Sharp-eyed viewers of Strictly Come Dancing have reignited speculation of a bitter backstage feud after spotting a visibly tense moment between professional dancers Nancy Xu and Carlos Gu during the 2025 final.
A Glitterball Win Overshadowed by Tension
The dramatic moment unfolded just before the announcement that Carlos and his celebrity partner, sports presenter Karen Carney, had won the coveted Glitterball Trophy. As an emotional Carlos, 32, spoke to host Claudia Winkleman about his journey, the cameras cut to fellow pro Nancy Xu, 34, in the background.
Nancy, who did not have a celebrity partner this series, appeared unimpressed, wrapping her arm around fellow dancer Johannes Radebe. Fans instantly took to social media, with many interpreting her expression as clear disdain for Carlos's heartfelt speech.
Social Media Reacts to the Drama
The online reaction was swift and decisive. One viewer questioned on X, formerly Twitter, "Could Nancy even attempt to hide her dislike for Carlos?" Another bluntly stated, "If you don't like him then stay out of camera shot and keep your feelings to yourself."
A third fan highlighted the perceived slight in Carlos's words, noting, "'No wonder I didn't get a partner last year.' Bit of a dig at Nancy, Luba and Neil." This comment referenced widespread reports that Nancy and Carlos, once inseparable friends since childhood, had a major falling out in 2024.
An Olive Branch or Further Proof?
Following the final, Nancy attempted to extend congratulations on Instagram, posting a photo of the finalists with the message: "Congratulations for all the final couples! And Well‑deserved Winner @kazcarney and Carlos. Thank you for all the tears and laughing Strictly 2025."
However, her failure to tag Carlos in the post did not go unnoticed by followers, further fuelling the feud narrative. "Now Nancy is not tagging Carlos in her post for Karen. They clearly had a big fallout," one comment read.
The pair's friendship breakdown became public last year when they unfollowed each other on social media. It was also reported they would avoid speaking backstage on the BBC One show. The situation was compounded this year by Nancy's reported disappointment at not being paired with a celebrity, having impressed in the 2024 Christmas special.
A Friendship Turned Sour
The depth of their former bond makes the current rift particularly poignant. Carlos once referred to Nancy as his "favourite sister," while she called him her "baby brother." Their apparent estrangement has left many fans saddened, with one writing, "Gutted Nancy and Carlos are no longer friends. I hope the final has made them patch things up."
While Nancy's spokesperson has been approached for comment, the visible tension during the show's climax and the subsequent social media activity have cemented this backstage drama as one of the major talking points from the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final.
