The glitterball has been lifted for the final time in 2025, as Strictly Come Dancing signed off with an emotionally charged finale that left both the cast and the nation in tears. The landmark series concluded not just with the crowning of new champions, but with the end of an era as legendary hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman presented their last ever show.
An End of an Era for Beloved Hosts
After a remarkable 14-year partnership fronting the show, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid a heartfelt farewell. Daly, who has been with Strictly since its 2004 inception alongside the late Bruce Forsyth, shared a moving tribute on Instagram, calling the programme a "gift" made with love. The emotional weight was palpable as they opened the show for the final time together.
In a poignant nod to the past, Claudia Winkleman honoured original host Bruce Forsyth, who passed away in 2017. She revealed a bespoke blazer with his iconic catchphrase, "Keep Dancing", emblazoned on the back. The tribute was compounded by a special message from a royal superfan. Judge Craig Revel Horwood paused proceedings to read a personal goodbye from HRH Queen Camilla, who told the hosts Strictly was "not so much about dancing as friendship" and praised them as "utterly fab-u-lous".
Historic Moments and Heartfelt Confessions
The final was packed with landmark performances and raw emotional revelations. Professional dancer Dianne Buswell made Strictly history by becoming the first dancer to perform while pregnant. Her routine with fellow Australian Stefan Dennis was celebrated in the show's titles with the sweet caption: "Starring Stefan, Dianne and Bump!"
Meanwhile, the winning partnership of celebrity Karen and pro Carlos Gu provided one of the night's most vulnerable moments. After their victory, a tearful Carlos confessed to host Claudia that his partner had transformed him. "I came to Strictly after competitive life, I was self-centered, I was me, me, me," he admitted. "She taught me how to be a kind, humble person and for the first time, I learned how to be a team player." The pair later shared a video online, thanking fans for making their "dreams come true".
Elsewhere, finalist Amber delivered a stunning Jive that earned four 10s, but emotionally revealed she "wasn't supposed to be here," having stepped in for Dani Dyer after the launch show. Pro dancer Alexis Warr also broke down in tears after she and TikTok star George Clarke scored 39 points for a Showdance to The Killers' 'Human', which judge Craig Revel Horwood praised for its "true emotion".
A Glittering Send-Off Into the Night
Following the intense emotions of the live broadcast, the Strictly family celebrated their unforgettable journey at the traditional wrap party. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were spotted leaving in the early hours, appearing exhausted but beaming after hanging up their sequins for good. The images of them in the back of taxis captured the bittersweet end of their glittering tenure, marking the final chapter of a show that, as Tess said, trades in "joy as the currency".
The 2025 final proved that Strictly Come Dancing's magic lies not just in the steps, but in the profound human connections it fosters, leaving a legacy of friendship and joy long after the music stops.
