Strictly Champion Karen Carney Shares Special Football First with Dance Partner
Birmingham's own Karen Carney, the celebrated Strictly Come Dancing winner, has offered fans a delightful glimpse into her enduring friendship with professional dance partner Carlos Gu. The heartwarming revelation comes just months after the pair triumphantly lifted the coveted glitterball trophy together.
A Memorable Day at the Emirates Stadium
On Sunday, February 8, Carney orchestrated a significant "first" for her dance partner, taking him to experience his inaugural live football match. The occasion was the highly anticipated Women's Super League clash between Arsenal and Manchester City at the iconic Emirates Stadium.
Through a series of shared images and a charming TikTok video, Karen documented their special day out, which also included fellow star Hannah Waddingham. The former England Lioness, who played for Arsenal between 2006 and 2009, expressed her joy in introducing Carlos to the beautiful game.
"Had the honour of taking Carlos to his first ever football match," Karen wrote in her social media post. "What a day! Thanks to everyone who came over to say hello too, was lovely getting to meet so many of you."
Fans Celebrate the Heartwarming Moment
The online community responded with overwhelming positivity to this adorable shared experience. Supporters of both celebrities flooded the comments with warm messages celebrating Carlos's maiden football outing.
- One enthusiastic fan remarked, "I hope he enjoyed his first game!"
- Another playfully questioned, "Carlos an Arsenal fan now??!"
- A third supporter cheered, "Taking Carlos round home! comeon Kaz!"
Continuing a Series of Shared Firsts
This football outing represents just one of several meaningful "firsts" the dance partners have recently experienced together. Mere days before the match, Karen and Carlos revealed they had gotten matching tattoos, inspired by their caterpillar-to-butterfly journey on Strictly Come Dancing.
The tattoo commitment originated from a week-one interview with football legend Jill Scott, where they promised to get inked together if they won the competition. Initially thinking victory was improbable, they nevertheless followed through after their stunning triumph.
Carlos chose to display his line drawing of a butterfly and hearts on his arm, while Karen opted for a more discreet placement on her ribcage. These permanent marks serve as enduring symbols of their transformative partnership and shared success.
The combination of matching tattoos and shared sporting experiences underscores the deep bond that has developed between the Strictly champions, extending far beyond the dance floor into genuine, lasting friendship.
