Zendaya, a name synonymous with talent and versatility in Hollywood, has conquered screens both big and small. From her Disney Channel beginnings to Emmy-winning performances and blockbuster movie roles, her career trajectory is nothing short of stellar. But before the accolades and global fame, there was another stage – the dance floor of Dancing With the Stars. This raises a burning question for many fans: Did Zendaya Win Dancing With The Stars? Let’s delve into her experience on the show and uncover the details of her journey.
Zendaya’s foray into Dancing With the Stars occurred in Season 16 back in 2013. At just 16 years old, she partnered with the seasoned pro Valentin Chmerkovskiy. Their pairing was dynamic, bringing youthful energy and impressive skill to the competition. Week after week, Zendaya and Val captivated audiences and judges alike with routines that showcased both technical prowess and artistic flair. They tackled various dance styles, from the elegant Waltz to the fiery Jive, consistently earning high scores and praise.
Despite their consistent top performances and undeniable fan support, Zendaya and Val’s quest for the mirrorball trophy culminated in a second-place finish. The coveted win that season went to country singer Kellie Pickler and her partner Derek Hough. While Zendaya didn’t clinch the top spot, her journey on Dancing With the Stars was far from a defeat. It was a platform that highlighted her dedication, work ethic, and ability to excel in a completely new discipline.
Zendaya and Valentin Chmerkovskiy performing on Dancing With the Stars, showcasing their dynamic partnership and impressive dance skills.
Interestingly, Zendaya herself has reflected on her Dancing With the Stars experience with a somewhat detached perspective. In a recent interview on EW’s The Awardist podcast, she revealed, “I have not watched Dancing With the Stars since I was on.” She further elaborated, “I didn’t really watch Dancing With the Stars before I was on Dancing With the Stars. I don’t think I was the target demographic… My grandma loves Dancing with the Stars, that’s her bag. But yeah, I also think it was a very stressful experience. I was like, I don’t think I’m gonna be watching this anymore.” This candid admission offers a glimpse into the intense pressure and demanding nature of the competition, even for someone as naturally gifted as Zendaya.
However, the Dancing With the Stars chapter, though perhaps stressful, played a significant role in shaping Zendaya’s career trajectory. Before gracing the dance floor, she was primarily known for her role in Disney Channel’s Shake It Up. DWTS broadened her exposure to a wider audience and showcased her versatility beyond acting. It demonstrated her willingness to take on challenges and her ability to shine in diverse fields.
Since her Dancing With the Stars stint, Zendaya’s career has ascended to remarkable heights. She has become a household name through her roles in blockbuster franchises like Spider-Man and Dune, critically acclaimed films like Challengers, and the groundbreaking HBO series Euphoria, for which she won two Primetime Emmy Awards.
Zendaya and Valentin Chmerkovskiy performing on Dancing With the Stars, showcasing their dynamic partnership and impressive dance skills.
Valentin Chmerkovskiy, her DWTS partner, has publicly acknowledged Zendaya’s incredible journey. Following her first Emmy win in 2020, he shared a heartfelt Instagram post, recalling their Dancing With the Stars experience. He reminisced about telling her after their second-place finish that the feeling of defeat would fuel her future successes. He expressed immense pride in her achievements, stating, “Our season on DWTS, and now your continued success since has brought me ridiculous amount of joy. I’m so proud of you Z! Youngest ever winner of an Emmy for a leading role. You’re a superstar, and always have been!”
In conclusion, while Zendaya did not win Dancing With the Stars, her participation was a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career. It showcased her talent, resilience, and determination, contributing to her evolution into the global superstar she is today. Her journey from the DWTS dance floor to Emmy-winning actress is a testament to her multifaceted abilities and unwavering drive to succeed, proving that sometimes, coming in second can be just the beginning of an extraordinary ascent.
