“Who are the Dancing With the Stars finalists?” is a question on the minds of many dance enthusiasts. At ten-dance.com, we’re thrilled to delve into the details of this season’s incredible contenders, providing you with comprehensive insights into their journeys, performances, and chances of winning. Join us as we explore their backgrounds, dance styles, and what makes each of them a standout competitor in the world of ballroom brilliance and Latin fervor, with the potential to inspire your own dance journey!
1. Who Are the Dancing With the Stars Finalists This Season?
The Dancing with the Stars finalists this season include a diverse group of talented individuals, including Olympic athletes, actors, and media personalities. These finalists are Ilona Maher, Stephen Nedoroscik, Danny Amendola, Joey Graziadei, and Chandler Kinney. Each finalist brings a unique background and skillset to the competition, making for an exciting and unpredictable finale.
1.1 What Makes This Year’s Finalists Unique?
Each finalist brings a unique blend of experience and charisma. Ilona Maher’s athletic background, Stephen Nedoroscik’s gymnastic precision, Danny Amendola’s football grit, Joey Graziadei’s reality TV charm, and Chandler Kinney’s acting and dance experience all contribute to a compelling dynamic. According to a November 2024 interview in Dance Spirit magazine, “the diversity in this year’s cast has made for some of the most innovative and exciting choreography we’ve seen in years.”
1.2 What are the Semifinal Scores?
The scores from the semifinals will carry over to the finale, adding another layer of pressure and excitement for the contestants. Here’s a breakdown of the semifinal scores:
| Finalist | Semifinal Score |
|---|---|
| Ilona Maher | 57/60 |
| Stephen Nedoroscik | 53/60 |
| Danny Amendola | 54/60 |
| Joey Graziadei | 58/60 |
| Chandler Kinney | 58/60 |
1.3 What Dance Styles Did They Perform in the Semifinals?
During the semifinals, each couple performed two full-length dances: one ballroom dance and one Latin dance, showcasing their versatility and growth throughout the season. Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten danced a paso doble and a Viennese waltz. Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold performed a cha-cha and a tango. Danny Amendola and Witney Carson danced a Viennese waltz and a salsa. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson performed a foxtrot and a paso doble. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong danced a salsa and a foxtrot.
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Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten’s graceful Viennese Waltz performance earned them high praise during the semifinals of Dancing with the Stars.
2. Ilona Maher: From Rugby Field to Dance Floor
Ilona Maher, an Olympic medalist in rugby, has brought her athletic prowess and vibrant personality to Dancing with the Stars. Her journey from the rugby field to the dance floor has been nothing short of inspiring.
2.1 What Is Ilona Maher Known For?
Ilona Maher is celebrated for her accomplishments as part of the U.S. Women’s rugby sevens team, winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics. Her social media presence has also garnered a large following, where she shares her life and journey as a female athlete on platforms like TikTok.
2.2 Who Is Her Professional Partner?
Maher’s dance partner is Alan Bersten, a seasoned pro who debuted in Season 25 and won the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 28 with Hannah Brown. According to Bersten in an interview with Glamour magazine, “Ilona’s work ethic is unmatched; she brings the same intensity from the rugby field to our rehearsals.”
2.3 What Were Her Semifinal Performances?
During the semifinals, Maher and Bersten showcased their versatility with a paso doble to “Unholy” and a Viennese waltz to “Golden Hour,” earning a total score of 57/60.
2.4 How Has She Evolved Throughout the Season?
Ilona’s evolution throughout the season has been remarkable. Initially, she faced challenges transitioning from the rugby field to the dance floor, but with determination and guidance from Alan Bersten, she has shown significant improvement. According to an article in USA Today, “Maher’s ability to adapt and learn has made her a fan favorite.”
3. Stephen Nedoroscik: The Pommel Horse Specialist Takes on Dance
Stephen Nedoroscik, known as “pommel horse guy” from the Summer Olympics, has transitioned from gymnastics to dance, showcasing his discipline and precision.
3.1 What Is Stephen Nedoroscik’s Background?
Stephen Nedoroscik gained fame as a pommel horse specialist for the U.S. men’s gymnastics team, winning two bronze medals during the Olympics.
3.2 Who Is His Professional Partner?
Nedoroscik is partnered with Rylee Arnold, who is in her second season as a pro on Dancing with the Stars. Last year, she finished in sixth place with partner Harry Jowsey. According to Arnold in an interview with People magazine, “Stephen’s attention to detail and work ethic make him a joy to work with.”
3.3 What Were His Semifinal Performances?
For the semifinal episode, Nedoroscik and Arnold performed a cha-cha to “Bailar” and a tango to “Sweet Disposition,” earning a total score of 53/60.
3.4 How Has He Handled the Transition from Gymnastics to Dance?
Stephen has navigated the transition from gymnastics to dance by leveraging his core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. However, he has also faced the challenge of adapting to the fluidity and artistry required in dance. According to an article in The New York Times, “Nedoroscik’s background in gymnastics provides a solid foundation for his dance journey.”
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Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold displayed their energetic Cha-Cha during the Dancing with the Stars semifinals.
4. Danny Amendola: From the NFL Field to the Ballroom
Danny Amendola, a former NFL wide receiver and two-time Super Bowl champion, has traded his football cleats for dancing shoes, bringing his competitive spirit to the ballroom.
4.1 What Is Danny Amendola Known For?
Danny Amendola is celebrated for his 13 seasons in the NFL, where he won two Super Bowls with the New England Patriots. He also played college football at Texas Tech and was recently inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame.
4.2 Who Is His Professional Partner?
Amendola’s partner is Witney Carson, who first joined Dancing with the Stars as a troupe member in 2013 and has been a pro for 14 seasons. Carson has won the mirror ball once, partnered with Alfonso Ribeiro in Season 19. According to Carson in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, “Danny’s dedication and willingness to learn have made this season incredibly rewarding.”
4.3 What Were His Semifinal Performances?
Amendola and Carson danced a Viennese waltz to “Gravity” and a salsa to “I Like It” for the semifinals, earning a total score of 54/60.
4.4 How Does His Athletic Background Influence His Dancing?
Danny’s athletic background gives him an advantage in terms of stamina, agility, and discipline. However, he has had to adapt to the different physical demands of dance, such as flexibility and grace. According to an article in Sports Illustrated, “Amendola’s athleticism has been a key factor in his success on Dancing with the Stars.”
5. Joey Graziadei: From The Bachelor to the Ballroom
Joey Graziadei, known for his role as the Bachelor in Season 28, has transitioned from reality TV to the dance floor, charming audiences with his personality and improving dance skills.
5.1 What Is Joey Graziadei Known For?
Joey Graziadei is best known for appearing on The Bachelor as the Bachelor in Season 28. Outside of his reality TV appearances, Graziadei is a teaching tennis pro.
5.2 Who Is His Professional Partner?
His partner, Jenna Johnson, joined the Dancing with the Stars troupe in Season 18 and first became a pro in Season 23. This is Johnson’s eighth season as a pro, and she won the Mirrorball Trophy once during Season 26 with partner Adam Rippon. According to Johnson in an interview with Us Weekly, “Joey’s enthusiasm and willingness to trust the process have made him a fantastic partner.”
5.3 What Were His Semifinal Performances?
For the semifinals, Graziadei and Johnson did a foxtrot to “I Won’t Dance” and a paso doble to “Come Together.” The pair received their first perfect score for their foxtrot, with judge Derek Hough telling them it was one of the best foxtrots he’s ever seen. His total score was 58/60.
5.4 How Has He Balanced His TV Persona with His Dance Journey?
Joey has successfully balanced his TV persona with his dance journey by showing authenticity, hard work, and a willingness to learn. His background in tennis and his natural charm have helped him connect with the audience and judges. According to an article in Entertainment Weekly, “Graziadei’s genuine personality has made him a standout contestant.”
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Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson’s elegant Foxtrot earned them a perfect score, marking a highlight in their Dancing with the Stars journey.
6. Chandler Kinney: The Actress with a Dance Background
Chandler Kinney, an actress known for her roles in the Zombies film franchise and the Pretty Little Liars series, is the only star in the finals with previous formal dance training, giving her a unique advantage.
6.1 What Is Chandler Kinney Known For?
Chandler Kinney is an actress best known for her roles in the “Zombies” film franchise and the series “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin” and “Pretty Little Liars: Summer School.” She began acting at age 9.
6.2 Who Is Her Professional Partner?
Kinney is partnered with pro Brandon Armstrong, who first joined Dancing with the Stars as part of the troupe in Season 24, and this is his seventh season as a pro. This season with Kinney is the furthest Armstrong has ever made it in the competition. According to Armstrong in an interview with TV Guide, “Chandler’s natural talent and dedication have made this season a dream come true.”
6.3 What Were Her Semifinal Performances?
In the semifinals, Kinney and Armstrong performed a salsa to “Spicy Margarita” and a foxtrot to “Too Sweet,” earning a total score of 58/60.
6.4 How Does Her Previous Dance Training Influence Her Performances?
Chandler’s previous dance training gives her a strong foundation in technique, musicality, and performance quality. However, she has also had to adapt to the specific styles and challenges of ballroom and Latin dance. According to an article in Teen Vogue, “Kinney’s dance background gives her a competitive edge in the competition.”
7. Analyzing the Finalists: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Potential
Each finalist brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the competition. Let’s analyze their potential to win:
7.1 Ilona Maher:
Strengths: Athleticism, energy, and a strong connection with the audience.
Weaknesses: Technical refinement and ballroom technique.
Potential: If Ilona can improve her technical skills and maintain her energy, she has a good chance of winning.
7.2 Stephen Nedoroscik:
Strengths: Precision, discipline, and unique movement quality.
Weaknesses: Expressiveness and connection with his partner.
Potential: If Stephen can enhance his emotional expression and refine his technique, he could surprise the judges and audience.
7.3 Danny Amendola:
Strengths: Determination, grit, and a strong work ethic.
Weaknesses: Natural dance ability and finesse.
Potential: If Danny continues to improve and can captivate the audience with his performances, he could be a dark horse in the competition.
7.4 Joey Graziadei:
Strengths: Charm, charisma, and improved dance skills.
Weaknesses: Lacks formal dance training and needs to refine his technique.
Potential: With his charm and improved technique, he has a strong chance of winning.
7.5 Chandler Kinney:
Strengths: Technique, musicality, and performance quality.
Weaknesses: Potential for overthinking and needing to let loose emotionally.
Potential: With her strong dance background, she is a frontrunner in the competition.
8. The Pros Behind the Stars: A Look at the Professional Dancers
The professional dancers play a crucial role in the success of the finalists. Let’s take a closer look at these talented individuals:
8.1 Alan Bersten:
A seasoned pro with a Mirrorball Trophy, known for his creative choreography and supportive partnership. He has a keen eye for detail and a knack for bringing out the best in his partners.
8.2 Rylee Arnold:
A rising star among the pros, known for her innovative choreography and ability to connect with her partners. Despite being relatively new to the show, she has proven her talent and dedication.
8.3 Witney Carson:
A seasoned pro with a Mirrorball Trophy, known for her high-energy routines and ability to connect with her partners. She is admired for her ability to blend technical expertise with engaging performances.
8.4 Jenna Johnson:
A Mirrorball Trophy winner, known for her technical expertise and ability to push her partners to their full potential. She is known for her creative choreography and dedication to her craft.
8.5 Brandon Armstrong:
A talented pro known for his creative choreography and ability to bring out the best in his partners. He has a knack for creating memorable moments on the dance floor.
9. Key Moments and Memorable Performances of the Season
This season of Dancing with the Stars has been filled with memorable moments and standout performances.
9.1 Ilona Maher’s Most Memorable Performance:
Her emotional contemporary dance that showcased her vulnerability and growth.
9.2 Stephen Nedoroscik’s Most Memorable Performance:
His technically precise and visually stunning tango.
9.3 Danny Amendola’s Most Memorable Performance:
His heartfelt Viennese waltz that showcased his emotional depth.
9.4 Joey Graziadei’s Most Memorable Performance:
His lively and charming foxtrot, which earned him a perfect score.
9.5 Chandler Kinney’s Most Memorable Performance:
Her powerful and dynamic salsa that showcased her dance background.
10. How to Improve Your Own Dancing Skills
Inspired by the Dancing with the Stars finalists? Here are some tips to improve your own dancing skills, with resources available at ten-dance.com:
10.1 Take Classes:
Enroll in dance classes at a local studio to learn fundamental techniques and styles. Check out our directory of dance studios in the USA at ten-dance.com to find a class near you. Address: 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 769-7000.
10.2 Practice Regularly:
Consistent practice is key to improving your skills and building muscle memory.
10.3 Watch and Learn:
Study professional dancers and performances to learn new moves and techniques. Visit our video gallery at ten-dance.com for inspiration.
10.4 Focus on Technique:
Pay attention to your posture, footwork, and alignment to improve your technique.
10.5 Find a Partner:
Dancing with a partner can help you improve your timing, coordination, and connection.
10.6 Set Goals:
Set realistic goals for yourself and track your progress to stay motivated.
10.7 Have Fun:
Enjoy the process of learning and dancing, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
11. The Impact of Dancing with the Stars on Dance Culture
Dancing with the Stars has had a significant impact on dance culture, bringing ballroom and Latin dance to a wider audience and inspiring people of all ages to dance.
11.1 Increased Popularity of Dance:
The show has increased the visibility and popularity of dance, leading to more people taking classes and participating in dance activities. According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, participation in dance activities has increased by 20% since the show premiered.
11.2 Inspiration for New Dancers:
The show has inspired many people to start dancing, regardless of their age or experience level. Many viewers are motivated by the transformations of the celebrities on the show.
11.3 Promotion of Health and Fitness:
Dancing is a great way to stay active and improve your physical and mental health. Dancing with the Stars has helped promote the benefits of dance as a form of exercise.
11.4 Showcasing Diverse Dance Styles:
The show features a wide range of dance styles, from traditional ballroom dances to contemporary and Latin styles, exposing viewers to different forms of dance.
12. How to Connect with the Dance Community
Connecting with the dance community can enhance your experience and provide opportunities for learning and growth.
12.1 Join a Dance Studio:
Joining a dance studio is a great way to meet other dancers, take classes, and participate in social events. Visit ten-dance.com to find a local studio.
12.2 Attend Dance Events:
Attend dance performances, competitions, and workshops to immerse yourself in the dance community.
12.3 Join Online Communities:
Join online forums and social media groups to connect with dancers from around the world. Visit our online forum at ten-dance.com to join the conversation.
12.4 Participate in Workshops:
Attend dance workshops to learn from experienced instructors and improve your skills.
12.5 Volunteer at Dance Events:
Volunteering at dance events is a great way to give back to the community and meet new people.
13. The Future of Dance: Trends and Innovations
The world of dance is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time.
13.1 Fusion Styles:
Fusion styles that blend different dance genres are becoming increasingly popular, creating unique and innovative forms of dance.
13.2 Technology in Dance:
Technology is being used in dance to create new visual effects, enhance performances, and provide new ways to learn and practice dance.
13.3 Inclusivity and Diversity:
There is a growing emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in dance, with efforts to make dance more accessible to people of all backgrounds and abilities.
13.4 Online Dance Education:
Online dance education is becoming more popular, providing access to classes and resources for dancers around the world. Check out our online dance classes at ten-dance.com.
13.5 Dance for Wellness:
Dance is being recognized as a powerful tool for improving physical and mental health, with dance programs being used in healthcare settings.
14. Frequently Asked Questions About Dancing with the Stars
Let’s address some frequently asked questions about Dancing with the Stars:
14.1 Who Are the Judges on Dancing with the Stars?
The judges on Dancing with the Stars typically include a panel of experienced dancers, choreographers, and performers who provide critiques and scores for each performance.
14.2 How Are the Scores Determined?
The scores are determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and audience votes. Each judge gives a score out of 10 for each dance, and the audience votes are tallied and combined with the judges’ scores to determine the final results.
14.3 What Is the Mirrorball Trophy?
The Mirrorball Trophy is the coveted prize awarded to the winning couple on Dancing with the Stars. It is a disco ball-shaped trophy that symbolizes the glitter and glamour of the show.
14.4 How Can I Vote for My Favorite Couple?
You can vote for your favorite couple by phone, online, or through the Dancing with the Stars app during the designated voting window.
14.5 What Happens if There Is a Tie?
In the event of a tie, the judges’ scores typically take precedence, and the couple with the higher judges’ score is declared the winner.
14.6 How Long Does Each Couple Have to Prepare for Their Dances?
Each couple typically has about a week to prepare for their dances, which includes learning the choreography, rehearsing, and perfecting their performance.
14.7 What Are the Different Dance Styles Featured on the Show?
Dancing with the Stars features a wide range of dance styles, including ballroom dances like the waltz, tango, foxtrot, and Viennese waltz, as well as Latin dances like the salsa, cha-cha, rumba, and paso doble.
14.8 How Can I Become a Contestant on Dancing with the Stars?
The contestants on Dancing with the Stars are typically celebrities from various fields, such as acting, sports, and music, who are invited to participate on the show.
14.9 What Are Some of the Biggest Challenges the Contestants Face?
Some of the biggest challenges the contestants face include learning complex choreography in a short amount of time, overcoming their fear of performing in front of a live audience, and dealing with the physical demands of dancing.
14.10 What Makes Dancing with the Stars So Popular?
Dancing with the Stars is popular due to its combination of celebrity appeal, exciting dance performances, and the emotional journeys of the contestants as they learn and grow throughout the competition.
15. Conclusion: Who Will Take Home the Mirrorball Trophy?
As the Dancing with the Stars finale approaches, the excitement is building to see which of these talented finalists will take home the Mirrorball Trophy. Each contestant has shown incredible growth and determination throughout the season, making it a tough competition to predict.
Whether you’re inspired to start your own dance journey or simply enjoy watching the dazzling performances, we invite you to explore the world of dance with ten-dance.com. Discover new styles, find local classes, and connect with a passionate community of dancers.
Visit ten-dance.com today and take the first step towards your own dance adventure. Address: 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 769-7000. Join us and experience the joy, creativity, and connection that dance brings! Let the dance begin!
