5 Jaw-Dropping Secrets And Biggest Surprises From Dancing With The Stars Season 33
The thirty-third season of Dancing with the Stars, which aired in the fall of 2024, proved to be one of the most talked-about and unpredictable runs in the show's history. As of today, December 23, 2025, fans are still looking back at the season that delivered a truly controversial cast, shocking eliminations, and a finale that saw an unexpected star claim the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. The season cemented its place in the DWTS Hall of Fame with a blend of athletic prowess, emotional routines, and off-stage drama that kept the ballroom buzzing.
The 2024 season was a landmark event, marking the second year of the show's return to ABC alongside its streaming home on Disney+. From the moment the celebrity lineup was revealed on Good Morning America, it was clear that the producers were aiming for maximum watercooler talk. Here is a deep dive into everything you need to know about the electrifying, and often chaotic, Season 33.
Dancing with the Stars Season 33: Complete Cast, Hosts, and Judges
Season 33 brought back a familiar and beloved lineup of hosts and judges, providing a sense of stability amid the celebrity chaos. The season was dedicated to the memory of legendary head judge Len Goodman, with the trophy officially renamed the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
Hosts and Judges
- Co-Hosts: Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro returned for their second season together, bringing a blend of professional dance experience and infectious enthusiasm.
- Judges: The panel saw the return of the dynamic trio: Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. Their critiques were as insightful and passionate as ever.
The Full Celebrity and Professional Partner Lineup
The cast was arguably the most "controversial and star-studded" in recent memory, featuring a mix of reality TV icons, sports legends, and even a figure known for international scandal.
- Joey Graziadei (The Bachelor Star) with Jenna Johnson (WINNERS)
- Danny Amendola (Ex-NFL Player) with Witney Carson
- Anna Delvey (Ex-Con/Socialite) with Ezra Sosa
- Phaedra Parks (Reality TV Personality) with Artem Chigvintsev
- Eric Roberts (Actor) with Peta Murgatroyd
- Stephen Nedoroscik (Olympic Gymnast) with Rylee Arnold
- Tori Spelling (Actress) with Brandon Armstrong
- Ilona Maher (Olympic Rugby Player) with Sasha Farber
- Allyson Felix (Olympic Sprinter) with Val Chmerkovskiy
- Caleb Williams (College Football Star) with Koko Iwasaki
- James Van Der Beek (Actor) with Emma Slater
- Jamie Lynn Spears (Actress/Singer) with Alan Bersten
- Lele Pons (Social Media Star) with Brandon Armstrong
The 5 Biggest Takeaways from DWTS Season 33
From the first Cha-Cha to the final Freestyle, Season 33 was packed with memorable moments, high scores, and dramatic turns. These five points define the season's legacy.
1. The Unexpected Victory of Joey Graziadei
While many eyes were on the professional athletes and seasoned performers, it was The Bachelor star, Joey Graziadei, and his partner Jenna Johnson who clinched the Mirrorball. Joey's journey was characterized by steady improvement and a genuine emotional connection with his pro partner, culminating in a powerful Freestyle that sealed the deal. His win was a testament to the power of the fan vote and the classic "underdog story" that DWTS fans adore.
2. The 'Controversial' Cast Member Who Survived
The inclusion of Anna Delvey, the socialite convicted of grand larceny, immediately sparked debate across social media. Paired with fan-favorite Ezra Sosa, Delvey's presence was a massive draw for the season, bringing in viewers curious to see her transition from courtroom drama to the ballroom. While her dance skills were often criticized by the judges, her ability to generate headlines kept her in the competition longer than many expected, proving that controversy can sometimes outweigh technique.
3. The Return of the Instant Dance Challenge
Season 33 saw the return of the notoriously difficult Instant Dance challenge, a fan-favorite segment that puts the celebrities' training to the ultimate test. In this challenge, couples are given their dance style and song just moments before performing live on the ballroom floor. This episode was a high-stakes turning point, showcasing which stars truly mastered the art of adaptability under pressure, separating the contenders from the pretenders.
4. The Shocking Early Exit of a Fan Favorite
Despite a strong start and high scores from the judges, one of the presumed frontrunners, Olympic champion Ilona Maher, faced a surprisingly early elimination. Her powerful performances and infectious personality made her an early favorite, and her exit sent shockwaves through the fandom, igniting debates about the fairness of the voting system and the influence of celebrity popularity over dance skill. This moment underscored the unpredictable nature of live reality competition.
5. A Season of Tributes and High-Scoring Technicality
The season was also notable for its consistently high technical scores, particularly from Derek Hough, who praised the overall quality of the dancing. Furthermore, the entire season served as a heartfelt tribute to the late Len Goodman. Every couple aimed to honor his legacy by focusing on the technical precision and ballroom fundamentals he championed. The renaming of the trophy to the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy ensured his presence was felt in every episode, adding a layer of gravitas to the competition.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of DWTS 33 and Season 34
The success of the 2024 season paved the way for the show's continued future. The ratings boost and social media buzz generated by the controversial cast and the high-caliber dancing ensured that the show remains a cultural staple.
While Season 33 is now a cherished memory, the excitement immediately shifted to the subsequent Season 34, which premiered in the fall of 2025. The show's renewal for a potential Season 35 is already a hot topic, with fans eager to see if Julianne Hough, Alfonso Ribeiro, and the judges will return to their posts. The legacy of Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson's victory, coupled with the drama of the controversial casting, ensures that the 33rd season will be studied for years to come as a blueprint for success in the modern era of the long-running dance competition.
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