Well that’s a wrap on season 33 of Dancing With the Stars! We’ve witnessed lots of historical moments over the past couple of months from one-on-one dances to special judges and guest stars. It has been a battle of skill, determination and respect for the art of dance.

Of all the olympians and movie stars, fashionistas and athletes, there was a wide range of couples to root for no matter what you like or how long you’ve watched the show. There were times viewers knew exactly who would go all the way and times when teams were just too in sync. 

This season took the internet by storm from the very beginning with our pros being very active on their social media. Finally giving the fans what they want! A behind the scenes practice or hilarious TikTok trend can pull on voters’ emotional strings and be the difference between getting eliminated or not. 

Now there has always been controversy about having stars on the show who have previous experience in dancing. I can say personally that it doesn’t bother me either way. Clearly this show has been on for quite a while, and contestants are bound to have some kind of experience. However it has become more evident in the past few seasons that viewer’s votes matter quite a bit, if not even more than the judges. The people want who they want, and whether that’s based on talent, growth or personality, each year will be different. 

Without further adieu, here’s your recap of each couple’s score as well as the winners. 

Scores

Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong (TOTAL SCORE 118)

There is no doubt that Kinney was one of the strongest and most consistent competitors this season. They took their dance to a new level and added meaning behind their dance. Armstrong choreographed a beautiful ode to Black performers that came before them who paved the way for them to become the first Black couple to reach the finale. Kinney received two perfect scores for her performances. 

Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson (TOTAL SCORE 117)

I have said from the beginning that Graziadei has to be one of the top competitors that has truly improved week after week. It is such an enjoyable performance from this duo every time because of their absolute love and respect for each other. Johnson mentioned how thankful she was to have such creative freedom with the dances so she could try all kinds of new things. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba did have some critiques in this couple’s freestyle saying it was a tad underwhelming. This, however, did not deter the results one bit. 

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten (TOTAL SCORE 114) 

In a not-so-shocking reveal, Maher was given a jive as her redemption dance and absolutely stole the show. It filled the ballroom with the energy that aided in this Olympian’s rise to the finale. As a second routine, their freestyle awarded this beloved couple a perfect score while beginning the whole ballroom together on account of a “femininomenon”. No couple has given the voters this much platonic love that will last outside of the show, and I’m not sure anyone ever will.

Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold (TOTAL SCORE 112) 

It has been so special to see Nedoroscik grow this season. With Arnold being able to really showcase her talent, this team deserved to make it to the end. Fans raved about their freestyle being one of the best dances of the finale, and maybe in the past few years, and I must agree. It was amazing to see other Olympians perform with their teammate and really portray the wide range of talent that Nedoroscik has learned to cultivate this season. 

Danny Amendola and Witney Carson (TOTAL SCORE 110) 

You know I’m so fond of a theme. Amendola and Carson had a beautiful tango and a tribute to the movie “Barbie”. Amendola really became one with his character here in order to provide such an immersive performance. Despite his stoic manner, he proved to be well-reformed after his full season. Athletes have been successful on this show in the past, and that was no different for our football star. 

WINNERS: Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson

I believe Graziadei truly deserved this Mirrorball Trophy. Despite some reservations from viewers after the fact, these two really put their all into this season. Being a frontrunner a majority of the season, it was not a shock to see that this Bachelor star took the cake. Their partnership founded on respect and love was something to be coveted. Like I’ve said, audience votes are extremely valuable in the end. But congratulations to this couple who had the support from the judges and voters alike.

Where to watch: Live on ABC and Disney+ Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CT and next day on Hulu.