Is This 2025's Dark Horse on Strictly Come Dancing After Breaking an 18-Year Record?

This week’s episode of Strictly Come Dancing introduced a surprise standout, former Lioness Karen Carney, who, alongside her partner Carlos Gu, electrified the audience with a stunning jive performance. Their routine not only topped the leaderboard but also marked a historic moment for the show, as Karen became the first footballer in 18 years to achieve such a high score. With a mix of entertainment, emotion, and standout performances, this series is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the First Live Show

• Karen Carney and Carlos Gu topped the leaderboard with a stunning jive.
• They scored 31 points, setting a record for footballers on the show.
• Harry Aikines-Aryeetey's emotional cha cha impressed judges and viewers alike.
• Amber Davies delivered a strong performance, scoring 27 points in her debut.
• No eliminations in week one, setting the stage for an exciting competition ahead.

The Electrifying Performance by Karen Carney

Karen Carney, aged 38, showcased exceptional talent during her performance, demonstrating the versatility expected of a professional dancer. Her jive to "One Way or Another" by Blondie was not only energetic but also filled with intricate footwork and high spirits. Dressed in sparkly shorts and vibrant sports attire, Karen captivated both the judges and the audience, leaving many wondering how a footballer could transition so successfully into the world of dance.

Historic Achievement

For context, it has been 18 years since a footballer has topped the leaderboard in Strictly Come Dancing. This momentous achievement adds a layer of excitement to the competition, as it challenges viewers’ perceptions of what athletes can accomplish outside their primary sports. The judges responded positively, with Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke awarding Karen and Carlos eights, which is impressive for the first week of competition.

Emotional Moments on the Dance Floor

Another highlight of the evening was Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who performed a heartfelt cha cha to Salt-N-Pepa's "Push It." After his performance, he expressed his overwhelming emotions, revealing that he had struggled with an injury that had sidelined him. His tears of joy resonated with viewers, showcasing the transformative power of dance and the personal journeys that many contestants experience on the show.

Strong Debuts and Unexpected Twists

Amber Davies, stepping in for Dani Dyer-Bowen, made an impressive debut with a waltz to Adele’s "When We Were Young," scoring 27 points. The judges praised her performance, marking her arrival in the competition as one to watch closely. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the hosts, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who made sure to acknowledge Dani’s unfortunate withdrawal due to an ankle injury.

Inspiring Inclusion and Personal Triumphs

This series of Strictly Come Dancing is notable not only for the talent displayed but also for its inclusivity. Model Ellie Goldstein, who is the first person with Down syndrome to compete, brought infectious joy to the stage, further emphasising the show's commitment to representation.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Contestants?

With no eliminations this week, the competition is set to heat up as judges’ scores will be combined with those from the next week’s performances. This will lead to a dance-off where one pair will leave the competition. The stakes are high, and contestants will need to bring their A-game to secure a spot in the next round.

The Judges’ Reactions and Audience Engagement

The judges’ feedback was a mix of praise and constructive criticism. While Craig Revel Horwood, known for being the tough judge, suggested Karen work on softer edges, he acknowledged her unexpected prowess. This blend of critique and encouragement is a hallmark of the show, ensuring contestants can grow while receiving recognition for their efforts.

Public Sentiment and Social Media Buzz

Social media buzzed with excitement following Karen's performance. Viewers took to X to express their admiration, with many declaring her a "dark horse" in the competition. User @Multifandom_Amy encapsulated the sentiment perfectly, stating, “Karen and Carlos aced that performance. Just wow. I’m speechless.” The overwhelming support from the public suggests that Karen may have a strong fan base built on her impressive debut.

Conclusion: A Promising Start to Strictly Come Dancing

The first live show of Strictly Come Dancing has set an exhilarating tone for the rest of the series. With memorable performances, emotional backstories, and a diverse lineup of contestants, viewers are surely in for a treat this season. Karen Carney’s standout performance and emotional journey highlight the potential for unexpected champions to emerge. As the competition progresses, one can only wonder who will rise to the occasion and who will falter under pressure.

What do you think of the performances so far? Will Karen Carney maintain her momentum, or will another contestant steal the spotlight in the coming weeks? #StrictlyComeDancing #KarenCarney #DanceCompetition

FAQs

What is Strictly Come Dancing?

Strictly Come Dancing is a popular dance competition show in the UK where celebrities partner with professional dancers to perform various dance styles. It is known for its glamour, entertainment value, and emotional stories.

Who topped the leaderboard in the first live show?

Karen Carney and her partner Carlos Gu topped the leaderboard with an impressive score of 31 points for their jive performance.

Is there an elimination in the first week of Strictly Come Dancing?

No, there is no elimination in the first week. The scores will be combined with the following week’s performances before determining which pairs will face elimination.

Who replaced Dani Dyer-Bowen on the show?

Amber Davies replaced Dani Dyer-Bowen after Dani suffered an ankle injury during rehearsals. Amber made a strong debut with a score of 27 for her waltz.

What was the audience's reaction to Karen Carney's performance?

The audience and viewers expressed overwhelming support for Karen, with many praising her as a potential dark horse in the competition after her stunning performance.