In a stunning revelation following her glitterball triumph, it has emerged that Strictly Come Dancing 2025 champion Karen Carney was a last-minute addition to the lineup, receiving just three days' notice before the show began.
From 72-Hour Notice to Glitterball Glory
The former Lioness and sports journalist, 38, lifted the iconic trophy with her professional partner Carlos Gu on Saturday night, capping off a sensational series. However, her journey almost didn't happen. Her management company, Alta Loma Management, disclosed on Instagram that Carney had a mere 72 hours' warning before her participation was confirmed and announced to the public.
Celebrating her victory in a series of posts, the agency wrote: "NO WORDS. Speechless. From getting 72 hours notice of going on the show, to now holding that @bbcstrictly glitterball as the 2025 CHAMPION!" They added that the experience had been a "life changing, wild ride" and declared they had their "old Kaz back."
An Emotional Finale and a Historic First
The final on Saturday night was charged with emotion, particularly during a tearful tribute from Carney's dance partner, Carlos Gu. When host Claudia Winkleman noted how moved she was seeing Carney's mother in the audience, Gu took the opportunity to express his profound gratitude.
"She turned me into a man that I like," he stated emotionally. "I think she's the best thing that I've ever had in 2025. I came straight after competitive life, I was self-centred, I was 'me, me, me'." He credited Carney with teaching him humility and how to be a team player, sentiments that left the studio audience visibly moved.
For her part, a stunned Carney struggled to find words after the result was announced. "I cannot believe it. I want to say thank you to everybody who has supported my journey," she said, before turning to Gu. "Thank you to this wonderful gentleman, we are a team. I could not have done this without you."
Her management highlighted the historic nature of her win, noting she is the first footballer to ever win Strictly Come Dancing. They also pointed out the poignant detail that she held the glitterball trophy while wearing her Week 1 costume, calling it "the most full circle moment."
A Fond Farewell to Iconic Hosts
The 2025 finale also marked the end of an era, as it was the final show hosted by the legendary duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Daly shared an emotional statement on Instagram, reflecting on her time with the beloved programme.
"Strictly is a show that is made with love, where joy is the currency and the only agenda," she wrote. "I will be forever grateful for the unforgettable years I have spent sharing this magical show with you." She praised the show's team and its loyal viewers, signing off by thanking them "from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime."
Karen Carney's victory, born from a whirlwind last-minute decision, concludes a remarkable series of Strictly Come Dancing, blending high drama, personal transformation, and a historic result for the BBC's flagship entertainment show.
