Huge blow for Strictly after walk-out as Claudia Winkleman 'set to quit BBC show'

BBC bosses are reportedly scrambling to keep Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman after growing fears she could quit for good. The latest scandal to hit the dance show saw controversial 2025 contestant Thomas Skinner walk out of a round of interviews after snatching a journalist's phone - furious that he was being recorded at a press conference.

Now sources have claimed bosses are "anxious" about the programme's future, with one telling Closer magazine: "Bosses are anxious that the lack of big-name celebrities could dampen ratings and, behind the scenes, they've been leaning on Claudia to help steady the ship.

"She's the face the public trusts. She's hugely popular, and they know she's the safest pair of hands they've got. But the truth is, she's under enormous pressure and fears are growing that it could all lead to her quitting the show."

The source explained that while Claudia "adores" Strictly, she feels "completely stretched" and "wonders if something has to give". Claudia is also reportedly worried that her "balance" between work and family is "slipping", causing her to consider stepping back.

The insider said: "She's not blind to the fact that this year's line-up doesn't have the same buzz. Claudia knows the BBC is banking on her and Tess to keep the audience hooked."

Strictly 2025 is already mired in scandal even without Skinner's storm off, with one of its former stars arrested on suspicion of rape and non-consensual image abuse. Two other stars have been accused of taking class-A drugs - and that's without remembering Wynne Evans had to be axed from 2024's live tour after inappropriate comments, referring to a "spit-roast" between contestants.

He denied the allegations but was sacked by the BBC just a year after pro dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano de Prima were accused of bad behaviour and left under a storm cloud.