Dancing With The Stars Winners: Full List & Highlights

Hey Plastik Magazine readers! Ever wondered who actually took home the Mirrorball Trophy on Dancing with the Stars? You're not alone! With so many seasons and amazing performances, it's easy to lose track of the champions. So, let's dive into the dazzling world of DWTS and revisit all the winners, highlighting some of the most memorable moments and underdogs that stole our hearts. This article is your ultimate guide to the champions who conquered the dance floor, from seasoned pros to surprising celebrities. We’ll explore their journeys, their winning dances, and what they've been up to since their victory. Get ready to reminisce and maybe even discover a few winners you’d forgotten about! We will discuss the early seasons, the shocking upsets, and the consistent crowd-pleasers. This show has a rich history, and each season brings its own unique flavor and set of challenges. It's not just about the technical skill, but also the connection with the audience and the ability to tell a story through dance. And of course, there's the chemistry with their professional partners, which can make or break a couple's chances. It's a blend of athleticism, artistry, and personality that makes Dancing with the Stars so captivating. The journey to the Mirrorball Trophy is a rigorous one, demanding countless hours of rehearsals, pushing physical limits, and facing the scrutiny of judges and viewers alike. The pressure is immense, but the reward is the ultimate validation of their hard work and dedication. For some, it's a chance to reinvent themselves, to step outside their comfort zone, and to showcase a different side of their talent. For others, it's a competitive challenge, a chance to prove their athletic prowess or artistic abilities. And for all, it's a life-changing experience that leaves a lasting impact. So, let's get started and celebrate the champions who have graced the dance floor and captured our imaginations.

The First Champions: Seasons 1-5

Let's kick things off by rewinding to the very beginning of Dancing with the Stars. These early seasons were all about setting the stage and establishing the show's format, and they gave us some truly unforgettable winners. Guys, remember the excitement when Kelly Monaco and her partner Alec Mazo snagged the very first Mirrorball Trophy? It was iconic! Their win proved that the show had the potential to become a massive hit. Kelly Monaco's victory in Season 1 was more than just a win; it was a cultural moment. It marked the beginning of a dance phenomenon that would captivate audiences for years to come. The chemistry between Kelly and Alec was palpable, and their performances were a perfect blend of passion and precision. They set the bar high for future contestants, proving that dedication and artistry could lead to victory. The early seasons of Dancing with the Stars had a unique charm, a raw energy that resonated with viewers. There was a sense of discovery, as both the celebrities and the audience were learning the ropes of ballroom dancing together. The judges were still finding their footing, and the format was evolving, but the heart of the show – the transformative power of dance – was already evident. Season 2 saw the talented Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke waltz their way to the top. Their performances were consistently impressive, showcasing Drew's natural rhythm and Cheryl's incredible choreography. Their win solidified the show's popularity, proving that it wasn't just a one-season wonder. Drew Lachey brought a certain charisma to the dance floor, a combination of boy-band charm and genuine enthusiasm. He embraced the challenge, pushing himself to learn new techniques and styles, and his dedication shone through in every performance. Season 3 was a game-changer, with Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke (again!) taking home the trophy. This win demonstrated that athleticism could be a huge advantage on the dance floor, and Emmitt's powerful performances were a sight to behold. Emmitt Smith's victory was a testament to his work ethic and competitive spirit. He approached each dance with the same intensity and determination he brought to the football field, and his hard work paid off. He also had an undeniable stage presence, commanding attention with his every move. The back-to-back wins for Cheryl Burke established her as one of the top professional dancers on the show, and her partnership with Emmitt was a perfect example of how a strong pairing can lead to success. These early champions set the tone for what Dancing with the Stars would become: a celebration of dance, a showcase of talent, and a platform for personal transformation. They paved the way for future contestants, inspiring them to push their limits and to embrace the joy of movement. And for the viewers, they provided a weekly dose of entertainment, excitement, and inspiration.

In Season 4, Apolo Anton Ohno, paired with Julianne Hough, skated his way into our hearts and clinched the win, further proving that athletes have a serious edge in this competition. Apolo Anton Ohno brought a different kind of athleticism to the show, a combination of speed, agility, and endurance honed from years of competitive speed skating. His performances were electrifying, showcasing his natural talent for movement and his willingness to take risks. His partnership with Julianne Hough was a match made in dance heaven, as they brought out the best in each other. Season 5 saw the incredible Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough (again!) speed to victory, making Julianne the first pro to win back-to-back titles. Hélio Castroneves was a true showman, bringing his infectious energy and enthusiasm to every performance. He connected with the audience on a personal level, making them feel like they were part of his journey. His victory was a testament to his charisma and his dedication to the art of dance. These early seasons were foundational, setting the stage for the future success of Dancing with the Stars. They demonstrated the power of dance to transform lives, to break down barriers, and to connect people from all walks of life. They also established the show's unique blend of competition, entertainment, and personal storytelling, which continues to captivate audiences today. So, let's keep the spotlight on these pioneering champions and celebrate their contributions to the legacy of Dancing with the Stars.

Mid-Series Magic: Seasons 6-15

The middle seasons of Dancing with the Stars were a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with surprising wins and heartwarming stories. Who could forget Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas dazzling us all in Season 6? Their partnership was pure magic! Kristi Yamaguchi brought a grace and artistry to the dance floor that was unparalleled. Her background as an Olympic figure skater gave her a natural advantage, but it was her dedication and her emotional connection to the music that truly set her apart. Her performances were consistently breathtaking, and her victory was a well-deserved triumph. Season 7 brought us Brooke Burke-Charvet and Derek Hough, a dynamic duo that danced their way into our hearts. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their performances were full of passion and energy. Brooke Burke-Charvet proved that hard work and determination can pay off, as she transformed from a reality TV personality into a skilled and confident dancer. Her partnership with Derek Hough was a perfect example of how a strong connection between partners can elevate their performances to the next level. Then, in Season 8, Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas captured the Mirrorball Trophy, proving that young talent can shine brightly on the dance floor. Shawn Johnson brought a youthful energy and enthusiasm to the show, captivating audiences with her athleticism and her infectious personality. Her background as an Olympic gymnast gave her a solid foundation in movement and coordination, but it was her willingness to learn and her dedication to the craft of dance that ultimately led to her victory. Season 9 saw Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson triumph, proving that experience and showmanship can go a long way. Donny Osmond brought a lifetime of performing experience to the dance floor, captivating audiences with his charm and his undeniable talent. He embraced the challenge of learning new dance styles, and his performances were consistently entertaining and polished. His victory was a testament to his enduring popularity and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.

Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough's win in Season 10 was a powerhouse performance, showcasing Nicole's incredible dance background. Nicole Scherzinger brought a level of technical skill and artistry to the show that was truly impressive. Her background as a singer and dancer gave her a natural advantage, but it was her dedication and her passion for the art of dance that made her performances so captivating. Season 11 was a surprise, with Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough (again!) taking home the trophy after Jennifer's incredible journey of self-discovery on the show. Jennifer Grey 's story resonated with audiences, as she overcame personal challenges and rediscovered her love for dance. Her performances were full of emotion and vulnerability, and her victory was a testament to her resilience and her determination. The win for J.Lo, as her fans affectionately call her, and Derek, a fan-favorite pro, had people in tears. It was a truly emotional season. In Season 12, Hines Ward and Kym Johnson showed that football players can also be graceful dancers, defying expectations and winning over the judges and the audience. Hines Ward 's athleticism and his dedication to the craft of dance made him a formidable competitor. He embraced the challenge, pushing himself to learn new techniques and styles, and his hard work paid off. His victory was a testament to his versatility and his willingness to step outside his comfort zone. Season 13 saw J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff win, bringing a powerful message of hope and resilience to the dance floor. J.R. Martinez 's story of overcoming adversity resonated deeply with audiences, and his performances were full of emotion and inspiration. He danced with passion and purpose, and his victory was a testament to his strength and his unwavering spirit. This win was particularly poignant, reminding us all of the power of dance to heal and to inspire. Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd took the trophy in Season 14, proving that charm and charisma can be just as important as technical skill. Donald Driver brought a contagious energy and enthusiasm to the show, captivating audiences with his personality and his genuine love for dance. His performances were full of fun and flair, and his victory was a testament to his ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. Season 15, an All-Stars season, crowned Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani as the champions, solidifying Melissa's redemption story and showcasing her incredible talent. Melissa Rycroft 's journey on Dancing with the Stars was one of resilience and perseverance. She had been eliminated early in a previous season, but she returned with a renewed determination and a passion for dance. Her victory was a testament to her hard work and her unwavering spirit. These middle seasons of Dancing with the Stars were a golden era for the show, filled with memorable performances, surprising upsets, and heartwarming stories. They showcased the transformative power of dance and the incredible journeys of the celebrities who dared to step onto the dance floor. And they cemented the show's legacy as a cultural phenomenon, a source of entertainment, inspiration, and joy for millions of viewers around the world.

The Modern Era: Seasons 16-32

Alright, let's fast forward to the more recent seasons! In Season 16, Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough (who is basically DWTS royalty at this point!) wowed us all with their genuine connection and incredible performances. Kellie Pickler brought a down-to-earth charm and a natural talent for dance to the show. Her partnership with Derek Hough was a perfect match, as they brought out the best in each other. Their performances were consistently impressive, and their victory was a testament to their hard work and their genuine connection. Season 17 saw Amber Riley and Derek Hough (again!) take home the Mirrorball, proving that raw talent and passion can conquer any challenge. Amber Riley brought a powerful presence and a soulful energy to the dance floor. Her performances were full of emotion and artistry, and her victory was a testament to her incredible talent and her dedication to the craft of dance. She showed that confidence and self-love can shine through in every step. Then, in Season 18, Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy finally won after years of Maks's dedication, making it a truly special moment for fans. Meryl Davis brought a grace and elegance to the dance floor that was unparalleled. Her background as an Olympic ice dancer gave her a natural advantage, but it was her artistry and her emotional connection to the music that truly set her apart. Her partnership with Maksim Chmerkovskiy was a long-awaited triumph for Maks, who had been a fan favorite for years. Season 19 had Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson lighting up the dance floor with their infectious energy and those unforgettable Carlton moves! Alfonso Ribeiro brought a contagious energy and enthusiasm to the show. His performances were full of fun and flair, and his victory was a testament to his charisma and his ability to connect with the audience. His signature Carlton dance moves were a highlight of the season, and his victory was a crowd-pleasing moment. In Season 20, Rumer Willis and Val Chmerkovskiy showed us the power of vulnerability and artistic expression through dance. Rumer Willis brought a raw honesty and an emotional depth to the dance floor. Her performances were full of vulnerability and artistic expression, and her victory was a testament to her courage and her willingness to open herself up to the audience. She showed that dance can be a powerful form of self-expression and healing. Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough (yep, him again!) captured our hearts in Season 21 with their inspiring story and beautiful performances, proving that dance can be a celebration of life. Bindi Irwin brought a youthful spirit and a genuine joy to the dance floor. Her performances were full of emotion and inspiration, and her victory was a celebration of life and love. She honored her late father, Steve Irwin, with her dances, and her journey resonated deeply with audiences. In Season 22, Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd made history, proving that deafness is no barrier to incredible dance. Nyle DiMarco 's victory was a groundbreaking moment for the show. He demonstrated that deafness is no barrier to achieving excellence in dance, and his performances were full of artistry and emotion. He inspired millions with his story and his unwavering determination. Season 23 saw Laurie Hernandez and Val Chmerkovskiy take home the trophy, showcasing youthful exuberance and incredible athleticism. Laurie Hernandez brought a youthful energy and a fearless spirit to the dance floor. Her performances were full of athleticism and artistry, and her victory was a testament to her incredible talent and her dedication to the craft of dance. She showed that age is no barrier to achieving greatness. Then, Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater won Season 24, bringing a powerful combination of athleticism and artistry to the competition. Rashad Jennings brought a powerful athleticism and a genuine passion for dance to the show. His performances were full of energy and emotion, and his victory was a testament to his hard work and his dedication to the craft. He showed that football players can also be graceful and expressive dancers. Season 25 had Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold dancing their way to victory with their incredible chemistry and technical skill. Jordan Fisher brought a natural talent and an infectious energy to the dance floor. His performances were consistently impressive, and his victory was a testament to his hard work and his dedication to the craft of dance. He and Lindsay Arnold had an undeniable chemistry that translated into stunning performances. Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson took home the trophy in the all-athletes Season 26, proving that figure skaters have some serious dance moves! Adam Rippon brought a flamboyant personality and a natural flair for the dramatic to the dance floor. His performances were full of artistry and emotion, and his victory was a celebration of individuality and self-expression. He showed that athletes can also be entertainers, and his partnership with Jenna Johnson was a perfect match. Season 27 saw Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess win, a controversial but ultimately heartwarming victory for the underdog. Bobby Bones 's victory was a surprise to many, but it was a testament to his hard work and his ability to connect with the audience. He was not the most technically skilled dancer, but his personality and his dedication won over the hearts of viewers. His partnership with Sharna Burgess was a true underdog story. Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten danced their way to the Mirrorball in Season 28, showcasing Hannah's growth and vulnerability throughout the season. Hannah Brown 's journey on Dancing with the Stars was one of personal growth and self-discovery. She showed vulnerability and strength on the dance floor, and her victory was a testament to her hard work and her resilience. She inspired many viewers with her story of overcoming challenges and embracing her true self. In Season 29, Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev finally won, a dream come true for Kaitlyn after years of campaigning. Kaitlyn Bristowe 's victory was a long-awaited dream come true. She had been a fan favorite for years, and her performances were consistently impressive. Her partnership with Artem Chigvintsev was a perfect match, and their victory was a celebration of their hard work and their dedication to the craft of dance. Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach took home the trophy in Season 30, an unexpected but well-deserved win for their unique artistry. Iman Shumpert 's victory was a surprise to many, but it was a testament to his unique artistry and his ability to push boundaries. His performances were innovative and creative, and his partnership with Daniella Karagach was a perfect example of how a strong connection can lead to success. He showed that dance can be a form of self-expression and that it can transcend traditional boundaries. Season 31 saw Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas (returning to the show after a long hiatus!) win, proving that TikTok stars can also dominate the ballroom. Charli D'Amelio brought a youthful energy and a social media savvy to the show. Her performances were consistently impressive, and her victory was a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with a young audience. Her partnership with Mark Ballas was a triumphant return for Mark, who had been a fan favorite for many years. Most recently, in Season 32, Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy triumphed, showcasing youthful talent and incredible partnership. Xochitl Gomez's victory was a celebration of youthful talent and passion. Her performances were full of energy and artistry, and her partnership with Val Chmerkovskiy was a perfect match. She showed that young dancers can make a big impact on the dance floor, and her win was an inspiration to aspiring dancers everywhere. These modern seasons continue to bring the drama, the artistry, and the unforgettable moments that keep us hooked on Dancing with the Stars!

Conclusion: Celebrating the Champions

So, there you have it, guys! A complete rundown of all the Dancing with the Stars winners. Each season has given us something special, and these champions have left an undeniable mark on the show's legacy. It's amazing to see the dedication, the passion, and the sheer joy of dance that these contestants bring to the floor. Whether it's a surprising underdog victory or a seasoned performer taking the top spot, Dancing with the Stars always delivers. The journey to the Mirrorball Trophy is never easy, but these winners have proven that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of magic, anything is possible. They have inspired us with their stories, captivated us with their performances, and reminded us of the power of dance to transform lives. They have become part of the Dancing with the Stars family, and their legacy will continue to shine for years to come. So, let's raise a glass (or a dance move!) to all the Dancing with the Stars champions! They've given us countless hours of entertainment, and they've shown us that dance is not just a competition, but a celebration of the human spirit. And who knows what the future holds? With new seasons and new contestants, the Dancing with the Stars journey continues, promising more unforgettable moments and more champions to add to this illustrious list. We will be here, watching every step of the way! Remember to keep dancing, keep dreaming, and keep supporting your favorite stars! And who knows, maybe one day, you'll be the one holding that Mirrorball Trophy high!