BBC legend reacts to Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's exit after 'replacement' news

Former Strictly Come Dancing legend Vincent Simone revealed his astonishment at learning that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman would be leaving the dancing show and he shared the exact moment he heard the news.

In an unexpected statement issued on Thursday, October 23, the presenting duo revealed they had quit the BBC show. Tess and Claudia paused Saturday evening's Icons Week episode of Strictly Come Dancing to acknowledge their forthcoming departure from the programme.

The presenting pair addressed viewers moments after the show began, marking their first live broadcast since revealing on Thursday that they would be stepping down. "Just before we get started, Claud and I announced this week that this will be our last series of Strictly Come Dancing," Tess told viewers.

Claudia expressed gratitude for the public's response, stating: "We want to thank you for your beautiful messages."

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk on behalf of Paddy Power the pro dancer shared his bewilderment over their exit announcement.

He revealed: "It was a real shock to the system to find out about Tess and Claudia! I heard the news while driving to a show.

"Someone in the van said, 'Tess and Claudia are leaving!' and I went, 'What?' That's the shock of the year for me. Maybe if one of them had left it'd make sense, but both at once - that's huge."

Vincent also disclosed potential successors to the coveted hosting positions in a surprising revelation.

He commented: "It's hard to predict. I think the BBC should go for people who are already well-known and experienced - not newcomers. Familiar faces that the audience already trusts, like Paddy McGuinness or even Noel Edmonds."

Strictly Come Dancing returns tonight on BBC One at 6.35pm