The glittering spectacle of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is reaching its dramatic conclusion, with the quarter-final now behind us and the grand final looming. After a series packed with shock exits, record-breaking performances, and the emotional departure of beloved hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the nation must now decide which celebrity deserves to lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
The Final Five: Who's Left in the Running?
From a star-studded initial line-up featuring names like Vicky Pattison and Chris Robshaw, the competition has been whittled down to five determined finalists. The journey hasn't been smooth for all, with injuries forcing Neighbours star Stefan Dennis and drag queen La Voix to quit. Now, the spotlight falls on the remaining couples who battled through Musicals Week.
Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin: The Love Island star turned West End actress, who replaced Dani Dyer, shone during Musicals Week with a Charleston. Despite facing scrutiny over prior dance experience, her performance to 'Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat' proved she's a formidable contender.
Balvinder Sopal and Julian MacMillan: The EastEnders actress has made Strictly Come Dancing history by surviving an unprecedented five dance-offs, breaking a record once held by Jamelia. Her Viennese Waltz to 'Never Enough' was a poignant moment, but will the public save her from another nerve-shredding bottom-two appearance?
George Clarke and Alexis Rashid: The TikTok influencer and his partner performed a passionate Argentine Tango to 'The Point Of No Return'. His social media fanbase is strong, but was it enough to secure his place in the final stages?
Karen Carney and Carlos Gu: The Lioness footballer could make history as the first from her sport to win Strictly. Her Rumba to 'The Rhythm Of Life' earned judges' praise, and her secret connection to a past champion adds an intriguing backstory to her quest.
Lewis Cope and Katya Jones: The Emmerdale actor, who began his career in Billy Elliot the Musical, delivered what was hailed as "the best routine in the history of the show," earning the series' first perfect score of 40 for their Salsa to 'Dance At The Gym'. They are undoubtedly the couple to beat.
A Series of High Drama and Emotional Farewells
This series has been particularly eventful. The announcement that hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will step down after the final sent shockwaves through the fandom, making their last Blackpool special a deeply emotional event. Rumours about their replacements are already circulating wildly.
Meanwhile, the competition on the floor has been fiercer than ever. With the quarter-final completed, the pressure is immense. Each remaining celebrity has shown incredible dedication, but only one can be crowned the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 champion.
Your Verdict Matters: Vote For The Winner
The decision is now in the hands of the British public. Who has danced their way into your heart? Was it Lewis and Katya's show-stopping Salsa, Karen's groundbreaking potential, Balvinder's never-say-die spirit, George's modern appeal, or Amber's West End flair?
This is your chance to have a say. Vote in our poll below and make your voice heard in the comments. Who do you think truly deserves to lift the Glitterball Trophy this year?
