George Clarke Reaches Strictly Come Dancing Final: The YouTuber Taking on the Glitterball

The Rise of a Social Media Star on the Ballroom Floor

YouTuber and internet personality George Clarke is competing in the 2025 final of Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with American professional dancer Alexis Warr. The 26-year-old Bristol-born content creator, known online as George Clarkey, has built a career through funny commentary and reaction videos about trending topics. His first TikTok in December 2019 received over five million views in the first two days, becoming the catalyst for his career as a content creator.

Journey to the Final

Clarke was announced as a Strictly contestant in August 2025, bringing his millions of social media followers to the long-running BBC dance competition. His memorable semi-final performance featured an Inbetweeners-inspired Charleston, which included Will’s gallop from the iconic film. Judge Shirley Ballas praised it as his best number yet, while Anton Du Beke called him brilliant.

Clarke’s Strictly journey has been particularly poignant. He dedicated a performance to his mother, who was recently diagnosed with cancer and previously suffered from encephalitis when he was 16.

The Final Showdown

Clarke will compete for the Glitterball Trophy against former England footballer Karen Carney and Love Island star Amber Davies this weekend. Karen Carney has emerged as the odds-on favourite to win, with Clarke drifting from 4/5 to 15/8 in the betting markets after weeks of being market leader.

Recent betting data shows Clarke was backed by 28% of bets placed in the 12 hours before the final, demonstrating his loyal fanbase remains engaged despite the shifting odds. The Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final airs on BBC One on Saturday 20th December at 7pm.

Beyond the Ballroom

Clarke has already been confirmed for the 2026 Strictly Come Dancing live arena tour alongside partner Alexis Warr. Whatever the result, Clarke’s appearance on Strictly represents a significant moment for digital creators crossing into traditional television, proving that social media stars can captivate audiences beyond their online platforms.