dancing with the stars season 35
Dancing with the Stars returned for its 35th season with a fresh lineup of celebrities and professional dancers, delivering drama, athleticism, and a few unexpected twists. The season kicked off with high energy, as producers introduced a new “dance-off” challenge that added an extra layer of competition. Viewers quickly noticed the elevated skill level among contestants, with veterans and rookies alike pushing boundaries on the ballroom floor.
The Contestants: A Star-Studded Cast
The season featured a mix of athletes, actors, and social media influencers, each bringing a unique style to the dance floor. Among the standout names were Charli D’Amelio, the TikTok sensation making her ballroom debut, and Wayne Brady, returning for his fifth season after a five-year hiatus. Brady’s chemistry with his partner, Witney Carson, provided some of the season’s most entertaining moments.
The competition also included Daniel Durant, a deaf actor from Switched at Birth, who danced with Britt Stewart in a powerful exhibition that highlighted both technical skill and emotional storytelling. Their Cha-Cha-Cha to “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa earned a rare standing ovation from the judges, proving that dance is a universal language.
- Celebrity Contestants: Charli D’Amelio, Wayne Brady, Daniel Durant, Jeannie Mai, Jason Mraz, Olivia Jade, and more
- Judges: Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and a rotating guest judge each week
- Host: Tyra Banks returned for her 21st season at the helm
The diversity of the cast was one of the season’s strengths, offering a broader range of dance styles—from contemporary to salsa—than in previous years. This variety kept audiences engaged, as each week brought a new opportunity for underdogs to shine.
The New Challenges: What Set Season 35 Apart
Producers introduced two major changes this season: the “dance-off” and the “freestyle finale.” The dance-off, held mid-week, gave eliminated contestants a chance to return to the competition if they outperformed a current couple in a head-to-head dance. This twist added unpredictability, as fans rallied behind their favorite dancers in tense redemption battles.
The freestyle finale, introduced in the final weeks, allowed couples to choreograph their own routines without the restrictions of standard ballroom styles. This change led to some of the most creative performances of the season, including Jason Mraz’s playful jazz routine and Charli D’Amelio’s high-energy hip-hop number.
Another notable addition was the “judges’ save,” a lifeline that allowed the panel to bring back a previously eliminated couple if they felt the competition had been unfairly decided. While controversial among fans, this rule injected extra drama into the elimination process.
Weekly Highlights and Controversies
Season 35 was not without its share of drama. In Week 3, fan-favorite Josie Bissett was shockingly eliminated after a strong Jive to “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.” Viewers took to social media to protest, arguing that her elimination was premature. The backlash was so intense that Entertainment Weekly later named it one of the most controversial eliminations of the season.
Elsewhere, Olivia Jade faced criticism early on for her lack of experience, but her growth over the season earned her a spot in the finals. Her emotional freestyle to “Confident” by Demi Lovato resonated with audiences, proving that perseverance pays off.
The Winners: Who Took Home the Mirror Ball Trophy
The season culminated in a thrilling finale where Wayne Brady and Witney Carson emerged victorious, defeating Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas in a narrow 3-2 split decision. Brady became the fifth celebrity champion in DWTS history and the first Black male winner in the show’s 35-season run. His victory was a testament to his versatility, as he seamlessly transitioned from improv comedy to ballroom dance.
Charli D’Amelio, despite losing the mirror ball, left the season as one of the most talked-about contestants. Her partnership with Ballas showcased her rapid improvement, and her freestyle performance earned a perfect score from judge Bruno Tonioli. While she didn’t win, her impact on the show was undeniable—proving that social media fame can translate to competitive dance with the right training.
In third place, Daniel Durant and Britt Stewart made history as the first deaf contestant and his partner to reach the finals. Their journey inspired audiences worldwide, particularly those in the deaf community, who celebrated their groundbreaking achievement.
The Legacy of Season 35
Dancing with the Stars Season 35 will be remembered for its bold experiments and diverse representation. The introduction of the dance-off and freestyle finale added fresh excitement, while the cast’s range of backgrounds—from athletes to influencers—kept the competition unpredictable. The season also highlighted the growing importance of inclusivity, with Daniel Durant’s historic run proving that dance is a universal language.
Looking ahead, fans are already speculating about Season 36. Will Charli D’Amelio return for another shot at the trophy? Could Wayne Brady’s win inspire more veteran celebrities to compete? One thing is certain: Dancing with the Stars continues to evolve, and its 35th season set a new standard for creativity and competition.
For those who missed the season, all episodes are available on ABC’s streaming platform, where you can relive the drama, the dances, and the unforgettable moments that made this season a standout.
