After more than two decades as the glamorous face of BBC One’s biggest entertainment juggernaut, Tess Daly has finally spoken out about life after Strictly Come Dancing — and the future looks brighter (and busier) than ever.

The 52-year-old presenter, who co-hosted the beloved dance competition alongside Claudia Winkleman for 11 unforgettable years, stepped down at the end of the 2025 series in a joint announcement that shocked fans last October. Their final show aired on Christmas Day 2025, with an emotional farewell embrace on the iconic dancefloor that left viewers in tears.

Now, in her first major interview since the departure, Tess has broken her silence on what’s next — teasing ‘a couple in the pipeline’ and hinting at exciting new television projects that could see her back on screens sooner than fans expect.

‘I’m looking forward to doing other TV projects,’ she told HELLO! magazine exclusively. ‘There are a couple in the pipeline that I’m really excited about. I love what I do, and I’m not ready to step away from television altogether. This is just a new chapter.’

The words have sent speculation into overdrive. With Strictly’s presenting duo gone, the BBC is in the midst of a high-stakes search for replacements — names like Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Christine Lampard and even Bradley Walsh have been thrown around — but Tess herself is focused forward, not backward.

Her exit came amid a whirlwind 2025 for the show: record ratings, fresh controversies over judging and scoring, and the usual sparkle of sequins and samba. Tess and Claudia’s decision to leave was mutual and amicable, sources say — a chance to ‘spread their wings’ after giving everything to the ballroom.

‘After 21 years on Strictly, it felt like the right time,’ Tess reflected in the interview. ‘I poured my heart into it every single series. But now, there’s a welcome calm. I’m in my 50s, feeling settled, and excited about what’s ahead — both personally and professionally.’

That calm is evident in her post-Strictly life. Tess has thrown herself into family time with husband Vernon Kay and their two daughters — Phoebe, 21, who recently moved abroad for studies (prompting a bittersweet family shift), and Amber, 16. The couple marked the transition with a proud announcement of Phoebe’s big move, sharing snaps of tearful goodbyes and new beginnings.

‘Family comes first,’ Tess has always said. Now, with more time on her hands, she’s embracing it fully — but she’s far from retiring to the sidelines.

Business is booming too. Tess launched her activewear brand NAIA Active in recent years, and it’s thriving. The line — focused on sustainable, stylish gymwear — has become a go-to for fitness fans, with Tess often modelling pieces herself on Instagram. She’s hinted that more entrepreneurial ventures could be on the horizon, blending her love of wellness with her TV savvy.

But it’s the small-screen tease that has fans buzzing most. While no official announcements have dropped, insiders whisper Tess is in talks for a variety of formats: perhaps a lifestyle or wellness show (capitalising on her NAIA success), a return to presenting lighter entertainment, or even something family-oriented.

She already fronts BBC hits like The Traitors (in a supporting role) and has seen her Channel 4 series The Piano recommissioned — proof she’s still very much in demand. ‘I love live TV, the buzz of it,’ she added in the HELLO! chat. ‘I’m open to anything that feels right.’

The Strictly farewell was emotional for everyone. Tess and Claudia’s last episode was a glitter-soaked celebration: tributes from past contestants, a special dance number, and heartfelt speeches that had the hosts in tears. Claudia quipped through sobs: ‘We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve worn too much sparkle.’ Tess echoed: ‘This family will always be in my heart.’

Fans flooded social media with tributes: ‘The ballroom won’t be the same without Tess’s warmth.’ ‘She made every Saturday night magical.’ Some even started petitions for a comeback — though Tess has gently shut that down.

‘I’m proud of what we built,’ she said. ‘But I’m excited for the next adventure.’

That adventure includes more time for passions outside work: yoga, reading, travel with Vernon (the couple’s marriage remains one of showbiz’s strongest), and supporting her daughters’ dreams. Phoebe’s move abroad has been a big adjustment — ‘empty nest vibes,’ Tess joked — but it’s given her space to reflect.

‘I’m ushering in a welcome calm in my 50s,’ she told the magazine. ‘Life feels balanced. I’ve worked hard, and now I get to enjoy the fruits of it.’

Speculation about Strictly’s future hosts continues to swirl. Zoe Ball — a former contestant and It Takes Two presenter — has said she’d ‘love’ the gig. Rylan Clark is reportedly in chemistry tests. Christine Lampard has been named a ‘frontrunner’ in some reports. Even Alan Carr was tipped before reportedly pulling out.

Whoever steps in, they have huge sparkly shoes to fill. Tess Daly didn’t just host Strictly — she embodied its glamour, grace and warmth for over two decades.

As she teases new roles and embraces this ‘new chapter,’ one thing is clear: Tess isn’t fading away. She’s evolving.

From ballroom queen to businesswoman, mum, and TV mainstay — the next era of Tess Daly promises to be every bit as captivating.

We can’t wait to see what she does next.

Watch this space — because Tess Daly is far from finished.