The 2025 season of Dancing on Ice concluded on a note of controversy, as Sam Aston, star of Coronation Street, triumphed over broadcaster Michaela Strachan in the final. 

While Aston and his professional partner, Molly Lanaghan, were crowned the champions, the outcome sparked outrage among viewers who felt Michaela had been unfairly overlooked, 

especially given that she was the bookies’ favorite going into the final.

Sam’s victory marked a historic moment, as he became the latest celebrity to win the skating competition. 

However, many fans expressed disappointment that no woman has claimed the title since the show’s revival in 2018. 

Michaela Strachan, at 58, was in the running to become the first female champion in more than a decade, 

but despite her popularity and impressive performances, she was narrowly beaten by the Coronation Street actor.

Social media erupted with criticism, with many fans taking to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustrations. Some pointed out the ongoing pattern of male winners since the show returned in 2018. One user tweeted, “Lmao at a woman still not winning a series of this show since the revival. Thank f**k it’s being axed #DancingOnIce.” Another user remarked, “I told you. There was absolutely no chance the viewers were going to let a woman win. The Corrie fanbase out in force for Sam to win. #DancingOnIce.”

Viewers also highlighted the timing of the final, which coincided with International Women’s Day weekend, as particularly disappointing. “12 years since the last woman winner, COME ON Michaela International Women’s Day Weekend… #DancingOnIce,” one commenter wrote. The lack of a female winner for over a decade has led to speculation about a deeper issue with how voting patterns unfold in the competition.

While the male winners since the show’s reboot have included stars like Jake Quickenden, James Jordan, and Regan Gascoigne, many are questioning why the show has not seen more female champions despite strong female contenders. Michaela’s second-place finish marked a historic achievement in itself, as she became just the third woman to ever make it to the final two, a statistic that many felt deserved to be celebrated with a win.

The controversy over the result may overshadow the impressive performances throughout the competition. The finale saw Sam Aston and Michaela Strachan battling it out on the ice, with both celebrities delivering incredible routines. The highlight of the night was their performance of the iconic Bolero, famously performed by Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean during the 1984 Winter Olympics. Despite their stellar routines, the final decision was made by public vote, which ultimately handed the title to Sam.

Speaking after his win, Aston, 31, was visibly stunned, expressing his disbelief at taking home the coveted trophy. “I’ve literally got no words!” he exclaimed in a conversation with hosts Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern. He went on to reflect on the emotional journey, stating, “It’s just been such a journey, and a mad one. And it was always Molly’s dream to be on this show since watching it as a young girl.”

Meanwhile, Michaela Strachan, the 58-year-old broadcaster, graciously accepted her runner-up position, saying, “It’s been an amazing journey and I feel that I’m a winner to get this far with Mark. I’ve done it for the older women!” Her positive attitude and determination to represent older women on the show resonated deeply with her supporters, who were disappointed by the outcome.

This year’s Dancing on Ice finale may mark the last of its kind, with reports suggesting that the show could be axed amid declining ratings and viewer interest. If the show’s future is uncertain, the 2025 final will undoubtedly go down as a memorable one, not only for the incredible skating performances but also for the controversy surrounding the voting system and the ongoing lack of female winners.

With only four women having claimed the title since Dancing on Ice launched in 2006, many viewers are left questioning the fairness of the show’s voting system and whether gender bias plays a role in the final results. The backlash is likely to spark further debate over the years-long trend of male dominance in the competition, and many fans are calling for more balanced representation in future seasons of Dancing on Ice.

As the dust settles on another dramatic final, viewers will continue to reflect on the results and what they say about the show’s approach to fairness and inclusivity. For Michaela Strachan, though, her journey has been celebrated by her loyal fans, who have supported her every step of the way.

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