He’s the cheeky 26-year-old TikTok star from Bristol who once admitted he’d be “embarrassed doing anything more than a two-step” in a club. But fast-forward a few glittering months, and George Clarke – better known to his millions of online fans as ‘Clarkey’ – has twirled, spun and sashayed his way into the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 final, leaving judges gobsmacked and viewers utterly besotted.

In a series packed with drama, tears and jaw-dropping routines, Clarke’s journey has been nothing short of a fairy tale. Paired with pro dancer Alexis Warr, the podcaster and social media sensation has transformed from a self-confessed dance novice into what judges are calling a “ballroom boy” – and now he’s just one glitterball trophy away from immortality.

As the grand final looms this weekend on BBC One, with Clarke facing off against former England footballer Karen Carney and Love Island bombshell Amber Davies, we take a look back at his extraordinary path to the top. From near-elimination lows to Blackpool highs that scored near-perfect 39s, Clarke’s story is one of grit, glamour and sheer unexpected talent.

It all started with humble beginnings. Before the sequins and spotlights, Clarke was just your average Bristol lad, building a massive following on TikTok with hilarious pranks, podcasts and relatable banter. “I would get embarrassed doing anything more than a two-step in a club,” he confessed ahead of the series launch. Little did he know, he’d soon be mastering pasos, jives and Charlestons that would have the nation cheering from their sofas.

Week two set the tone for what was to come. Clarke and Warr unleashed a fiery paso doble that rocketed them to joint second on the leaderboard with an impressive 30 points. The judges were hooked. One even tipped him as a potential “frontrunner”. Shirley Ballas, the no-nonsense head judge, was already singing his praises.

The magic continued the following week with a quirky routine to “Soda Pop” from the animated flick KPOP Demon Hunters. Clarke bagged his first 9 from Ballas – a massive milestone for any celeb contestant. Fans at home were buzzing: who was this fresh-faced newcomer stealing the show?

But Strictly is notorious for its ups and downs, and Clarke’s journey was no exception. Week five brought a brutal reality check. Their Harry Styles-inspired jive left them scraping the bottom of the leaderboard. Craig Revel Horwood, the panel’s tough critic, didn’t hold back, branding it “flat-footed” and “stompy”. Ouch. For a moment, it looked like Clarkey might be heading home to Bristol.

Yet, true to form, Clarke bounced back with the resilience of a true contender. He and Warr returned triumphant with a Viennese waltz that had Ballas gushing: it featured “some of the best footwork” she’d ever seen in that dance. “Back with a bang!” she declared. The comeback kid was officially here to stay.

Then came the iconic Blackpool week – the highlight of every Strictly series, held in the glittering Tower Ballroom. Clarke delivered a sizzling salsa to a medley of party anthems, earning a near-perfect 39. He later admitted to BBC News that the whole thing “was a bit of a blur” – the adrenaline, the lights, the roaring crowd. But one thing was clear: George Clarke was peaking at just the right time.

The competition threw another curveball in week 10 with a brand-new format. Contestants had to draw dance styles from a hat and perform on the spot – no rehearsals, pure pressure. Clarke pulled a tango to Prince’s “When Doves Cry”, but disaster struck when he opted for a dramatic big red coat. It led to giggles mid-routine and the second-lowest score of the night. Even the judges couldn’t hide their amusement, but Clarke laughed it off, proving his likeable personality was as strong as his footwork.

The semi-final was make-or-break, and Clarke nailed it with a Charleston inspired by the hit sitcom The Inbetweeners – cheeky, energetic and utterly him. Anton du Beke, the beloved judge, was moved: “This dance was you, and the best of you.” He urged Clarke to “believe in himself” to unlock even “more George”. Revel Horwood, who once had “no hope” for the Bristol boy, admitted he was “delighted” to be proven wrong.

And just like that, Clarke and Warr secured their spot in the final. They’ll perform three dances: a repeat of their standout week two paso doble, a breathtaking Viennese waltz, and a spectacular showdance that’s sure to be packed with lifts, tricks and emotion.

Facing them are tough competitors. Karen Carney, the ex-Lioness turned pundit, has brought athletic precision and powerhouse routines. Amber Davies, fresh from her Love Island win, has dazzled with her charisma and flair. But Clarke? He’s the underdog turned favourite – the relatable everyman who’s captured hearts with his boyish charm, infectious grin and sheer determination.

Off the dancefloor, Clarke’s personal life has added to his appeal. As a podcaster, he’s known for keeping it real, chatting about everything from mental health to everyday struggles. His Bristol roots shine through – grounded, funny, and fiercely loyal to his fans. Social media is ablaze with support: #TeamClarkey trending, fan edits going viral, and predictions he’s got what it takes to lift the trophy.

The judges have been unanimous in their turnaround. From early scepticism to outright adoration, they’ve watched Clarke evolve. Ballas has handed out those precious 9s and 10s, du Beke sees a star in the making, and even Craig has softened.

But what makes Clarke’s story so compelling? In a world of polished celebs, he’s the genuine article – a young lad who started with zero dance experience and ended up a finalist. His journey mirrors the magic of Strictly: anyone can shine with hard work and a bit of sparkle.

As the final airs at 7pm on BBC One, millions will be glued to their screens. Will Clarke’s paso bring the fire? Will his showdance wow? And crucially, will viewer votes crown him king of the ballroom?

One thing’s for sure: George Clarke has already won over the nation. From TikTok laughs to Strictly tears (of joy), he’s proven dreams really do come true – one step at a time.