I can sport Strictly winner almost immediately, says Tess Daly
Tess Daly has claimed that she can spot a winner on Strictly Come Dancing “as early as the launch show”.
The co-host of the BBC reality series, 55, admitted that it can be “clear” who will take home the Glitterball Trophy almost immediately.
“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,” she said.
The prime-time TV presenter added: “I do think it takes a certain special something and not just talent alone, to capture the viewers’ imagination and go on to become the winner of a series.
“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.”
However, Ms Daly caveated by saying that “more often than not” she is also surprised at the winning couple.
Her comments come as she prepares to host the launch show of the 22nd series alongside Claudia Winkleman on Saturday.
Ms Winkleman, 52, admitted in contrast that she has “no idea who’s going to win” until her presenting partner announces their name during the final episode.
Speaking about the start of the new series, she said: “It feels a total honour and privilege, I love working on Strictly so much.
“I start getting excited in July, the fake tanning starts in earnest on September 1 and there’s no let-up until Christmas.
“I genuinely have no idea who’s going to win, Tess says the name and I find out with everyone else, it’s a magic moment.”
This year’s series begins amid a scandal over the alleged treatment of the show’s celebrity contestants, with the BBC investigating complaints made about professional dancer Giovanni Pernice by former series participant Amanda Abbington.
Pernice has left the show but strenuously denies the Sherlock actress’ allegations of “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” behaviour and is said to be confident that his name will be cleared.
The new series, which celebrates the show’s 20th anniversary, will begin on Saturday despite the BBC’s report into bullying allegations continuing.
Another dancer, Graziano Di Prima, also left the show following allegations of his behaviour towards partner Zara McDermott.
He has admitted to kicking the reality star in “an isolated incident” which he “deeply regrets and apologised for at the time”.
The BBC has introduced new duty-of-care measures in response to the allegations, including chaperones who will be present in the rehearsal rooms.
Strictly’s launch show will see its celebrity contestants paired up with their professional partners, and will air at 7.20pm on Saturday September 14.
