What Is Tess Daly Going To Do After Strictly

So, Strictly Come Dancing is done for another year. The glitter has settled. The sequins are back in storage. And Tess Daly is, for the first time in months, probably wearing something that doesn't require a spray tan. But here's the question that's keeping me up at night: what on earth is Tess Daly going to do now?

I mean, let's be real. For the last few months, her life has been a blur of Saturday nights, Claudia Winkleman's fringe, and politely telling contestants they're safe. Now? Silence. Just the gentle hum of a fridge. It's a big shift, isn't it?

The Obvious Answer: Absolutely Nothing (For a Bit)

First up, she's going to sleep. I'm talking the kind of sleep that involves a duvet, a pillow fort, and a strict “do not disturb” sign. She's earned it. After all, she's been holding the show together with a smile and a microphone for years.

But knowing Tess, the woman can't sit still for long. She's too efficient. Too peppy. She probably alphabetizes her spice rack on a Tuesday for fun. So, what's next? She's not just going to vanish into a puff of glitter dust, right?

Reality TV Royalty: The Next Chapter?

Let's be honest, the BBC aren't idiots. They know a gem when they see one. They're probably already drawing up a mind map of shows for her. Could we see her fronting a new panel show? “Tess Daly's Epic Quiz” has a ring to it, doesn't it? Or maybe she'll replace Graham Norton for a week, just to scare everyone.

And don't forget the podcast boom. Can you imagine Tess and Claudia doing a weekly chat show? Just two friends gossiping about sequins and lift passes. I'd listen to that religiously. It would be like having a cup of tea with your funniest mates, but with better hair.

But here's a wild card. What about acting? I know, I know, it sounds mad. But Tess has that “girl next door” charm. She could play a villain in a soap opera. Imagine Tess Daly on EastEnders, knitting a jumper while plotting someone's downfall. I'd watch that episode on repeat.

The Home Life Angle: Is She Gardening Now?

Let's not forget, Tess is also a mum. She has two daughters. For the last few months, she's been a Saturday night superhero. Now, she might become a school-run warrior. Picking up the kids, making packed lunches, and pretending she doesn't know the cha-cha slide.

And then there's the husband. Vernon Kay. He's busy being a radio DJ and generally a golden retriever of a man. Do we think Tess will join him on his show? An occasional “wife check-in” segment? “And here's Tess to tell you to put the kettle on, Vernon.” Honestly, it writes itself.

Plus, there's the house renovation. Tess and Vernon have a lovely home, but it's never finished, is it? She could become a DIY queen. You watch—she'll start a blog: “Tess’s Tidy Tips: How to Decorate a Spare Room Without Crying.” I'd forward that to my mum immediately.

The Secret Business Empire

Okay, stay with me. Tess is clearly a brand. She's been on our screens for decades. She has the trust of the nation. So why not launch a fashion line? Not just any fashion line, either. A range of “red carpet ready” dresses that don't look like you raided a 1980s pop star's wardrobe. She knows sequins. She knows fit. She'd make a killing.

And what about a fitness DVD? “Strictly Slim with Tess.” Every move is based on a dance routine. The “Argentine Tango Thigh Sculptor.” The “Jive Jiggle Blaster.” I'd buy it, and I don't even own a yoga mat. Don't judge me.

Or maybe she'll just write a book. A memoir, full of behind-the-scenes tea about Strictly. “The Diary of a Daly: What Claudia Really Said.” That would be a bestseller in about five minutes. The audiobook would be her reading it in a whispery voice. Perfect bedtime listening.

The Final Verdict: She'll Be Fine

Look, Tess Daly isn't the type to fade into the wallpaper. She's got a plan. Probably three plans. She's too savvy. She'll probably take a month off, bake a few cakes (she seems like a baker, right?), and then announce something brilliantly unexpected.

Maybe she'll start a YouTube channel. “Tess Does Tea.” Just her, a cuppa, and a chat about the news. No pressure. Just vibes.
Or she could become a children's TV presenter. “Dance with Tess” on CBeebies. Goodness, the toddlers would love her.

Honestly, I'm not worried about her. She's Tess Daly. She's got the charm, the wit, and the discipline of a swan in heels. Whatever she does next, it'll be a little bit glamorous. A little bit funny. And entirely her.

So, for now, let's just raise a glass (or a hot chocolate) to Tess. She's off to the next adventure. Whether it's gardening, acting, or launching a range of cushion covers, I'm here for it. And you bet I'll be watching. Are you?