Tess laughing alongside Bruce Forsyth, family moments through the years, and their daughters cheering her on from the audience — Tess completely broke down. Gone were the composed smiles and practiced poise. This was real grief, real gratitude, and real love, all colliding at once.
Claudia Winkleman wrapped an arm around her friend as the audience rose to their feet, applauding through tears. Judges, dancers, and crew members alike were visibly moved. Even hardened Strictly veterans admitted later they hadn’t expected the moment to hit so hard.
Social media exploded within seconds.
“Tess crying after Vernon’s message has destroyed me,” wrote one viewer.
“From pregnant in Series 1 to this farewell — I’m sobbing,” posted another.
#TessFarewell trended worldwide overnight.
For many, the moment symbolised more than just a TV goodbye. It marked the end of an era. Tess joined Strictly in 2004 alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, becoming part of a presenting duo that defined Saturday nights for a generation. After Bruce’s departure, she carried the torch with dignity, later forming an iconic partnership with Claudia.
Her journey has always been intertwined with family. Tess famously filmed the first series while pregnant with her eldest daughter, Phoebe — a detail that has become part of Strictly folklore. Watching that same child now grown, cheering her mother on during her final moments, felt almost impossibly poetic.
What made Vernon’s message so powerful was its authenticity. There were no scripted lines, no theatrical flourishes — just a man telling his wife how proud he is, in front of a nation. In an age of polished television moments, this one felt breathtakingly real.
As the orchestra played the Strictly theme for the final time and Tess found her voice to say goodbye, she summed it up simply: “This show has been my home for half my life. Thank you for letting me be part of your Saturdays.”
Since the broadcast, the clip has been replayed millions of times. Fans have called it the most emotional exit in Strictly history — even rivaling Bruce Forsyth’s farewell. Some have half-jokingly begged the BBC to convince Tess to stay.
But Tess has been clear. This chapter is complete. Now, she’s ready for quieter moments, new projects, and time with the family who stood beside her throughout it all.
The glitterball may no longer be hers to hold.
But thanks to one unforgettable message — and a love story that stole Britain’s heart — Tess Daly leaves Strictly wrapped in something even more powerful: the lasting affection of a nation. ✨💔
