Claudia Winkleman was born on 15 January 1972 in London, England. She is the daughter of journalist Eve Pollard and publisher Barry Winkleman, and grew up in Hampstead following her parents’ divorce.

She was educated at the City of London School for Girls and later studied History of Art at New Hall, University of Cambridge, where she developed an interest in media and writing.

Winkleman began her career as a journalist and travel writer before moving into television in the 1990s. She gained recognition hosting entertainment and lifestyle programmes before becoming a major BBC presenter.

She rose to national fame co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing on BBC One (2010–2025) and later achieved major success hosting The Traitors (BBC One), which earned her a BAFTA award.

She lives in London with her family and continues to work across television, radio, and writing, remaining one of the BBC’s leading presenters.