The glittering lights of the Strictly Come Dancing finale weren’t just for the routines—emotions ran high as professional dancer Carlos Gu opened up about his journey on the show.
Saturday night’s live final saw Carlos paired with England Lioness Karen Carney, and while their performances wowed the judges, it was the heartfelt moments off the dance floor that truly captivated viewers.
A Jive to Remember
Carlos and Karen finished the night with a show-stopping jive, a football-themed routine set to Blondie’s One Way or Another.
But as the music faded, Carlos struggled to contain his emotions while standing next to Karen in front of the judges.
Moments later, in the Clauditorium, he broke down while talking to host Claudia Winkleman.
Claudia highlighted how often Carlos credited Karen for teaching him valuable life lessons—and the dancer didn’t hold back.
Through tears, Carlos confessed: “She’s changed my life. I think she’s the best thing that I’ve ever had in 2025.”
He reflected on his mindset before joining Strictly, admitting that his focus had been entirely on himself.
“I came to Strictly after competitive life. I was self-centred, I was ‘me, me, me’,” he explained, noting that his previous years on the show were hampered by a lack of gratitude.
Learning Kindness and Teamwork
Carlos went on to describe how Karen had helped him grow not just as a dancer but as a person.
“For the first time, I learned to be a team player,” he shared, pausing to gather himself.
Claudia immediately stepped in to reassure him, saying: “Oh Carlos, you are! You are a team player.
You are, and we love you and your partnership is everything. You’re okay, baby. You’re amazing.”
The judges awarded Carlos and Karen a perfect score of 40, bringing both of them to tears once again.
Viewers at home were equally moved, taking to social media to express their emotions:
“I don’t cry in front of my mum EVER but Carlos has just brought the tears.
I am a mess rn #Strictly”
“Carlos having a mini breakdown and therapy session in the Clauditorium—never change #Strictly”
Victory for Carlos and Karen
Minutes later, the emotional rollercoaster reached its peak when Carlos and Karen were crowned Strictly Come Dancing champions, surpassing fellow finalists George Clarke and Amber Davies.
Karen struggled to find words, telling the audience: “I cannot believe it. I just want to say thank you to everybody that’s supported our journey, and thank you to this wonderful gentleman.
We are a team, and I could not have done this without you. Honestly, I’m lost for words.”
A Royal Tribute for Tess and Claudia
Before the results, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were treated to a special tribute video highlighting this year’s series.
But the surprises didn’t stop there. Craig Revel Horwood read a letter from Her Majesty The Queen, who praised the hosts’ dedication:
“Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week…
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 wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next, but do promise us one thing, keep dancing.”
Claudia’s black jacket subtly referenced the Queen’s advice, with “keep dancing” stitched on the back, while Tess dazzled in a rose-gold sequined gown featuring a thigh-high slit and off-shoulder design.
What Comes Next?
With Carlos and Karen’s win, a moving farewell for Tess and Claudia, and a royal nod from Queen Camilla, this Strictly Come Dancing finale balanced spectacle with raw emotion, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the next series will bring.
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