'Strictly Come Dancing' Finale: The Top 3 Moments That Stole the Show

Whether it was perfect scores, passionate speeches, or divided fan reactions, the closing chapter of the 2025 series gave viewers plenty to remember and even more to talk about.

The glitterball has been lifted, the tears have fallen, and the curtain has closed on one of the most emotionally charged "Strictly Come Dancing" finals in recent memory. The 2025 finale delivered a night of high drama, impeccable footwork, and heartfelt farewells.

1. A Historic Win for Carney and Gu

After 13 weeks of dazzling routines and fierce competition, Karen Carney and Carlos Gu were crowned the winners of "Strictly Come Dancing" 2025.

Their triumph marked a groundbreaking moment in the show's history — Carney became the first footballer to win the coveted glitterball trophy, while Gu became the first openly gay and Asian man to take the title.

The pair's journey culminated in a finale that saw all three remaining couples perform three routines — a judge-selected reprise, a showdance, and a favourite routine from the series.

In a separate post shared jointly with Warr Burton, Clarke called the finale "a truly incredible way to end the most amazing experience."

Carney and Gu's standout performance came in the form of their Argentine tango — a hauntingly sharp "Peaky Blinders"-inspired routine to "Red Right Hand" by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds.

Their showdance to "Inner Smile" by Texas scored 37, followed by a football-themed jive to Blondie's "One Way Or Another" — a nod to Carney's sporting roots. This final number also earned a perfect score and brought many, including viewers and judges, to tears.

They triumphed over West End star Amber Davies and social media favourite George Clarke, who, alongside their respective partners, had also delivered crowd-pleasing performances throughout the series.

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared the day after the finale, Clarke said the journey had been "a hell of an experience for me and I feel like I've learned so much." He also credited his partner, Alexis Warr Burton, as a guiding force, adding, "That's where I have to thank Alexis. Your care is 99% of your presence."

In a separate post shared jointly with Warr Burton, Clarke called the finale "a truly incredible way to end the most amazing experience." Reflecting on their four-month journey, he added, "4 months ago when we first met we were 2 very different people than we are today."

They ended on the hopeful note, "We'll dance again, we'll never lose touch and we'll always be able to thank each other for this life changing 4 months."

2. Emotional Speeches and Divided Reactions

After their win, Carney admitted she was lost for words. "I can't believe it," she said. "I just want to say thank you to everybody that has supported our journey [...]. Thank you to this wonderful gentleman. We are a team and I couldn't have done it without you." Gu returned the gratitude, saying:

"Thank you, Karen Carney. I love you, and thank you for being so incredible this whole journey. You taught me so much, and we are completely two different characters, but we challenged each other, we helped each other, we never gave up on each other, and thank you for changing my life."

He continued, "Thank you, 'Strictly.' Thank you, every individual in this room, on and off screen. You guys make 'Strictly' happen. Thank you so much."

In a message aimed at young viewers, he added, "And to the boys and girls at home watching at home, dream big and be proud and never give up, because you never know."

His words and vulnerability resonated with many. One person commented, "It was quite humbling to hear Carlos admit he had been selfish and ungrateful in the past. It takes a lot of courage to admit that on live tv [sic]."

Another typed, "Won't lie, that was such an emotional episode to watch. All 3 deserved to be there, all fantastic dancers. Will miss tess and Claudia [sic]!"

Others, however, weren't as convinced by the result. One individual said, "Should have been George. This has been the worst year for me watching. I have felt something wasn't right all the way through, and definitely feel something has gone on with the votes being fixed (especially now I know why Tom didn't go back). Not sure I'll be watching next year [sic]."

Another wrote, "What a great series. Probably the biggest travesty in Strictly history when Lewis went out. But that threw the contest wide open. Over the moon for Karen. She's been incredible. But take nothing away from Amber & George. It's been fab-u-lous watching them each week too [sic]."

3. Daly and Winkleman Say Goodbye

The 2025 finale also marked the final time Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosted the live weekend shows together. Their departure, announced in October, signalled the end of a presenting partnership that had become central to the show's identity.

Before the winners were crowned, a video tribute was played featuring messages from fans, celebrities, and close friends — including Mary Berry. Judge Craig Revel Horwood then read a message from the Queen, which praised the duo's warmth and impact:

"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."

Both hosts became emotional as they also addressed the audience. Daly said, "From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for the support that you've shown us over the years. It really meant the world."

Winkleman added, "We have loved being part of such a wonderful show. It's been an absolute privilege to spend our weekends with you."

The farewell drew emotional responses across social media. One person said, "A very emotional show and especially with Tess and Claudia leaving. This is probably the best show the BBC puts on. Don't think it will ever be the same again." Another typed, "Can't imagine who can replace these 2, impossible!"

A different viewer commented, "Bless him, Craig's hands were shaking. Chance for the BBC to shake it up now. Yes Tess and Claud were a fantastic duo, and fair play to both for holding it together. I was in bits for most of the show!" Meanwhile, one post read simply, "Claudia held the tears back better than poor Tess."

A Glittering Goodbye

Between historic wins, stirring speeches, and tearful farewells, the "Strictly Come Dancing" 2025 finale delivered a night that won't soon be forgotten.

While new champions have been crowned and beloved presenters prepare to take their final bow, one thing remains clear — "Strictly" is more than a dance competition. It's a show about joy, resilience, and connection.