SHOCKING TRIUMPH: Karen Carney and Carlos Gu Snatch Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Crown in Nail-Biting Finale!
By Entertainment Correspondent, Eliza Thorne December 21, 2025
In a whirlwind of sequins, spins, and suspense that had the nation holding its breath, former England Lioness Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu were dramatically crowned champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 last night. The glittering grand finale, broadcast live from the iconic Elstree Studios, marked the end of an explosive 23rd series filled with controversy, comebacks, and captivating choreography. As confetti rained down and tears flowed freely, Carney lifted the coveted Glitterball Trophy, etching her name into Strictly history alongside legends like Rose Ayling-Ellis and Kelvin Fletcher.
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Strictly Come Dancing final: Stars prepare to battle for …
The 38-year-old football pundit, known for her sharp analysis on Sky Sports and her illustrious career with clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, entered the competition as a dark horse. With no prior dance experience beyond casual wedding twirls, Carney’s journey was a testament to grit and growth. Paired with the charismatic Carlos Gu, a Strictly veteran since 2021 who previously dazzled with partners like Molly Rainford, the duo quickly became fan favorites. Their chemistry was electric from week one, blending Carney’s athletic precision with Gu’s Latin flair. “I never thought I’d trade football boots for ballroom heels,” Carney admitted in a pre-final interview, “but Carlos has been my secret weapon – pushing me beyond limits I didn’t know I had.”
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Karen Carney and Carlos Gu Showdance to Inner Smile by Texas ✨ BBC Strictly Final 2025
The final showdown pitted Carney and Gu against two formidable pairs: Love Island alum Amber Davies with Nikita Kuzmin, and architect-turned-TV presenter George Clarke with Alexis Warr. The evening kicked off with a judges’ choice round, where each couple revisited a standout routine from the series. Carney and Gu reprised their sizzling Samba to “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira, earning perfect 10s across the board for their improved footwork and infectious energy. Judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke were effusive in praise, with Ballas declaring, “You’ve transformed from athlete to artist – flawless!”
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Former Lioness Karen Carney and Carlos Gu win Strictly Come …
Davies, 28, a West End star from Pretty Woman: The Musical, and her partner Kuzmin, 26, a Ukrainian dancer known for his high-energy routines, brought the house down with their Charleston to “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby.” Despite facing online backlash earlier in the series over Davies’ prior dance training, the pair silenced critics with their precision and personality. Kuzmin, who defended his partner publicly, saying, “Be kind – Amber’s worked harder than anyone,” scored a near-perfect 39, missing only a point from the notoriously picky Horwood.
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Amber Davies & Nikita Kuzmin Jive to Proud Mary by Tina Turner ✨ BBC Strictly Final 2025
Meanwhile, Clarke, 51, the affable host of Amazing Spaces on Channel 4, and Warr, a newcomer to Strictly with a background in hip-hop, revisited their emotional Contemporary to “Fix You” by Coldplay. Clarke’s vulnerability shone through, drawing from personal stories of loss, which resonated deeply with viewers. “Dance has healed me in ways architecture never could,” Clarke shared post-performance. Their score of 38 reflected minor technical hiccups but immense heart.
The showdance segment elevated the drama to fever pitch. Carney and Gu’s fusion of tango and freestyle to “Inner Smile” by Texas was a masterclass in passion, featuring daring lifts and intricate footwork that left the audience roaring. “It was like watching fireworks explode on the floor,” gushed Winkleman during the live broadcast. Davies and Kuzmin opted for a high-octane jive medley to Tina Turner’s hits, while Clarke and Warr delivered a powerful Paso Doble infused with contemporary elements to “Game of Survival” by Ruelle.
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George Clarke and Alexis Warr Paso Doble to Game Of Survival by Ruelle ✨ BBC Strictly 2025
As the public votes poured in – over 10 million according to BBC estimates – tension mounted. In a twist, the Queen herself sent a heartfelt message to departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who bid farewell after 20 years. “Your grace and humor have lit up our screens – thank you for the magic,” read the royal note, adding an emotional layer to the night.
When the results were announced, Carney collapsed into Gu’s arms in disbelief. “WE CAN’T BELIEVE WE ACTUALLY WON – THIS IS ABSOLUTE MADNESS!” she screamed, echoing the shock felt by many who predicted Davies’ victory. The runners-up, Davies/Kuzmin and Clarke/Warr, tied for second in a rare joint placement, gracious in defeat. “It’s been the ride of a lifetime,” Davies said, hugging her competitors.
This victory caps a series marred by off-stage drama, including pro dancer controversies and viewer complaints about scoring. Yet, it highlighted Strictly’s enduring appeal: transformation through dance. Carney, now a dance convert, plans to incorporate moves into her punditry. “Football and foxtrot – who knew?” she joked.
As the curtain falls on 2025, fans are already buzzing for next year. But for now, Carney and Gu reign supreme, proving that with passion and perseverance, anyone can conquer the dance floor. The nation salutes its new champions!
