Dancing With The Stars Winners: A Look Back At Mirrorball Legends
It's hard to believe that the phenomenon known as Dancing with the Stars first premiered almost two decades ago! The hit celebrity dancing competition series first hit screens on ABC back in the summer of 2005, and since then, it has become an undeniable cultural staple, captivating millions with its blend of dazzling choreography, emotional journeys, and surprising celebrity transformations. As another season of DWTS recently entered the history books with Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson crowned the Season 33 winners, now is the perfect time to look back on the show's long and illustrious history of crowning champions.
From athletes and actors to musicians and social media stars, the roster of past Dancing with the Stars winners is as diverse as it is impressive. Each season culminates in a grand finale where finalists battle it out for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, a symbol of dedication, talent, and immense public support. Join us as we take a comprehensive tour through the glittering legacy of those who have hoisted this iconic trophy, exploring their journeys and what made them truly stand out.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Legacy of the Mirrorball Trophy
- The Very First Steps: Season 1 to 3 Champions
- A Decade of Dance: Notable Winners Through the Years
- Breaking Barriers: Nyle DiMarco's Historic Win
- Recent Triumphs: From Charli D'Amelio to Joey Graziadei
- The Mirrorball's Journey: A Comprehensive List of Past Dancing with the Stars Winners
- Beyond the Ballroom: The DWTS Live Tour
- What Makes a Champion? The Enduring Appeal of DWTS
- Conclusion
The Enduring Legacy of the Mirrorball Trophy
Since its launch on ABC on June 1, 2005, Dancing with the Stars has become one of the most iconic reality shows on television. The show's premise, pairing celebrities with professional dancers to compete in various ballroom and Latin styles, quickly resonated with audiences worldwide. At the heart of this enduring appeal is the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. More than just a glittering prop, it represents weeks of grueling rehearsals, overcoming personal challenges, and the profound connection forged between partners. For many, winning the mirrorball trophy feels akin to, or even surpasses, an Olympic gold medal in terms of personal achievement and public validation.
Each season, a celebrity and their professional partner embark on a journey that tests their physical limits, emotional resilience, and ability to connect with a global audience. The show has seen a remarkable evolution, adapting to changing trends while staying true to its core values of entertainment and the celebration of dance. The long list of past Dancing with the Stars winners is a testament to the show's consistent ability to attract top-tier talent and produce unforgettable moments.
The Very First Steps: Season 1 to 3 Champions
The journey of Dancing with the Stars began modestly but quickly gained momentum, establishing the format that would captivate millions for years to come. The initial seasons set the precedent for what it takes to become a champion, showcasing a blend of raw talent, a willingness to learn, and undeniable chemistry.
Kicking Off the Dynasty: Bec Cartwright and Mike Mizner (Season 1)
While the provided data refers to "Dancing with the Stars Australia," it highlights the very first winner of a DWTS franchise, setting the stage for the global phenomenon. Former Home and Away star, Bec Cartwright, won the very first season of DWTS alongside dance partner Mike Mizner. Her victory established the template for what audiences would come to expect from their champions: a blend of celebrity appeal and genuine dance improvement. Though not from the US version, her win is significant in the broader history of the show.
Here's a look at Bec Cartwright's general profile:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rebecca June Cartwright (now Hewitt) |
| Known For | Actress (Home and Away), Television Personality |
| Nationality | Australian |
| DWTS Season Won | Season 1 (Australia) |
| Professional Partner | Mike Mizner |
NFL Legend Takes the Stage: Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke (Season 3)
The US version quickly found its own iconic champions. Dancing with the Stars Season 3 winner (2006) saw NFL legend Emmitt Smith, an NFL running back for 15 seasons, who played mostly for the Dallas Cowboys, prove that gridiron skills could translate to the dance floor. Paired with professional dancer Cheryl Burke, Smith's journey was a masterclass in combining athletic prowess with an infectious personality and a genuine desire to learn. Cheryl nabbed her second mirrorball with this former NFL pro, who remains a DWTS legend, a testament to his memorable performances and enduring popularity. His victory solidified the show's appeal across diverse demographics, proving that even the toughest athletes could embrace the art of dance.
Here's a brief look at Emmitt Smith's illustrious career and DWTS win:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Emmitt James Smith III |
| Known For | Former NFL Running Back (Dallas Cowboys Legend), Pro Football Hall of Famer |
| Nationality | American |
| DWTS Season Won | Season 3 (2006) |
| Professional Partner | Cheryl Burke |
A Decade of Dance: Notable Winners Through the Years
Over nearly two decades, Dancing with the Stars has crowned a remarkable array of champions, each leaving their unique mark on the show's history. EW ranks 16 standout 'Dancing with the Stars' winners over the past 20 years, including Nicole Scherzinger, Jordan Fisher, Laurie Hernandez, and more. These individuals didn't just win; they captivated, inspired, and often surprised viewers with their hidden talents and dedication.
Some of the most memorable past Dancing with the Stars winners from this period include:
- Nicole Scherzinger (Season 10): The Pussycat Dolls frontwoman demonstrated incredible precision and artistry, often receiving perfect scores. Her partnership with Derek Hough is considered one of the show's most dominant.
- Jennifer Grey (Season 11): The Dirty Dancing star proved she still had the moves, winning hearts with her emotional journey and nostalgic appeal alongside Derek Hough.
- Meryl Davis (Season 18): The Olympic ice dancer translated her grace and athleticism seamlessly to the ballroom, creating breathtaking routines with Maksim Chmerkovskiy.
- Laurie Hernandez (Season 23): The Olympic gymnast brought youthful energy and incredible natural talent, becoming a fan favorite with Valentin Chmerkovskiy. Her infectious joy and rapid improvement made her a truly deserving champion.
- Jordan Fisher (Season 25): Known for his Broadway and Disney Channel roles, Fisher's technical prowess and showmanship with Lindsay Arnold were simply unmatched, leading to one of the highest-scoring seasons ever.
These champions, among many others, exemplify the show's ability to transform celebrities into accomplished dancers, often revealing new facets of their personalities that resonate deeply with the audience.
Breaking Barriers: Nyle DiMarco's Historic Win
One of the most inspiring stories among all the past Dancing with the Stars winners is undoubtedly Nyle DiMarco. Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd captivated the nation during Season 22 (2016) with their groundbreaking performances. As the first deaf contestant and winner, DiMarco shattered misconceptions and proved that dance transcends sound. His ability to feel the rhythm through vibrations and rely on visual cues and his partner's guidance was nothing short of miraculous. His victory was not just a win for him and Peta, but a profound moment for representation and inclusivity on national television.
Nyle DiMarco's journey highlighted the power of communication, trust, and the universal language of dance. He became a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and the right support, any barrier can be overcome. His Mirrorball win is widely regarded as one of the most significant in the show's history.
Here's a closer look at Nyle DiMarco's profile:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nyle DiMarco |
| Known For | Model, Actor, Activist, Winner of America's Next Top Model (Cycle 22) |
| Nationality | American |
| DWTS Season Won | Season 22 (2016) |
| Professional Partner | Peta Murgatroyd |
| Notable Achievement | First deaf winner of Dancing with the Stars |
Recent Triumphs: From Charli D'Amelio to Joey Graziadei
In its later seasons, Dancing with the Stars has continued to evolve, embracing new forms of celebrity and showcasing incredible talent. The show has consistently proven its ability to adapt while maintaining its core appeal, adding new names to the esteemed list of past Dancing with the Stars winners.
Social Media Sensation: Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas (Season 31)
The winner of Season 31 (November 2022), Charli D'Amelio, represented a new wave of celebrity on the show: a social media sensation. As one of the most followed personalities on TikTok, D'Amelio brought a massive fanbase and a surprising level of natural dance ability to the ballroom. Paired with veteran pro Mark Ballas, who returned to the show after a hiatus, their partnership was a force to be reckoned with. Their routines were consistently high-scoring, showcasing incredible artistry and technical skill. Charli's win demonstrated the show's relevance across generations and its openness to diverse forms of celebrity.
The Latest Champions: Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson (Season 33)
With another season of DWTS in the history books, Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson are the Season 33 winners of Dancing with the Stars. Their victory, announced recently (as of November 27, 2024, by Laura Rizzo and Alyssa Norwin), marks the latest chapter in the show's storied history. Joey, known from The Bachelor franchise, brought charm, dedication, and a surprising aptitude for dance to the competition. His journey with Jenna Johnson resonated with viewers, culminating in a well-deserved win that added his name to the prestigious roster of champions. This recent win keeps the excitement alive and proves that the show continues to find compelling stories and talented stars.
The Mirrorball's Journey: A Comprehensive List of Past Dancing with the Stars Winners
To truly appreciate the show's legacy, it's essential to view the complete Dancing with the Stars winners list. Since it was launched on ABC on June 1, 2005, "Dancing with the Stars" has crowned 28 winners, showcasing a diverse range of talent and personality. While some sources might refer to "19 winners over (nearly) two decades" (possibly referencing a different version or a specific time frame), the US series has indeed seen a rich tapestry of champions. Click through ET's gallery to see who took home the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy this season, and look back at all the previous Dancing with the Stars champions.
Here's a non-exhaustive list of some of the memorable past Dancing with the Stars winners, reflecting the show's incredible journey:
- Season 1: Kelly Monaco & Alec Mazo
- Season 2: Drew Lachey & Cheryl Burke
- Season 3: Emmitt Smith & Cheryl Burke
- Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno & Julianne Hough
- Season 5: Hélio Castroneves & Julianne Hough
- Season 6: Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas
- Season 7: Brooke Burke & Derek Hough
- Season 8: Shawn Johnson & Mark Ballas
- Season 9: Donny Osmond & Kym Johnson
- Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger & Derek Hough
- Season 11: Jennifer Grey & Derek Hough
- Season 12: Hines Ward & Kym Johnson
- Season 13: J.R. Martinez & Karina Smirnoff
- Season 14: Donald Driver & Peta Murgatroyd
- Season 15 (All-Stars): Melissa Rycroft & Tony Dovolani
- Season 16: Kellie Pickler & Derek Hough
- Season 17: Amber Riley & Derek Hough
- Season 18: Meryl Davis & Maksim Chmerkovskiy
- Season 19: Alfonso Ribeiro & Witney Carson
- Season 20: Rumer Willis & Valentin Chmerkovskiy
- Season 21: Bindi Irwin & Derek Hough
- Season 22: Nyle DiMarco & Peta Murgatroyd
Where Are Past 'Dancing With The Stars' Winners Now? | IBTimes
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