Strictly’s Wrap Party Turns Rowdy as Stars Belt Out Three Lions for Glitterball Champion Karen Carney
The Strictly Come Dancing cast proved they had plenty of energy left after Saturday night’s emotional finale — celebrating Footballer-turned-champion Karen Carney with an impromptu and alcohol-fuelled singalong of Three Lions (Football’s Coming Home) during the show’s wrap party.
Departing presenter Tess Daly, 56, who fronted the programme for more than two decades, led the chorus with gusto, cheering on the former Lioness and her pro partner Carlos Gu following their unexpected Glitterball triumph.
A modest party—wild atmosphere
Instead of hosting a pricey, celebrity-packed after-party in a London venue, the BBC opted for a scaled-back celebration on the studio set at Elstree in Hertfordshire, citing tightened budgets after a year of cost-cutting.
But if executives expected a subdued affair, they were mistaken.
The cast, judges, and dozens of partners and family members made full use of the open bar — transforming the “low-key” night into a raucous celebration that lasted into the early hours.
One insider revealed:
“Tess made sure everyone knew it was a party! She led the singing of Three Lions to honour Karen, and the atmosphere was brilliant. Everyone was on great form and determined to enjoy themselves.”
The source added there was a bittersweet edge to the night — the set crew quietly began dismantling the iconic Strictly dance floor as the festivities continued.
Last hurrah for Tess and Claudia
Tess attended the party with her husband, presenter Vernon Kay, 51, and their 21-year-old daughter Phoebe — who has been tipped by some fans as a possible heir to her mother’s hosting legacy.
Claudia Winkleman, 53, who is also stepping away from Strictly after 11 years side-by-side with Tess, made a brief appearance for a drink and farewell hugs before slipping away — a quieter exit for one of the show’s most recognisable faces.
Cars collected the guests around 1am, with gleeful revellers including champion Carlos, 32, and 2015 winner Jay McGuiness of The Wanted.
“A privilege and an honour”
For Karen, who retired from football in 2019 after an illustrious career with club and country, the experience has been transformative.
The newly crowned champion reflected earlier in the evening:
“It’s been the biggest privilege and honour.”
Her win marks one of the most surprising results in the show’s recent history — and the celebrations proved the cast were just as delighted.
A night of endings and beginnings
The evening symbolised several turning points:
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the farewell of two beloved presenters
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the rise of a new Strictly champion
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and perhaps the beginning of a reinvented show amid budget restructuring
Yet despite the emotional farewells and cost-cutting backdrop, one thing remained unchanged:
Strictly still knows how to throw a party.
Even if it’s on a “budget.”
