Let’s start with the obvious: Strictly Come Dancing is still her main gig, and it’s not going anywhere. Tess and Claudia Winkleman are the dynamic duo we don’t deserve—all sequins, giggles, and the occasional “I’m so sorry, I can’t hear you over the glitter cannons” moment. But here’s the twist: Tess has leaned hard into the behind-the-scenes side of things. She’s been spotted at production meetings, giving feedback on costume fittings, and even helping choreograph the opening numbers. Yes, seriously. She told a podcast recently that she’s “more hands-on than you’d think.”
But wait—there’s more. In 2026, she launched a limited-edition fitness line for a major UK retailer, focusing on those “30-minute sweat sessions” she swears by. The collection sold out in days. And she did it all while filming Strictly and juggling two teenage daughters. Honestly, it makes me feel tired just typing this. But Tess? She’s thriving.
The “Baking” Phase: A Surprising Twist
Remember that sourdough post? It wasn’t just a one-off quarantine hobby. Tess has become obsessed with bread-making—and she’s not afraid to show it. She’s even been spotted at artisan baking workshops in Manchester, sneaking in sessions before the Strictly red carpet. “It’s my therapy,” she told a fan on Instagram. “Kneading dough is cheaper than therapy and more fun than spinning on a dance floor.” I mean, can we get a “hear, hear”?
This has led to something bigger: she’s writing a cookbook. Not a celebrity “look at my kitchen” book, but a genuine mix of quick family meals and “indulgent treats she can’t live without.” Sources say it’s due out next spring, and I’m already imagining the photos of her smiling over a plate of spaghetti. You know, the kind that makes you feel like you could do anything if you just had her hair.
Strictly's Tess Daly, 55, transforms her appearance for the 20th
