The stage is set for one of the most hotly debated finals in recent memory as the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing prepares to crown its champion on Saturday, December 20. The BBC’s beloved dance competition has whittled down its hopefuls to three: football legend Karen Carney with Carlos Gu, ex-Love Island star Amber Davies with Nikita Kuzmin, and YouTuber George Clarke with Alexis Warr. As the glitter settles ahead of the grand finale, fans, pundits, and even the show’s own alumni are abuzz with speculation—and not a little controversy—about who will lift the coveted Glitterball trophy.
The final, airing live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 7pm, promises not just dazzling routines and emotional farewells, but a dramatic showdown shaped by shifting audience dynamics and the remarkable resilience of one of its most beloved professional dancers. The anticipation has reached fever pitch, with online forums and social media platforms lighting up as viewers attempt to predict the outcome.
One name dominates the conversation: George Clarke. The 25-year-old YouTuber, who boasts more than three million followers across his social channels, has become the bookies’ favorite—at least according to the chorus of voices on Reddit and beyond. As reported by BBC and Wales Online, many fans believe Clarke’s huge online following could tip the balance in his favor, especially since the voting system now relies exclusively on internet votes.
“George has the big fan base,” one Reddit user observed, echoing a sentiment that has gained traction as the final approaches. Another commentator, less impressed by Clarke’s trajectory on the dance floor, remarked: “I believe George will win, despite his lack of progress and being the weakest of the three, because having only internet votes has changed the demographic of voters now, and he was most well known from week one.” The numbers, at least on social media, seem to back this up. As one fan bluntly put it: “George has more than three million followers across his socials. It’s game over.”
But not everyone is thrilled by this prospect. Some traditionalists worry that Clarke’s online popularity is overshadowing the core values of the competition. “I must admit I don’t like the idea of George having a social media fan base that votes for him probably without watching the show, not giving a rat’s a** about Strictly,” lamented another viewer, highlighting the tension between internet fame and dance merit.
Still, the debate is far from one-sided. Many fans insist that Clarke’s appeal runs deeper than his digital footprint. “George has been the winner from the start. The general public loves him,” asserted one supporter. Others point out that, while Karen Carney may lack the same social media reach, her journey and connection with loyal viewers could still swing the vote her way. “Karen might not be as popular as him in terms of social media, I think she will likely appeal to loyal fans of the show, people who won’t follow social media much. I think she still has a chance to win; she is the one to watch.”
Amber Davies, the third finalist, is no stranger to public scrutiny herself. The former Love Island contestant has won praise for her growth and determination throughout the series, forming a strong partnership with Nikita Kuzmin. As one fan diplomatically summarized, “I think they all are deserving, they’ve all tried their best. I don’t think it’s fair to say one hasn’t excelled. I won’t be mad at whoever wins, they’ve all had a great journey of improvement in dance and in confidence whilst dancing.”
The road to the final was paved with drama and heartbreak. Over the preceding weekend, EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal and her professional partner Julian Caillon were voted off after surviving several tense dance-offs, cementing the trio of finalists. Their departure, reported by BBC, marked the end of a remarkable run and set the stage for a nail-biting finish.
Yet, amid all the speculation about who will take home the trophy, another story has captured the hearts of viewers nationwide: the return of professional dancer Amy Dowden. On December 16, Dowden delivered an emotional update to her 728,000 Instagram followers, confirming she would rejoin the show for the grand final after receiving her consultant’s approval. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023, Dowden underwent treatment and received the all-clear by February 2024. However, she faced a second mastectomy in early November 2025 as a precautionary measure.
Dowden’s comeback, though limited by medical advice, is a testament to her resilience and passion for dance. In her own words, “I’m definitely smiling today. After advice from my consultant yesterday, I can be a part of the routine dance this week.” She was quick to reassure fans: “Not to worry, I won’t be overdoing it,” adding that she “can’t be lifted and I can’t be lifting. I have to take everything so gradually and at a pace, because it has been six weeks now since my surgery.”
Her gratitude was palpable: “I am only going with my doctor’s advice and it is different for every single patient. But I am super, super happy and I don’t care how small my part will be. I’m just so pleased to be back on the dance floor in some way or form. The grand final is always such a special week and it’s so good to be a part of. Everyone comes back, and there’s a huge buzz and a lot of energy. So yeah, I really didn’t want to miss out.” Dowden also shared that she had been up early to do her physiotherapy stretches and would be wearing compression bras for her performance. “However big or small, to be part of it at all I am just so grateful. I’m so glad to be back.”
Her presence will add an emotional dimension to the final, reminding both contestants and viewers of the personal journeys and challenges that often unfold behind the sequins and spotlights. Dowden’s story has resonated deeply with fans, many of whom see her as an inspiration far beyond the dance floor.
As Saturday’s live final approaches, the debate rages on: Will George Clarke’s massive online following propel him to victory, or will the traditional voting base rally behind Karen Carney or Amber Davies? Only time—and perhaps a little Strictly magic—will tell. One thing is certain: whether you’re tuning in for the fierce competition, the heartwarming returns, or the sheer spectacle of it all, this year’s Strictly finale promises to be a night to remember.
