In a glittering climax to an unforgettable series, professional dancer **Carlos Gu** etched his name into *Strictly Come Dancing* history on December 20, 2025. Paired with former England footballer **Karen Carney**, the duo lifted the coveted Glitterball Trophy after a nail-biting public vote in the Grand Final. Carney became the first footballer to claim the title, but it was Gu’s triumph that resonated most profoundly: the first openly gay and Asian professional to win the BBC One show.

More than just a trophy, Gu’s victory represents a defiant celebration of self-discovery, breaking through racial, cultural, and personal barriers in a journey that began thousands of miles away in Taiyuan, China.

Born on January 6, 1993, Gu grew up in an environment where conformity was expected, and difference often silenced. As a young boy, he felt “different from the stereotype of the boys,” navigating a society where discussions of sexuality were taboo. Homosexuality, though decriminalized in China since 1997 and no longer classified as a mental disorder since 2001, remains largely unspoken in public life. Same-sex marriage is not recognized, and cultural attitudes—particularly in traditional spheres like dance—can foster homophobia.

Gu excelled in competitive Latin dance from an early age, becoming Chinese National Latin Champion and earning accolades including multiple world semi-finalist placements and third place at the German Open Championships. Yet, even as his talent shone, personal authenticity remained suppressed. “Being gay in China, it’s really hard to talk about it,” he later shared on ITV’s *Lorraine* in July 2024. “You can’t tell a word in telly, public, no word.”

The move to the UK marked a turning point. Arriving to pursue greater opportunities in dance—including appearances at the Blackpool Dance Festival—Gu found a space to embrace his true self. “I moved to the UK… I was working in a different environment and accepting my own identity,” he reflected. “I feel like I’ve been given the chance to be reborn and to live the life that I’ve been dreaming of for years.” Coming out publicly, including to his supportive single mother who encouraged his relocation, allowed him to become a role model. “I came out so that I could be a role model for more Asian kids, or the kids out there who are still figuring themselves out,” he told *Hello!* magazine.

Gu joined *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2022 as one of four new professionals, alongside Vito Coppola, Lauren Oakley, and Michelle Tsiakkas. His debut series saw him partner with singer-actress Molly Rainford, reaching the final and finishing as runners-up—a strong start that showcased his technical precision, charisma, and versatility across ballroom and Latin styles.

In series 21 (2023), he guided TV presenter Angela Scanlon to week 10, earning praise for his patient teaching and creative choreography. But it was series 23 in 2025 that delivered his crowning moment.

Paired with Karen Carney—a retired Lioness turned broadcaster and podcast host—the partnership clicked immediately. Carney, with no prior dance experience, brought infectious energy and determination. Their week-one jive earned high leaderboard spots, and standout moments included a hip-hop-inspired Couple’s Choice to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” and a Peaky Blinders-themed Argentine Tango to Nick Cave’s “Red Right Hand” during Halloween week.

Throughout the series, Gu’s emotional growth was evident. He described Carney as transformative: “You changed my life.” In post-win interviews, he urged viewers: “To the girls and boys watching at home, dream big and be proud and never give up.”

The Grand Final was electric. Finalists Carney & Gu, Amber Davies & Nikita Kuzmin, and George Clarke & Alexis Warr each performed three routines: a judges’ pick, a Showdance, and their favorite. Carney and Gu’s football-themed jive to Blondie’s “One Way or Another” sealed their victory, with combined judges’ scores of 117 (matching Clarke’s) but securing the public vote.

The night also marked the emotional farewell of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after 21 and 11 years, respectively. A tribute video featured messages from fans, celebrities like Mary Berry, and even Queen Camilla, who praised *Strictly* for forging “friendships: the bonds forged, the struggles overcome and the joy shared.”

Gu’s win shattered multiple barriers: first Chinese pro to triumph, first openly gay Asian winner. Fans celebrated wildly on social media, with posts hailing “CARLOS GU STRICTLY WINNER” and “Never bench an icon!!!” His journey from suppressing his identity in China to shining under the ballroom lights symbolizes resilience and representation.

As Gu joins the *Strictly* Live Tour and teases future projects—including artwork like his 2025 piece *Reborn*—his story inspires. In a show that celebrates transformation, Carlos Gu’s victory proves that authenticity, talent, and courage can rewrite history.

The 2025 series may have ended, but Gu’s legacy endures: a beacon for those still hiding parts of themselves, proving it’s never too late to step into the light and dance freely.