UPDATE: YouTuber George Clarke has issued a heartfelt statement following his exit from the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing competition, where he finished just shy of winning. In a dramatic finale that aired on December 21, 2025, Clarke dazzled the audience alongside finalists Karen Carney and Amber Davies, each performing three impressive dances for the coveted Glitterball trophy.
In a surprising turn of events, it was former footballer Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu who clinched the championship title, leaving Clarke reflecting on his own journey. “The journey is done and that’s hard to come to terms with,” he stated in an extensive statement released today.
Clarke expressed deep gratitude for his partner, Alexis, calling her an impactful force in his life. “Your pro is 99% of your process and I’ve had the best and most formative 4 months of my life,” he shared. The emotional weight of the competition was palpable as he noted the experience helped him uncover a newfound sense of “self-belief.”
The finale featured Clarke and Alexis performing their show-stopping dances, including a powerful Paso Doble to “Game of Survival” by Ruelle and a graceful Viennese Waltz to “Somebody to Love” by Queen. Their performances earned a perfect score of 39 from judges, tying them with the champions but falling just one point behind fellow finalists Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin.
Reflecting on the night, Clarke admitted, “I ended the night doing 3 wildly different dances, none of which I would’ve had a chance in hell at doing at the start of the competition.” He described the experience as “uplifting and positive,” a “breath of fresh air” that transformed his outlook on dancing and himself.
Clarke’s journey on the show resonated with many as he acknowledged the personal growth he experienced. “Everyone has had their own personal journeys and many would’ve been worthy winners,” he noted, highlighting the competitive yet supportive environment of the series.
Looking ahead, Clarke expressed a desire to continue dancing in some capacity, stating, “I hope that I can continue dancing… my body however will be on standby until 2026.” His commitment to growth, both as a dancer and as an individual, serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring dancers alike.
As the finale marks a new chapter for Clarke, the Christmas TV magazine is now available, offering a comprehensive guide to festive programming. Retailing at just £1.70, it includes listings and features on all major holiday shows.
For the latest updates on entertainment and lifestyle news, stay tuned to our coverage. Strictly Come Dancing can be streamed on BBC iPlayer, allowing fans to relive the memorable moments from the season.
This emotional showdown encapsulates the spirit of competition and personal growth, making it a must-follow story as fans reflect on the season’s impactful journeys.
