Strictly Amber: From Last-Minute Stand-In to Glitterball Finalist

Introduction: An Unlikely Strictly Journey

When Amber Davies was announced as a late addition to Strictly Come Dancing 2025, replacing Dani Dyer who withdrew due to injury just days before the first live show, few could have predicted the remarkable journey that would follow. The Love Island star reached the glittering finale alongside YouTuber George Clarke and former footballer Karen Carney, making her one of the most talked-about contestants of the series.

A Journey Marked by Excellence and Controversy

Amber, who has toured the UK in musicals 9 to 5 and Pretty Woman and appeared in the West End’s The Great Gatsby, hit the ground running with her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin, quickly becoming one of the most consistent couples of Strictly 2025. During Musicals Week, Davies secured a perfect score of 40 for her Charleston to Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ The Boat from Guys And Dolls.

However, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Despite her success, Amber faced criticism from trolls over her dance experience and found herself in the dance-off on two separate occasions, even when she topped the leaderboard. In the quarter-finals, she landed in the bottom two alongside bookmakers’ favourite Lewis Cope, despite receiving a perfect score from the judges.

Standing Up for Ambition

In a powerful message ahead of the final, Amber said she had received negative comments for being good, stating: “I can’t believe I have to say this in 2025, but being ambitious as a woman, being confident, having dreams, working hard, does not mean you’re stuck up”. Her defiant stance resonated with many viewers who admired her determination.

During the finale, an emotional Amber displayed grace, saying: “If one of my friends picks up the Glitterball… I feel like I’ve already won just by being here. I wasn’t supposed to be here… one of them deserves it and I’m rooting for them”. Whilst Karen Carney ultimately lifted the Glitterball Trophy with professional partner Carlos Gu, Amber’s journey from replacement contestant to finalist captured hearts nationwide.

Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond the Dancefloor

Amber Davies’ Strictly journey exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her story has inspired young women to embrace their ambitions unapologetically, proving that success shouldn’t be dimmed to make others comfortable. Whether remembered for her perfect scores, her graceful sportsmanship, or her powerful advocacy for ambitious women, Amber’s impact on Strictly Come Dancing 2025 extends far beyond the dancefloor.