The Media Club · 24 October 2025 · 42 min

Tess & Claudia Wrongfoot The Media and Leave Strictly

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This episode of The Media Club covers the surprise announcement that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are leaving Strictly Come Dancing, with analysis of the unusual Instagram-first announcement and speculation on replacements. Heather Fallon from Broadcast Magazine discusses the Warner Bros Discovery sale rumours, Ofcom's decision not to change rules on politicians as presenters, and other media stories. Alex Segal, MD of InterTalent, joins to discuss how talent agencies are adapting to the digital and creator economy, and the episode includes the Audio Network Media Quiz.

Key takeaways

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure from Strictly Come Dancing via Instagram, catching the BBC off guard.
Warner Bros Discovery is reportedly in sale talks, with Paramount making two rejected offers.
Ofcom decided not to change its rule on politicians as presenters, but clarified guidance.
Alex Segal discussed how talent agencies are diversifying to include creator and digital divisions.
Channel 4 is commissioning podcasts fronted by comedians and entertainment presenters to attract younger audiences.

In this episode

Intro and Plus One0:00 · Hosts introduce guests and discuss their plus one picks.
Strictly Presenters Leaving5:00 · Discussion on Tess and Claudia's departure and potential replacements.
Warner Bros Discovery Sale15:00 · Analysis of potential buyers and implications.
Ofcom Broadcast Code20:00 · Ofcom's decision not to change rules on politicians as presenters.
Talent Agencies in Digital Age25:00 · Interview with Alex Segal on adapting talent agencies.
Media Quiz35:00 · Audio Network Media Quiz with business ideas.

Notable quotes

“I think one of the most surprising things about Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly leaving strictly is just the fact that it happened randomly on an Instagram reel uploaded on a Thursday morning.”
Scott Bryan · 0:00

“It is odd. I mean, I think every kind of entertainment media journalist in the UK was like suddenly rushing to Instagram rather than checking their emails.”
Heather Fallon · 0:00

“I'm not surprised that they've decided to leave. I think they've been there a long time. And I would say they're both smart women and they've got smart teams around them.”
Alex Segal · 0:00

“I think it's also not a surprise to do it where they can get a good goodbye. Because I think you don't want to cheat the audiences where you don't get that moment to say this is the last hurrah.”
Alex Segal · 0:00