Alyssa Cruz- Wesbite Editor
Best Couples on Dancing With the Stars
My sister, mom, and I have been loyal fans of the hit ABC show, Dancing With the Stars, for years- maybe decades. Two times a year, 15 A-list celebrities are chosen to compete on the reality show to be awarded the Mirror Ball, the champion trophy. The total votes are counted between viewer votes and judges’ votes to eliminate a star every week and crown the remaining champion. Each star is paired with an experienced ballroom dancer to guide them through the competition and choreograph the routines. There is always a special couple that seems to electrify the ballroom. Between the raw talent and prevalent chemistry, these pairs stick out to the audience every season and immediately become fan favorites. This list of stars are often the winners, but not necessarily. Here are my favorite couples on DWTS:
Alfonso Ribero and Witney Carson-
Champions of Season 19, Alfonso and Witney were the couple to beat the entire season. From their first dance together- a jive- it was clear that the two had undeniable chemistry and exuded talent. Fans fell in love with the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air alum and their love grew even more when in Week 4 he busted out the fan favorite “Carlton,” named for his character on the show. The couple was a joy to watch and excelled in all types of dances including Latin, ballroom, and even hip-hop. Their win was Whitney’s first Mirror Ball and it helped her prove herself as a choreographer and partner.
Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough-
Wildlife Warrior and daughter of the late Steve Iriwn, Bindi Irwin brought a certain level of sweetness and spunk to the ballroom. Only 17 at the time, her maturity showed through with her ability to pick up routines quickly and give a lot of emotion into her dances. My personal favorite dance the couple did was Week 6, also known as famous dance movie night. The pair performed a rendition of the classic summer camp routine from 80’s classic, Dirty Dancing. The costumes, steps, and nerve wracking lift created an unforgettable routine that really set the couple apart from their competitors.
Meryl Davis and Maks Chmerkovskiy-
Not only were Meryl and Maks champions of season 18, the duo had arguably the best chemistry even seen on the show. Fans were shocked when the good natured and level headed Meryl immediately softened the “bad boy of the ballroom” Maks. Meryl’s professional training in ice skating definitely contributed to her natural grace and rhythm in the ballroom. Their entire season rumors circulated around discussing the possibility the two were an item. Unfortunately, they never made anything official and both of them are now married to other people. Many fans- this one included- will always lament on what kind have been for this striking couple.
Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd-
The final pair on my list is America’s Next Top Model winner, Nyle and Aussie counterpart, Peta. Many watchers were pleasantly surprised when DWTS announced Nyle would be their first deaf contestant in series history. Some were skeptical of the quality of dance Nyle would be able to produce, but he immediately blew everyone away with his rhythm, grace, and charm. Using the sound vibrations from the ballroom floor, he was able to move in time with his partner and stay on beat to the music. It was clear that Peta initially struggled with the task of teaching a student who was unable to hear, but she took the challenge in stride and it was clear the couple depended on each other for support and encouragement. One of the most profound routines I have ever witnessed was the couple’s paso doble that included a section without music to showcase what Nyle goes through each week. The dance was striking and moving, ensuring their win the following week.
Southview Catalyst 