The ballroom glittered, the music swelled, and a new chapter was etched into the history of Strictly. After a night of breathtaking performances, a champion was crowned, joining the esteemed ranks of past winners in the show’s Hall of Fame.
Karen Carney and Carlos Gu emerged victorious, captivating judges and viewers alike with their skill and artistry. Their journey culminated in a spectacular finale, a testament to weeks of dedication and transformative growth on the dance floor.
Tonight’s final was a dazzling showcase of talent, with each of the three remaining couples performing three distinct dances. They revisited a personal favorite from the series, tackled a challenge set by the judges, and unleashed a show-stopping extravaganza designed to leave a lasting impression.
Carney chose to revisit her energetic jive from the very beginning of the competition, a routine that instantly resonated with audiences. She also expertly refined a dramatic Argentine tango, before concluding with a powerful show dance set to a soaring melody.
Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin also delivered electrifying performances, revisiting a vibrant jive and mastering a demanding paso doble. Their show dance, a dynamic interpretation set to a popular anthem, ignited the floor with energy and passion.
George Clarke and Alexis Warr showcased their evolution as dancers, revisiting a powerful paso doble and a graceful Viennese waltz. Their final show dance, a heartfelt performance, demonstrated the deep connection they’d forged throughout the competition.
The evening wasn’t solely about the finalists. The entire cast of this year’s Strictly returned for one last group number, a poignant reminder of the camaraderie and shared experience that defines the show.
A shadow hung over the reunion, however, with Thomas Skinner absent due to a reported disagreement with the network following his early elimination. His absence was a noticeable one, a reminder of the drama that sometimes unfolds behind the scenes.
The finale also marked a bittersweet farewell to hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced earlier in the series that this would be their last season together. Their warmth and wit have become synonymous with the show, leaving a void that will be keenly felt.
Speculation is already rife regarding their replacements, with names like Zoe Ball, Bradley Walsh, and Alex Jones being mentioned as potential successors. The future of the hosting duo remains a topic of intense discussion among fans.
This season of Strictly was anything but predictable. A record number of contestants were forced to withdraw due to injury and illness, earning it the moniker of “the most cursed Strictly ever.”
From Kristian Nairn’s pre-show medical withdrawal to Dani Dyer’s foot injury and Stefan Dennis’s calf strain, the competition faced a series of unexpected setbacks. Even La Voix was sidelined after an ankle injury, ultimately leading to an unprecedented three-person final.
Rumors of potential departures among the professional dancers are also circulating, adding another layer of uncertainty to the show’s future. The possibility of losing beloved pros like Johannes Radebe and Nadiya Bychkova has sparked concern among viewers.
Despite reports of a potential relocation, show bosses have confirmed that Strictly will remain in its current location. The show’s enduring popularity ensures its continued presence in the hearts of viewers and on television screens.
After a season filled with challenges and triumphs, the curtain has fallen on Strictly 2025. The memories of dazzling performances, heartfelt connections, and unexpected twists will undoubtedly linger long after the confetti has settled.
