More than 11 million people tuned in to watch the Strictly Come Dancing final, the BBC said.
In a battle of talent versus entertainment, underdog BBC sports reporter Chris Hollins won over the public vote to take the crown.
He beat hot favourite Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle.
The BBC revealed the show attracted a peak audience of 11.7m viewers, which represented a 47% share.
After being declared the winner with tearful partner Ola Jordan, Hollins, 38, thanked family and friends before adding: "And I've got to say last, and definitely not least, little Ola chops - thank you so much for believing in me all the way along.
"I did test you a little bit, the jive and the quickstep come to mind.
"Thank you so much, you lovely little girl."
It was a surprise to many that Hollins made it to the final at all after an uninspiring start in the contest.
He was also told by the judges that he often had a "constipated" expression on his face while performing.
Judge Bruno Tonioli congratulated Jordan for turning a "frog into a prince" after the couple danced the fox-trot.
