From battling interdimensional threats as America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to mastering the intricate steps of ballroom dance, Xochitl Gomez has proven her versatility and talent. Fans who know her for navigating the multiverse were thrilled to see her conquer a different kind of challenge: the dance floor on “Dancing With the Stars.” In a dazzling display of skill and charisma, Gomez, at just 17 years old, clinched the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy in Season 32 of the popular competition.
Her journey to victory culminated on Tuesday night’s finale, where Gomez and her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, wowed judges and audiences alike. They delivered two perfect-score performances that showcased her impressive growth throughout the season. First, their elegant foxtrot, set to Katy Perry’s “Unconditionally,” highlighted Gomez’s grace and poise. Then, for their freestyle dance, the duo unleashed an energetic and culturally rich routine to District 78’s “Que Calor.” This dynamic performance not only earned them another perfect score but also cemented their place at the top.
Gomez’s path to the Mirrorball wasn’t without stiff competition. She triumphed over a talented field of finalists, including singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, “Vanderpump Rules” star Ariana Madix, former “Bachelorette” Charity Lawson, and actress Alyson Hannigan. Despite the high caliber of her fellow contestants, Gomez’s dedication and natural aptitude for dance shone brightly each week.
While her youth might suggest inexperience, Gomez is not the youngest winner in “Dancing With the Stars” history. That record remains with Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez, who won at 16. However, Gomez’s win is significant for another reason: she becomes only the second woman of Latino descent to claim the trophy, following in Hernandez’s footsteps. Notably, both Gomez and Hernandez shared Val Chmerkovskiy as their winning partner, marking a unique achievement for the pro dancer.
Throughout the season, Gomez expressed a desire to incorporate her Mexican heritage into her performances, adding another layer of depth to her routines. This commitment to representation was evident in her freestyle dance, which paid homage to Día de los Muertos. She shared in an interview on “Good Morning America” that she wanted to ensure the “Latino portion” of her ballroom dances was as “accurate as I can,” emphasizing the importance of representation in her costumes, set design, and overall presentation.
The inspiration for the Día de los Muertos theme came from a personal experience: Gomez took Chmerkovskiy to his first Día de los Muertos dinner. The ofrenda he saw there sparked the idea for their emotionally resonant and visually stunning freestyle, showcasing a beautiful blend of personal connection and cultural celebration.
Before captivating audiences with her dance moves, Xochitl Gomez was already making waves in Hollywood. In 2022, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as America Chavez, a groundbreaking queer Latina superhero. Her growing resume also includes roles in “The Baby-Sitters Club,” “Gentefied,” and “Ursa Major,” solidifying her status as a rising star in the entertainment industry. However, her victory on “Dancing With the Stars” introduces her to a broader audience and highlights another facet of her multifaceted talent, proving that Xochitl Gomez is a force to be reckoned with, both on screen and on the dance floor.
