The BBC committed an on-screen blunder during Saturday evening’s Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Final when it incorrectly identified the Duchess of Edinburgh using an outdated title.
As Prince Edward’s wife appeared in a surprise video segment, the broadcaster displayed “Sophie Wessex, HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh” beneath her image.
This caption was inaccurate, as Sophie relinquished the Wessex designation following adjustments to royal titles.
The error occurred during one of the corporation’s most-watched live programmes of the year, with the final drawing millions of viewers to their screens for the climax of the dancing competition.
BBC sparks backlash after Duchess of Edinburgh blunder during Strictly final
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BBC
The Duchess of Edinburgh, who serves as Patron of Mencap, delivered the heartfelt message as part of a tribute compilation honouring contestant Ellie Goldstein.
Ms Goldstein made history this series as the first person with Down’s syndrome to compete on the BBC dancing programme, though she was eliminated as the fifth celebrity to leave.
In her recorded appearance, a smiling Sophie stated: “I’m Patron of MENCAP and Ellie is one of our amazing supporters. She has dispelled quite a number of perceptions of people with learning disabilities.”
The 24-year-old model and actress returned to Saturday’s finale alongside her professional partner Vito Coppola, whom she described as “the best guy in the world”.
Karen Carney and Carlos Gu with their trophy after winning the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing
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PA
Sharp-eyed viewers were quick to highlight the mistake across social media platforms, with many expressing disbelief that such an error could slip through during a flagship BBC broadcast.
One fan posted on X with evident frustration: “She isn’t called Sophie Wessex anymore!” accompanied by a face palm emoji.
Questions emerged about how the incorrect caption made it to air on what ranks among the corporation’s premier live events of the calendar year.
Not all reactions focused on the gaffe, however, with another viewer choosing to celebrate the royal involvement, writing: “Had all the royal touches tonight from Duchess of Edinburgh and Queen Camilla. #Strictly”
Queen Camilla paid tribute to Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they hosted their last live show
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PA
Vito Coppola and Ellie Goldstein during their appearance on Strictly Come Dancing
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PA
The Duchess of Edinburgh was not the sole member of the Royal Family to feature during the evening’s broadcast.
Queen Camilla, a well-known enthusiast of the dancing programme, penned a personal letter to departing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they hosted their final episode.
Long-serving judge Craig Revel Horwood, who has been with Strictly since its 2004 debut, read the tribute aloud, admitting he felt “nervous” before confirming its authenticity.
Her Majesty praised the hosting duo for their “warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness”, describing them as “utterly fabulous” and urging them to “keep dancing” as they embark on new ventures.
