Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars proved to be an electrifying and unpredictable rollercoaster, captivating viewers with its diverse mix of celebrities, stunning choreography, and unexpected eliminations. As the competition unfolded over nine weeks, fans saw the contestants grow, stumble, and shine as they worked to claim the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Ultimately, the finale left us with unforgettable moments and the crowning of a new winner. Let’s dive into the top 5 contestants from this exciting season, taking a closer look at their performances, personalities, and how they captured the hearts of the audience.
1. Joey Graziadei - The Bachelor’s Heartthrob Turns Dancer
Joey Graziadei, known for his role as The Bachelor, proved to be more than just a reality TV star. Paired with the incredibly talented professional dancer Jenna Johnson, Graziadei quickly became a fan favorite, blending charm and dedication to his performances. While many may have anticipated that Joey’s popularity from The Bachelor would carry him far in the competition, it was his undeniable growth as a dancer that truly set him apart.
Throughout the season, Joey’s commitment to learning the steps, improving his technique, and stepping out of his comfort zone was evident in every routine. Whether he was performing a passionate tango or a playful salsa, Joey displayed a surprising level of grace and rhythm. But it wasn’t just about his footwork — Joey and Jenna’s chemistry also shone through, endearing them to viewers each week.
By the time the finale rolled around, Joey had proven himself as a serious contender. His ability to deliver consistently high scores, coupled with his charm and relatability, earned him the Mirrorball Trophy, making him the Season 33 champion. It was a victory that solidified his status as more than just a TV personality, showcasing his talent and dedication to the craft of dance.
2. Ilona Maher - The Rugby Star Breaks Stereotypes
Ilona Maher, an athlete known for her fierce presence on the rugby field, was a revelation on the Dancing with the Stars stage. Paired with Alan Bersten, Ilona brought her athleticism, strength, and determination to each performance, making her a standout in the competition. Initially, viewers may have doubted how her physical prowess would translate to the ballroom, but Ilona proved them all wrong with her elegance and precision.
Ilona’s journey on Dancing with the Stars was filled with challenges, particularly when it came to learning the intricate choreography and mastering the delicate balance between strength and grace. However, what Ilona lacked in traditional dance experience, she more than made up for with her natural athleticism, work ethic, and ability to learn quickly. As the competition progressed, Ilona became one of the most consistent and impressive performers.
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While Ilona ultimately didn’t take home the Mirrorball Trophy, her second-place finish was a testament to her hard work and dedication. She broke down stereotypes of what a “ballroom dancer” should look like, showing that strength and elegance can coexist. Her time on the show inspired many, particularly young women, to pursue their passions fearlessly — regardless of whether they fit the conventional mold.
3. Chandler Kinney - Disney Channel Darling Steals the Show
Chandler Kinney, the talented Disney Channel star, quickly became one of the most exciting and dynamic contestants on Dancing with the Stars. Known for her role in Zombies 3, Chandler brought her natural charisma and star power to the ballroom. Paired with Brandon Armstrong, she effortlessly transitioned from acting to dancing, impressing judges and fans alike with her energetic performances and youthful energy.
From the very beginning of the season, Chandler exuded confidence and grace, surprising many with her strong performance in the early weeks. Her training paid off as she grew into the competition, taking on various dance styles with enthusiasm and flair. Whether she was performing a whimsical waltz or a high-energy contemporary routine, Chandler’s performances stood out for their polish and the depth of emotion she conveyed.
Chandler’s performances resonated with a younger audience, who admired her for both her dance skills and her vibrant personality. Her ability to connect with her audience helped her secure third place in the competition, a well-deserved finish for the young star who showed tremendous growth over the course of the season.
4. Stephen Nedoroscik - Olympic Gymnast Turns Dance Floor Contender
Stephen Nedoroscik, a celebrated Olympic gymnast, brought his unparalleled precision and athleticism to Dancing with the Stars, proving that gymnasts and dancers share more in common than meets the eye. Paired with Rylee Arnold, Stephen’s performance was a masterclass in technicality, balance, and coordination. His gymnastics background gave him a unique edge, allowing him to approach the dances with the discipline and focus that only an elite athlete could bring.
Despite facing some early challenges in translating his gymnastic movements to ballroom style, Stephen’s performances became more fluid and captivating as the competition progressed. His technical execution was often near perfect, impressing the judges with his attention to detail and sharp movements. However, his biggest struggle came in balancing the expression of the dance with the perfectionism that comes from a career in gymnastics. But as the season went on, Stephen began to unlock his ability to connect with the music and the audience on a deeper level.
While Stephen’s fourth-place finish may not have been the Mirrorball Trophy, his performances left a lasting impact on viewers. He represented the idea that discipline and hard work — regardless of the sport or activity — can be applied to any challenge, even ballroom dance. His graceful yet precise performances captivated audiences and proved that Olympic-level athletes have what it takes to compete in all kinds of arenas.
5. Danny Amendola - NFL Star Surprises with Surprising Dance Skills
NFL star Danny Amendola’s time on Dancing with the Stars was nothing short of surprising. Known for his athleticism and quick reflexes on the football field, Danny was paired with Witney Carson, a seasoned professional dancer who guided him through the intricacies of ballroom dancing. What surprised many viewers was how quickly Danny adapted to the rhythm and finesse required for dance.
Though he may not have been the most polished dancer in the competition, Danny brought an undeniable charm and sense of humor to the floor. His performances were filled with energy, humor, and an eagerness to learn. Over time, he proved to be a more capable dancer than initially expected, delivering memorable routines with Witney that had the audience cheering.
His fifth-place finish may have been a disappointment for some, but Danny’s time on the show was about more than just dancing — it was about showing that even professional athletes have the ability to take on new challenges and master them. His growth throughout the season was a testament to his work ethic and willingness to step outside his comfort zone.
Reflecting on the 2024 Season
Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars will go down in history as one of the most diverse and exciting seasons yet. From Olympic gymnasts and NFL players to TV stars and Disney Channel favorites, the cast was full of surprises, and the competition kept fans on the edge of their seats week after week. The top 5 contestants — Joey Graziadei, Ilona Maher, Chandler Kinney, Stephen Nedoroscik, and Danny Amendola — each brought something unique to the table, showcasing their growth as dancers and their personalities off the floor.
As viewers eagerly await the next season, one thing is clear: Dancing with the Stars continues to push the boundaries of what it means to be a “dancer.” The show not only highlights the talent of its celebrity contestants but also proves that anyone can achieve greatness with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of glittering flair.
