Tess Daly Showcases New Swimwear Line Amid 'Strictly Come Dancing' Ratings Dip

Tess Daly showcased her Naia Beach swimwear line on Monday, posting images of herself in various swimsuit designs from the collection. Daly, 57, shared her enthusiasm for the brand's latest campaign on Instagram, highlighting the enduring popularity of one of her signature swimsuit styles, the Selene.

This autumn marks Daly's first extended break in over two decades, following her and co-host Claudia Winkleman's departure from presenting "Strictly Come Dancing" at the close of last year. The show has since experienced a ratings decline during its live broadcasts.

The recent live episode saw a viewership slump, marking the first time in seven years that the live show garnered fewer viewers than the pre-recorded launch episode. Viewers have expressed dissatisfaction with the new hosting arrangement, which features Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. Criticisms have focused on missed cues and fumbled lines from the new presenters, leading to questions about the decision to employ three hosts for a role previously handled by two.

During the show's launch, the three presenters rotated positions. For the first live show, Willis took on the role of interacting with contestants on the dance floor, while Radebe was situated in the "Clauditorium" to speak with professionals and their partners. Widdicombe was positioned alongside Willis, delivering comedic commentary. This division of Daly's former responsibilities drew criticism from viewers who felt Widdicombe appeared to be a "spare part" next to the more experienced Willis.

Widdicombe's inexperience was noted during segments where he appeared to miss cues. In one instance, after a dance, he remained silent for several seconds when it was his turn to speak. Similar instances occurred later in the program. Judge Motsi Mabuse also playfully engaged Widdicombe, responding to his interjections during feedback segments.

Commentators and viewers have suggested that the issue lies not with Widdicombe individually, but with the overall hosting structure. Many believe that three presenters are unnecessary and that Widdicombe, with his background in comedy, would be better suited to a role with more opportunities for spontaneous humor, such as Radebe's position.

Fans have proposed alternative arrangements, with some suggesting Widdicombe and Radebe swap roles or that Willis could host solo on the main floor, allowing Widdicombe to provide commentary from the "Clauditorium."