Amber Davies Captivates Nation in Remarkable Strictly Come Dancing Journey
From Last-Minute Replacement to Grand Finalist
Amber Davies joined the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 line-up as a replacement for Dani Dyer, who had to pull out of the entertainment show with a broken ankle. Having been called in as a last-minute replacement just days before the first live show of the new series, Amber and her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin quickly became one of the most consistent couples of Strictly 2025. Making her journey to the finale even more remarkable, the West End star demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the competition.
A Gracious Finale Performance
In the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final on 20th December, Amber Davies went head-to-head with YouTuber George Clarke and former footballer Karen Carney in the glittering finale, each facing the ultimate test with three dances standing between them and the Glitterball Trophy. Amber opened with her jive to Proud Mary, which was the second dance of the evening to score 40. Karen Carney was revealed as this year’s winner, alongside her Strictly professional dancer Carlos Gu.
Winning Hearts with Humility
Strictly Come Dancing viewers showered Amber Davies with praise following her gracious remarks during the series finale when asked what winning would mean to her, giving an unexpectedly selfless answer that moved audiences at home. She told host Claudia Winkleman: ‘If one of my friends picks up the Glitterball,’ describing her fellow finalists as ‘the most genuine’ and kind people, adding that one of them deserves it and she was rooting for them. She said: ‘I wasn’t supposed to be here.’
Overcoming Criticism and Controversy
Given that she has a background in theatre, Amber faced some criticism over her involvement in the show over the last few months. Following her quarter-final dance-off win against Lewis Cope, Davies received a wave of harsh online comments, with her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin publicly appealing to fans to cease the vitriolic attacks. Despite the criticism, the Welsh actress, after winning the third series of Love Island in 2017, pursued a professional acting career, having trained at the Urdang Academy in her youth.
Significance for Viewers
Amber Davies’ journey on Strictly Come Dancing 2025 represents more than just a dance competition. Her transformation from emergency replacement to grand finalist, coupled with her gracious attitude in defeat, has captured the nation’s heart. The finale marked an emotional occasion as it represented the final episode with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the helm after more than two decades presenting the programme. Amber’s story demonstrates that success isn’t always measured by trophies, but by the grace, determination, and kindness shown throughout the journey.