Content creator George Clarke has broken his silence following his second-place finish in the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The 26-year-old YouTuber took to Instagram on Sunday to share an emotional reflection on his time in the BBC competition, admitting that coming runner-up had been 'hard to come to terms with'.
A Transformative Journey on the Dance Floor
Clarke, who danced with professional partner Alexis Warr throughout the series, was pipped to the coveted Glitterball Trophy by former footballer Karen Carney and her partner Carlos Gu. Alongside a photo of the pair in action, Clarke penned a lengthy post processing the experience. 'Last night was a lot to process but not because I didn't walk away with a glitterball,' he wrote. 'The journey is done and that's hard to come to terms with.'
He extended his gratitude to his support network, including family, friends, his girlfriend, and his online followers. 'I've realised I've got quite the support network and for that I will be forever grateful,' Clarke stated. He confessed that the show pushed him far beyond his comfort zone, challenging his nature as someone more accustomed to being behind a camera than in the spotlight.
Praise for Partner Alexis Warr and the Strictly Family
A significant portion of Clarke's tribute was reserved for his professional partner, Alexis Warr, whom he credited for a profound personal transformation. 'After the first few weeks I really thought I'd bitten off more than I could chew,' he admitted, doubting his ability to match the other contestants. 'But that's where I have to thank Alexis. Your pro is 99% of your process.'
He praised Warr not only as an 'incredible dancer and choreographer' but as a 'wonderful person' who helped him discover belief in himself. Clarke attributed their praised partnering skills and lifts to a genuine and trusting friendship that developed over their four-month journey. 'She helped me discover some belief in myself, something that has really helped shape me as a person not just as a dancer,' he revealed.
Clarke also reflected on the wider Strictly Come Dancing experience, calling it 'so uplifting and positive' and a 'breath of fresh air'. He paid special tribute to departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who fronted their final series after 21 years, describing them as 'nothing short of incredible'.
Looking to the Future After the Final
Despite the initial difficulty in accepting the end of the journey, Clarke expressed immense pride in his progress, performing three complex dances in the final that he felt were beyond him at the start. He graciously congratulated the winners, stating, 'a particularly impressive woman on and off the dance floor has had the privilege of walking away as champ.'
Signing off, Clarke hinted that his dancing days may not be over. 'I hope that I can continue dancing in some capacity because in many ways I don't feel like I'm done... my body however will be on standby until 2026,' he joked, before promising to return to making 'some internet stuff'.
The emotional finale also saw winner Karen Carney left speechless by her victory. Upon being announced as the champion, she embraced Carlos Gu and told viewers, 'I cannot believe it... it's been the biggest privilege and honour.' She later thanked fans on Instagram, holding the Glitterball aloft with her partner.
