“Dancing with the Stars” premiered in 2005 with a focus on teaching celebrities some fancy footwork. But along the way the professional dancers who teach and partner with those celebrity amateurs became stars in their own right. Many of them returned to the show year after year, and over a dozen have won the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy over the course of the series. Scroll down to see every single “DWTS” pro champion, listed by their number of victories.
It’s fitting that the “DWTS” pros have become fan-favorites because they’re not just dancers. They’re also trainers, choreographers and storytellers, and their chemistry with the stars fuels the show’s best routines, so they’re truly the lifeblood of the competition, especially when they bring talent and charisma out of unexpected places, from child stars to race car drivers to one male model, Nyle Dimarco, who won the Mirror...
It’s fitting that the “DWTS” pros have become fan-favorites because they’re not just dancers. They’re also trainers, choreographers and storytellers, and their chemistry with the stars fuels the show’s best routines, so they’re truly the lifeblood of the competition, especially when they bring talent and charisma out of unexpected places, from child stars to race car drivers to one male model, Nyle Dimarco, who won the Mirror...
- 12/6/2023
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Tucked within the Dancing with the Stars episode, which honored 100 years of Disney magic, was an announcement that shook viewers. Over eight Og fan-favorite pros will return to the ABC series to pay homage to late head judge Len Goodman during its next episode. Many of these pros haven’t appeared on Dancing With the Stars in over a decade. Here are all the details.
Original ‘Dancing with the Stars’ pros pay tribute to Len Goodman
Midway through an episode where season 32 celebrities sprinkled Disney magic in the ballroom was an announcement that shocked viewers. Dancing with the Stars host Alfonso Ribeiro shared that to honor Len Goodman, at least eight former pros would return to pay tribute to the judge whose critiques were considered the gold standard.
The Og pros return to pay homage to the tough but tender late head judge. More are set to be announced ahead of the series’ next episode.
Original ‘Dancing with the Stars’ pros pay tribute to Len Goodman
Midway through an episode where season 32 celebrities sprinkled Disney magic in the ballroom was an announcement that shocked viewers. Dancing with the Stars host Alfonso Ribeiro shared that to honor Len Goodman, at least eight former pros would return to pay tribute to the judge whose critiques were considered the gold standard.
The Og pros return to pay homage to the tough but tender late head judge. More are set to be announced ahead of the series’ next episode.
- 10/18/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Derek Hough is dreaming of an all-winners season of Dancing With the Stars.
In a new interview with our sister site Variety, the dance pro-turned-judge pitches a DWTS cycle comprised entirely of former Mirrorball Trophy recipients.
More from TVLineJared Padalecki Isn't Messing Around in Exclusive Celebrity Family Feud PreviewThe Bachelorette Recap: Charity Gets a Rough Wake-Up Call at Fantasy SuitesBachelorette Gabby Windey Comes Out, Gushes Over New Girlfriend - Watch
“I think that it’d be a really, really competitive season,” Hough says, while name-checking former dance partners Bindi Irwin and Nicole Scherzinger (who won Seasons 21 and 10, respectively) as potential returnees.
In a new interview with our sister site Variety, the dance pro-turned-judge pitches a DWTS cycle comprised entirely of former Mirrorball Trophy recipients.
More from TVLineJared Padalecki Isn't Messing Around in Exclusive Celebrity Family Feud PreviewThe Bachelorette Recap: Charity Gets a Rough Wake-Up Call at Fantasy SuitesBachelorette Gabby Windey Comes Out, Gushes Over New Girlfriend - Watch
“I think that it’d be a really, really competitive season,” Hough says, while name-checking former dance partners Bindi Irwin and Nicole Scherzinger (who won Seasons 21 and 10, respectively) as potential returnees.
- 8/14/2023
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
Karina Smirnoff hasn’t been on “Dancing with the Stars” in five years, but if she were to return, it would not be in pursuit of another Mirrorball trophy. “I would definitely enjoy judging,” Smirnoff told Parade.com. “I don’t know if I would go back as a dancer. I think there’s a right time in life for everything.”
The pro spent 18 seasons on “Dancing,” winning Season 13 with J.R. Martinez, and last competed on Season 22 in spring 2016 with Doug Flutie, where they finished in ninth place. Smirnoff, who stars in the new film “Tango Shalom,” left when her contract was up to return to the world of competitive dancing.
See ‘Dancing with the Stars’ recap: Queen Night
“I felt like I needed to go back to the competitive industry, if it was to judge, to coach, to do lectures, to do shows. So, the last few seasons of the show,...
The pro spent 18 seasons on “Dancing,” winning Season 13 with J.R. Martinez, and last competed on Season 22 in spring 2016 with Doug Flutie, where they finished in ninth place. Smirnoff, who stars in the new film “Tango Shalom,” left when her contract was up to return to the world of competitive dancing.
See ‘Dancing with the Stars’ recap: Queen Night
“I felt like I needed to go back to the competitive industry, if it was to judge, to coach, to do lectures, to do shows. So, the last few seasons of the show,...
- 11/4/2021
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
“Dancing with the Stars” has been airing on ABC for 28 seasons over the last 15 years. What started as a six-week summer series in 2005 became a TV institution, winning more than a dozen Emmys over the course of its run. But when it comes to the show’s Mirror Ball Trophy champions, they weren’t all created equal. Scroll down to see how we rank every single winner of the show from the very worst to the very best. Do you agree with our choice for the greatest of all time?
“DWTS” is an amateur dance competition series, so the quality of its performances is always a mixed bag. Some celebrities have the rhythm, musicality and stamina to keep up with the grueling pace week after week, while others simply don’t. But the show isn’t just about the dancing. While judges Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and...
“DWTS” is an amateur dance competition series, so the quality of its performances is always a mixed bag. Some celebrities have the rhythm, musicality and stamina to keep up with the grueling pace week after week, while others simply don’t. But the show isn’t just about the dancing. While judges Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and...
- 9/14/2020
- by Cordell Martin and Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Achieve announced today that J.R. Martinez will be the motivational speaker for the 2nd Annual Tackle the Challenge luncheon to be held Wednesday, February 26, 2020, at the Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas.
Mr. Martinez is an Army veteran, burn survivor, actor, New York Times best-selling author and Dancing with the Stars season 13 winner. Guests in attendance will hear his incredible story of resilience while enjoying his humor. The event is presented by Ryan, LLC and will be hosted by Mike Doocy, Fox 4 Sports Newscaster.
“Achieve is thrilled to introduce our supporters to Mr. J.R. Martinez,” stated Tim Allen, Executive Director for Achieve. “He will make you laugh and realize that you can achieve anything with a good attitude and determination.”
Achieve, a non-profit organization that provides vocational training and placement for adults with disabilities and barriers to employment, selected Mr. Martinez as he challenges audiences to “diss the...
Mr. Martinez is an Army veteran, burn survivor, actor, New York Times best-selling author and Dancing with the Stars season 13 winner. Guests in attendance will hear his incredible story of resilience while enjoying his humor. The event is presented by Ryan, LLC and will be hosted by Mike Doocy, Fox 4 Sports Newscaster.
“Achieve is thrilled to introduce our supporters to Mr. J.R. Martinez,” stated Tim Allen, Executive Director for Achieve. “He will make you laugh and realize that you can achieve anything with a good attitude and determination.”
Achieve, a non-profit organization that provides vocational training and placement for adults with disabilities and barriers to employment, selected Mr. Martinez as he challenges audiences to “diss the...
- 1/9/2020
- Look to the Stars
James Van Der Beek is one of the 12 celebrities on “Dancing with the Stars” Season 28, but this won’t be his first time on the show. Sort of.
Remember “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23”? The short-lived ABC sitcom that ran from two seasons on which the “Dawson’s Creek” alum played a vain, narcissistic version of himself? Yeah, well, that James Van Der Beek was on “Dancing.” In the “Apartment 23” Season 1 finale, which aired in May 2012, James is cast on “Dancing” and develops a heated rivalry with Dean Cain after he learns that the former Superman has a larger dressing room.
The storyline carried over into Season 2, and Karina Smirnoff, who at the time had just won Season 13 of “Dancing” with J.R. Martinez, guest-starred as Dean’s partner. James wasn’t partnered with a real “Dancing” pro on the show, but rather the fictional Angie Beckencort (Missi Pyle), who was not great,...
Remember “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23”? The short-lived ABC sitcom that ran from two seasons on which the “Dawson’s Creek” alum played a vain, narcissistic version of himself? Yeah, well, that James Van Der Beek was on “Dancing.” In the “Apartment 23” Season 1 finale, which aired in May 2012, James is cast on “Dancing” and develops a heated rivalry with Dean Cain after he learns that the former Superman has a larger dressing room.
The storyline carried over into Season 2, and Karina Smirnoff, who at the time had just won Season 13 of “Dancing” with J.R. Martinez, guest-starred as Dean’s partner. James wasn’t partnered with a real “Dancing” pro on the show, but rather the fictional Angie Beckencort (Missi Pyle), who was not great,...
- 8/25/2019
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
1967: Dark Shadows' Maggie remained frustrated locked in a cell.
1983: General Hospital faced a hostage crisis.
1993: As the World Turns' Hal and Barbara were remarried.
1996: All My Children's Hayley and Brian wanted to relive their prom."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: On Dark Shadows, locked in a cell in the Old House basement, Maggie Evans (Kathryn Leigh Scott) opened the music box when she heard Barnabas (Jonathan Frid) coming, pretending that she had been listening to it. He didn't believe her and...
1983: General Hospital faced a hostage crisis.
1993: As the World Turns' Hal and Barbara were remarried.
1996: All My Children's Hayley and Brian wanted to relive their prom."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: On Dark Shadows, locked in a cell in the Old House basement, Maggie Evans (Kathryn Leigh Scott) opened the music box when she heard Barnabas (Jonathan Frid) coming, pretending that she had been listening to it. He didn't believe her and...
- 6/14/2019
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
It’s better to give than to receive, and the judges’ very generous donation of a 30 for Bobby Bones‘ freestyle has saved him and “Dancing with the Stars” from further ignominy. Without that 30, he would’ve been the first winner who didn’t receive a perfect score during their run.
A perfect score for Bones and his partner Sharna Burgess was by no means guaranteed. He had never received a higher single score than an 8 and never scored higher than a 24, first achieved in Week 7, and his dancing level, frankly, didn’t really warrant much higher than that. But as the judges are wont to do sometimes, they handed out perfect scores for everyone’s freestyles on Monday’s finale, which is also kind of insulting to Milo Manheim, Evanna Lynch and Alexis Ren; if Bones’ half-soliloquy, half-dance deserved a 30, then their far technically superior routines deserved 40s. Hilariously, this...
A perfect score for Bones and his partner Sharna Burgess was by no means guaranteed. He had never received a higher single score than an 8 and never scored higher than a 24, first achieved in Week 7, and his dancing level, frankly, didn’t really warrant much higher than that. But as the judges are wont to do sometimes, they handed out perfect scores for everyone’s freestyles on Monday’s finale, which is also kind of insulting to Milo Manheim, Evanna Lynch and Alexis Ren; if Bones’ half-soliloquy, half-dance deserved a 30, then their far technically superior routines deserved 40s. Hilariously, this...
- 11/20/2018
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
The "Better Call Saul" actor who made headlines this week for falsely presenting himself as a war vet, deserves a chance to make good in Hollywood ... according to real Army vet and actor J.R. Martinez. J.R. -- who won "Dancing With the Stars" in 2011 -- tells us Todd Latourrette's admission he lied for years about how he lost his arm in order to score acting roles ... is absolutely despicable. Still, he's willing to give Latourrette a pass,...
- 11/3/2018
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Juan Pablo Di Pace and Cheryl Burke received the first perfect score of the season on “Dancing with the Stars” for their sizzling samba. Is he the favorite to win now? Hard to say. There’s still lots of weeks of dancing left, and there are a bunch of formidable contenders, like DeMarcus Ware, Tinashe and Milo Manheim. Plus, getting the first perfect score of the season isn’t a ticket to the Mirrorball trophy.
In the last 26 seasons, only 11 couples who earned the first perfect score of the season — a 30 or a 40, depending on the judging panel — went on to win the whole show. Five of them ended up in second place, and there were a few shocking eliminations in there, specifically Sabrina Bryan, who nabbed the first 30 twice, in Season 5 and the all-stars outing, only to be eliminated early — and five years to the day exactly.
Getting a...
In the last 26 seasons, only 11 couples who earned the first perfect score of the season — a 30 or a 40, depending on the judging panel — went on to win the whole show. Five of them ended up in second place, and there were a few shocking eliminations in there, specifically Sabrina Bryan, who nabbed the first 30 twice, in Season 5 and the all-stars outing, only to be eliminated early — and five years to the day exactly.
Getting a...
- 10/15/2018
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
“Dancing with the Stars” took a chance this past spring with a special all-athletes edition that lasted just four weeks. Responses to that were mixed to say the least, in large part because of the abbreviated schedule. But what about the choice of contestants? Should the show try another themed season bringing together celebrities with a common background? Scroll down to vote in our poll at the bottom of this post.
There have now been 11 athlete winners of “DWTS,” so doing an all-athletes season was a good fit. But singers have also done quite well. Recording artists like Drew Lachey (season 2), Nicole Scherzinger (season 10) and Kellie Pickler (season 16) have won the Mirror Ball Trophy in the past, so perhaps an entire singers season is in order. Given the success of boy-band and girl-group members, the show could probably assemble a roster for a “Boy Bands vs. Girl Groups” season with ease.
There have now been 11 athlete winners of “DWTS,” so doing an all-athletes season was a good fit. But singers have also done quite well. Recording artists like Drew Lachey (season 2), Nicole Scherzinger (season 10) and Kellie Pickler (season 16) have won the Mirror Ball Trophy in the past, so perhaps an entire singers season is in order. Given the success of boy-band and girl-group members, the show could probably assemble a roster for a “Boy Bands vs. Girl Groups” season with ease.
- 7/13/2018
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
1967: Dark Shadows' Maggie remained frustrated locked in a cell.
1983: General Hospital faced a hostage crisis.
1993: As the World Turns' Hal and Barbara were remarried.
1996: All My Children's Hayley and Brian wanted to relive their prom."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: On Dark Shadows, locked in a cell in the Old House basement, Maggie Evans (Kathryn Leigh Scott) opened the music box when...
1983: General Hospital faced a hostage crisis.
1993: As the World Turns' Hal and Barbara were remarried.
1996: All My Children's Hayley and Brian wanted to relive their prom."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: On Dark Shadows, locked in a cell in the Old House basement, Maggie Evans (Kathryn Leigh Scott) opened the music box when...
- 6/14/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
Reality TV is the hope of the future.
As production costs boom, unscripted series offer templates of how to keep budgets under control. And while Hollywood loves to talk about diversity, people with disabilities (or Pwd) are invisible on most films and TV shows, with the exception of reality TV, which focuses entire series on them and, equally important, includes them in its ongoing series.
TLC’s “Little People, Big World” is now in its 13th year, going strong after 300-plus episodes. A&E’s “Born This Way,” about people with Down syndrome, is beginning its fourth season. “Little Women: L.A.” is in its seventh season.
And nearly every competition series has included challenged people. ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” has spotlighted deaf individuals, amputees and burn patient J.R. Martinez.
NBC’s “The Voice” has featured singers who are blind, partially blind or partially deaf. The two most striking...
As production costs boom, unscripted series offer templates of how to keep budgets under control. And while Hollywood loves to talk about diversity, people with disabilities (or Pwd) are invisible on most films and TV shows, with the exception of reality TV, which focuses entire series on them and, equally important, includes them in its ongoing series.
TLC’s “Little People, Big World” is now in its 13th year, going strong after 300-plus episodes. A&E’s “Born This Way,” about people with Down syndrome, is beginning its fourth season. “Little Women: L.A.” is in its seventh season.
And nearly every competition series has included challenged people. ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” has spotlighted deaf individuals, amputees and burn patient J.R. Martinez.
NBC’s “The Voice” has featured singers who are blind, partially blind or partially deaf. The two most striking...
- 6/14/2018
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Tonya Harding would probably tell you herself she’s the underdog in the “Dancing with the Stars: Athletes” final three. No one, not even she, thought she’d get this far. Our odds have her finishing in third, behind Josh Norman and frontrunner Adam Rippon, which would be a very good and respectable placement for someone many thought would and wanted to get the boot in the first episode. But could she actually go even further and claim the Mirrorball trophy? “Dancing” history shows that, more often than not, the final two tends to be a his-and-her battle.
In the show’s previous 25 seasons, 17 final twos have come down to a female and a male celebrity. The longest streak was eight seasons, from Season 5 through 12. Of these 17, the woman prevailed 10 times. While each season is a very specific case, this data isn’t that shocking; female dancers — whether the pro...
In the show’s previous 25 seasons, 17 final twos have come down to a female and a male celebrity. The longest streak was eight seasons, from Season 5 through 12. Of these 17, the woman prevailed 10 times. While each season is a very specific case, this data isn’t that shocking; female dancers — whether the pro...
- 5/17/2018
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
More than 60 percent of readers voted in a recent poll calling for Maksim Chmerkovskiy to be a ‘Dancing with the Stars’ judge. He really, really wants to do it too. By all appearances, ABC is just sticking with the original three judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli, for the forthcoming all-athletes season, and Chmerkovskiy is otherwise preoccupied with his tour anyway. But if the show were to add another pro as a judge — and if it’s not Chmerkovskiy — who should it be?
Let’s look at six possibilities — all former champs, many of whom have left the show or are/were on extended breaks.
Derek Hough
Obviously the six-time champ can’t be ignored. He’d follow his sister, Julianne Hough, who sat on the judges’ panel from Seasons 19 through 24. Since his last stint on Season 23, Hough has moved on to serve as a judge on NBC’s “World of Dance,...
Let’s look at six possibilities — all former champs, many of whom have left the show or are/were on extended breaks.
Derek Hough
Obviously the six-time champ can’t be ignored. He’d follow his sister, Julianne Hough, who sat on the judges’ panel from Seasons 19 through 24. Since his last stint on Season 23, Hough has moved on to serve as a judge on NBC’s “World of Dance,...
- 4/10/2018
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
Season 1: Kelly Monaco & Alec Mazo
Photo: ABC
There's nothing sweeter than holding the title of ABC's first-ever DWTS champion! Since winning the mirrorball, Monaco continued to portray the role of Samantha McCall on the network's daytime drama, General Hospital. Monaco made her most recent return to the show during season 25, pairing up with her close pal, Cheryl Burke, and former NFL star Terrell Owens for Trio Night.
Season 2: Drew Lachey & Cheryl Burke
Photo: ABC
The 98 Degrees singer had so much fun learning how to dance on the show, that he joined the pros and troupe dancers on their DWTS tour after winning the title. At the time, he had no idea that his brother, Nick Lachey, would later compete on season 25 of the show with Peta Murgatroyd. Unfortunately for Nick, he didn't have as much luck -- he and Peta were the fifth couple to be eliminated from the competition.
Season 3: [link=nm...
Photo: ABC
There's nothing sweeter than holding the title of ABC's first-ever DWTS champion! Since winning the mirrorball, Monaco continued to portray the role of Samantha McCall on the network's daytime drama, General Hospital. Monaco made her most recent return to the show during season 25, pairing up with her close pal, Cheryl Burke, and former NFL star Terrell Owens for Trio Night.
Season 2: Drew Lachey & Cheryl Burke
Photo: ABC
The 98 Degrees singer had so much fun learning how to dance on the show, that he joined the pros and troupe dancers on their DWTS tour after winning the title. At the time, he had no idea that his brother, Nick Lachey, would later compete on season 25 of the show with Peta Murgatroyd. Unfortunately for Nick, he didn't have as much luck -- he and Peta were the fifth couple to be eliminated from the competition.
Season 3: [link=nm...
- 11/21/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
J.R. Martinez and Diana Gonzalez-Jones are engaged!
The Army corporal turned actor, who survived a 2003 Iraq bombing, shared the exciting news on Instagram on Sunday with a few happy snapshots of the longtime couple from the momentous occasion.
“It wasn’t easy but we did it. Now we’re doing it. Who cares that our daughter was crying due to the fact that she fell right before and hurt her knee. We were basking in joy!” Dancing with the Stars winner Martinez-Jones, 34, captioned the post, which featured three smiling images of the couple, including one with their 5-year-old daughter, Lauryn Anabelle.
The Army corporal turned actor, who survived a 2003 Iraq bombing, shared the exciting news on Instagram on Sunday with a few happy snapshots of the longtime couple from the momentous occasion.
“It wasn’t easy but we did it. Now we’re doing it. Who cares that our daughter was crying due to the fact that she fell right before and hurt her knee. We were basking in joy!” Dancing with the Stars winner Martinez-Jones, 34, captioned the post, which featured three smiling images of the couple, including one with their 5-year-old daughter, Lauryn Anabelle.
- 11/14/2017
- by Natalie Stone
- PEOPLE.com
It's the night we've all been waiting for!
The season 24 Dancing With the Stars champion will officially be announced during the competition show's finale, airing Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. Et/Pt on ABC. But before Rashad Jennings, Normani Kordei and David Ross hit the ballroom for one last dance, Et's recapping the freestyle routines they performed during night one of the finals and breaking down why these pieces have such a big impact on who takes home the coveted Mirrorball.
Watch: 'DWTS' Strategy: The Pros Reveal What It Takes to Impress the Judges
We've seen it happen before -- contestants who have been frontrunners all season long have fallen short in the finals because of the freestyle dance (Zendaya, Nick Carter, Mel B). At the same time, we've also seen the underdogs win it all after delivering outrageously entertaining routines (Nyle Dimarco, J.R. Martinez, Hélio Castroneves).
The point of the Freestyle Challenge is to let the...
The season 24 Dancing With the Stars champion will officially be announced during the competition show's finale, airing Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. Et/Pt on ABC. But before Rashad Jennings, Normani Kordei and David Ross hit the ballroom for one last dance, Et's recapping the freestyle routines they performed during night one of the finals and breaking down why these pieces have such a big impact on who takes home the coveted Mirrorball.
Watch: 'DWTS' Strategy: The Pros Reveal What It Takes to Impress the Judges
We've seen it happen before -- contestants who have been frontrunners all season long have fallen short in the finals because of the freestyle dance (Zendaya, Nick Carter, Mel B). At the same time, we've also seen the underdogs win it all after delivering outrageously entertaining routines (Nyle Dimarco, J.R. Martinez, Hélio Castroneves).
The point of the Freestyle Challenge is to let the...
- 5/23/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
25 years ago today, audiences first saw Kevin Costner’s turn as Robin Hood on the big screen. It was on June 14, 1991 that Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves opened in theaters. Facing off against Costner’s heroic outlaw was Alan Rickman's Sheriff of Nottingham, just three years after he made his first movie appearance in a role that would become a new classic villain, Hans Gruber in Die Hard. Rickman and Morgan Freeman got critical approval for their performances. Costner and Christian Slater, not so much. Both were nominated for Golden Raspberry Awards for Robin Hood, for Worst Actor and Worst Supporting Actor, respectively. Costner “won” his award, while Slater “lost” to Dan Ackroyd in Nothing but Trouble. Also part of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ legacy: “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You.” Believe it or not, the theme ballad that Bryan Adams bleated out for this movie earned him an Oscar nomination. But Raspberries or no Raspberries, Oscars or no Oscars, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves found its audience. It was the second-highest grossing movie of 1991, beaten only by Terminator 2: Judgement Day. And it was viewed countless times on VHS for years after that. Other notable June 14 happenings in pop culture history: • 1940: Jimmy Stewart film The Mortal Storm opened in theaters. • 1958: The indoor Alice in Wonderland ride opened next to the Mad Tea Party teacups ride in Disneyland. It was also the day the Columbia Sailing Ship first took passengers around Tom Sawyer Island. • 1959: The Matterhorn Bobsleds, Submarine Voyage, and the Monorail opened at Disneyland. Over 2,000 celebrities, members of the press, and dignitaries attended, including Vice President Richard Nixon. • 1965: Paul McCartney recorded the song “Yesterday” at what is now known as Abbey Road Studios in London. McCartney recorded it without the rest of the group, just with a string quartet, his vocals, and an acoustic guitar, making it essentially the first solo performance by the band. He recorded the song in two takes. • 1969: John Lennon and Yoko Ono pre-recorded an interview with David Frost that would air on July 10 that year. Lennon said in the interview, “We're trying to sell peace, like a product, you know, and sell it like people sell soap or soft drinks.” • 1970: Eric Clapton’s new band, Derek and the Dominos, gave their first live performance, at London’s Lyceum Theatre. • 1972: Simon & Garfunkel reunited to perform “Bridge Over Troubled Water” at a fundraising concert for presidential candidate George McGovern at New York’s Madison Square Garden. • 1980: The Pretenders fired bassist Pete Farndon, whose drug use had led to an increasingly strained relationship with his bandmates. • 1980: Billy Joel began six weeks atop the Billboard album chart with Glass Houses. • 1985: Family Feud, which had debuted in 1976, aired its final episode on ABC until CBS re-launched the game show in 1988. • 1989: The game Tetris was released for Game Boy in Japan. A North American release followed in July. • 1990: CBS, which had been the national broadcaster for the NBA since 1973, televised an NBA game for the final time. It was Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers. • 1996: Jim Carrey movie The Cable Guy opened in U.S. and Canadian theaters. • 2002: The Bourne Identity and the Sarah Michelle Gellar Scooby-Doo movie opened in theaters. • 2003: Helen Mirren had the order of Dame bestowed upon her when Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II published the list of those she’d chosen to promote to the Order of the British Empire. Three years later, Mirren portrayed Elizabeth II on film in The Queen. Sting and 007 actor Roger Moore were also conferred with the title of “Sir” on this day. • 2011: Andy Grammer released his self-titled debut studio album. Birthdays: Juno writer Diablo Cody (turns 38 today), singer Boy George (55), Reign actor Torrance Coombs (33), Pretty Little Liars actress Lucy Hale (27), actor-motivational speaker J.R. Martinez (33), Glee actor Kevin McHale (28), Falling Skies actor Will Patton (62), Austin Powers director Jay Roach (59), Spy Kids actor Daryl Sabara (24), Blindspot actor Sullivan Stapleton (39)...
- 6/14/2016
- by Emily Rome
- Hitfix
Watch out, Val Chmerkovskiy: Karina Smirnoff has her eye on the Mirrorball Trophy once again.
The Dancing With the Stars pro — who sat out Season 20 to focus on other projects — will be back for this fall’s 21st season, EW.com reports.
RelatedFall TV 2015: Your Handy Calendar of 120+ Season and Series Premiere Dates
“I was a little nervous about not dancing on the show at all last season,” Smirnoff told the site, adding, “I’ve had obvious moments when I’ve missed it.”
Smirnoff took home the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 13 with partner J.R. Martinez, and most recently...
The Dancing With the Stars pro — who sat out Season 20 to focus on other projects — will be back for this fall’s 21st season, EW.com reports.
RelatedFall TV 2015: Your Handy Calendar of 120+ Season and Series Premiere Dates
“I was a little nervous about not dancing on the show at all last season,” Smirnoff told the site, adding, “I’ve had obvious moments when I’ve missed it.”
Smirnoff took home the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 13 with partner J.R. Martinez, and most recently...
- 8/18/2015
- TVLine.com
It's finally here, dance fans! It's the big blowout 10th anniversary celebration of "Dancing with the Stars," as they remind us of some of the wild, crazy, awkward, painful, and stellar moments of the past 20 seasons. There's a lot jam packed into this special, as past contestants and winners return to share in the fun.
During resident-opening-number-choreographer Mandy Moore's exciting first group routine, lots of stars return, hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews fly in on a giant "10," and the four judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman, and Julianne Hough, make their grand entrance. Lots of cutaways to the audience show many other past stars who have returned but are apparently not dancing tonight, like Sabrina Bryan, who we're reminded of also by last night's shocking elimination. Like Willow last night, Sabrina was a frontrunner in both of her seasons (5 and All-Star season 15), but she was eliminated in week 6 both times.
During resident-opening-number-choreographer Mandy Moore's exciting first group routine, lots of stars return, hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews fly in on a giant "10," and the four judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman, and Julianne Hough, make their grand entrance. Lots of cutaways to the audience show many other past stars who have returned but are apparently not dancing tonight, like Sabrina Bryan, who we're reminded of also by last night's shocking elimination. Like Willow last night, Sabrina was a frontrunner in both of her seasons (5 and All-Star season 15), but she was eliminated in week 6 both times.
- 4/29/2015
- by Renée Camus
- Moviefone
It's finally here, dance fans! It's the big blowout 10th anniversary celebration of "Dancing with the Stars," as they remind us of some of the wild, crazy, awkward, painful, and stellar moments of the past 20 seasons. There's a lot jam packed into this special, as past contestants and winners return to share in the fun.
During resident-opening-number-choreographer Mandy Moore's exciting first group routine, lots of stars return, hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews fly in on a giant "10," and the four judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman, and Julianne Hough, make their grand entrance. Lots of cutaways to the audience show many other past stars who have returned but are apparently not dancing tonight, like Sabrina Bryan, who we're reminded of also by last night's shocking elimination. Like Willow last night, Sabrina was a frontrunner in both of her seasons (5 and All-Star season 15), but she was eliminated in week 6 both times.
During resident-opening-number-choreographer Mandy Moore's exciting first group routine, lots of stars return, hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews fly in on a giant "10," and the four judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman, and Julianne Hough, make their grand entrance. Lots of cutaways to the audience show many other past stars who have returned but are apparently not dancing tonight, like Sabrina Bryan, who we're reminded of also by last night's shocking elimination. Like Willow last night, Sabrina was a frontrunner in both of her seasons (5 and All-Star season 15), but she was eliminated in week 6 both times.
- 4/29/2015
- by Renée Camus
- Moviefone
Another Dancing With the Stars favorite is saying goodbye to the popular ABC dance reality competition series.
Pro dancer Karina Smirnoff, who got engaged in January, took to Instagram on Tuesday to announce her departure from DWTS.
"Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of DWTS and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me," Smirnoff wrote. "After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume."
News: Derek Hough Will Not Appear in 'Dancing with the Stars' Season 20
Karina made her DWTS debut in the show's third season where she came in second, almost securing the coveted mirror ball trophy. Since her start in 2006, she's appeared in 16 straight seasons of the show – except season 10. Karina finally came in first in season 13, when she was partnered with J.R. Martinez.
"I...
Pro dancer Karina Smirnoff, who got engaged in January, took to Instagram on Tuesday to announce her departure from DWTS.
"Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of DWTS and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me," Smirnoff wrote. "After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume."
News: Derek Hough Will Not Appear in 'Dancing with the Stars' Season 20
Karina made her DWTS debut in the show's third season where she came in second, almost securing the coveted mirror ball trophy. Since her start in 2006, she's appeared in 16 straight seasons of the show – except season 10. Karina finally came in first in season 13, when she was partnered with J.R. Martinez.
"I...
- 2/11/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
"Dancing with the Stars" has lost another pro!
On Tuesday, Karina Smirnoff, Season 13's mirrorball champ (with J.R. Martinez), announced her "DWTS" departure on her Facebook page.
"Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of DWTS and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me. After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume," she wrote in theTuesday evening post.
Photos: ‘Dancing’s’ Mirrorball Winners: They Came, They Danced, They Conquered!
Copyright 2015 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
On Tuesday, Karina Smirnoff, Season 13's mirrorball champ (with J.R. Martinez), announced her "DWTS" departure on her Facebook page.
"Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of DWTS and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me. After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume," she wrote in theTuesday evening post.
Photos: ‘Dancing’s’ Mirrorball Winners: They Came, They Danced, They Conquered!
Copyright 2015 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
- 2/11/2015
- by access.hollywood@nbcuni.com (Access Hollywood)
- Access Hollywood
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in Season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for Season 19.
We're sad we got eliminated because we were really looking forward to this week's contemporary dance. We were going to dance to a Garth Brooks song. We'd already started choreography and ideas. We were really excited about this dance.
Even though we were sent home, we're grateful for the experience.
We're sad we got eliminated because we were really looking forward to this week's contemporary dance. We were going to dance to a Garth Brooks song. We'd already started choreography and ideas. We were really excited about this dance.
Even though we were sent home, we're grateful for the experience.
- 10/6/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in Season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for Season 19.We're sad we got eliminated because we were really looking forward to this week's contemporary dance. We were going to dance to a Garth Brooks song. We'd already started choreography and ideas. We were really excited about this dance. Even though we were sent home, we're grateful for the experience.
- 10/6/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.
There were a few things that didn't go according to plan in Week 2. We loved the song choice, "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," but the Otis Redding version took some of the edge needed for cha-cha away. It was something we didn't think through all the way.
There were a few things that didn't go according to plan in Week 2. We loved the song choice, "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," but the Otis Redding version took some of the edge needed for cha-cha away. It was something we didn't think through all the way.
- 9/29/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.There were a few things that didn't go according to plan in Week 2. We loved the song choice, "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," but the Otis Redding version took some of the edge needed for cha-cha away. It was something we didn't think through all the way.
- 9/29/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.
It was a very interesting premiere night. I think a lot of couples were amazing, and you saw different characters and different personalities shine through.
Our performance went perfectly. We couldn't have asked for a better response. There's a certain side of Randy that I wanted to...
It was a very interesting premiere night. I think a lot of couples were amazing, and you saw different characters and different personalities shine through.
Our performance went perfectly. We couldn't have asked for a better response. There's a certain side of Randy that I wanted to...
- 9/22/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.It was a very interesting premiere night. I think a lot of couples were amazing, and you saw different characters and different personalities shine through. Our performance went perfectly. We couldn't have asked for a better response. There's a certain side of Randy that I wanted to...
- 9/22/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.
Preparations for this week have been going amazingly. I've been a fan of my partner, Randy Couture, for years. My dog, Randy Smirnoff, is named after Randy Couture! When I saw he was my partner, I was like, "Oh my gosh, my dad will be so excited.
Preparations for this week have been going amazingly. I've been a fan of my partner, Randy Couture, for years. My dog, Randy Smirnoff, is named after Randy Couture! When I saw he was my partner, I was like, "Oh my gosh, my dad will be so excited.
- 9/15/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, having won the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The pro dancer is now in her 16th season on the show, and will be blogging for People about competing with actor and retired mixed martial arts fighter Randy Couture for season 19.Preparations for this week have been going amazingly. I've been a fan of my partner, Randy Couture, for years. My dog, Randy Smirnoff, is named after Randy Couture! When I saw he was my partner, I was like, "Oh my gosh, my dad will be so excited.
- 9/15/2014
- by Karina Smirnoff, @Karina_Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
It's been 11 years since Dancing with the Stars champ and injured Iraq war veteran J.R. Martinez has been back to the Middle East after a land-mine explosion left him with severe burns, but Martinez tells People his return was an "amazing experience." "It was pretty emotional," he says of his January trip to the Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, Qatar. "To go through the same procedures, like landing at the airport and getting into the bus and making the commute to the base - just pulling in and seeing the sand and the barriers reminded me of the very...
- 2/28/2014
- by Emily Strohm
- PEOPLE.com
Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) co-host Brooke Burke-Charvet will be replaced by Erin Andrews alongside co-host Tom Bergeron for the show’s upcoming 18th season.
Brooke Burke-Charvet Fired From 'DWTS'?
News of the shakeup broke over the weekend, on Feb. 21, when a both ABC and Burke-Charvet released statements announcing the change. ABC reportedly didn’t even tell Burke-Charvet they were firing her until that very afternoon.
“I have enjoyed seven seasons co-hosting DWTS but understand the need for change considering the position of the show at this juncture. I’ve always been one to embrace change and looking forward to pursuing opportunities I previously wasn’t able to entertain because of contractual obligations to the show. I’ve seen my fair share of shocking eliminations in the ballroom but this one takes the cake,” reads Burke-Charvet’s statement.
Burke-Charvet seemed to confirm the rumors that she was caught completely off guard by her sudden dismissal,...
Brooke Burke-Charvet Fired From 'DWTS'?
News of the shakeup broke over the weekend, on Feb. 21, when a both ABC and Burke-Charvet released statements announcing the change. ABC reportedly didn’t even tell Burke-Charvet they were firing her until that very afternoon.
“I have enjoyed seven seasons co-hosting DWTS but understand the need for change considering the position of the show at this juncture. I’ve always been one to embrace change and looking forward to pursuing opportunities I previously wasn’t able to entertain because of contractual obligations to the show. I’ve seen my fair share of shocking eliminations in the ballroom but this one takes the cake,” reads Burke-Charvet’s statement.
Burke-Charvet seemed to confirm the rumors that she was caught completely off guard by her sudden dismissal,...
- 2/25/2014
- Uinterview
On the heels of J.R. Martinez‘s split with his longtime girlfriend, he’s also parted ways with his Los Angeles home, Cb! has learned. Amid the Dancing With The Stars champ’s announcement that he and his baby mama Diana Gonzalez-Jones have broken up over a year after welcoming their daughter Lauryn Anabelle, the couple has quietly moved out of...Read more»...
- 1/16/2014
- by Andrea Simpson
- Celebuzz.com
Just eighteen months after the birth of their baby girl, Lauryn Anabelle, J.R. Martinez and Diana Gonzalez-Jones have announced their official split.
In an interview with People, Martinez said, "Diana and I have ended our relationship. However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter in a healthy and happy environment."
Posting a status on Facebook this past Wednesday (January 9), he wrote, "People change [it's] a part of life, but sometimes [it's] easier to hold on to the memories of who they were rather [than] to realize who they have become…"
In 2012, the Iraq War veteran talked about his daughter, and becoming a parent beside his "Dancing with the Stars" honey, saying of his daughter, "I kiss her non-stop all day long!"...
In an interview with People, Martinez said, "Diana and I have ended our relationship. However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter in a healthy and happy environment."
Posting a status on Facebook this past Wednesday (January 9), he wrote, "People change [it's] a part of life, but sometimes [it's] easier to hold on to the memories of who they were rather [than] to realize who they have become…"
In 2012, the Iraq War veteran talked about his daughter, and becoming a parent beside his "Dancing with the Stars" honey, saying of his daughter, "I kiss her non-stop all day long!"...
- 1/10/2014
- GossipCenter
J.R. Martinez and his longtime girlfriend Diana Gonzalez-Jones have decided to split up, 18-months after the birth of their daughter.
J.R. Martinez Splitting From Diana Gonzalez-Jones
"Diana and I have ended our relationship," Martinez told People. "However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter [Lauryn Anabelle] in a healthy and happy environment."
Martinez, a former army infantryman, met Gonzalez-Jones in 2008. He’d been cast as war veteran Brot Monroe on the daytime soap opera All My Children, his burn woods from an Ied (improvised explosive device) serving as part of his character’s backstory. At the time, Gonzalez-Jones had been working as an assistant to the show’s producer. They were friends for years before pursuing a romantic relationship in 2011.
"All this time I was looking for the perfect guy, and I had him right next to me," Gonzalez-Jones told People in 2011 when Martinez was enjoying success on Dancing With the Stars.
J.R. Martinez Splitting From Diana Gonzalez-Jones
"Diana and I have ended our relationship," Martinez told People. "However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter [Lauryn Anabelle] in a healthy and happy environment."
Martinez, a former army infantryman, met Gonzalez-Jones in 2008. He’d been cast as war veteran Brot Monroe on the daytime soap opera All My Children, his burn woods from an Ied (improvised explosive device) serving as part of his character’s backstory. At the time, Gonzalez-Jones had been working as an assistant to the show’s producer. They were friends for years before pursuing a romantic relationship in 2011.
"All this time I was looking for the perfect guy, and I had him right next to me," Gonzalez-Jones told People in 2011 when Martinez was enjoying success on Dancing With the Stars.
- 1/10/2014
- Uinterview
J.R. Martinez is a single man again. The season 13 Dancing With the Stars champ and his girlfriend Diana Gonzalez-Jones have broken up about a year and a half after welcoming their daughter Lauryn Annabelle, a rep for Martinez confirms to E! News. "Diana Gonzalez-Jones and I have ended our relationship," Martinez, 30, says in a statement. "However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter in a healthy and happy environment." Martinez and Gonzalez-Jones were together for several years. Martinez, who served in the Iraq War before becoming an actor, welcomed his first child in May 2012. "I hold her every second that I can," he told E! News at the time. "I...
- 1/9/2014
- E! Online
J.R. Martinez and Diana Gonzalez-Jones have split, just 18 months after the birth of their daughter, Lauryn Anabelle. "Diana and I have ended our relationship. However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter in a healthy and happy environment," Martinez tells People exclusively. The actor and Dancing with the Stars champ, 30, posted a message to his Facebook page Wednesday touching on the difficulties of accepting change. "People change [it's] a part of life, but sometimes [it's] easier to hold on to the memories of who they were rather [than] to realize who they have become…" he wrote. The Iraq war vet...
- 1/9/2014
- by Sheila Cosgrove Baylis
- PEOPLE.com
J.R. Martinez Splits From Longtime Girlfriend Diana Gonzalez-Jones 18 Months After Birth of Daughter
J.R. Martinez is newly single. The 30-year-old actor has split from his longtime girlfriend Diana Gonzalez-Jones, Us Weekly can confirm. The two recently welcomed their daughter, Lauryn Anabelle, just 18 months ago. "Diana Gonzalez-Jones and I have ended our relationship," Martinez tells Us in a statement. "However, we are committed to working together to raise our daughter in a healthy and happy environment." Just one day earlier, the Iraq war veteran wrote a telling message on his official Facebook page. "People change its a part of life, but [...]...
- 1/9/2014
- Us Weekly
I love me some J.R. Martinez. He’s a suave Latino actor, an American hero, an Iraqi War survivor, and a hellcat on the dance floor. He is also starring in a new syndicated television show called SAF3 (“safe”) with Dolph Lundgren that takes place in Southern California... but get this, it is actually shot in South Africa!! Monsters and Critics got a little Q & A time with J.R. and he opened up about his new show, his mirror ball trophy and his desire to hit the comedy circuit: Monsters & Critics: What is your new show, SAF3? Jr Martinez: It's about a team of individuals who are specialists in either; fire, air, or sea and have...
- 1/8/2014
- by Karen V. Stevens
- Monsters and Critics
Tonight’s the season 17 finale — and the first real “results show” of the season. About time! It’s Corbin Bleu and Karina Smirnoff (in pineapple fringe, above) vs. Amber Riley and Derek Hough (mirrorball madness, second from left) vs. Jack Osbourne and Cheryl Burke (pretty in pink, second from right). Fun fact: The last time Karina, Derek, and Cheryl shared the finals (with J.R. Martinez, Ricki Lake, and Rob Kardashian in season 13), Karina came up with the win.
After Monday’s finals (read my full recap here), EW asked the finalists to name three reasons they should win — watch them campaign for themselves below.
After Monday’s finals (read my full recap here), EW asked the finalists to name three reasons they should win — watch them campaign for themselves below.
- 11/26/2013
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor has been blogging for People about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17.
I'm just enjoying this whole process. At this point, you can't control what's going to happen from anyone's side. The only thing we know is that we're having a blast and we're trying to figure out how to fit in all these dances. The workload this season is ridiculous. We've had to pretty much learn more than one dance per day.
I'm just enjoying this whole process. At this point, you can't control what's going to happen from anyone's side. The only thing we know is that we're having a blast and we're trying to figure out how to fit in all these dances. The workload this season is ridiculous. We've had to pretty much learn more than one dance per day.
- 11/25/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor has been blogging for People about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17. I'm just enjoying this whole process. At this point, you can't control what's going to happen from anyone's side. The only thing we know is that we're having a blast and we're trying to figure out how to fit in all these dances. The workload this season is ridiculous. We've had to pretty much learn more than one dance per day.
- 11/25/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor is blogging for People.com about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17. We have two dances this week, and they are really exciting. We almost wish the songs were longer. It's really cool to find elements that connect the two dances - not just story lines, but within the choreography, the steps, the props, everything. Our second dance is a prequel to the first. It's very exciting. They are dark and mysterious and dangerous.
- 11/18/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor is blogging for People.com about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17.
We have two dances this week, and they are really exciting. We almost wish the songs were longer. It's really cool to find elements that connect the two dances – not just story lines, but within the choreography, the steps, the props, everything. Our second dance is a prequel to the first. It's very exciting. They are dark and mysterious and dangerous.
We have two dances this week, and they are really exciting. We almost wish the songs were longer. It's really cool to find elements that connect the two dances – not just story lines, but within the choreography, the steps, the props, everything. Our second dance is a prequel to the first. It's very exciting. They are dark and mysterious and dangerous.
- 11/18/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor is blogging for People.com about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17.
I've been drinking four espressos in the morning and it's not working. I am literally dragging myself. Mentally, I'm awake to comprehend what's going on, but physically, my body is like, I don't think so. These days, once you power through, you feel better.
We didn't necessarily predict Amber [Riley] and Derek [Hough] would get a 10, but we kind of joked, "Oh,...
I've been drinking four espressos in the morning and it's not working. I am literally dragging myself. Mentally, I'm awake to comprehend what's going on, but physically, my body is like, I don't think so. These days, once you power through, you feel better.
We didn't necessarily predict Amber [Riley] and Derek [Hough] would get a 10, but we kind of joked, "Oh,...
- 11/11/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- People.com - TV Watch
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor is blogging for People.com about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17. I've been drinking four espressos in the morning and it's not working. I am literally dragging myself. Mentally, I'm awake to comprehend what's going on, but physically, my body is like, I don't think so. These days, once you power through, you feel better. We didn't necessarily predict Amber [Riley] and Derek [Hough] would get a 10, but we kind of joked, "Oh,...
- 11/11/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
Karina Smirnoff is a former Dancing with the Stars champion, winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy in season 13 with J.R. Martinez. The longtime competitor will blog for People.com about competing with former High School Musical star Corbin Bleu in season 17. It was such a shock to see Nicole get eliminated. She did such a fantastic job on the show. And you got to see Nicole as the mother. The way she loves her baby is awesome. She's so real, but at this point it would be really difficult to see anyone leave. You usually know who's leaving and who's staying by mid-season,...
- 11/4/2013
- by Karina Smirnoff
- PEOPLE.com
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