BBC Plans Claudia Winkleman High-End Chat Show After Strictly Exit

Claudia Winkleman is set to leave her role as co-host of Strictly Come Dancing after over a decade to front a new prime-time BBC chat show produced by So Television, the company behind The Graham Norton Show. The BBC aims to retain Winkleman, viewed as a top-tier interviewer with broad appeal, and is keen to keep her from moving to rival broadcasters like ITV. The new chat show, still untitled, is planned to air during periods when The Graham Norton Show is off-air, ensuring no scheduling conflict and featuring a distinct format. Winkleman’s hosting style, praised during her guest stint on Norton’s show, positions her as a potential successor to iconic interviewers like Terry Wogan and Michael Parkinson. Alongside this, the BBC is exploring opportunities for Winkleman and Tess Daly to continue working together in new formats to maintain their loyalty. This move marks a significant career progression for Winkleman as she transitions from live reality TV to a high-profile interview-based entertainment role.