Bold headline: A long-awaited broadcast reunites a beloved couple on screen after nearly two decades.
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay, the husband-and-wife duo from Stockport and Bolton respectively, made a high-profile return to television by fronting The One Show together on Wednesday night, February 25. Their reunion marks Tess’s first major joint presenting role since their collaboration on Just the Two of Us, which aired from 2006 to 2007.
Vernon has occasionally hosted The One Show over the years, but Tess’s appearance is particularly notable because it is her first return to the BBC since her time on Strictly Come Dancing. The announcement of Tess’s return comes after the BBC One dance show’s presenting duo, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, stepped down after 11 years in October 2025, with their final episode airing on December 20, 2025.
Two months later, Tess reappeared on screen as she and Vernon stepped in for The One Show hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp, who were occupied filming the BBC’s storytelling competition 500 Words at Windsor Castle.
The one-off special began with Vernon saying: “Hello everyone and welcome to your Wednesday’s One Show live on BBC One and iPlayer. There’s no Alex or Roman tonight because they’re at Windsor Castle filming the BBC’s 500 Words.” He then added, with a wink toward Tess: “But don’t worry because look who we have here, someone I know will definitely keep me in check… TV royalty Tess Daly.” Tess received warm applause before replying, “Wow, I’m thrilled to be here, such a special show.”
The pair wasted no time, welcoming guests including Hollywood stars Jessie Buckley and Maggie Gyllenhaal, as well as Bridgerton stars Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha, to the famous green sofa.
After filming, Tess shared a post on Instagram celebrating the evening’s guests on The One Show, writing: “An evening at @bbctheoneshow with some incredible guests.” Claudia Winkleman responded with heart emojis, joined by Strictly Come Dancing pros Karen Hauer and Nadiya Bychkova.
Fans quickly voiced their enthusiasm in the comments:
- “It was so lovely to see you on the TV Tess. I let out an ‘ahhhh’ when I saw you with your lovely hubby.”
- “You did great Tess, hope you’ll be on again soon.”
- “More of this please, you make the atmosphere so relaxed and perfect for viewers at home.”
- “You and Vern presenting together is everything. Loved it.”
- “Love seeing you present with Vernon. A dream presenting team. More please.”
- “Loved seeing you presenting with Vern, let’s have more.”
This reunion is being celebrated as a moment many viewers have long awaited, underscoring the enduring appeal of the Daly-Kay partnership. It also sparks conversation about whether the pair might pursue more joint presenting opportunities in the future.
What are your thoughts on TV duos reuniting after many years? Do you think Tess and Vernon should collaborate again on a regular program, or is a one-off appearance best for preserving the magic? Share your views in the comments.
