Zendaya, the celebrated actress known for her roles in Euphoria, Spider-Man, and Dune, once graced the dance floor of Dancing With the Stars. Her participation in Season 16 back in 2013 remains a point of interest for fans, especially with her incredible success since then. Recently, Zendaya revealed in an interview with EW’s The Awardist podcast that she hasn’t watched Dancing With the Stars since her own time on the show. This revelation has sparked renewed curiosity about her experience on the popular dance competition. For those wondering about her journey on the show and the ultimate question – Did Zendaya Win On Dancing With The Stars? – let’s delve into the details.
Zendaya’s journey on Dancing With the Stars began in Season 16, where she was partnered with the talented Valentin Chmerkovskiy. At just 16 years old, she brought a youthful energy and undeniable talent to the ballroom. Week after week, Zendaya and Val impressed judges and audiences alike with their captivating performances. They showcased a range of dance styles, from the energetic Jive to the passionate Argentine Tango, consistently earning high scores and praise. Her background as a Disney Channel star and her natural charisma translated seamlessly onto the dance floor, making her a strong contender for the mirrorball trophy.
Zendaya and Valentin Chmerkovskiy on Dancing with the Stars
Despite her consistent high scores and fan support, Zendaya’s quest for the mirrorball trophy culminated in a second-place finish. The coveted win in Season 16 went to country singer Kellie Pickler and her partner Derek Hough. While Zendaya and Val delivered memorable routines and were considered frontrunners throughout the season, they ultimately were the runners-up. This close finish was undoubtedly a learning experience for the young star, showcasing the competitive nature of Dancing With the Stars and the unpredictable element of audience votes.
In her recent interview, Zendaya mentioned that Dancing With the Stars was a “stressful experience” and admitted she “didn’t really watch Dancing With the Stars before I was on Dancing With the Stars.” She also humorously noted that her grandmother is a fan of the show, implying it wasn’t necessarily in her usual viewing demographic. This candid reflection provides insight into her perspective on the show, suggesting it was a challenging chapter in her early career rather than a fond memory she revisits.
Zendaya and Valentin Chmerkovskiy on Dancing with the Stars
Since her time on Dancing With the Stars, Zendaya’s career has skyrocketed to incredible heights. From her Disney Channel days on Shake It Up to leading roles in blockbuster movies and critically acclaimed television series, she has become a global superstar. Her portrayal of Rue Bennett in HBO’s Euphoria earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards, solidifying her status as a leading actress. Even though she didn’t win the mirrorball trophy, her Dancing With the Stars partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, acknowledged her Emmy win with pride, recalling a moment after their DWTS loss where he predicted her future success. He recognized her dedication and talent, understanding that even in defeat, valuable lessons are learned.
While Zendaya didn’t win Dancing With the Stars, her journey on the show remains a notable part of her early career. It showcased her versatility and star power, contributing to her trajectory towards becoming the multifaceted entertainer she is today. Her experience, though stressful at the time, undoubtedly played a role in shaping her work ethic and resilience, qualities evident in her continued success in Hollywood. So, to definitively answer the question: no, Zendaya did not win Dancing With the Stars, but she undoubtedly won in the long run, achieving phenomenal success in her acting career and beyond.
