Karen Carney has described sharing the dance floor with her fellow finalists as the 'biggest honour' after winning the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The former footballer and her professional partner Carlos Gu were crowned champions during Saturday's live final, defeating West End actress Amber Davies and internet star George Clarke.
Carney's victory made history as she became the first footballer to lift the Glitterball trophy, while Gu became the first gay and Asian man to claim the title. In an Instagram post, Carney praised the 'incredible' finalists, saying: 'From start to finish sharing the dance floor with you has been the biggest honour. I can’t believe that was our last time dancing together but I’m so thankful I have friends for life in all of you.'
The emotional final also marked the last time presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly hosted the live Saturday show together after a decade. A tribute video montage included a message from Queen Camilla, read by judge Craig Revel Horwood, praising the duo for their 'warmth, compassion and sheer happiness'.
George Clarke, who came third, shared a lengthy statement thanking his family, friends and professional partner Alexis Warr for helping him 'discover some belief' in himself. He also praised Tess and Claudia as 'nothing short of incredible' and said being part of their final season was 'an absolute pleasure'.
Tess Daly posted on Instagram after the show, calling Strictly a show 'made with love' where 'joy is the currency and the only agenda'. She said she would be 'forever grateful' for the years spent sharing the show with viewers. Both presenters will return for a pre-recorded Christmas Day festive special.
