Who won Strictly Come Dancing? Ex-footballer Karen Carney triumphs in live show finale
Ex-footballer Karen Carney has won 2025’s Strictly Come Dancing.
Carney, who was partnered with professional partner Carlos Gu, lifted the glitterball trophy at the climax of an emotional episode of the competition tonight, which was the last live show for long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
After she was announced as the winner, scoring higher than reality star Amber Davies and social media star George Clarke, Carney said: “I can’t believe it.
“I just want to say thank you to everybody that has supported our journey, and supported us. Thank you to this wonderful gentleman, we are a team and I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“It’s been the biggest privilege and honour. I’m literally lost for words, I’m so sorry.”
Carlos Gu told her: “You changed my life. To the girls and boys watching at home, dream big and be proud and never give up.”
Winkleman and Daly were both overcome with emotion as they signed off from hosting the BBC’s flagship entertainment programme, after more than a decade co-hosting the main show together.
Their last appearance as a presenting duo on Strictly will be in the pre-recorded festive special airing on Christmas Day.
During the episode, they received tributes from the Queen, as well as TV cook Mary Berry, members of the crew and fans of the show.
In a message read out by judge Craig Revel Horwood, Camilla said: “As you prepare to take your final twirl, I just wanted to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.
“I have often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships: the bonds forged, the struggles overcome and the joy shared in undertaking a joint endeavour. If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest Strictly partnership of all.
“The warmth, compassion and sheer happiness you have radiated with and from each other has been at the heart of the show’s success. I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fab-u-lous. I wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next. But as one who has appreciated its lifelong benefits, do promise us one thing: Keeeeeeeep dancing!”