Shawn Johnson, the 2008 Olympic Beam Champion, captivated audiences throughout her run on Dancing with the Stars All-Stars. Paired with Derek Hough, Johnson consistently delivered exceptional performances, making them fan favorites and strong contenders for the Mirrorball Trophy. Their journey culminated in a memorable finale alongside Melissa Rycroft and Kelly Monaco.
One of the most talked-about moments of the season was during Monday night’s performance when Johnson was joined by her Fierce Five teammates – Aly Raisman, Jordyn Wieber, Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney, and Kyla Ross – for a dynamic “super sized freestyle” dance. This performance was so electrifying that it opened the Finale show with a special encore, showcasing the power and camaraderie of the Olympic gold medal-winning gymnastics team.
In the final round, the remaining couples each performed one last dance for judges’ scores, which were combined with viewer votes to determine the All-Star Champion. Johnson delivered a flawless final dance, earning three perfect 10s. Photo via ABC* 2008 Olympic Beam Champion Shawn Johnson has captivated fans all season with her excellent performances on Dancing with the Stars All Stars. Despite her technical brilliance and apparent popularity, Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough finished as runners-up, with the victory surprisingly going to Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani.
Bruce R. Miller of the Sioux City Journal highlighted the shock of the results, suggesting possible network influence in favor of Rycroft. Miller described Johnson as “the most technically perfect dancer in the history of the show,” praising her unmatched skill and innovative moves that set her apart from other contestants. Johnson’s gymnastics background undoubtedly contributed to her dance prowess, making her a compelling and unforgettable performer on Dancing with the Stars. Her routines were a highlight of the season, demonstrating athleticism, artistry, and sheer entertainment value.
