Claudia Winkleman, English journalist and critic

Claudia Winkleman: A Distinctive Voice in British Television

Claudia Anne Irena Winkleman, born on 15 January 1972, is a highly acclaimed English television presenter, insightful film critic, engaging radio personality, and accomplished journalist. Renowned for her quick wit, distinctive style, and warm on-screen presence, Winkleman has become one of the most recognisable and beloved figures in British media, captivating audiences across a diverse range of programmes.

The Enduring Appeal of Strictly Come Dancing

From Companion Show to Primetime Icon

Winkleman’s journey with the iconic dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing, began in 2004. Between 2004 and 2010, she was the effervescent presenter of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, the popular weeknight spin-off show on BBC Two. This companion programme offered viewers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the main competition, featuring interviews with celebrities and their professional dance partners, training room footage, and expert analysis, solidifying Winkleman’s reputation as an empathetic interviewer and a knowledgeable host within the Strictly universe.

Her undeniable success on It Takes Two paved the way for her promotion to the main Saturday night live show. Since 2010, Claudia Winkleman has masterfully co-presented Strictly Come Dancing’s highly anticipated Sunday night results show on BBC One alongside the equally charismatic Tess Daly. This partnership marked a significant moment in British television history: in 2014, following the esteemed departure of broadcasting legend Sir Bruce Forsyth, Winkleman stepped up to become a main co-host alongside Daly for the Saturday night live shows. This transition cemented their status as the first all-female presenting duo of a major prime-time Saturday night entertainment programme on British television, a pioneering achievement that has been widely celebrated for its freshness and dynamic synergy.

Critical Acclaim and Industry Recognition

Claudia Winkleman's exceptional performance on Strictly Come Dancing has garnered significant critical acclaim, leading to multiple prestigious nominations. She has been twice nominated for the British Academy Television Award for Best Entertainment Performance, a testament to her unique ability to balance professionalism with engaging humour and genuine warmth. These nominations underscore her standing as a top-tier entertainment presenter in the UK.

Beyond the Ballroom: Claudia Winkleman's Versatile Career

Prominent Presenting Roles

Demonstrating her versatility, Winkleman has helmed numerous other high-profile programmes across various genres:

• Film Critic and Presenter of Film...: In 2010, Winkleman took over from Jonathan Ross as the presenter of the long-running BBC film review programme, Film... (later renamed Film 201x). From 2010 to 2016, she brought her distinctive wit and insightful commentary to cinematic discussions, continuing the show’s legacy as a cornerstone of British film journalism.
• Let's Sing and Dance for Comic Relief: She co-presented the first two series of this celebrity charity competition with Steve Jones, showcasing her ability to navigate live entertainment for a noble cause.
• The Great British Sewing Bee: From 2013 to 2016 (Series 1-4), Winkleman presented the popular BBC Two craft competition, The Great British Sewing Bee. Her engaging hosting style contributed significantly to the show's success, making the intricate world of sewing accessible and entertaining to a broad audience.

Radio and Journalism Ventures

Beyond television, Claudia Winkleman has maintained a strong presence in radio, notably hosting a Sunday show on BBC Radio 2, where she connects with listeners through music and conversation. Her background as a journalist further enriches her multifaceted career, informing her engaging interview style and ability to delve deeply into subjects, whether on screen or over the airwaves.

A Signature Look: The Iconic Fringe

Claudia Winkleman is instantly recognisable not only for her voice and presenting style but also for her distinctive visual brand. Her trademark appearance, characterised by long dark hair and a characteristic heavy fringe that often cascades over her eyes, has become synonymous with her public persona. This unique hairstyle is such an integral part of her identity that she has famously quipped, "I don't think I'd have a career if I didn't have a fringe," highlighting the inseparable link between her image and her professional success. This iconic look contributes significantly to her memorable and approachable celebrity status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Claudia Winkleman

What is Claudia Winkleman best known for?

Claudia Winkleman is most widely recognised for her role as co-host of the BBC's flagship entertainment show, Strictly Come Dancing, where she has presented alongside Tess Daly since 2010 on the results show and the main live show since 2014.

When did Claudia Winkleman start presenting Strictly Come Dancing?

She began her journey with the franchise in 2004, presenting the spin-off show Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two. She transitioned to co-hosting the main Sunday results show in 2010 and the Saturday live show in 2014.

Has Claudia Winkleman won any major awards?

While she has not won a British Academy Television Award (BAFTA) for Best Entertainment Performance, she has been nominated twice for this prestigious award for her outstanding work on Strictly Come Dancing, underscoring her critical acclaim in the industry.

What is Claudia Winkleman's trademark look?

Her trademark appearance features long, dark hair with a distinctive, heavy fringe that typically covers her forehead and often partially obscures her eyes, making her instantly recognisable.