The much-awaited Season 33 finale of Dancing with the Stars aired on November 26, and it did not disappoint. After weeks of intense competition, the five remaining couples returned to the ballroom for one final chance to win the coveted mirrorball trophy. The stakes were high as the season’s finalists took to the dance floor, hoping to secure their place in history.
The season had been filled with highs and lows, but as the finale approached, the tension was palpable. The Nov. 26 episode saw the final performances from Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong, Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson, Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten, Danny Amendola and Witney Carson, and Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold. Each couple had earned their place in the finale, but only one would walk away with the ultimate prize.
The episode kicked off with the return of several fan-favorite contestants who had been eliminated earlier in the season. Stars like Anna Delvey, Jenn Tran, and Brooks Nader were among those who returned to support their fellow competitors. In a special moment, the reigning Dancing with the Stars champion, Xochitl Gomez, also returned, joining her former pro partner Val Chmerkovskiy for a stunning performance to Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club.” The night was filled with emotions as contestants, past and present, came together to celebrate the finale.
As the night went on, each couple performed their final routines, and the competition grew even more intense. The couples had already wowed the judges and the audience with their earlier performances, but the final Freestyle would determine the winner. After each performance, the dancers were greeted with heartfelt video messages from their loved ones, offering encouragement and support.
When the performances concluded, hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough were ready to announce the results. In a tense moment, they revealed the rankings: in fifth place was Danny and Witney, followed by Stephen and Rylee in fourth, and Chandler and Brandon in third. This left Joey and Jenna and Ilona and Alan as the last two couples standing, each vying for the title of Dancing with the Stars champion.
With bated breath, the crowd waited for the final announcement. Julianne Hough paused before making the dramatic declaration: “After weeks of intense competition, it’s time for the final result.” The excitement reached a fever pitch as Alfonso Ribeiro continued, “The winners and new champions of Dancing with the Stars are Joey and Jenna!” The ballroom erupted in applause as confetti fell, showering the victorious couple.
Joey Graziadei, clearly overwhelmed by the win, expressed his gratitude and joy. “It means everything,” he said, fighting back tears. “This whole experience has been unbelievable. Honestly, everyone from the beginning, Ilona, you have been amazing this season. I love you all, the finalists, the judges—thank you for bearing with us. I tried my best, I promise!” His words were heartfelt, and it was clear how much the experience had meant to him.
For their final Freestyle performance, Joey and Jenna had chosen a meaningful theme that resonated deeply with them. They wanted to honor the legacy of Black artists who paved the way for performers like them. Brandon Armstrong, Jenna’s partner, explained the significance of their routine: “We are the first Black couple to ever make a finale of Dancing with the Stars. So I want to celebrate all the Black performers before us who helped make it possible for us to be here tonight.”
Chandler Kinney, who had been a standout all season, echoed Brandon’s sentiments. “We are at the root of entertainment today,” she said, referring to the important role Black culture has played in shaping the entertainment industry. “This performance is going to be special for representation.”
The couple’s final performance was nothing short of spectacular. With jaw-dropping leaps, lifts, and tricks, they captivated the audience and the judges alike. Bruno Tonioli, one of the judges, was visibly moved by the performance. “A truly incandescent, spectacular celebration for the contributions that all Black artists have contributed to dance,” he said, his praise ringing through the ballroom. “I’m telling you, this was a truly grand performance for a grand finale.”
The emotional weight of the performance was not lost on anyone in the room. The choreography, combined with the message of empowerment and representation, made the Freestyle an unforgettable moment in the history of the show. Chandler’s determination and pride in her heritage were evident in every step, and her passion for the performance shone through.
As the night came to a close and Joey and Jenna were crowned champions, the atmosphere in the ballroom was electric. For many fans, this season’s finale marked the culmination of an extraordinary journey. The competition had been fierce, with each couple giving their all, but it was Joey and Jenna who emerged victorious.
For Jenna Johnson, the win was particularly special. As a seasoned pro, this victory marked a high point in her career. She had been part of Dancing with the Stars for several years, and winning the mirrorball trophy with Joey was the culmination of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. The duo’s chemistry on and off the dance floor was undeniable, and their partnership had resonated with the audience.
Joey Graziadei, on the other hand, had come a long way since his debut on the show. A natural performer, Joey had impressed the judges and viewers with his growth over the season. From week to week, his performances had improved, showcasing his versatility and ability to take on different dance styles. His dedication to the competition, as well as his humble and gracious attitude, made him a fan favorite.
As the new champions, Joey and Jenna join a long list of Dancing with the Stars winners who have made their mark on the dance world. The duo’s victory is not just a testament to their hard work, but also to the power of perseverance and passion. Their journey was filled with challenges, but they overcame them all, and in doing so, they became a symbol of triumph.
For the other finalists—Ilona and Alan, Stephen and Rylee, Chandler and Brandon, and Danny and Witney—their performances and accomplishments throughout the season were nothing short of impressive. Each couple had their own unique story, and they all brought something special to the competition. While only one couple could win, all of the finalists had shown immense growth, and they were all deserving of recognition.
As the confetti settled and the cheers echoed through the ballroom, it was clear that the Season 33 finale of Dancing with the Stars had been a night to remember. From the unforgettable performances to the emotional moments, the episode left an indelible mark on viewers and will be remembered as one of the most exciting finales in the show’s history.
Joey and Jenna’s win may have been the ultimate highlight, but the true victory of the season was the celebration of dance, passion, and perseverance. With each new season, Dancing with the Stars continues to captivate audiences, and Season 33 proved that it still has the power to surprise, inspire, and entertain.