Before Claudia Winkleman became synonymous with her signature fringe and unique style, she sported a completely different look. Known for her striking black hair and characteristic bangs, the Celebrity Traitors host is celebrated not only for her fashion choices but also for her sharp wit and effervescent personality. Alongside Tess Daly, Claudia has been co-presenting the beloved show Strictly Come Dancing. However, it has been announced that this season will be their final stint. In a heartfelt joint statement shared on social media, they explained their reasons for stepping down. Tess, who began her journey with Strictly in 2004, initially co-hosted with the late Sir Bruce Forsyth.

In contrast to her current image, Claudia Winkleman’s earlier appearance was quite different. An old photograph has resurfaced, showing the broadcaster during her university days at Cambridge, looking nothing like her present-day self with her signature black eyeliner.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News, this particular photo captures her sitting with fellow students at Murray Edwards College back in 1990. At the age of 18, Claudia is seen with long, dark hair and minimal makeup while positioned in the front row of the matriculation image.

As Tess and Claudia prepare to conclude their tenure as co-hosts at the series’ end, speculation is rife regarding their successors.

Bookmakers have named several frontrunners, with Fleur East and Zoe Ball among the top candidates. Yet, in a surprising twist, judge Motsi Mabuse has voiced her hope that her sister, Oti, does not take on the role. Motsi, who has served as a judge on the BBC dance competition since 2019, left fans taken aback with her admission.

Speaking on the ITV show Loose Women, Motsi explained: “Shall I be honest? I wouldn’t let her [Oti] do it, because I want to protect her from that, because I know what type of show it is.”

She continued: “I know what type of pressure it is, I know who’s shoes she’s stepping into, I feel as an older sister, I wouldn’t want to do that to my sister.

“I want her to be in a safe space, where she can develop, where she has time to grow, where there is a future, I don’t want everything on her back, and then the next day, it’s going down because your sister is in. […] So as the older sister and the one that chooses safety, more than adventure…”

Strictly Come Dancing resumes tonight on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.