DWTS Winners: A Complete List Of Dancing With The Stars Champions

by Viktoria Ivanova 66 views

Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) has captivated audiences for years with its dazzling performances, emotional journeys, and nail-biting finales. Fans eagerly anticipate each season to see which celebrity will waltz, tango, and cha-cha their way to victory. But with so many seasons and memorable winners, it's easy to lose track of who has taken home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the history of DWTS, highlight some of the most memorable winners, and answer the burning question: who actually won Dancing with the Stars?

A Brief History of Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars premiered on ABC in 2005 and quickly became a ratings juggernaut. The show pairs celebrities with professional dancers who compete in a variety of ballroom and Latin dance styles. Each week, the couples perform in front of a panel of judges and a live audience, who score their routines. The couples with the lowest combined scores from the judges and audience votes face elimination, making each performance crucial. The format, inspired by the British series Strictly Come Dancing, has been replicated in numerous countries around the world, solidifying its status as a global phenomenon.

The magic of Dancing with the Stars lies in its ability to blend the glitz and glamour of Hollywood with the discipline and artistry of ballroom dancing. The show has launched the dancing careers of many of its professional dancers and provided celebrities with a platform to showcase their hidden talents. Over the years, DWTS has featured a diverse range of contestants, from actors and athletes to musicians and reality stars, each bringing their unique personality and flair to the dance floor. The show's emotional depth, as contestants share their personal stories and overcome challenges, adds another layer of appeal, drawing viewers into their journeys.

Memorable Winners and Their Journeys

Over the course of its many seasons, Dancing with the Stars has produced a plethora of memorable winners, each with their own unique story and journey. Some contestants, like Olympic athletes, came in with a natural athleticism and competitive spirit, while others, like actors and musicians, had to overcome their fears and learn a completely new skill set. The diversity of the winners highlights the show's ability to connect with a wide audience and inspire people from all walks of life. Let’s take a look at some of the most unforgettable champions.

Season 1: Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo

The very first season of Dancing with the Stars set the stage for what would become a cultural phenomenon. Kelly Monaco, known for her role on the soap opera General Hospital, partnered with Alec Mazo and captured the hearts of viewers with their undeniable chemistry and passionate performances. Their win was a historic moment, proving that the show had the potential to become a long-lasting success. Kelly and Alec's victory paved the way for future celebrity dancers, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anyone could master the art of ballroom dancing. Their performances were not just about technique; they were about storytelling and emotion, setting a high standard for future contestants.

Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough

Apolo Anton Ohno, the Olympic speed skater, brought his competitive drive and athleticism to the dance floor in Season 4. Paired with the talented Julianne Hough, Ohno's journey was marked by his dedication to improving each week and his ability to connect with the audience. His win demonstrated the power of athleticism in ballroom dancing, as he seamlessly transitioned from the ice rink to the dance floor. Apolo's background in competitive sports gave him a distinct advantage, but it was his willingness to learn and his partnership with Julianne that ultimately led to his victory. Their dynamic performances and strong bond resonated with viewers, making them a fan favorite.

Season 8: Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas

Another Olympic gold medalist, Shawn Johnson, took home the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 8. Partnered with the charismatic Mark Ballas, Johnson's youthful energy and natural grace made her a standout performer. Her journey was particularly inspiring as she balanced the demanding training schedule with her academic pursuits. Shawn's performances were a blend of technical precision and artistic flair, showcasing her versatility as a dancer. Her partnership with Mark Ballas was a perfect match, as they pushed each other to new heights each week, delivering unforgettable routines that left audiences in awe.

Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough

Nicole Scherzinger, the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, brought her performance background and natural talent to Season 10. Partnered with the seasoned pro Derek Hough, Scherzinger's journey was marked by her perfectionism and her desire to push the boundaries of ballroom dancing. Her win was a testament to her hard work and dedication, as she consistently delivered show-stopping performances that wowed the judges and the audience. Nicole's extensive dance experience gave her a significant advantage, but it was her commitment to excellence and her chemistry with Derek that made their partnership so successful. Their routines were a masterclass in technique and artistry, setting a new standard for the show.

Season 17: Amber Riley and Derek Hough

Amber Riley, known for her role on Glee, proved that anyone can be a dancer with the right attitude and determination. Partnered with Derek Hough (again!), Riley's journey was inspiring as she overcame her initial insecurities and embraced the challenge of ballroom dancing. Her win was celebrated by fans who admired her authenticity and her ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. Amber's story was one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she transformed from a hesitant beginner into a confident performer. Her performances were full of heart and soul, making her a deserving champion.

Recent Winners: The Latest Champions

In recent years, Dancing with the Stars has continued to produce captivating seasons and deserving winners. The show's format has evolved over time, with new dance styles and challenges being introduced to keep things fresh. Let's take a look at some of the most recent champions and their winning journeys.

Season 29: Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev

Kaitlyn Bristowe, known for her role on The Bachelorette, partnered with Artem Chigvintsev in Season 29. Her win was particularly special as it followed years of wanting to compete on the show. Bristowe's journey was marked by her determination and her willingness to push herself outside of her comfort zone. Kaitlyn's background in dance gave her a solid foundation, but it was her passion and her partnership with Artem that propelled her to victory. Their chemistry on the dance floor was undeniable, and their performances were full of energy and emotion.

Season 30: Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach

Iman Shumpert, the NBA player, surprised many with his natural rhythm and his ability to learn complex choreography in Season 30. Partnered with Daniella Karagach, Shumpert's journey was unique as he brought a different kind of athleticism and artistry to the show. His win was celebrated as a testament to his hard work and his ability to connect with the audience despite his initial lack of dance experience. Iman's story was one of unexpected talent and growth, as he transformed from a basketball player into a graceful dancer. His performances were innovative and memorable, making him a deserving champion.

Season 31: Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas

Season 31 saw Charli D'Amelio, the TikTok star, take home the Mirrorball Trophy with Mark Ballas (his third win!). D'Amelio's background in competitive dance gave her a significant advantage, but her ability to adapt to different styles and her strong connection with Ballas made them a formidable team. Charli's win was a testament to her talent and her dedication, as she consistently delivered polished and captivating performances. Her journey was closely watched by her millions of fans, who cheered her on every step of the way.

Who Won Dancing with the Stars: A Complete List

To fully answer the question of who won Dancing with the Stars, here's a complete list of all the winners from each season:

  • Season 1: Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo
  • Season 2: Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke
  • Season 3: Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff
  • Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough
  • Season 5: Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough
  • Season 6: Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas
  • Season 7: Brooke Burke-Charvet and Derek Hough
  • Season 8: Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas
  • Season 9: Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson
  • Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough
  • Season 11: Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough
  • Season 12: Hines Ward and Kym Johnson
  • Season 13: J. R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff
  • Season 14: Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd
  • Season 15: Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani
  • Season 16: Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough
  • Season 17: Amber Riley and Derek Hough
  • Season 18: Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy
  • Season 19: Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson
  • Season 20: Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy
  • Season 21: Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough
  • Season 22: Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd
  • Season 23: Laurie Hernandez and Valentin Chmerkovskiy
  • Season 24: Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater
  • Season 25: Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold
  • Season 26: Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson
  • Season 27: Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess
  • Season 28: Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten
  • Season 29: Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev
  • Season 30: Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach
  • Season 31: Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas

Conclusion

Dancing with the Stars has a rich history of talented winners, each with their own unique journey and story. From athletes and actors to musicians and reality stars, the show has showcased the transformative power of dance and the dedication required to master it. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, exploring the list of winners is a great way to appreciate the show's legacy and the incredible talent that has graced its stage. So, next time someone asks, "Who won Dancing with the Stars?", you'll have a comprehensive answer ready to go!