Dancing With The Stars Winners: The Complete List
The glitz, the glamour, the glitter – Dancing with the Stars has captivated audiences for years with its dazzling performances and heartwarming stories. But beyond the sequins and spray tans, there's the ultimate question: who took home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy? This article dives deep into the complete list of Dancing with the Stars winners, celebrating their journeys, triumphs, and the impact they've had on the show's legacy. From actors and athletes to singers and chefs, the diverse range of talent that has graced the ballroom floor is a testament to the show's broad appeal and enduring popularity. Winning Dancing with the Stars is more than just mastering the cha-cha or the waltz; it's about connecting with the audience, pushing personal boundaries, and showcasing a level of dedication and artistry that resonates with viewers. So, let's take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most memorable moments in the show's history as we explore the journeys of each champion.
The Journey to the Mirrorball Trophy
The path to becoming a Dancing with the Stars champion is paved with hard work, determination, and a healthy dose of vulnerability. Celebrities from all walks of life step outside their comfort zones, embracing the challenge of learning intricate dance routines and performing them live in front of millions. The journey often involves grueling rehearsals, physical and emotional exhaustion, and the pressure of constant critique from both the judges and the public. However, it's this very process that makes the victories so sweet. We witness personal transformations as contestants overcome their fears, build confidence, and discover hidden talents. The bonds formed between the celebrities and their professional partners are also a crucial element of the show's appeal. These partnerships often evolve into deep friendships, built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to excellence. The chemistry between the dancers is palpable, adding an extra layer of emotion and excitement to their performances. Ultimately, winning the Mirrorball Trophy is a testament to the dedication, artistry, and personal growth that each champion embodies.
Memorable Moments and Standout Performances
Throughout its many seasons, Dancing with the Stars has gifted us with a treasure trove of unforgettable moments and show-stopping performances. From flawlessly executed routines that earned perfect scores to emotional dances that left the audience in tears, the show has consistently delivered moments that will be etched in television history. Some winners captivated us with their natural talent and effortless grace, while others impressed us with their sheer determination and unwavering work ethic. Think back to the surprise victories, the underdog stories, and the unexpected pairings that defied expectations. The impactful performances often transcend mere technical skill, tapping into universal emotions and narratives. A powerful contemporary routine can tell a story of love and loss, while a lively salsa can ignite the dance floor with infectious energy. These memorable moments are not just about the steps; they're about the connection between the dancers, the music, and the audience. They're about the shared experience of witnessing something truly special, something that resonates long after the final note has faded.
List of Dancing with the Stars Winners
Let's get to the heart of the matter: the complete list of Dancing with the Stars winners! This is a chronological journey through the show's history, celebrating each champion and their professional partner. Each season brought its own unique flavor and set of challenges, making every victory a hard-earned and well-deserved triumph. As we go through the list, you'll likely recall some of your favorite moments, the contestants you rooted for, and the dances that left you breathless. From the early seasons that set the stage for the show's success to the more recent installments that continue to push the boundaries of dance and entertainment, this list is a testament to the enduring appeal of Dancing with the Stars. So, without further ado, let's celebrate the champions who have graced the ballroom floor and etched their names in Dancing with the Stars history.
Season 1: Kelly Monaco & Alec Mazo
The very first season of Dancing with the Stars set the stage for the phenomenon it would become. Kelly Monaco, known for her role on General Hospital, partnered with Alec Mazo. Their journey was marked by a consistent improvement and a captivating stage presence that resonated with viewers. This victory was particularly special, as it marked the beginning of a legacy for both the show and the winning couple.
Season 2: Drew Lachey & Cheryl Burke
Singer Drew Lachey, of 98 Degrees fame, and Cheryl Burke brought a combination of musicality and technical skill to the ballroom in Season 2. Their energetic performances and undeniable chemistry made them a fan favorite, and their victory solidified the show's growing popularity.
Season 3: Emmitt Smith & Cheryl Burke
Cheryl Burke made history by winning her second consecutive Mirrorball Trophy, this time with NFL legend Emmitt Smith. Their partnership was a perfect blend of athleticism and artistry, showcasing Smith's surprising grace and Burke's masterful choreography. Emmitt's charm and dedication made this an iconic season.
Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno & Julianne Hough
Speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough brought a competitive edge and a youthful energy to Season 4. Their athleticism and innovative routines captivated audiences, resulting in a well-deserved victory for this dynamic duo. Julianne's choreography and Apolo's determination were a winning combination.
Season 5: Hélio Castroneves & Julianne Hough
Julianne Hough also made history by winning her second consecutive Mirrorball Trophy, this time with race car driver Hélio Castroneves. Their infectious enthusiasm and joyful performances made them a delight to watch, proving that dance could be both competitive and incredibly fun. Helio's personality shone on the dance floor.
Season 6: Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas
Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas were a match made in dance heaven. Their elegance, technical precision, and artistic expression made them the clear frontrunners in Season 6. Their routines were often breathtaking, showcasing Kristi's natural talent and Mark's innovative choreography.
Season 7: Brooke Burke-Charvet & Derek Hough
Television personality Brooke Burke-Charvet and Derek Hough brought a blend of sensuality and athleticism to the dance floor in Season 7. Their passionate performances and undeniable chemistry made them a force to be reckoned with, culminating in a well-deserved victory.
Season 8: Shawn Johnson & Mark Ballas
Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas delivered high-energy performances and showcased incredible athleticism in Season 8. Their routines were often daring and innovative, reflecting Shawn's gymnastic prowess and Mark's creative choreography. Shawn's youth and athleticism were a great asset.
Season 9: Donny Osmond & Kym Johnson Herjavec
Singer and entertainer Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson Herjavec brought experience and showmanship to Season 9. Their partnership was marked by consistent performances and a strong connection with the audience, proving that age is just a number when it comes to dance.
Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger & Derek Hough
Singer Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough were a powerhouse couple in Season 10. Their technical brilliance, combined with their undeniable stage presence, made them the clear favorites from the start. Their performances were often flawless, earning them high praise from the judges and viewers alike.
Season 11: Jennifer Grey & Derek Hough
Actress Jennifer Grey, known for her role in Dirty Dancing, and Derek Hough brought a sense of nostalgia and grace to Season 11. Their partnership was a testament to the power of dance to heal and inspire, as Jennifer overcame personal challenges to deliver stunning performances.
Season 12: Hines Ward & Kym Johnson Herjavec
NFL player Hines Ward and Kym Johnson Herjavec combined athleticism and charm to win Season 12. Their high-energy routines and infectious personalities made them a fan favorite, proving that determination and hard work can lead to victory.
Season 13: J.R. Martinez & Karina Smirnoff
Actor and war veteran J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff inspired audiences with their emotional performances and powerful story in Season 13. Their journey was a testament to resilience and the human spirit, making their victory particularly meaningful.
Season 14: Donald Driver & Peta Murgatroyd
NFL player Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd brought a blend of athleticism and charisma to Season 14. Their energetic routines and positive attitudes made them a joy to watch, earning them the Mirrorball Trophy.
Season 15: Melissa Rycroft & Tony Dovolani
Television personality Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani delivered consistent performances and showcased a strong connection throughout Season 15. Their hard work and dedication paid off, earning them a well-deserved victory.
Season 16: Kellie Pickler & Derek Hough
Country singer Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough charmed audiences with their Southern charm and undeniable talent in Season 16. Their partnership was a perfect blend of personality and skill, making them a fan favorite.
Season 17: Amber Riley & Derek Hough
Actress and singer Amber Riley and Derek Hough brought a powerhouse combination of talent and personality to Season 17. Their performances were often electrifying, showcasing Amber's incredible vocal ability and Derek's innovative choreography.
Season 18: Meryl Davis & Maksim Chmerkovskiy
Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy brought elegance and artistry to Season 18. Their technical brilliance and undeniable chemistry made them a force to be reckoned with, earning them a well-deserved victory.
Season 19: Alfonso Ribeiro & Witney Carson
Actor Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson brought a sense of fun and showmanship to Season 19. Their energetic routines and infectious personalities made them a fan favorite, with Alfonso's iconic "Carlton" dance becoming a viral sensation.
Season 20: Rumer Willis & Valentin Chmerkovskiy
Actress Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy delivered powerful and emotional performances throughout Season 20. Their partnership was marked by vulnerability and artistry, culminating in a well-deserved victory.
Season 21: Bindi Irwin & Derek Hough
Television personality Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough inspired audiences with their positive energy and heartfelt performances in Season 21. Bindi's resilience and grace, combined with Derek's exceptional choreography, made them a truly special partnership.
Season 22: Nyle DiMarco & Peta Murgatroyd
Model and actor Nyle DiMarco, who is deaf, and Peta Murgatroyd made history in Season 22. Their victory was a testament to the power of communication and the ability of dance to transcend barriers. Nyle's determination and Peta's innovative choreography were truly inspiring.
Season 23: Laurie Hernandez & Valentin Chmerkovskiy
Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez and Valentin Chmerkovskiy brought youthful energy and athleticism to Season 23. Their routines were often dazzling, showcasing Laurie's gymnastic prowess and Valentin's creative choreography.
Season 24: Rashad Jennings & Emma Slater
NFL player Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater combined athleticism and artistry to win Season 24. Their performances were marked by passion and precision, earning them high praise from the judges and viewers alike.
Season 25: Jordan Fisher & Lindsay Arnold
Actor and singer Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold brought a youthful energy and undeniable talent to Season 25. Their performances were often flawless, earning them perfect scores and the Mirrorball Trophy.
Season 26: Adam Rippon & Jenna Johnson
Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson charmed audiences with their wit and athleticism in Season 26. Their innovative routines and undeniable chemistry made them a fan favorite.
Season 27: Bobby Bones & Sharna Burgess
Radio personality Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess were the surprise winners of Season 27. Their victory was a testament to the power of fan support and the ability of dance to bring joy to others.
Season 28: Hannah Brown & Alan Bersten
Television personality Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten brought passion and determination to Season 28. Their performances were marked by vulnerability and artistry, earning them the Mirrorball Trophy.
Season 29: Kaitlyn Bristowe & Artem Chigvintsev
Television personality Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev combined grace and skill to win Season 29. Their journey was marked by consistent improvement and a strong connection with the audience.
Season 30: Iman Shumpert & Daniella Karagach
NBA player Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach made history in Season 30. Iman became the first NBA player to win the Mirrorball Trophy, showcasing his surprising grace and Daniella's exceptional choreography.
Season 31: Charli D'Amelio & Mark Ballas
Social media personality Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas brought youthful energy and immense talent to Season 31. Their innovative routines and undeniable chemistry made them a force to be reckoned with, earning them the Mirrorball Trophy.
The Lasting Impact of Dancing with the Stars
Dancing with the Stars is more than just a dance competition; it's a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions. The show has not only entertained audiences with its dazzling performances but has also inspired countless individuals to embrace the joy of dance. The celebrity contestants, many of whom have no prior dance experience, demonstrate that with hard work and dedication, anyone can learn to dance. The show has also provided a platform for professional dancers to showcase their artistry and creativity, elevating the art of ballroom dance to a wider audience. Beyond the entertainment value, Dancing with the Stars has also had a positive social impact. The show often highlights important causes and charities, raising awareness and funds for various organizations. The contestants themselves often speak out about personal challenges and struggles, inspiring viewers to overcome their own obstacles. The show's emphasis on teamwork, perseverance, and self-expression makes it a truly uplifting and inspiring experience for both participants and viewers alike. The legacy of Dancing with the Stars is one of entertainment, inspiration, and the celebration of the human spirit.
Conclusion
The list of Dancing with the Stars winners is a testament to the show's enduring appeal and the transformative power of dance. Each champion has brought their own unique personality, talent, and story to the ballroom, creating memorable moments that will be cherished for years to come. From the early seasons to the more recent installments, the show has consistently delivered entertainment, inspiration, and a celebration of the human spirit. As we look back on the journeys of these remarkable individuals, we are reminded that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of sparkle. So, the next time you find yourself tapping your feet to a catchy tune, remember the champions of Dancing with the Stars and let their stories inspire you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the joy of movement.
To learn more about Dancing with the Stars, check out the official website on ABC.com.
