Claudia Winkleman is an English broadcaster and television presenter best known for co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing from 2010 to 2025 and presenting the BBC reality game show The Traitors since 2022. Born on January 15, 1972, in London, the 53-year-old has become one of British television’s most beloved and recognizable personalities, winning a BAFTA Award in 2023 for her work on The Traitors. In October 2025, Winkleman shocked viewers by announcing alongside co-host Tess Daly that they would both leave Strictly Come Dancing following the completion of the 2025 series and Christmas special, ending their 15-year partnership on the BBC’s flagship Saturday night entertainment show. As of December 2025, she is preparing for her final Strictly episodes while continuing to host The Traitors, which premiered its third civilian season on January 1, 2025, followed by a celebrity edition in October that attracted an astounding 11.1 million viewers for its finale. Reports suggest she is in advanced negotiations for her own prime-time BBC chat show following her Strictly departure, marking the next chapter in her extraordinary broadcasting career.
Early Life and Family Background
Claudia Winkleman was born in London on January 15, 1972, into a prominent media family that would shape her future career trajectory. Her mother, Eve Pollard, is a renowned author, journalist, and former editor of several major British tabloid newspapers including the Sunday Mirror and Sunday Express. Her father, Barry Winkleman, worked as a publisher in the media industry, giving Claudia early exposure to journalism and entertainment.
Claudia grew up in Hampstead, an affluent area of north London, though her childhood was marked by her parents’ divorce when she was just three years old. Both her mother and father remarried when she was seven, expanding her family connections significantly. Her mother married Sir Nicholas Lloyd, former editor of the Daily Express, while her father’s remarriage gave Claudia a half-sister, actress Sophie Winkleman, who would later marry into British royalty.
Education and Early Career Aspirations
Winkleman attended the City of London School for Girls, a prestigious independent school, before earning a place at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge University. At Cambridge, she studied History of Art, graduating with a Master of Arts degree with honors. She initially intended to pursue a career in art history, working in galleries and museums, but quickly discovered the reality didn’t match her expectations.
In an interview with Stylist magazine, Winkleman humorously recalled her brief attempt at an art history career, saying her “head almost fell off because there was a lot of sitting and waiting.” The static nature of academic work didn’t suit her energetic personality, prompting her to pivot toward television, where her mother’s media connections and her own natural charisma would open unexpected doors.
Television Career Beginnings
Claudia Winkleman’s television career began in 1991 when she landed her first major job on Central Weekend, a regional discussion programme. The role provided her with foundational broadcasting experience and revealed her natural talent for engaging with audiences and guests. In 1992, she began appearing frequently on various BBC programmes, gradually building her profile as a versatile presenter capable of handling different formats.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Winkleman worked across multiple genres and networks, steadily developing her distinctive presenting style. Her early work included travel shows, entertainment programmes, and magazine formats that showcased her quick wit, self-deprecating humor, and ability to connect authentically with both contributors and viewers. These formative years established the foundation for her eventual breakthrough on major primetime shows.
Breakthrough with Film and Entertainment Coverage
Winkleman became particularly associated with film and entertainment coverage during the 2000s, hosting various programmes focused on cinema, television, and celebrity culture. Her genuine passion for film and her ability to conduct insightful yet accessible interviews made her a popular choice for entertainment programming. She developed a reputation for being unflappable, witty, and genuinely interested in her subjects rather than merely going through the motions.
Her broadcasting style during this period established several signature elements that would define her later work: self-deprecating humor, willingness to look foolish, genuine enthusiasm for content, and an ability to make guests feel comfortable while eliciting interesting responses. These qualities would prove invaluable when she transitioned to larger, more high-profile presenting roles.
Strictly Come Dancing Journey
Claudia Winkleman’s association with Strictly Come Dancing began in 2004, when she became the inaugural host of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, the weeknight companion show that provides behind-the-scenes coverage and additional content from the main competition. She hosted It Takes Two from 2004 until 2011, when former Strictly contestant Zoe Ball took over the role. This seven-year tenure gave Winkleman deep knowledge of the show’s format, contestants, and appeal.
In 2010, Winkleman was promoted to co-host the Sunday night results show alongside Tess Daly, marking her transition to the main Strictly programmes. The partnership between Winkleman and Daly quickly developed natural chemistry, with Winkleman’s self-deprecating humor complementing Daly’s warmer, more traditionally glamorous presenting style. Their contrasting approaches created a dynamic that audiences embraced immediately.
Becoming Main Show Co-Host
When legendary host Bruce Forsyth announced his departure from Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 after a decade fronting the Saturday night main show, BBC executives faced a significant challenge finding a suitable replacement. Rather than bringing in a new face, they promoted Winkleman to co-host both the Saturday main show and Sunday results show alongside Tess Daly, creating the first all-female hosting duo in the programme’s history.
The decision proved inspired, as Winkleman and Daly’s partnership revitalized the show’s presentation style. Winkleman brought irreverent humor, genuine interest in the contestants’ journeys, and willingness to acknowledge the show’s inherent silliness while respecting the emotional investment of participants. Her interactions with the judges, particularly her playful banter with Craig Revel Horwood, became highlights of each episode.
October 2025 Departure Announcement
On October 23, 2025, Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly shocked the entertainment world by jointly announcing they would leave Strictly Come Dancing following the completion of the current series and Christmas special. The announcement came via a joint Instagram video where both presenters addressed “rumblings” about the news and wanted fans to hear it directly from them. The decision ended their 15-year partnership and Winkleman’s 21-year association with the Strictly franchise.
In her emotional Instagram post, Winkleman wrote that it was “quite challenging to articulate what Strictly has truly meant to me,” describing it as “the pinnacle of my career.” She reflected on her journey from hosting It Takes Two in 2004 through her years co-presenting with Daly, acknowledging it had “encompassed my entire professional life, a show I will always cherish.” She specifically mentioned memories of late judge Len Goodman attempting to teach her dance terminology.
The Traitors Phenomenon
In 2022, Claudia Winkleman took on what would become the defining role of her career when she was selected to host The Traitors, a reality game show format acquired by the BBC from Dutch television. The show involves contestants completing challenges while secretly identifying “traitors” among them who are eliminating “faithful” players. The format combines elements of strategy, deception, and psychological gameplay that requires a host capable of maintaining dramatic tension while remaining neutral.
Winkleman wasn’t the BBC’s first choice for the role, as revealed by Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, in a November 2025 interview on The Rest Is Entertainment podcast. Phillips initially approached Alan Cumming, who was already signed to host the American version, but he couldn’t commit due to scheduling conflicts. After reviewing other candidates, Phillips thought of Winkleman, recognizing her genuine interest in people demonstrated on Strictly.
Hesitation and Eventual Commitment
When first approached about The Traitors, Winkleman was hesitant about the commitment required, particularly the filming location in the Scottish Highlands which would mean extended time away from her London family. Phillips arranged for production to send Winkleman a copy of the Dutch original version to help her understand the format’s potential. After watching it, Winkleman was “immediately on board,” recognizing the show’s compelling mix of strategy, human psychology, and dramatic possibilities.
The Traitors premiered on BBC One in 2022 and quickly became a breakout hit, shattering viewership records and earning critical acclaim for both the format and Winkleman’s hosting. Her presentation style perfectly suited the show’s mysterious, dramatic tone, with her signature wardrobe of luxurious coats, dramatic lighting, and theatrical delivery of key lines creating iconic television moments. Her catchphrase “please take your seat at the round table” became instantly recognizable.
BAFTA Award and Critical Acclaim
Claudia Winkleman’s work on The Traitors earned her the BAFTA TV Award for Entertainment Performance in 2023, one of British television’s most prestigious honors. The show itself won the BAFTA TV Award for Reality and Constructed Factual at the same ceremony, with Winkleman thanking producer Studio Lambert and BBC executives in her acceptance speech. The recognition validated the show’s extraordinary cultural impact and Winkleman’s perfect embodiment of the host role.
A second series was commissioned and premiered on January 3, 2024, with viewership growing substantially compared to the first season. The third civilian series premiered on January 1, 2025, continuing the show’s momentum. A celebrity edition of The Traitors aired in October 2025, attracting an astounding 11.1 million viewers for its finale, making it one of the most-watched programs on British television that year and cementing the show’s status as a genuine cultural phenomenon.
December 2025 Strictly Farewell
As of December 2025, Claudia Winkleman is preparing for her final appearances on Strictly Come Dancing, with only the semi-final and grand final remaining before her departure. In a December 10, 2025, interview, Winkleman predicted that both she and Tess Daly would feel “emotional” during the upcoming finale, which marks their final time hosting the show together. The semi-final aired on December 13, 2025, moving them one step closer to their Strictly swan song.
The 2025 series has been marked by heightened emotion as viewers and contestants alike acknowledge it’s the final season with the beloved hosting duo. Betting markets have been active regarding potential replacements, with speculation intensifying after Zoe Ball announced her departure from BBC Radio 2’s breakfast show on December 13, 2025. Bookmakers suspended betting on Strictly replacements following Ball’s announcement, suggesting potential behind-the-scenes developments.
Speculation About Replacements
Multiple names have been floated as potential replacements for Winkleman and Daly, with bookmakers and media outlets proposing various combinations. Zoe Ball, who previously hosted Strictly: It Takes Two, has been mentioned as a favorite despite her Radio 2 departure announcement. Emma Willis, who is replacing Ball on Radio 2 in early 2026, has also been discussed as a potential candidate given her strong entertainment presenting credentials.
The BBC has not officially announced who will replace Winkleman and Daly when the show returns in 2026, though reports suggest decisions are being finalized. Media coverage has speculated that the network may choose to maintain the two-host format that worked so successfully, or potentially streamline to a single presenter depending on who is selected. The final Strictly episode featuring Winkleman and Daly will air on December 20, 2025, as the Christmas special.
Chat Show Negotiations and Future Projects
Following her Strictly departure announcement, reports emerged in late October 2025 that Claudia Winkleman is in advanced negotiations for her own prime-time BBC chat show. Entertainment outlet Deadline reported the program would be produced by So Television, the production company responsible for The Graham Norton Show, suggesting a similar format and production quality. While no contract had been finalized as of the reports, discussions were described as being at a “mature stage.”
Sources told the Daily Mail that the BBC views a Winkleman chat show as a “top priority,” envisioning a “glamorous, high-end” production comparable to Jonathan Ross’s style but with a more “refined” touch. The network is reportedly willing to “invest significantly” to attract top-tier celebrity guests and ensure the show receives appropriate promotion and scheduling. One source described it as “the ideal role for Claudia,” suggesting it could elevate her career to new heights.
Continued Hosting of The Traitors
Regardless of what additional projects Winkleman takes on, she will continue hosting The Traitors, which has become the BBC’s most successful reality format in decades. The show films for concentrated periods in Scotland rather than requiring weekly commitments throughout the year, making it compatible with other presenting opportunities. BBC executives have expressed strong commitment to continuing The Traitors for multiple additional series given its extraordinary success.
Media analyst Mark Borkowski noted in October 2025 that Winkleman’s next career move is crucial, stating: “Having experienced two significant successes—Strictly and Traitors—the next format is crucial. Success breeds further success. Therefore, her next move will be absolutely vital.” He suggested Winkleman has the freedom to choose her path carefully, surrounded by advisors who can provide the right opportunities to maintain her momentum.
Personal Life and Family
Claudia Winkleman married film producer Kris Thykier on June 24, 2000, and the couple have three children together: Jake, Matilda, and Arthur. Thykier has worked in the film industry for many years, with producer credits on major films including Kick-Ass, The Woman in Gold, and television series like Sky Atlantic’s Riviera. The couple are notably private about their personal life, rarely posting about their relationship or children on social media.
The family lives in London, where Winkleman has been based throughout her television career. She has spoken publicly about the challenges of balancing her demanding career with motherhood, particularly when her children were younger. In a 2021 interview on BBC Women’s Hour, she revealed she once called Strictly producers in tears saying she might need to leave the show when her son moved to university, though she ultimately continued.
Royal Family Connection
Through her half-sister Sophie Winkleman, Claudia has an indirect connection to the British royal family. Sophie Winkleman is an actress who married Lord Frederick Windsor, son of Prince Michael of Kent and cousin to King Charles III, in 2009. While this makes Claudia connected to royalty by marriage, she maintains separation between her professional broadcasting career and any royal associations, rarely discussing the family connection publicly.
Her mother’s subsequent marriage to Sir Nicholas Lloyd, combined with her own successful media career and royal family connections, has made the Winkleman family one of Britain’s most prominent media dynasties. However, Claudia has consistently emphasized she built her television career through her own efforts rather than family connections, working across multiple formats and networks for decades before achieving her current status.
Distinctive Style and Public Persona
Claudia Winkleman is instantly recognizable for her signature appearance: thick, blunt-cut fringe (bangs), heavy black eyeliner, and deep fake tan that she has described as essential to her look. She has remained remarkably consistent with this aesthetic throughout her career, making it part of her brand identity. In interviews, she has joked that her mother banned mirrors in their house during her childhood, contributing to her unique approach to appearance and style.
Her presenting style combines self-deprecating humor, genuine warmth, theatrical delivery when appropriate, and an ability to make subjects feel comfortable while maintaining professional control. Unlike some presenters who maintain emotional distance, Winkleman openly invests in contestants’ journeys on both Strictly and The Traitors, expressing authentic reactions to outcomes while respecting the integrity of competitions.
Public Reception and Industry Reputation
Winkleman has earned reputation as one of British television’s most talented and versatile presenters, described by colleagues and critics as “unflappable, witty and super smart.” Her ability to adapt to different formats—from daytime magazine shows to primetime competition hosting to reality game shows—demonstrates unusual range. Industry professionals praise her genuine interest in people, which translates to more engaging interviews and interactions than presenters who merely follow scripts.
Her popularity extends across demographic groups, appealing to traditional Strictly audiences while attracting younger viewers through The Traitors’ social media-driven success. This cross-generational appeal makes her valuable to the BBC as it seeks to maintain traditional viewership while building younger audiences. Her MBE honor recognizes both her broadcasting achievements and her contribution to British popular culture.
Practical Information for Following Claudia Winkleman
Fans can follow Claudia Winkleman’s career through multiple channels, with her Instagram account @claudiawinkle providing official updates about her projects, appearances, and professional activities. She occasionally posts behind-the-scenes content from The Traitors and previously shared Strictly-related updates, though she maintains privacy regarding her family and personal life.
The Traitors UK is available to stream on BBC iPlayer, where all three civilian seasons and the celebrity edition can be watched. The show’s social media accounts provide additional content, including extended scenes, interviews, and fan engagement opportunities. BBC One’s official channels announce scheduling information for Winkleman’s final Strictly episodes and any future projects including the potential chat show.
Upcoming Schedule
Claudia Winkleman’s final Strictly Come Dancing episodes include the December 13, 2025, semi-final, the December 14, 2025, grand final, and the Christmas special airing December 20, 2025. These represent her last appearances on a show she has been associated with for 21 years across various formats. Details about her rumored chat show, including premiere date and format specifics, have not been officially announced as of December 2025.
The Traitors will return for additional series, though specific airdate information for Series 4 and beyond has not been confirmed. Given the show’s pattern of premiering in early January, the next civilian series would likely debut in January 2026, with potential celebrity editions following in autumn. BBC executives have indicated strong commitment to continuing the format given its exceptional performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Claudia Winkleman?
Claudia Winkleman is a 53-year-old English broadcaster and television presenter best known for co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing from 2010 to 2025 and hosting The Traitors since 2022. Born January 15, 1972, in London, she has become one of British television’s most beloved personalities, winning a BAFTA Award in 2023 for her work on The Traitors.
Why is Claudia Winkleman leaving Strictly Come Dancing?
Winkleman announced in October 2025 that she and co-host Tess Daly would leave Strictly following the 2025 series and Christmas special, citing their long partnership and mutual decision to exit together. Her overwhelming schedule juggling multiple high-profile shows, particularly The Traitors’ success, reportedly meant something had to give, with Strictly being “the one to go.”
When is Claudia Winkleman’s last Strictly episode?
Claudia Winkleman’s final Strictly Come Dancing appearance will be the Christmas special airing on December 20, 2025. Before that, she co-hosts the semi-final on December 13, 2025, and the grand final on December 14, 2025, marking the end of her 21-year association with the Strictly franchise.
What is The Traitors and why is Claudia Winkleman perfect for it?
The Traitors is a reality game show where contestants identify “traitors” secretly eliminating “faithful” players while completing challenges. Winkleman’s theatrical presentation style, dramatic delivery, mysterious aesthetic with luxurious coats and atmospheric lighting, and genuine interest in human psychology make her ideal for hosting this tension-filled format that has become a cultural phenomenon.
Did Claudia Winkleman win a BAFTA for The Traitors?
Yes, Claudia Winkleman won the BAFTA TV Award for Entertainment Performance in 2023 for hosting The Traitors. The show itself also won the BAFTA TV Award for Reality and Constructed Factual at the same ceremony, confirming both the format’s success and Winkleman’s perfect embodiment of the hosting role.
Is Claudia Winkleman getting her own chat show?
Reports from October 2025 indicate Claudia Winkleman is in advanced negotiations for a prime-time BBC chat show produced by So Television, the team behind The Graham Norton Show. While no contract has been finalized, discussions are described as at a “mature stage,” with the BBC viewing it as a “top priority” production to showcase her interviewing abilities.
Who is Claudia Winkleman married to?
Claudia Winkleman has been married to film producer Kris Thykier since June 24, 2000. Thykier has credits on major films including Kick-Ass and The Woman in Gold, as well as television series like Riviera. The couple have three children together—Jake, Matilda, and Arthur—and maintain privacy about their family life.
Is Claudia Winkleman related to royalty?
Claudia Winkleman has an indirect royal connection through her half-sister Sophie Winkleman, an actress who married Lord Frederick Windsor, son of Prince Michael of Kent and cousin to King Charles III, in 2009. However, Claudia maintains separation between her broadcasting career and any royal associations, rarely discussing the connection publicly.
How long has Claudia Winkleman been on Strictly Come Dancing?
Claudia Winkleman has been associated with Strictly Come Dancing for 21 years, starting as the inaugural host of It Takes Two in 2004. She became co-host of the Sunday results show in 2010, then expanded to co-hosting the main Saturday show alongside Tess Daly in 2014 following Bruce Forsyth’s departure.
What is Claudia Winkleman’s signature look?
Claudia Winkleman is instantly recognizable for her thick, blunt-cut fringe, heavy black eyeliner, and deep fake tan that she has maintained consistently throughout her career. This distinctive aesthetic has become part of her brand identity and is frequently referenced and imitated by fans and fellow celebrities.
Was Claudia Winkleman the first choice to host The Traitors?
No, BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips revealed in November 2025 that Alan Cumming was initially approached to host The Traitors UK since he was already signed for the US version. When Cumming couldn’t commit due to scheduling conflicts, Phillips thought of Winkleman, who was hesitant at first but agreed after watching the Dutch original version.
How many people watched Celebrity Traitors?
The Celebrity Traitors finale in October 2025 attracted an astounding 11.1 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched programs on British television that year. The celebrity edition’s success confirmed The Traitors as a genuine cultural phenomenon beyond its already-successful civilian format.
What is Claudia Winkleman’s educational background?
Claudia Winkleman attended the City of London School for Girls before studying History of Art at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge University, where she earned a Master of Arts degree with honors. She initially wanted to pursue an art history career but found it too static and transitioned to television instead.
Who will replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly on Strictly?
As of December 2025, the BBC has not officially announced who will replace Winkleman and Daly when Strictly returns in 2026. Speculation includes Zoe Ball, who previously hosted It Takes Two, and Emma Willis, though bookmakers suspended betting on December 13, 2025, suggesting potential behind-the-scenes developments.
What other shows does Claudia Winkleman present?
Besides The Traitors, Claudia Winkleman presents The Piano on Channel 4, a show showcasing amateur pianists performing in public spaces. She previously hosted a weekly Saturday morning slot on BBC Radio 2 until 2024, juggling multiple high-profile commitments before deciding to leave Strictly to manage her workload.
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