The race for the Glitterball Trophy is intensifying as Strictly Come Dancing 2025 enters its dramatic quarter-final stage. This weekend, the five remaining celebrity and professional pairings will return to the BBC ballroom for a spectacular Musicals Week extravaganza, hoping to secure a coveted spot in the semi-finals.
Emotional Exit Sets the Stage
The competition was whittled down to the final five following last week's emotional elimination of actress Alex Kingston and her professional partner Johannes Radebe. The ER and Doctor Who star broke down in tears during her exit confession, while Radebe delivered a speech that led many to believe he might be leaving the show. Their departure meant that EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal survived the dance-off for an impressive fifth time this series.
Meet the Final Five Couples
The celebrities still in contention for the 21 December final represent a diverse mix of talent. The line-up includes:
- Amber Davies with Nikita Kuzmin
- Balvinder Sopal with Julian Caillon
- Karen Carney with Carlos Gu
- Lewis Cope with Katya Jones
- George Clarke with Alexis Warr
Amber Davies and Karen Carney have both achieved the ultimate prize of a perfect 40 score from the judges. In contrast, YouTuber George Clarke remains the only celebrity yet to receive a perfect score, adding extra pressure to his quarter-final performance.
A Musical Spectacle Awaits
Tonight's episode promises to be a celebration of West End and Broadway, with each couple performing a routine inspired by a classic musical. The show will open with a special five-minute relay dance, featuring the following songs:
- Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin – “Trip a Little Light Fantastic” from Mary Poppins Returns
- Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon – “With a Little Bit of Luck” from My Fair Lady
- George Clarke and Alexis Warr - “Consider Yourself” from Oliver!
- Karen Carney and Carlos Gu – “Flash Bang Wallop” from Half a Sixpence
- Lewis Cope and Katya Jones – “Me Ol' Bamboo” from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
This themed week follows the debut of a chaotic new segment last weekend, which saw couples tackle an improvised Instant Dance challenge – a feature that proved wildly popular with viewers at home.
With the competition reaching its peak, every step and score counts. The pressure is immense as the final five couples duel under the Musicals Week spotlight, each aiming to dazzle the judges and the public to continue their journey towards the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final.
