‘I can’t look at her the same, I feel lied to’ Strictly Come Dancing fans gasp after discovering Tess Daly’s REAL name
News October 25, 2025

‘I can’t look at her the same, I feel lied to’ Strictly Come Dancing fans gasp after discovering Tess Daly’s REAL name

TESS Daly fans have been left totally stunned after finding out the Strictly Come Dancing host’s real name. The 55-year-old had fans gobsmacked, after discovering that she was actually born Helen but changed her name to Tess at the start of her modelling career. Romilly Jane, a 21-year-old from Manchester, took to social media to...

Strictly Come Dancing viewers are reeling after a surprising revelation about their beloved host, Tess Daly. For years, fans have welcomed Tess into their homes every Saturday night, drawn to her warmth, wit, and undeniable glamour. However, a recent discovery has left some feeling utterly "gobsmacked" and questioning everything they thought they knew.

The bombshell? Tess Daly isn't actually named Tess. The 55-year-old presenter was born Helen Daly, a fact that has sent shockwaves through the Strictly fanbase.

The revelation gained traction after Romilly Jane, a 21-year-old from Manchester, shared her disbelief on social media. Romilly's post quickly went viral, sparking a flurry of comments and reactions from fellow Strictly enthusiasts. Many expressed genuine surprise, admitting they had never questioned Tess's name and had always assumed it was her given name.

"I can’t look at her the same, I feel lied to," one fan commented on Romilly's post, echoing the sentiments of many others. While some reactions were lighthearted and humorous, others revealed a sense of betrayal, a feeling that a small piece of the Tess Daly persona they'd come to know and love was somehow fabricated.

The reason behind the name change dates back to the beginning of Daly's career as a model. Sources indicate that she adopted the name Tess to avoid confusion with another model already working under the name Helen Daly. In the competitive world of fashion, a unique and memorable name can be a significant advantage.

While the revelation has undoubtedly caused a stir, many fans have also come to Daly's defense, arguing that a name change for professional reasons is a common practice in the entertainment industry. They emphasize that her talent, personality, and genuine connection with the contestants and viewers are what truly matter. Regardless of her given name, Tess Daly remains a beloved figure on British television, and this surprising discovery is unlikely to diminish her popularity anytime soon.
Category: Entertainment