Ilona Maher, the Olympic rugby player who championed female empowerment and body positivity, captured hearts and headlines on season 33 of “Dancing with the Stars.” While she ultimately finished as the runner-up, her journey on the show was nothing short of spectacular, filled with viral moments and inspiring performances. Fans tuned in week after week to witness Maher’s infectious energy and growth as a dancer, making her one of the season’s most memorable contestants.
The coveted mirrorball trophy for season 33 of “Dancing with the Stars” went to “The Bachelor” star Joey Graziadei and his professional partner Jenna Johnson. However, Ilona Maher, partnered with Alan Bersten, left an indelible mark on the competition. The Burlington, Vermont native showcased not only her athletic prowess but also her captivating personality and dedication to learning the art of dance. In the finale, Maher delivered two powerful routines, solidifying her place as a fan favorite and a true star.
One of her final performances was a freestyle dance set to a cover of Chappell Roan’s empowering anthem, “Femininomenon.” This choice of music perfectly encapsulated Maher’s message throughout the season: celebrating femininity in all its forms and breaking down traditional beauty standards. She also revisited a dance style that had previously challenged her, aiming for redemption and demonstrating her incredible progress.
Before her freestyle performance, Ilona Maher shared her heartfelt perspective on what the mirrorball trophy represented to her. “The mirrorball won’t be so much for me,” she expressed. “I think it’ll be for all the girls who’ve been told they’re too big or they’re too muscular and they’re not pretty.” This statement resonated deeply with viewers and further cemented her role as an inspiration for body positivity and self-acceptance.
Ilona Maher Conquers the Jive in Redemption Dance
During week four of “Dancing with the Stars,” Ilona Maher faced a significant challenge with the jive. The rapid footwork and demanding nature of the dance proved difficult, leading to a moment of vulnerability where Maher famously quipped, “I’ve been better, Carrie Ann,” after receiving critiques from judge Carrie Ann Inaba. This candid moment, filled with raw emotion and humor, went viral and highlighted Maher’s authentic personality.
Returning to the jive for her redemption dance in the finale, Ilona Maher was determined to demonstrate her growth and resilience. Partnered again with Alan Bersten, she danced to the energetic tune of “Shake A Tail Feather” by Ray Charles & The Blues Brothers. This time, Maher not only conquered the jive but also impressed the judges with her improved technique and confidence.
“We are two dances away from winning that mirror ball, and I know that I have more to give,” Maher confidently stated before her redemption performance. “So believe me, there will only be happy tears tonight, because this dance is going to be perfect.” Her prediction nearly came true, as all three judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli, awarded her an impressive score of nine out of ten for the jive, showcasing her remarkable improvement and determination.
Freestyle Performance Earns Perfect Score for Ilona Maher
The freestyle dance is a hallmark of the “Dancing with the Stars” finale, allowing each finalist to showcase their personality and journey through dance. Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten delivered a truly memorable freestyle routine that incorporated elements of her rugby background and celebrated her entire experience on the show.
Choosing “Femininomenon” by District 78 ft. Mona Reesa, Maher explained that the song was chosen “for all the girls who see themselves in me.” This powerful message, combined with a dynamic and engaging performance, resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience.
“Our freestyle encapsulates our journey,” Maher shared, highlighting the emotional depth of the performance. “There’s gonna be a lot of ups and downs and all the parts that were so special throughout this competition. I’ve gotten to play so many characters, but tonight I’m just gonna be filled with pride, and I’m just gonna go out there and dance as me.” For the first time in season 33, Ilona Maher achieved a perfect score, receiving tens across the board from all three judges, a testament to her hard work and growth throughout the competition.
Dancing with the Stars Finale: How the Finalists Ranked
The final results of “Dancing with the Stars” are determined by a combination of judges’ scores and viewer votes. With no elimination in the previous week, scores and votes from the semi-finals carried over to the finale, making every point crucial. Here’s how the finalists placed in season 33:
- Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson – Total combined judges’ scores: 117/120
- Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten – Total combined judges’ scores: 114/120
- Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong – Total combined judges’ scores: 118/120
- Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold – Total combined judges’ scores: 112/120
- Danny Amendola and Witney Carson – Total combined judges’ scores: 110/120
While Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten earned second place with a total judges’ score of 114 out of 120, their impact on the season extended far beyond the scores. Maher’s journey resonated with audiences who appreciated her message of self-love, body positivity, and her inspiring dedication to pushing her boundaries.
Ilona Maher Joins the Dancing with the Stars Live Tour
The excitement for Ilona Maher fans doesn’t end with the season finale. It was announced during the broadcast that Maher will be joining the “Dancing with the Stars: Live!” tour, bringing her captivating performances to audiences across the country.
Joining Maher on the tour will be season 33 winner Joey Graziadei and fellow finalist Chandler Kinney. Stephen Nedoroscik will also participate as a co-host for the live shows. The tour is set to commence in January, and a complete schedule of dates and locations can be found on the official DWTS tour website. This provides fans with another opportunity to witness Ilona Maher’s incredible talent and infectious energy firsthand.
Ilona Maher’s journey on “Dancing with the Stars” was more than just a competition; it was a platform for inspiration and empowerment. Her performances, coupled with her powerful message, made her a true standout and a star whose light will continue to shine brightly, both on and off the dance floor.
