The glittering ballroom fell silent before erupting in celebration as the winners of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 were finally announced on Saturday night. After a fiercely competitive three-month series, the coveted Glitterball trophy was lifted by former England footballer Karen Carney and her professional dance partner, Carlos Gu.
A Night of High Emotion and Farewells
The grand final was charged with emotion, serving as the final live broadcast for the show's legendary presenting duo. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosted their last show together, marking the end of an era for the BBC flagship programme. Their departure added a poignant layer to an already nail-biting evening, as viewers said goodbye to the familiar faces who have guided the series for so many years.
The Final Dance-Off
In a bid to claim the title, each of the finalist couples performed three separate routines. The challenging setlist included a spectacular Showdance, a reprisal of their favourite performance from the series, and a dance selected by the judging panel. The pressure was immense, with every step and spin scrutinised by the nation.
The champion was decided exclusively by the audience's votes, with the scores from judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood acting as guidance only. This public vote ultimately propelled Carney and Gu to victory, crowning them the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing champions.
A New Chapter for Strictly
The victory for Karen Carney, who swapped the football pitch for the dance floor, highlights the show's enduring appeal in transforming celebrities into accomplished dancers. Her partnership with Carlos Gu proved to be a winning formula, captivating the public with their chemistry and technical skill.
As the confetti settles, the show now looks to a future without its iconic hosts. The departure of Daly and Winkleman closes a significant chapter, leaving fans to speculate on who will take up the microphone for the 2026 series. For now, the spotlight remains firmly on the new champions, Karen Carney and Carlos Gu, who have etched their names into Strictly history.
