Since its premiere on June 1, 2005, “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS) has captivated audiences for over 500 episodes, celebrating dance and the journeys of celebrities as they learn to master ballroom techniques. Across its impressive run of 33 seasons, the show has seen numerous stars partnered with professional dancers, each vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. From athletes to actors, musicians to reality stars, the winners of “Dancing with the Stars” represent a diverse range of talents and backgrounds. Let’s take a dance down memory lane and celebrate every single ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winner throughout the show’s history.
Each season of “DWTS” follows a thrilling format. Celebrities are paired with professional dancers, embarking on a journey of rigorous training and weekly performances. Each week, these couples perform routines in various dance styles, often tied to a specific theme, judged by a panel of experts and viewer votes. The couple with the lowest combined score faces elimination, making each week a high-stakes competition. This elimination process continues until only one couple remains, crowned the champions and awarded the prestigious Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. With 32 regular seasons and one special all-star season, there’s a rich history of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winners to explore.
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Alt text: Promotional split image for Dancing with the Stars Season 32, highlighting celebrity cast members and the Mirrorball Trophy.]
The list of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winners showcases a fascinating mix of individuals. Legendary sports figures have proven their athleticism extends to the dance floor, iconic musicians have brought rhythm and artistry, and beloved Hollywood actors have charmed audiences with their grace and dedication. Beyond their established careers, these ‘Dancing with the Stars’ champions share a common thread: they embraced the challenge, worked tirelessly, and connected with viewers through their performances.
Below is a comprehensive list of all ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winners, from the very first season to the most recent, along with their professional dance partners. This complete guide celebrates every ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winner and their journey to Mirrorball glory.
‘Dancing with the Stars’ Winners: By Season
- Season 1: Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo – The inaugural season set the stage for the DWTS phenomenon, with actress Kelly Monaco taking home the first Mirrorball.
- Season 2: Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke – Singer Drew Lachey continued the winning streak, showcasing impressive dance skills.
- Season 3: Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke – NFL legend Emmitt Smith proved his competitive spirit translated to ballroom, securing another win for Cheryl Burke.
- Season 4: Apolo Ohno and Julianne Hough – Olympic gold medalist Apolo Ohno brought his athleticism and focus to the dance floor, winning with Julianne Hough.
- Season 5: Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough – Race car driver Hélio Castroneves added speed and precision to his routines, marking Julianne Hough’s second consecutive win.
- Season 6: Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas – Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi’s grace and artistry made her a natural fit for DWTS, winning with Mark Ballas.
- Season 7: Brooke Burke and Derek Hough – TV personality Brooke Burke charmed viewers and judges alike, earning Derek Hough his first Mirrorball Trophy.
- Season 8: Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas – Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson’s incredible flexibility and strength wowed audiences, securing a win with Mark Ballas.
- Season 9: Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson – Music icon Donny Osmond brought his showmanship and energy to DWTS, winning with Kym Johnson.
- Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough – Singer Nicole Scherzinger’s dance background and star power made her a formidable competitor, giving Derek Hough his second win.
- Season 11: Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough – Actress Jennifer Grey’s emotional performances resonated with viewers, resulting in another Mirrorball for Derek Hough.
- Season 12: Hines Ward and Kym Johnson – NFL star Hines Ward demonstrated surprising grace and rhythm, securing a win with Kym Johnson.
- Season 13: J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff – Actor and veteran J.R. Martinez inspired audiences with his journey and powerful performances, winning with Karina Smirnoff.
- Season 14: Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd – NFL player Donald Driver’s infectious energy and enthusiasm led him to victory with Peta Murgatroyd.
- Season 15 (All-Stars): Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani – Returning contestant Melissa Rycroft showcased her improved skills, winning the All-Stars season with Tony Dovolani.
- Season 16: Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough – Country singer Kellie Pickler’s charm and dedication earned her the Mirrorball, marking Derek Hough’s fourth win.
- Season 17: Amber Riley and Derek Hough – Actress and singer Amber Riley brought her powerful stage presence to DWTS, securing Derek Hough’s fifth victory.
- Season 18: Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy – Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis displayed elegance and artistry, winning with Maksim Chmerkovskiy.
- Season 19: Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson – Actor Alfonso Ribeiro’s infectious personality and dance background made him a fan favorite, winning with Witney Carson.
- Season 20: Rumer Willis and Val Chmerkovskiy – Actress Rumer Willis impressed with her versatility and emotional depth, winning with Val Chmerkovskiy.
- Season 21: Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough – Conservationist Bindi Irwin’s joyful spirit and dedication captivated audiences, earning Derek Hough his record-breaking sixth win.
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Alt text: Julianne Hough, former Dancing with the Stars pro and current co-host, smiling on set, highlighting her journey from champion to host.]
- Season 22: Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd – Model and actor Nyle DiMarco, the first deaf contestant, delivered powerful and moving performances, winning with Peta Murgatroyd.
- Season 23: Laurie Hernandez and Val Chmerkovskiy – Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez brought her youthful energy and precision to the dance floor, securing Val Chmerkovskiy’s second win.
- Season 24: Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater – NFL player Rashad Jennings impressed with his athleticism and grace, winning with Emma Slater.
- Season 25: Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold – Actor and singer Jordan Fisher’s natural talent and showmanship made him a standout winner with Lindsay Arnold.
- Season 26 (Athletes): Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson – Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon’s personality and artistry shone through, winning the Athletes season with Jenna Johnson.
- Season 27: Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess – Radio personality Bobby Bones, the “underdog” winner, proved that personality and fan support can lead to victory with Sharna Burgess.
- Season 28: Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten – Reality TV star Hannah Brown’s journey and growth resonated with viewers, winning with Alan Bersten.
- Season 29: Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev – Reality TV star Kaitlyn Bristowe brought her competitive spirit and dance experience to DWTS, winning with Artem Chigvintsev.
- Season 30: Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach – NBA player Iman Shumpert surprised audiences with his artistry and unique style, winning with Daniella Karagach.
- Season 31: Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas – Social media star Charli D’Amelio’s dance background and huge fanbase made her a frontrunner, winning with Mark Ballas.
- Season 32: Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy – Actress Xochitl Gomez impressed with her rapid improvement and captivating performances, securing Val Chmerkovskiy’s third win.
- Season 33: Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson – Reality TV star Joey Graziadei, the most recent winner, charmed audiences and judges alike, earning Jenna Johnson her second Mirrorball Trophy.
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Alt text: Julianne Hough, co-host of Dancing with the Stars, pictured in a glamorous outfit, promoting her role in the show.]
From season one to the latest champions, the ‘Dancing with the Stars’ winners list is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and star power that defines the show. Each winner’s journey is unique, but they all share the achievement of winning the coveted Mirrorball Trophy and etching their names into ‘Dancing with the Stars’ history. As we look forward to future seasons, the legacy of these ‘Dancing with the Stars’ champions continues to inspire and entertain.
