Tess Daly Claims Early Insight into Strictly Winners as New Series Launches

As the 22nd series of Strictly Come Dancing prepares to dazzle viewers, co-host Tess Daly has made a bold claim about her ability to identify potential champions. The 55-year-old presenter believes she can spot a winner "as early as the launch show," highlighting the importance of having "the full package" to succeed in the competition.

Daly emphasizes that winning Strictly requires more than just dance prowess. She states, "Not only have you got to have learned the necessary dance skills to showcase your talent but you also need to have won our hearts." This insight reflects the show's unique blend of technical skill and audience appeal, which has made it a beloved fixture of British television since its debut on May 15, 2004.

In contrast, Daly's co-host Claudia Winkleman, 52, admits she remains in suspense until the final moment. "I genuinely have no idea who's going to win," Winkleman confesses, adding that she discovers the winner along with the audience when Daly announces the name.

The excitement for the new series is palpable, with Winkleman sharing her anticipation: "I start getting excited in July, the fake tanning starts in earnest on Sept 1 and there's no let-up until Christmas." This enthusiasm underscores the show's enduring popularity, which has led to its format being sold to over 60 countries worldwide.

However, the launch of the 2024 series comes amid controversy. The BBC is investigating complaints about professional dancer Giovanni Pernice's alleged behavior towards former contestant Amanda Abbington. In response to these and other allegations, the show has introduced new duty-of-care measures, including chaperones present in rehearsal rooms.

Despite these challenges, Strictly Come Dancing continues to captivate audiences and inspire international versions, such as Dancing with the Stars in the US. The show's impact extends beyond entertainment, with celebrities often experiencing significant weight loss due to intense training.

As the series celebrates its 20th anniversary, fans can look forward to the launch show on September 14, 2024, at 7:20 PM. This milestone season promises to showcase the glitz, glamour, and fierce competition that have made Strictly Come Dancing a cornerstone of British popular culture.

"Sometimes I feel like perhaps I can spot the winner as early as the launch show as it's clear to see they have the full package."

With its unique blend of celebrity performances, professional partnerships, and the coveted Glitterball Trophy, Strictly Come Dancing continues to evolve while maintaining its core appeal. As the new series unfolds, viewers will eagerly watch to see if Daly's early predictions come true and which celebrity will capture the nation's hearts on their journey to ballroom glory.