When Claudia Winkleman stepped in to fill the legendary Bruce Forsyth 's shoes as co-host of Strictly Come Dancing alongside Tess Daly, there was a wave of scepticism from viewers who held a soft spot for Brucie. Whispers were abound that Tess felt her space being encroached upon by Claudia's exuberant charm, according to OK! Journalist Jane Graham couldn't help but chime in on the suspected strife, hinting at behind-the-scenes bitterness. Jane declared in the Belfast Telegraph: "I wasn't in the least bit surprised to read this week that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman - co-hosts on the now-Bruceless Sunday edition of this year's Strictly Come Dancing - secretly despise each other.
" She went on to say: "I'm convinced that Winkleman wouldn't have got the job if someone in the Strictly camp hadn't come up with the idea." It didn't escape Jane's notice: "Because when it comes to selling anything right now - films, TV shows, pop music or newspapers - nothing guarantees exposure like a feud between two glamorous, high profile women." All the gossip questioning the dynamic duo's camaraderie made some people wonder if Tess would even return to her role.
Yet, despite rampant speculation back in 2010, the pair have consistently been outspoken about their strong bond away from the cameras, frequently praising each other during media engagements. Since joining forces to present Strictly Come Dancing's main show in 2014, Claudia and Tess, who reportedly have a 'secret pact' concerning th.