One of the most memorable winners of Dancing with the Stars is Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi. Season 6 of the show featured Yamaguchi partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas. Throughout the season, Yamaguchi wowed the judges and the audience with her precise and graceful movements. Her strong technical skills combined with her natural elegance made her performances a sheer joy to watch. Ultimately, Yamaguchi and Ballas claimed the title, solidifying her place as a Dancing with the Stars champion.
Emmitt Smith, former NFL running back, proved that his agility and coordination extended beyond the football field and onto the dance floor. Partnered with Cheryl Burke, Smith won the third season of Dancing with the Stars. His infectious charisma and incredible rhythm won over both the judges and the viewers. Smith’s powerful presence and commitment to the dance routines made him an undeniable contender, resulting in a well-deserved victory.
Another standout winner is the talented actress Jennifer Grey, who rose to fame after starring in the beloved film Dirty Dancing. Grey partnered with professional dancer Derek Hough in season 11 of Dancing with the Stars. Despite suffering from chronic neck pain, Grey pushed through the challenges and delivered mesmerizing performances week after week. Her connection with Hough, coupled with her innate ability to captivate the audience, made her a fan favorite. Grey’s triumph on the dance floor was a true redemption story, symbolizing her return to the spotlight and reclaiming her love for dance.
Season 20 brought us Rumer Willis and her dance partner, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, who stole the show with their incredible performances. Daughter of Hollywood Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, Willis showcased her own talents and proved herself as a formidable dancer. Throughout the season, Willis consistently showcased her versatility, seamlessly transitioning from intense and powerful routines to graceful and elegant performances. Her commitment to the competition and undeniable chemistry with Chmerkovskiy ultimately earned her the mirror ball trophy.
Lastly, it is impossible to discuss Dancing with the Stars without mentioning Derek Hough himself. As a professional dancer on the show, Hough has won the competition not once, not twice, but a record six times. Each time, Hough partnered with various celebrities, including Nicole Scherzinger, Amber Riley, and Bindi Irwin, among others. Hough’s innovative choreography, exceptional skill, and ability to bring out the best in his partners contributed to his astounding success on the show.
Dancing with the Stars has introduced audiences to a treasure trove of extraordinary talent, resulting in numerous unforgettable winners. From Olympians to actors, each victory carries a unique story of perseverance, growth, and triumph. While the individual journeys may differ, these winners have all left an indelible mark on the dance floor, proving that with dedication, passion, and a few perfect moves, anyone can become a star.