Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars Episode 9 brought the heat as the five remaining couples battled it out for a coveted spot in the finale. In this week’s intense Semi-Finals, each pair had to master two routines: a Latin dance and a ballroom dance, both in styles they hadn’t yet tackled this season. With the finale just around the corner, the judges brought their A-game, offering sharper critiques and higher stakes.
Last week’s Episode 8, which marked the incredible 500th episode of DWTS, saw the return of pro Sharna Burgess and showcased exciting fan-favorite remixes. However, the joy was bittersweet as NBA star Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach were sent home, their height difference proving too challenging to overcome.
Meanwhile, Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong continued their reign, achieving a perfect score of 60/60. Their Argentine Tango was a mesmerizing blend of drama and sensuality, even earning praise from Derek Hough, who admitted to preferring it over his own original choreography. Their energetic Cha-Cha to Charli XCX’s “Apple” further solidified their top contender status. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson weren’t far behind, securing second place with a solid 55 points.
What Went Down in Dancing with the Stars Season 33, Episode 9?
The night kicked off with a vibrant opening number choreographed by Sasha Farber and Ezra Sosa, set to Dua Lipa’s infectious “Dance The Night.” From there, the remaining couples took to the floor, delivering performances across a range of styles including the elegant Fox Trot, passionate Paso Doble, graceful Viennese Waltz, lively Salsa, energetic Cha-Cha, and dramatic Tango. There was truly something for every dance enthusiast to enjoy.
Alt text: Hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro on stage during Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9, setting the scene for the semi-finals.
This week’s challenge was amplified by the double performance requirement, demanding two full routines from each couple. The judges lived up to their reputation for high standards, becoming noticeably more critical, adding extra pressure to the already tense semi-finals environment. This episode undoubtedly felt like the most demanding of the season, with contestants juggling the pressure of reaching the finale while perfecting two distinct and complete performances.
Surprise! No Elimination in Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9
In a surprising twist, hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough announced that no one would be eliminated in Dancing With The Stars Season 33 Episode 9! All five couples would proceed to dance in the finale. The co-hosts playfully prolonged the suspense, letting the bottom two couples sweat it out before revealing the good news – everyone was safe.
Alt text: Dancing With The Stars Season 33 contestants express relief and excitement upon hearing the no elimination announcement in Episode 9, semi-finals.
Last season also saw five couples in the finale, deviating from the usual four. This season, it’s easy to see why each of the remaining contestants earned their place in the final showdown.
Throughout the season, the leaderboard has seen its share of shifts. While Chandler and Brandon have often been considered front-runners, the competition remains incredibly tight. Each couple has demonstrated impressive dance skills, promising a thrilling battle for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
Adding to the night’s entertainment, Mandy Moore, a renowned choreographer, presented a dance featuring performers from the DWTS LIVE 2025 Tour. However, the evening’s biggest surprise came when Julianne Hough herself took center stage, delivering a sizzling, high-energy routine with the male professional dancers. Julianne’s performance was a definite highlight!
Top Scores of the Night in Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong, alongside Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson, achieved a tie for the highest scores in Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9.
Chandler and Brandon’s fiery Salsa, set to “Spicy Margarita” by Jason Derulo and Michael Bublé, ignited the ballroom. Carrie Ann Inaba exclaimed, “You are on fire, Chandler! You are so spicy, and there’s a new side of you that’s coming out.” Derek Hough added, “It’s the semi-finals, but you danced like you were already in the finals.” While Derek suggested incorporating more Salsa content, the judges awarded them an impressive 29 out of 30.
Alt text: Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong deliver a high-scoring Salsa performance during Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9 semi-finals.
Their subsequent Foxtrot was equally captivating. “I mean, this was the most intensely sensuous Foxtrot I have ever seen,” Bruno Tonioli raved. “You went supernova tonight!” Despite Carrie Ann noticing a foot lift, resulting in a point deduction, they still earned a remarkable 29 for their Foxtrot.
Joey and Jenna’s Foxtrot, danced to “I Won’t Dance” by Erin Boheme featuring District 78, was equally stunning. “Fred Astaire is high-fiving you right now,” Derek Hough declared. “That was one of the best, if not the best, Foxtrots I’ve ever seen from a male celebrity – ever.” This performance earned them a perfect score of 30.
Alt text: Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson impress judges with their Foxtrot routine in Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9, earning a perfect score.
While their Paso Doble had a minor stumble, with Carrie Ann pointing out Joey’s slightly early start, they still secured a strong 28 out of 30. These two couples are clearly strong contenders with the potential to seize the Mirrorball trophy.
Judge’s Scores in DWTS Season 33, Episode 9: Combined Leaderboard
Here’s a breakdown of the combined judge’s scores for both rounds in Episode 9:
- Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong – (Salsa and Foxtrot) – 58
- Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson (Foxtrot and Paso Doble) – 58
- Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten (Paso Doble and Viennese Waltz) – 57
- Danny Amendola and Witney Carson – (Viennese Waltz and Salsa) – 54
- Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold – (Cha-Cha and Tango) – 53
Joey and Jenna’s Hollywood-esque Foxtrot was a definite highlight, especially considering Joey’s historic journey as the first Bachelor to reach the finale. While Bachelorettes have claimed victory before, a Bachelor win would be a significant milestone. The transformation of celebrities with no prior dance experience is always a captivating aspect of the show.
Danny, Ilona, and Stephen, all dance novices, have experienced fluctuating journeys throughout the season. Danny and Witney’s Salsa to “I Like It” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin was a standout, featuring incredible lifts and tricks that left the judges in awe.
Stephen and Rylee’s Tango was memorable for Stephen’s near mishap with his glasses, which slipped mid-performance but didn’t disrupt his lead – a testament to his remarkable progress.
Ilona and Alan’s Viennese Waltz to JVKE’s “golden hour” was particularly moving. Bruno Tonioli described it as “radiant… elegant, sweet, and tender,” praising Ilona’s vulnerability and musicality.
Final Thoughts on Dancing with the Stars Season 33, Episode 9
The no-elimination twist in Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Episode 9 was unexpected, particularly after last season’s similar finale setup. The episode had a celebratory atmosphere, highlighting the remarkable growth of each contestant. Danny, Ilona, and Stephen, alongside Joey, have shown significant improvement throughout the competition.
While Chandler’s dance background gives her an edge, even she and Brandon have faced weeks where they didn’t top the leaderboard, proving that the competition is open. This season boasts a fiercely competitive group, all vying for the Mirrorball Trophy. As always, the Freestyle round in the finale will likely be the deciding factor.
The Season 33 DWTS finale is shaping up to be an unmissable, nail-biting event!
Dancing with the Stars Season 33 airs on Tuesdays, at 8/7c on ABC and Disney+.
WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ON DANCING WITH THE STARS SEASON 33, EPISODE 9? WHICH PERFORMANCE CAPTURED YOUR ATTENTION? AND WHO ARE YOU CHEERING ON TO WIN THE MIRRORBALL TROPHY?
