In an Instagram post on Wednesday commemorating the two-decade milestone since the debut of the first episode of Strictly, Tess, aged 55, wrote: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY @bbcstrictly It’s 20 years ago today since the first episode aired in 2004 with the legend Sir Bruce Forsyth (and I was pregnant with Phoebe my eldest!).”
She continued: “We had no idea at that time it would go on for another two decades (and counting) and become a global hit in so many overseas territories (where the show is known as Dancing with The Stars).”
The presenter finished by adding: “Forever grateful to be a part of a show that feels so joyful and magical and to share that with the absolute GIFT that is @claudiawinkle #keepdancing.”
Fans and friends flocked to the comments section to share their thoughts, with one writing: “THE best show on tv without question and I cannot wait for the new series”, while a second chimed in: “I’ve watched it from day one – love it and can’t wait for the new series.”
The beloved BBC program debuted in May 2004. Since its introduction, it has consistently garnered a dedicated fan following, earning the prestigious Best Entertainment award at the BAFTA TV Awards on three separate occasions.
Tess shares her daughters Phoebe, aged 19, and Amber, aged 14, with her husband Vernon Kay. The couple exchanged vows in 2003 at St Mary’s Church in Horwich, Vernon’s hometown, followed by a reception held at the nearby Rivington Hall Barn.
Their first child was born on October 17, 2004, at a London hospital. In her book, “The Baby Diaries: Memories, Milestones, and Misadventures,” Tess candidly recounts her labor experience, revealing that she underwent a caesarean birth.
Tess recalled: “The sensation of having a caesarean, of the doctor feeling around to pull our baby into the world, was like having a builder with huge boots on inside me, pulling at random bits from the wall of my womb as he stomped about.”
She went on to say: “Phoebe was brought to my room over an hour after I had her. I was so happy to finally have my baby in my arms and to be able to cradle and hold her next to my skin. Having her here just felt like the most natural thing in the world.”
Meanwhile, Amber Isabella Kay was born on 30 May 2009, also in a London hospital. Amber weighed 7lb 15oz, with Vernon telling the Sunday Mirror at the time: “She is absolutely beautiful and I am thrilled.”
