Strictly Odds 2025: Lewis Cope leads as 3/1 favourite to win series

The 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing is almost here, and excitement is already starting to bubble as this year’s celebrities get ready to trade their day jobs for sequins and the dance floor. The glitterball is polished, the rehearsal rooms are buzzing, and fans are bracing themselves for another season of Saturday night drama and sparkle.

Now that the full line-up is confirmed, all eyes are on who might go all the way. At Betfred, our outright market is live and priced up, and the Strictly Odds suggest a fascinating contest in store — with some clear frontrunners, a few dangerous outsiders, and a handful of dark horses who could spring a surprise once the live shows begin.

As ever with Strictly, nothing is certain, and we’re guaranteed shocks, storylines and standout performances along the way. So, who looks set to shine brightest under the glitterball spotlight this year? Let’s take a closer look at how the field is shaping up…

*You can get all the latest Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Odds over on betfred.com

Lewis Cope @ 3/1

Brought in late to replace Kristian Nairn, Lewis has wasted no time in becoming one of the frontrunners. A former world championship finalist in ballroom and Latin, with West End experience in Billy Elliot, he arrives with serious dance pedigree. That background could give him a flying start, though it may also stir up the usual “unfair advantage” chatter. At 3/1, he now leads the betting, and looks every inch a potential champion if he can balance technical excellence with public support.

Ellie Goldstein @ 7/2

Ellie continues to be one of the big talking points of this year’s series. As the first contestant with Down’s syndrome, the model and actress has already become a trailblazer, inspiring audiences worldwide and even gracing the cover of British Vogue. At 7/2, she’s just behind Lewis in the betting, but with her charisma, authenticity, and powerful backstory, she’s firmly in the mix to go all the way.

Dani Dyer @ 4/1

Reality TV royalty, Dani has gone from Love Island winner to serious Strictly contender. With her childhood training in ballet, jazz and modern dance, she’s faced the inevitable “ringer” accusations before the series even began. But Dani’s bubbly nature and loyal fanbase give her a huge advantage. At 4/1, she remains one of the strongest challengers, and if she can pair her skill with crowd-pleasing routines, a spot in the final looks very realistic.

George Clarke @ 8/1

Social media star George Clarke has millions of followers online thanks to his humour and relatability, and that popularity could translate into votes on the dance floor. We have eased him slightly to 8/1, but he still looks like a serious contender. If he can bring the same charm to his performances as he does to his digital content, he could easily emerge as one of this season’s breakout stars.

Karen Carney @ 8/1

A footballing legend turned pundit, Karen has always been known for her drive, discipline and competitive edge. That mindset has served many sports stars well on Strictly in the past, and she’s already proving to be a natural performer. At 8/1, she’s on the fringes of the frontrunners, but with her winning mentality and likeable personality, she could yet push further up the leaderboard.

Alex Kingston @ 14/1

From Doctor Who to ER, Alex has long been a household name, and she brings that same star power into the Strictly ballroom. Her stage presence and acting background give her a theatrical flair that works perfectly in big routines. At 14/1, she’s seen as more of an outside shot, but her charisma and experience could see her grow into the competition as the weeks roll on.

Vicky Pattison @ 14/1

Outspoken, funny and never one to shy away from the spotlight, Vicky has been a fixture of reality TV for more than a decade. A former I’m a Celebrity winner, she knows how to connect with audiences — and Strictly could be no different. At 14/1, she sits mid-market, but with her huge fanbase and entertainment value, she has the tools to spring a surprise.

Balvinder Sopal @ 16/1

Better known as EastEnders’ Suki Panesar, Balvinder enters Strictly with a ready-made soap following. That loyalty often translates into votes, and her poise suits the ballroom well. At 16/1, she’s not among the top picks, but don’t be shocked if she emerges as one of the competition’s hidden gems.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey @ 16/1

Olympic sprinter and now Gladiators star, Harry has the fitness, speed and power to tackle high-energy routines with ease. The real question is whether he can match that athleticism with the polish and elegance required in the ballroom. At 16/1, he’s seen as a lively outsider, but if he adapts quickly, he’s more than capable of becoming a fan favourite.

Thomas Skinner @ 20/1

Known from The Apprentice and his viral “Bosh” breakfasts, Thomas is a big personality who has built a cult following. He’s not the obvious pick for Strictly stardom, but viewers love contestants who throw themselves in with enthusiasm. At 20/1, he’s a mid-tier option — but if he embraces the glitter, his energy could carry him further than expected.

La Voix @ 25/1

The drag performer and comedian has years of stage experience, and knows how to put on a show. With quick wit and a larger-than-life persona, La Voix could easily become one of the season’s most entertaining acts. At 25/1, the odds suggest an uphill battle, but standout performances could rapidly shorten that price.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink @ 33/1

Former Premier League star Jimmy was a winner on the pitch, but ballroom requires a different skillset. At 33/1, he’s an outside shot, but his competitive spirit and charm could see him last longer than expected.

Chris Robshaw @  40/1

Rugby players have a mixed record on Strictly, and while Chris brings plenty of strength, ballroom requires grace and precision too. At 40/1, he’s one of the outsiders, but if he shows determination and a willingness to learn, he could earn plenty of respect along the way.

Stefan Dennis @ 40/1

The Neighbours legend and soap villain Paul Robinson is one of this year’s nostalgia picks. At 40/1, he’s a long shot for the title, but his willingness to embrace the fun side of Strictly could make him popular with viewers.

Ross King @ 50/1

Rounding out the field is Good Morning Britain’s Hollywood correspondent. At 50/1, Ross is the rank outsider, but Strictly has a history of shock runs — and with his showbiz knowledge and charm, he could yet surprise a few doubters.

 You can find all our latest Strictly Betting Tips over on Betfred Insights...