The atmosphere is electric as the final weeks of the competition unfold, and a surprising new contender has surged to the forefront. Karen Carney, the former England footballer, is now the bookmakers’ clear favorite to claim the coveted Glitterball trophy.
Her ascent follows a breathtaking performance on Saturday, earning a perfect score of 40 – a moment that resonated with both the judges and the viewing public. This remarkable achievement has dramatically shifted the odds, placing her well ahead of previous frontrunner George Clarke.
Bookmakers now list Carney at 1/2 to win, a significant leap from Clarke’s current 7/4. Other contestants trail further behind, with Lewis Cope at 8/1 and Amber Davies a distant 50/1. The pressure is mounting as the semi-final approaches next week, followed by the grand final just two weeks later.
For years, footballers entering the competition have struggled to make a lasting impact. John Barnes, Robbie Savage, Alex Scott, and Tony Adams all reached the later stages, but none could secure victory. Last year, Paul Merson was eliminated relatively early, despite his established profile.
Carney’s success is rewriting that narrative. She’s not just competing; she’s dominating, exceeding expectations and shattering previous records. She broke an 18-year curse on the very first week, becoming the first footballer to top the leaderboard.
Should she win, Carney would make history as the first former footballer to lift the Glitterball. Beyond football, she would be the first sportsperson of any discipline to win since gymnast Louis Smith in 2012, joining a select group of victorious athletes like Darren Gough and Mark Ramprakash.
Experts are taking notice. One commentator boldly predicted Carney’s potential from the very beginning, recognizing her dedication and talent. The shift in momentum is undeniable – a testament to her consistent improvement and captivating performances.
The competition is fierce, and five celebrities are vying for a place in the final three. But as the stakes rise, Karen Carney is proving that with determination and grace, anything is possible. Her journey is a compelling story of transformation and triumph.
