Earlier this week, Tess Daly, the host of Strictly Come Dancing, revealed that she will be stepping down from the show after 21 years. The 56-year-old has been a part of the program since its inception in 2004, initially co-presenting with Bruce Forsyth and later with Claudia Winkleman.
In a video shared with her co-host, Tess expressed that it was time for her to hand over the reins to two new presenters as she and Claudia take a step back from the show.
Many fans have been curious about Tess’s decision, especially considering her rumored £150,000 salary for her role on Strictly. What some may not be aware of is that Tess is heavily involved in a swimwear business called Naia Beach, which she co-owns with her friend Gayle Lawton.
Discussing her business venture on a podcast, Tess mentioned that running the swimwear brand is a significant commitment that occupies much of her time. She finds it fulfilling and exciting to build a business alongside her best friend but acknowledges that it demands a substantial portion of her daily schedule.
Apart from her television career and entrepreneurial pursuits, Tess is also a devoted mother to her two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 15, whom she shares with her husband, Vernon Kay. Family life has been an integral part of Tess’s journey on Strictly Come Dancing, where she returned to work just six weeks after giving birth to her first child.
Following her announcement of leaving the show, speculations suggest that Tess might participate in her first reality show, Celebrity Traitors. Tess and Vernon were previously rumored to join Claudia’s show last year, but Tess clarified that it was never the case, emphasizing her inability to deceive due to her close connection with Claudia.
In a recent interview, Tess humorously remarked that she and Vernon have contrasting abilities when it comes to keeping secrets, with Vernon admitting that Tess’s laughter gives away any attempts at deception.
Don’t miss Strictly Come Dancing: The Results airing tonight at 7.15pm on BBC One.