Dancing With The Stars Winners: The Complete List

by Kenji Nakamura 50 views

Hey dance fans! If you're anything like me, you've probably been captivated by the glitz, glamour, and gravity-defying moves of Dancing with the Stars for years. The show has seen so many incredible performances and unforgettable moments. But the burning question always remains: Who actually took home the Mirrorball Trophy?

In this article, we're going to do a deep dive into the history of Dancing with the Stars and reveal every single winning couple. Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we relive some of the most iconic victories and celebrate the champions who danced their way into our hearts. So, let's get started and find out who has been crowned the champion of the dance floor!

Every Dancing with the Stars Winner: From Season 1 to the Latest Champion

Season 1: Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo

The very first season of Dancing with the Stars premiered in 2005, and it quickly became a sensation. The inaugural Mirrorball Trophy was awarded to actress Kelly Monaco and her professional partner, Alec Mazo. This win was particularly exciting because it set the stage for what the show would become: a platform for celebrities to push their boundaries and discover a newfound love for dance. Kelly Monaco, known for her role on General Hospital, brought a natural grace and charisma to the dance floor, which, combined with Mazo's expert choreography and guidance, made them a formidable team. Their victory wasn't just a win for them; it was a win for the show itself, proving that audiences were eager to see celebrities transform into dancers. The chemistry between Kelly and Alec was undeniable, and their performances were filled with both technical skill and emotional connection. They captivated viewers with their elegance and passion, setting a high standard for future contestants. This first season was a testament to the power of hard work and dedication, showing that anyone, regardless of their background, could learn to dance and shine on the ballroom floor. Kelly and Alec's win remains a memorable moment in Dancing with the Stars history, forever etching their names as the first champions of this beloved show. It was a victory that celebrated the joy of dance and the magic of transformation, inspiring countless viewers to embrace the art of movement.

Season 2: Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke

Season 2 saw Drew Lachey, former member of the boy band 98 Degrees, team up with the incredibly talented Cheryl Burke. Their journey was marked by hard work and a clear dedication to improvement. Drew wasn't just relying on his pop star charisma; he was putting in the hours and truly learning the techniques of ballroom dance. Cheryl, a seasoned pro, knew how to bring out the best in her partner, and together they created some truly memorable routines. Their win was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of a strong partnership. Fans loved seeing Drew's genuine enthusiasm and his willingness to embrace the challenges of the competition. He wasn't afraid to push himself, and that resonated with viewers. The chemistry between Drew and Cheryl was also a key factor in their success. They clearly enjoyed working together, and their camaraderie shone through in their performances. This season highlighted the blend of showmanship and technical skill that makes Dancing with the Stars so compelling. Drew's background in performance definitely gave him an edge, but it was his commitment to mastering the dance steps that ultimately led him to victory. Their win was a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and the incredible transformations that are at the heart of the show. It also solidified Cheryl Burke's reputation as one of the show's most talented and successful professional dancers, setting the stage for her many future triumphs on the dance floor. Drew and Cheryl's victory remains a cherished moment for fans, showcasing the magic that happens when passion and talent come together.

Season 3: Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke

Cheryl Burke made history in Season 3 by becoming the first professional dancer to win two seasons in a row, this time with NFL legend Emmitt Smith. Emmitt's athleticism and natural rhythm made him a strong contender from the start, but it was his infectious energy and genuine love for dance that truly won over the audience. His partnership with Cheryl was electric, and their performances were full of joy and exuberance. Emmitt's background as a football player gave him incredible stamina and discipline, but he also brought a playful spirit to the dance floor that made him incredibly fun to watch. Cheryl's choreography perfectly highlighted Emmitt's strengths while pushing him to explore new styles and techniques. Their win was a celebration of the power of dance to bring people together and the joy of embracing new challenges. Emmitt's enthusiasm was contagious, and his journey on the show inspired many viewers to step outside their comfort zones and try something new. He wasn't just a great athlete; he was also a natural performer, and his charisma shone through in every routine. This season also underscored Cheryl Burke's exceptional talent as a choreographer and teacher. Her ability to adapt her style to suit her partner's strengths and weaknesses is a testament to her skill and dedication. Emmitt and Cheryl's victory was a true fan favorite, demonstrating the magic that happens when a celebrity and a professional dancer connect on a deep level. It was a win that celebrated the power of teamwork, the joy of movement, and the thrill of competition.

Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough

In Season 4, Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno and newcomer Julianne Hough (who quickly became a fan favorite) skated their way to victory. Apolo's athleticism and competitive spirit were undeniable assets, but it was his willingness to embrace the artistry of dance that truly set him apart. His partnership with Julianne was a match made in heaven, and their performances were filled with passion and innovation. Apolo's background as an athlete gave him incredible strength and agility, but he also possessed a natural grace and elegance that translated beautifully to the ballroom floor. Julianne's choreography was both challenging and creative, pushing Apolo to his limits while showcasing his unique talents. Their win was a testament to the power of versatility and the ability to adapt to new disciplines. Fans loved seeing Apolo's transformation from a speed skater to a dancer, and his dedication to mastering each routine was truly inspiring. The chemistry between Apolo and Julianne was also a key factor in their success. They had a deep respect for each other's talents, and their connection was palpable in every performance. This season highlighted the importance of innovation and creativity in dance, as Apolo and Julianne consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the show. Their victory was a celebration of the artistry of dance and the power of teamwork, solidifying their place as one of the most memorable winning couples in Dancing with the Stars history.

Season 5: Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough

Julianne Hough secured her second consecutive win in Season 5, this time with IndyCar driver Hélio Castroneves. Hélio's infectious personality and boundless energy made him an instant fan favorite. He brought a sense of fun and excitement to the dance floor, and his partnership with Julianne was full of laughter and joy. Hélio's background as a race car driver might not seem like the most obvious preparation for ballroom dancing, but his determination and competitive spirit translated surprisingly well. Julianne's choreography capitalized on Hélio's strengths while challenging him to improve his technique. Their win was a celebration of the sheer joy of dancing and the power of positive energy. Fans loved Hélio's enthusiasm and his willingness to embrace the challenges of the competition. He wasn't afraid to be himself, and his infectious personality resonated with viewers. This season also solidified Julianne Hough's reputation as one of the show's brightest stars. Her talent as a choreographer and her ability to connect with her partners are truly remarkable. Hélio and Julianne's victory was a reminder that dance is not just about technique; it's also about passion, connection, and the sheer joy of movement. It was a win that celebrated the spirit of fun and the magic of the dance floor, leaving a lasting impression on fans of the show.

Seasons 6-31: A Montage of Mirrorball Champions

From seasons 6 through 31, Dancing with the Stars continued to captivate audiences with a diverse array of celebrities and their professional partners. Here's a quick rundown of the champions who took home the Mirrorball Trophy:

  • 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 (All-Stars): 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 (Athletes): 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

Each of these winning couples brought their unique flair and personalities to the dance floor, creating unforgettable moments and captivating viewers season after season. From athletes and actors to singers and reality stars, Dancing with the Stars has celebrated a wide range of talent and showcased the transformative power of dance.

Key Takeaways and Memorable Moments

Looking back at the history of Dancing with the Stars, several key themes emerge. The show is not just about technical skill; it's about the journey of transformation, the connection between partners, and the joy of dance. Some of the most memorable moments have come from celebrities who initially seemed like unlikely dancers but went on to surprise everyone with their talent and dedication.

The professional dancers also play a crucial role in the show's success. They are not just choreographers and teachers; they are also mentors and confidantes, guiding their celebrity partners through the challenges of the competition. The chemistry between the celebrity and the pro is often a key factor in a couple's success, as the best partnerships are built on trust, respect, and a shared passion for dance.

Dancing with the Stars has also had a significant impact on popular culture, sparking a renewed interest in ballroom dancing and inspiring people of all ages to embrace the art of movement. The show's blend of celebrity, competition, and entertainment has proven to be a winning formula, and it continues to be a beloved part of the television landscape.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Champions

So, there you have it – a complete list of Dancing with the Stars winners! From Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo to Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas, each winning couple has left their mark on the show's history. They've entertained us, inspired us, and reminded us of the power of dance to bring people together. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of ballroom, there's no denying the magic of Dancing with the Stars. The show's legacy is one of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, and we can't wait to see who will be the next champion to lift the Mirrorball Trophy! Who are your favorite Dancing with the Stars winners? Let us know in the comments below, and keep dancing!