Strictly Winners Crowned in Glitzy Live Final: A Complete Guide
The glitter cannons have fired, the sequins have shimmered, and the public has spoken! The 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing culminated in a spectacular live final, crowning its latest champions. This year’s competition was fierce, filled with dazzling performances and emotional moments, but ultimately, one couple captured the hearts of the nation and lifted the coveted glitterball trophy. Let’s delve into the highlights of the grand finale and celebrate the winning duo.
Table of contents
The Crowning of the Champions: Karen Carney and Carlos Gu
Former Lioness Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu emerged victorious in the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final. Carney made history as the first footballer to win the competition, showcasing not only her athletic prowess but also her dedication and passion for dance. The pair consistently impressed the judges and the audience with their diverse range of routines, demonstrating growth and artistry throughout the season. Their victory was a testament to their hard work, chemistry, and the undeniable connection they forged on the dance floor.
Their winning performances in the final included a show dance to Inner Smile by Texas, an Argentine Tango to Red Right Hand by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, and a memorable football-themed jive to One Way Or Another by Blondie. The jive, in particular, earned them a standing ovation and their second perfect score of the night, solidifying their position as frontrunners. Carney’s emotional reaction to winning highlighted the significance of the experience, describing it as “the biggest privilege and honour” and admitting she was “lost for words.” Gu, equally moved, praised Carney for changing his life and encouraged viewers to “dream big and be proud and never give up.”
A Night of Stellar Performances and Emotional Farewells
The final was not only about the winners but also about celebrating the incredible journey of all the finalists. Love Islander Amber Davies and her partner Nikita Kuzmin delivered captivating performances, including a show dance to Rain On Me by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, a powerful Paso Doble to Dream On by Aerosmith, and an energetic jive to Proud Mary. Social media star George Clarke and his partner Alexis Warr revisited their favourite Paso Doble to Game of Survival by Ruelle, performed a show dance to Human by The Killers, and a graceful Viennese Waltz to Somebody to Love by Queen. Each couple brought their unique style and energy to the ballroom, making the final a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Beyond the dancing, the final also marked an emotional farewell to long-running hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. After years of guiding viewers through the highs and lows of the competition, the duo announced their departure earlier in the season. The broadcast included heartfelt tributes from Queen Camilla, TV cook Mary Berry, members of the crew, and fans of the show, acknowledging their significant contribution to Strictly’s success. The Queen’s message emphasized the “warmth, compassion and sheer happiness” that Daly and Winkleman brought to the show, highlighting their “greatest Strictly partnership of all.” Their final appearance will be the Christmas special, airing on December 25th.
Behind the Scenes: Controversy and Celebrations
While the final was primarily a celebration of dance, a minor controversy emerged regarding the show’s voting process. Social media personality Thomas Skinner, who was eliminated earlier in the season, alleged that the BBC rigged the vote. However, a BBC spokesperson firmly rejected these claims, stating that Strictly’s public vote is “independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy.” This assurance aimed to maintain the integrity and fairness of the competition.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, the grand final featured a performance by the boyband Five, who entertained the audience with a medley of their hits. Most of the cast from the 2025 season also returned for one last group routine, providing a joyful reunion and a final opportunity to showcase their newfound dancing skills. The absence of Thomas Skinner was noted, possibly related to his earlier claims.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of Strictly Come Dancing
The Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final was a resounding success, showcasing the power of dance, the importance of camaraderie, and the enduring appeal of the show. Karen Carney and Carlos Gu’s victory will be remembered as a historic moment, inspiring viewers to pursue their passions and believe in their potential. As Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid farewell, their legacy as iconic hosts will continue to shape the show’s identity. With new talent emerging and the spirit of competition remaining strong, Strictly Come Dancing is poised to continue entertaining audiences for years to come, bringing joy, glamour, and a touch of sparkle to our screens.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only and may contain affiliate links. Always verify details with official sources.
Explore more: related articles.
