The dazzling finale night of Dancing With the Stars season 30 delivered unforgettable performances and a historic win! While fans missed Derek Hough due to ongoing pandemic protocols, Julianne Hough stepped in as guest judge, adding extra sparkle to the ballroom. The atmosphere was electric as the final four couples competed for the coveted mirrorball trophy. Let’s dive into the highlights of this thrilling night.
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‘Dancing With the Stars’ host Tyra Banks on stage during season 30 finale.
The first round saw each couple perform a fusion dance, blending two styles they’d previously tackled this season.
Cody Rigsby and Cheryl Burke danced a vibrant paso doble and cha cha fusion. Judge Len Goodman noted, “Sometimes underdogs bite back, and that’s what you have done tonight.” Carrie Ann Inaba praised Cody’s journey, stating, “All I can think of is how far you have truly come. You have proven yourself.” Their energetic performance earned them a score of 36 out of 40.
Amanda Kloots and Alan Bersten gracefully fused their Viennese waltz and paso doble. Julianne Hough was impressed, saying, “What a way to open up the finale, by the way! You have been consistent. Consistency is your strength.” Inaba added, “Every time you step in, I know we will get quality. The accessibility of your emotions right now has made me so proud.” They received a score of 38 out of 40 for their elegant routine.
Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach delivered a captivating cha cha-foxtrot fusion. Goodman lauded their performance: “What I love about your dancing, you dance cool. There was no confusion in the fusion; it was really right on. Well done.” Their unique style and undeniable progress throughout Dancing With the Stars season 30 earned them a perfect score of 40 out of 40.
JoJo Siwa and Jenna Johnson, consistent frontrunners throughout the season, performed a dynamic tango and cha cha fusion to “I Don’t Care.” Goodman celebrated their impact, “You’ve just proved it doesn’t matter if it’s two girls dancing together or two guys. If the dancing’s great, magic happens.” Their exceptional technique and artistry also garnered a perfect score of 40 out of 40.
During the intermission, Spice Girl Mel C took the stage to perform “Two Become One,” while a nostalgic montage of Dancing With the Stars season 30 highlights played, reminding everyone of the season’s journey.
The second round of the finale was the highly anticipated freestyle performances, where couples could showcase their creativity and personality without constraints.
Cody Rigsby and Cheryl Burke embraced a high-energy freestyle, featuring a pole and pop and lock elements. Julianne Hough enthusiastically exclaimed, “Let that freak flag fly! In all seriousness, you give everybody permission to be their fully expressed selves. I feel more alive. I feel free! Thank you for giving your full self.” Their liberating and expressive freestyle earned them another perfect score.
Amanda Kloots and Alan Bersten presented a breathtaking freestyle, beginning with aerial work on ropes before transitioning into a vibrant celebration “under the stars.” Inaba was deeply moved, stating, “This show really is special. I’m telling you my darling we have seen a star reborn in front of our eyes. My darling, keep that light alive. You are shining brighter than ever.” Their emotional and visually stunning performance also achieved a perfect score.
JoJo Siwa and Jenna Johnson delivered a powerful freestyle to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way,” incorporating samba, cha cha, and salsa elements, and featuring same-sex pro dancers as backup. Goodman praised their season-long excellence: “For 11 weeks you have been a standout couple.” Their technically brilliant and impactful freestyle earned them yet another perfect score.
Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach closed the freestyle round with a groundbreaking performance that Julianne Hough declared her “favorite freestyle of all time.” Bruno Tonioli was equally impressed, adding, “That was ah-maz-ing.” Their innovative and captivating routine secured their second perfect score of the night.
After a record number of votes were cast for Dancing With the Stars season 30, the results were revealed.
Fourth place went to Amanda Kloots and Alan Bersten.
Third place was awarded to Cody Rigsby and Cheryl Burke.
Second place went to the consistently high-scoring JoJo Siwa and Jenna Johnson.
And the winners of Dancing With the Stars season 30, taking home the mirrorball trophy, are Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach!
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‘Dancing With the Stars’ season 30 winners Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach celebrate their victory.
This historic win marks the first time an NBA player has ever won Dancing With the Stars, and it’s also the first mirrorball trophy for Daniella Karagach, who joined the show just last year. The victory of Iman and Daniella is a testament to growth, dedication, and the magic of Dancing With the Stars season 30.
