All Dancing With The Stars Winners: The Complete List

Are you a fan of Dancing with the Stars and curious about who has taken home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy? From actors and athletes to singers and reality stars, Dancing with the Stars has seen a diverse range of celebrities grace its ballroom floor. This article provides a comprehensive list of Dancing with the Stars winners, highlighting their journeys and the moments that led them to victory. Get ready to reminisce about your favorite performances and discover some surprising facts about the show's history.

A History of Triumph on the Dance Floor

Dancing with the Stars premiered in 2005 and quickly became a global phenomenon. The premise is simple yet captivating: celebrities partner with professional dancers to learn and perform various ballroom and Latin dance styles. Each week, the couples perform live, and their routines are judged by a panel of experts and the viewing audience. The couple with the lowest combined score is eliminated, and this process continues until a champion is crowned. The show's appeal lies in its blend of celebrity intrigue, athletic competition, and the sheer artistry of dance. Over the years, Dancing with the Stars has not only entertained millions but also reignited interest in ballroom dancing across the world. The dedication and hard work displayed by the contestants, coupled with the emotional highs and lows of the competition, have made for compelling television. From the early seasons to the most recent, the show has consistently delivered memorable moments and breakout performances, solidifying its place in pop culture history.

The Allure of the Mirrorball Trophy

The Mirrorball Trophy, the ultimate prize on Dancing with the Stars, represents more than just victory. It symbolizes the countless hours of training, the physical and emotional challenges overcome, and the transformative journey each contestant undertakes. Winning the Mirrorball Trophy is a testament to a celebrity's dedication, their ability to learn and adapt, and their connection with the audience. The journey to the top is often filled with drama, surprises, and personal growth, making the victory all the more meaningful. For many contestants, the experience of being on Dancing with the Stars is life-changing, regardless of whether they win. They form strong bonds with their professional partners, push themselves beyond their comfort zones, and discover new talents. However, the allure of the Mirrorball Trophy remains a powerful motivator, driving the contestants to give their all each week. The emotional reactions of the winners, often filled with tears of joy and gratitude, underscore the significance of this achievement.

The Complete List of Dancing with the Stars Winners

Let's dive into the complete list of Dancing with the Stars winners, season by season. Each entry includes the celebrity's name, their professional dance partner, and the season they won. This comprehensive overview will take you on a trip down memory lane, highlighting some of the most memorable moments and performances in the show's history. From the early champions who set the standard to the more recent winners who continue to push the boundaries of dance, this list celebrates the stars who have shone brightest on the Dancing with the Stars stage.

Season 1: Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo

The first-ever winners of Dancing with the Stars were actress Kelly Monaco and her partner Alec Mazo. Their victory set the stage for the show's success and demonstrated the potential for celebrities to transform into skilled dancers. Kelly Monaco, known for her role on General Hospital, captivated audiences with her enthusiasm and dedication. Alec Mazo's choreography and teaching skills were instrumental in their triumph. Their win was a landmark moment, proving that Dancing with the Stars could be more than just a novelty show.

Season 2: Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke

Singer Drew Lachey, partnered with Cheryl Burke, clinched the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 2. Their performances were marked by precision and artistry, earning them high scores and a devoted fanbase. Drew Lachey's background in performing undoubtedly gave him an edge, but it was his hard work and chemistry with Cheryl Burke that ultimately led to their victory. This season further cemented Dancing with the Stars' popularity, showcasing the show's ability to blend entertainment with genuine dance talent.

Season 3: Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke

In Season 3, former NFL star Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke made history. Emmitt Smith's athletic prowess and natural rhythm, combined with Cheryl Burke's expert guidance, resulted in a series of electrifying performances. Their win was particularly significant, highlighting the show's appeal to a broad audience, including sports fans. Emmitt Smith's charismatic personality and dedication to the competition made him a fan favorite, and his victory remains one of the most memorable in the show's history.

Season 4: Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough

Season 4 saw Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough take home the trophy. Apolo Anton Ohno's discipline and competitive spirit, honed through years of athletic training, translated seamlessly to the ballroom. His partnership with Julianne Hough, a talented dancer and choreographer, was a perfect match. Their performances were consistently impressive, showcasing both technical skill and artistic flair. Apolo Anton Ohno's win demonstrated that athletes could excel in the world of dance, adding another layer to the show's diverse appeal.

Season 5: Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough

Race car driver Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough triumphed in Season 5. Hélio Castroneves' infectious enthusiasm and willingness to embrace the challenges of ballroom dancing endeared him to viewers. His partnership with Julianne Hough was marked by fun and creativity, making their performances a joy to watch. Hélio Castroneves' victory proved that Dancing with the Stars could captivate audiences with personality and charm, as well as technical skill.

Season 6: Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas

Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas skated their way to victory in Season 6. Kristi Yamaguchi's grace, poise, and years of training in figure skating made her a natural on the dance floor. Her partnership with Mark Ballas, known for his innovative choreography, was a winning combination. Their performances were consistently elegant and technically brilliant, earning them high scores and widespread acclaim. Kristi Yamaguchi's win underscored the importance of prior dance or athletic experience in the competition.

Season 7: Brooke Burke-Charvet and Derek Hough

Television personality Brooke Burke-Charvet and Derek Hough danced their way to the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 7. Brooke Burke-Charvet's energy and passion for dance, combined with Derek Hough's creative choreography, made them a formidable team. Their performances were marked by both technical skill and emotional depth, captivating audiences and judges alike. Brooke Burke-Charvet's victory highlighted the show's ability to showcase personal growth and transformation.

Season 8: Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas

In Season 8, Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas brought their athletic prowess and artistry to the dance floor. Shawn Johnson's strength, flexibility, and competitive drive, honed through years of gymnastics training, made her a natural dancer. Her partnership with Mark Ballas was a perfect match, allowing them to create innovative and dynamic routines. Their win demonstrated the significant advantage that gymnasts often have in ballroom dancing, due to their body awareness and coordination.

Season 9: Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson

Singer and entertainer Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson claimed victory in Season 9. Donny Osmond's decades of performing experience, combined with his infectious personality, made him a fan favorite. His partnership with Kym Johnson was marked by fun and creativity, resulting in a series of memorable performances. Donny Osmond's win showcased the importance of performance experience and charisma in the competition.

Season 10: Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough

Season 10 saw singer Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough deliver a series of show-stopping performances. Nicole Scherzinger's dance background and natural talent, coupled with Derek Hough's expert choreography, made them a powerhouse couple. Their routines were consistently polished and technically impressive, earning them high scores and widespread praise. Nicole Scherzinger's win highlighted the advantage of having prior dance experience in the competition.

Season 11: Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough

Actress Jennifer Grey, best known for her role in Dirty Dancing, and Derek Hough won Season 11. Jennifer Grey's prior dance experience and emotional connection to the music made her a standout performer. Her partnership with Derek Hough was marked by trust and collaboration, resulting in a series of memorable and moving routines. Jennifer Grey's victory was particularly meaningful, as she overcame personal challenges and rediscovered her passion for dance.

Season 12: Hines Ward and Kym Johnson

NFL star Hines Ward and Kym Johnson danced their way to victory in Season 12. Hines Ward's athleticism, combined with his dedication and hard work, made him a formidable competitor. His partnership with Kym Johnson was marked by fun and camaraderie, making their performances a joy to watch. Hines Ward's win demonstrated that athletes with a strong work ethic could excel in ballroom dancing.

Season 13: J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff

In Season 13, actor and motivational speaker J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff captured the hearts of viewers. J.R. Martinez's inspiring story and positive attitude, combined with his dedication to learning, made him a fan favorite. His partnership with Karina Smirnoff was marked by trust and mutual respect, resulting in a series of emotionally powerful performances. J.R. Martinez's victory was particularly significant, as it showcased the show's ability to celebrate resilience and perseverance.

Season 14: Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd

NFL star Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd triumphed in Season 14. Donald Driver's athleticism, combined with his natural rhythm and charisma, made him a standout performer. His partnership with Peta Murgatroyd was marked by fun and energy, making their routines a crowd-pleaser. Donald Driver's win highlighted the importance of personality and showmanship in the competition.

Season 15: Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani

Season 15, an All-Stars season, saw television personality Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani claim the Mirrorball Trophy. Melissa Rycroft's prior experience on the show, combined with her determination to improve, made her a strong contender. Her partnership with Tony Dovolani was marked by hard work and dedication, resulting in a series of polished and technically impressive performances. Melissa Rycroft's victory demonstrated the value of experience and perseverance in the competition.

Season 16: Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough

Country singer Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough danced their way to the top in Season 16. Kellie Pickler's natural charm and willingness to embrace the challenges of ballroom dancing endeared her to viewers. Her partnership with Derek Hough was marked by fun and creativity, making their performances a joy to watch. Kellie Pickler's win showcased the importance of personality and authenticity in the competition.

Season 17: Amber Riley and Derek Hough

Actress and singer Amber Riley and Derek Hough triumphed in Season 17. Amber Riley's powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, combined with Derek Hough's innovative choreography, made them a formidable team. Their performances were marked by both technical skill and emotional depth, captivating audiences and judges alike. Amber Riley's victory highlighted the show's ability to showcase diverse talents and personalities.

Season 18: Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy

Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy skated their way to victory in Season 18. Meryl Davis's grace, precision, and years of training in ice dancing made her a natural on the dance floor. Her partnership with Maksim Chmerkovskiy was a perfect match, allowing them to create innovative and breathtaking routines. Their win underscored the significant advantage that ice dancers often have in ballroom dancing, due to their similar skill set.

Season 19: Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson

Actor Alfonso Ribeiro, best known for his role on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Witney Carson won Season 19. Alfonso Ribeiro's dance background and natural showmanship, combined with Witney Carson's expert choreography, made them a crowd favorite. Their performances were consistently energetic and entertaining, earning them high scores and widespread praise. Alfonso Ribeiro's victory highlighted the importance of performance experience and charisma in the competition.

Season 20: Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy

Actress Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy danced their way to the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 20. Rumer Willis's dedication, combined with her natural talent and artistic sensibility, made her a standout performer. Her partnership with Valentin Chmerkovskiy was marked by trust and collaboration, resulting in a series of memorable and moving routines. Rumer Willis's victory showcased the importance of personal growth and transformation in the competition.

Season 21: Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough

In Season 21, conservationist and television personality Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough captured the hearts of viewers. Bindi Irwin's infectious enthusiasm, combined with her dedication to learning, made her a fan favorite. Her partnership with Derek Hough was marked by joy and creativity, resulting in a series of uplifting and memorable performances. Bindi Irwin's victory was particularly meaningful, as she honored her late father, Steve Irwin, throughout the competition.

Season 22: Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd

Model and actor Nyle DiMarco, who is deaf, and Peta Murgatroyd triumphed in Season 22. Nyle DiMarco's determination, combined with his natural rhythm and artistry, made him an inspiring competitor. His partnership with Peta Murgatroyd was marked by trust and innovation, resulting in a series of groundbreaking and emotionally powerful performances. Nyle DiMarco's win was a historic moment, demonstrating the show's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Season 23: Laurie Hernandez and Valentin Chmerkovskiy

Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez and Valentin Chmerkovskiy danced their way to the top in Season 23. Laurie Hernandez's strength, flexibility, and competitive drive, honed through years of gymnastics training, made her a natural dancer. Her partnership with Valentin Chmerkovskiy was a perfect match, allowing them to create dynamic and technically brilliant routines. Their win underscored the significant advantage that gymnasts often have in ballroom dancing.

Season 24: Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater

NFL star Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater claimed victory in Season 24. Rashad Jennings' athleticism, combined with his natural rhythm and charisma, made him a standout performer. His partnership with Emma Slater was marked by fun and energy, making their routines a crowd-pleaser. Rashad Jennings' win highlighted the importance of personality and showmanship in the competition.

Season 25: Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold

Actor and singer Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold delivered a series of dazzling performances in Season 25. Jordan Fisher's dance background and natural talent, coupled with Lindsay Arnold's expert choreography, made them a powerhouse couple. Their routines were consistently polished and technically impressive, earning them high scores and widespread praise. Jordan Fisher's win highlighted the advantage of having prior dance experience in the competition.

Season 26: Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson

Season 26, a special athletes' season, saw Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson take home the Mirrorball Trophy. Adam Rippon's grace, artistry, and years of training in figure skating made him a natural on the dance floor. His partnership with Jenna Johnson was a perfect match, allowing them to create innovative and captivating routines. Adam Rippon's win underscored the importance of prior dance or athletic experience in the competition.

Season 27: Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess

Radio personality Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess surprised many by winning Season 27. Bobby Bones' lack of dance experience made his journey particularly compelling, as he improved week after week with Sharna Burgess's guidance. Their victory highlighted the audience's appreciation for effort and personal growth, even if technical perfection wasn't always achieved. This win sparked debate among viewers, but it also underscored the show's ability to create unexpected outcomes and celebrate the underdog.

Season 28: Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten

Reality television star Hannah Brown and Alan Bersten emerged as the champions of Season 28. Hannah Brown's background on The Bachelorette gave her a dedicated fanbase, and her partnership with Alan Bersten allowed her to showcase her personality and dance skills. Their win highlighted the show's continued appeal to a wide audience and its ability to create compelling narratives both on and off the dance floor.

Season 29: Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev

Kaitlyn Bristowe, another star from The Bachelorette franchise, partnered with Artem Chigvintsev to win Season 29. Kaitlyn Bristowe's enthusiasm and determination, combined with Artem Chigvintsev's expert choreography, made them a formidable team. Their performances were consistently engaging and technically sound, earning them high scores and a devoted following. This victory reinforced the show's ability to blend celebrity appeal with dance artistry.

Season 30: Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach

In a season filled with memorable performances, NBA player Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach claimed the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 30. Iman Shumpert's background as an athlete, combined with his willingness to embrace new challenges, made him a standout contestant. His partnership with Daniella Karagach was marked by creativity and mutual respect, resulting in routines that were both innovative and emotionally resonant. Iman Shumpert's win highlighted the show's capacity to surprise and inspire, showcasing the transformative power of dance.

Season 31: Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas

Social media sensation Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas danced their way to victory in Season 31. Charli D'Amelio's extensive dance background, combined with her massive online following, made her a frontrunner from the start. Her partnership with Mark Ballas allowed her to showcase her technical skills and artistic expression, resulting in performances that were both polished and captivating. Charli D'Amelio's win demonstrated the show's ability to adapt to contemporary trends and attract a new generation of viewers.

Season 32: Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy

In the most recent season, Season 32, actress Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy took home the Mirrorball Trophy. Xochitl Gomez's energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to learning, combined with Val Chmerkovskiy's expertise, created a winning combination. Their performances were consistently vibrant and engaging, earning them high praise from the judges and audience alike. Xochitl Gomez's victory underscored the show's enduring appeal and its ability to discover new talent each season.

Conclusion

From Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo in Season 1 to Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy in Season 32, the winners of Dancing with the Stars represent a diverse range of talents and personalities. Each victory tells a unique story of dedication, perseverance, and the transformative power of dance. As Dancing with the Stars continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the thrill of watching celebrities push themselves beyond their comfort zones and discover the joy of ballroom dancing. The Mirrorball Trophy is more than just a prize; it's a symbol of the hard work, passion, and artistry that make Dancing with the Stars a beloved television phenomenon.

To learn more about the history of dance and its various styles, check out this informative resource on PBS.org.