This week, Dancing with the Stars wrapped up Season 32 and awarded the Len Goodman Mirrorball trophy to one of the five remaining couples. The show opened with judges’ commentary on each of the five celebrities’ strengths and best dances followed by an opening number choreographed by Ray Leeper.
The Highlights:
- For the first time, five celebrity contestants compete for the Len Goodman Mirrorball trophy in the DWTS season finale.
- Another first, married pros Daniella and Pasha compete against each other in the finale.
- Special performances from Season 31 champions Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas and Julianne and Alfonso with some pros and surprise guests.
The Redemption Round
Alyson and Sasha
For their redemption dance, Alyson was challenged by Carrie Ann to revisit the salsa. After Carrie Ann’s advice and lessons, Alyson impressed the judges with her moves. “From week one to now, the improvement is insane,” Derek said of this performance. After compliments from all three judges, we can call this dance redeemed.
Score: 25/30
Jason and Daniella
Bruno was Jason’s mentor for this round. Returning to the foxtrot with better shoulders and a confident stride, Jason and Daniella glided across the floor. “Len would love this because it was pure classic ballroom foxtrot,” Bruno said when they were done. They brought it with this dance, and the judges were all impressed.
Score: 30/30
Ariana and Pasha
Can Ariana and Pasha spice up their samba? Turns out the answer is yes. Derek worked with Ariana to turn her into the “samba queen.” Bruno liked the way she brought it, and Carrie Ann loved the improvement but thought Ariana was ahead of the music at times.
Score: 29/30
Charity and Artem
If there is anything Charity has gained this season, it’s confidence in her dance which is exactly what her tango was missing earlier in the competition. With tips from Carrie Ann, Charity performed a passionate tango. Carrie Ann thought she saw a mistake, but Derek called the routine the best dance of the night.
Score: 29/30
Xochitl and Val
After earning two perfect scores last week, wanted to continue to prove their skills with an improved foxtrot. Bruno challenged them to work on this dance, and he was impressed by her musicality and extensions. Carrie Ann called her stunning and Derek congratulated her on her growth as a dancer.
Score: 30/30
The Freestyle Round
Charity and Artem
For her freestyle, Charity wanted to tap into her cheerleading background to wow the judges. After injuring her jaw during rehearsals, Charity still managed to bring it and get the judges on her feet. Carrie Ann and Derek were excited that it was something never seen before in the ballroom, and Bruno thought it was an incredible feat of teamwork.
Score: 30/30
Finale Total: 118
Jason and Daniella
For Jason, DWTS has been about facing his fears and tackling shyness. His freestyle was all about happiness and fast footwork. Bruno loved the energy and pacing of the dance, calling it “out of this world.” Carrie Ann thanked Jason for sharing his emotional journey as well as his dance skills.
Score: 30/30
Finale Total: 117
Ariana and Pasha
This season has been about more than dance for Ariana. She shared that she’s capable of awesome dancing but also of trusting. To mark the end of the season, she wanted to put on a powerhouse dance that showcased the power she felt the show gave her. “That was off the charts, girl!” Carrie Ann cheered after this performance. Derek and Bruno could only agree that the performance was sensational.
Score: 30/30
Finale Total: 117
Alyson and Sasha
No longer approaching the finale as the underdog, Alsyon embraced all of the incredible ways she has grown this season and owned the spotlight with her freestyle. Derek praised her for giving the show her all every week, and Bruno celebrated her growth.
Score: 28/30
Finale Total: 104
Xochitl and Val
One of the things Xochitl shared that she valued most about the competition was her partnership with Val and how she was able to be involved in their creative process. She wanted to showcase her maturity and growth in their freestyle. The whole ballroom was chanting “Xochitl!” as Bruno praised her for bringing them all into the dance. Carrie Ann said their partnership sets them apart.
Score: 30/30
Finale Total: 120
The Mirrorball Winner
After messages from friends, family, and fans of the contestants, it was time to reveal the winner of the first Len Goodman Mirrorball trophy. The results for Alyson and Sasha (fifth place), Charity and Artem (fourth place), and Ariana and Pasha (third place) were announced first. With Jason and Daniella and Xochitl and Val left on stage, Season 31 winner Charli D’Amelio returned to the floor to present the Mirrorball to Xochitl and Val.
With enough confetti to fill the ballroom, Season 32 of Dancing with the Stars is officially wrapped!