The vibrant and competitive arena of Dancing with the Stars has once again lit up our screens in its 32nd season. After weeks of intense competition, rigorous training, and dazzling performances, actress Xochitl Gomez and her professional dance partner Val Chmerkovskiy emerged as the champions of this season. The pair enthralled audiences with their dynamic performances and consistent excellence, leading them to clinch the coveted title on December 5, 2023.
Disney
Xochitl Gomez, known for her role in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” showcased not only her acting skills but also her remarkable talent on the dance floor. Alongside the seasoned professional Val Chmerkovskiy, the duo formed a formidable team, captivating the judges and viewers alike with their skill and artistry.
The competition was fierce, with notable contestants vying for the top spot. Singer-songwriter Jason Mraz and his partner Daniella Karagach finished in second place, displaying exceptional talent and creativity throughout the season. “Vanderpump Rules” cast member Ariana Madix and her partner Pasha Pashkov secured the third spot, while “The Bachelorette” star Charity Lawson and Artem Chigvintsev landed in fourth place. Actress Alyson Hannigan and Sasha Farber rounded out the top five, each pair contributing to the season’s high entertainment value.
This season was marked by several interesting developments. The cast announcement was gradually rolled out, beginning with Ariana Madix and followed by several other celebrities including Charity Lawson, Mira Sorvino, and Jamie Lynn Spears. The season also saw the return of professional dancer Jenna Johnson and the debut of Rylee Arnold, adding to the already diverse and talented roster.
The season witnessed some emotional moments as well, with the retirement announcements of Cheryl Burke and Mark Ballas, who had been long-standing fixtures on the show. Additionally, professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev had to miss a performance due to testing positive for COVID-19, showcasing the resilience and adaptability required in live television.
The hosting and judging panel also saw changes. Alfonso Ribeiro took over hosting duties, with Julianne Hough joining as co-host. The judging panel included Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli, with Derek Hough being promoted to head judge. The season featured several guest judges, including Michael Strahan, Billy Porter, Niecy Nash-Betts, Paula Abdul, and Mandy Moore.
Significantly, this season renamed its Mirrorball Trophy to the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, in honor of the former head judge Len Goodman. This gesture added a touching tribute to the competition’s history and its legacy within the dance and entertainment world.
To our Life Hubbers, DWTS Season 32, with its blend of celebrity glitz, dance excellence, and emotional narratives, offered us a delightful escape and an inspiring display of artistic growth. The show continues to be a platform where stars from various backgrounds showcase a different side of their talents, pushing beyond their comfort zones. We realise that it’s not just about the dance routines; it’s about the journey of transformation, resilience, and the sheer joy of performance. As we watched Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy lift the newly named Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, it was a reminder of the universal appeal of dance and its power to connect and entertain.
