Hey everyone! Get ready to dive into all the glitz, glamour, and fierce competition that was Dancing with the Stars 2022. We're talking memorable performances, surprise eliminations, and of course, the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Let's break down everything you need to know about this unforgettable season.

The Stars and Their Partners

First, let's meet the dazzling cast who took to the ballroom floor! The lineup for Dancing with the Stars 2022 was packed with talent from all walks of life, including actors, singers, social media personalities, and athletes. Each star was paired with a professional dancer who not only choreographed their routines but also served as their mentor and confidant throughout the competition. These partnerships were crucial, as the chemistry and trust between the stars and their pros often translated into higher scores and fan support.

Some of the notable pairings included: Charli D'Amelio with Mark Ballas, Gabby Windey with Val Chmerkovskiy, Wayne Brady with Witney Carson, and Shangela with Gleb Savchenko, making history as the first male-male pairing on the show. Each of these pairings brought something unique to the dance floor. For instance, Charli D'Amelio, already a TikTok sensation, brought a youthful energy and impressive dance background, while Wayne Brady's versatility and showmanship made him a consistent crowd-pleaser. Gabby Windey's bubbly personality and determination shone through in her performances, and Shangela's charisma and groundbreaking partnership with Gleb Savchenko were a joy to watch.

As the weeks progressed, we saw these partnerships evolve. Some couples clicked instantly, showcasing incredible synchronicity and artistry from the start. Others faced initial challenges, working tirelessly to overcome their weaknesses and find their rhythm. Regardless of their starting point, each duo embarked on a journey of growth, learning not only new dance styles but also valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and self-confidence. The bonds formed between the stars and their partners often extended beyond the ballroom, with many becoming close friends and offering each other support through the ups and downs of the competition. This camaraderie and mutual respect were evident in their performances, making each dance all the more captivating and heartfelt.

Memorable Performances

Dancing with the Stars 2022 delivered some absolutely show-stopping performances! One of the most talked-about routines was Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas's Argentine Tango, which earned them rave reviews from the judges and demonstrated Charli's natural talent and precision. Gabby Windey and Val Chmerkovskiy's contemporary dance was another standout, showcasing their emotional connection and artistic expression. Their ability to tell a story through movement was truly captivating, leaving the audience in awe. Wayne Brady and Witney Carson consistently impressed with their versatility, tackling everything from the Jive to the Viennese Waltz with energy and flair. Their performances were always entertaining and technically sound, making them a formidable pair to beat. And let's not forget Shangela and Gleb Savchenko, who brought the house down with their high-energy routines and infectious enthusiasm. Their history-making partnership was celebrated with every dance, and their performances were a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Beyond these individual highlights, there were also several themed weeks that produced unforgettable moments. During Halloween week, the couples embraced the spooky spirit with creative costumes and eerie choreography. Movie night saw the stars channeling iconic characters from the silver screen, while Disney night brought a touch of magic to the ballroom. These themed weeks not only provided a fun and festive atmosphere but also challenged the dancers to step outside their comfort zones and explore new styles and techniques. The creativity and imagination on display during these themed performances were truly remarkable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

Of course, not every performance was perfect. There were stumbles, missteps, and moments of nerves that inevitably come with live television. However, even in these imperfect moments, the stars showed their resilience and determination, picking themselves up and continuing to give it their all. It was these displays of courage and perseverance that made Dancing with the Stars 2022 so compelling to watch. The audience was invested not only in the technical aspects of the dances but also in the personal journeys of the stars, cheering them on through their triumphs and supporting them through their challenges.

The Judges' Scores and Commentary

The judging panel for Dancing with the Stars 2022 consisted of seasoned professionals known for their expertise and insightful commentary. Len Goodman, the head judge, brought his traditional ballroom knowledge and strict standards. Derek Hough, with his innovative choreography and infectious enthusiasm, offered encouragement and constructive criticism. Carrie Ann Inaba, known for her passionate critiques and emphasis on performance quality, provided valuable feedback on each routine. Bruno Tonioli, with his flamboyant personality and theatrical flair, added a touch of humor and entertainment to the judging process. Together, these judges brought a wealth of experience and perspective to the show, guiding the stars and helping them to improve their skills.

Throughout the season, the judges' scores played a crucial role in determining which couples would advance to the next round. Their scores were based on a variety of factors, including technique, musicality, choreography, and overall performance quality. In addition to providing scores, the judges also offered detailed commentary on each dance, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Their critiques were often invaluable to the stars, helping them to understand what they were doing well and what areas they needed to focus on. The judges' feedback was not always easy to hear, but it was always delivered with the intention of helping the dancers grow and improve.

The judges' opinions often sparked debate among viewers, as fans passionately defended their favorite couples and questioned the judges' decisions. However, regardless of whether viewers agreed with their assessments, the judges' expertise and experience were undeniable. They brought a level of professionalism and credibility to the show that was essential to its success. Their critiques were not only informative but also entertaining, adding to the overall enjoyment of Dancing with the Stars 2022.

Surprise Eliminations and Twists

No season of Dancing with the Stars is complete without a few shocking eliminations! There were definitely some surprises along the way. Sometimes, fan favorites were sent home earlier than expected, leaving viewers stunned and disappointed. Other times, unexpected couples managed to stay in the competition despite lower scores, proving that fan support can make all the difference. These unexpected twists and turns added an element of suspense to the show, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and eager to see what would happen next.

One of the most significant twists in Dancing with the Stars 2022 was the introduction of new voting rules. These changes were designed to give viewers more power in determining the outcome of the competition. However, they also led to some controversy, as some fans felt that the new rules were unfair or confusing. Despite the debate, the voting changes ultimately added to the excitement of the show, as viewers realized that their votes could have a real impact on which couples would stay and which would go.

In addition to the voting changes, there were also several other surprises throughout the season, such as guest judges, impromptu dance-offs, and unexpected injuries. These unexpected events kept the dancers on their toes and challenged them to adapt to changing circumstances. They also added to the drama and excitement of the show, making each episode unpredictable and engaging. The ability of the stars and their partners to handle these surprises with grace and resilience was a testament to their professionalism and dedication.

The Finale and the Winner

After weeks of intense competition, Dancing with the Stars 2022 culminated in a spectacular finale! The remaining couples pulled out all the stops, delivering their most impressive performances of the season. The atmosphere was electric as the stars danced their hearts out, knowing that their fate was in the hands of the judges and the viewers.

The finalists included Charli D'Amelio, Gabby Windey, Wayne Brady, and Shangela. Each of these couples had proven themselves to be talented and dedicated dancers, earning their place in the final round. Their final performances were a showcase of their growth and improvement throughout the season, demonstrating how far they had come since the beginning of the competition.

Ultimately, it was Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas who were crowned the champions of Dancing with the Stars 2022! Their consistency, technical skill, and undeniable chemistry wowed the judges and captured the hearts of viewers. Their victory was well-deserved, and it was a fitting end to their incredible journey on the show.

The finale was not only a celebration of the winners but also a tribute to all of the stars who participated in Dancing with the Stars 2022. Each of them brought their unique talents and personalities to the ballroom, creating unforgettable moments and inspiring viewers around the world. The season was a testament to the power of dance to bring people together and to celebrate the human spirit.

Final Thoughts

Dancing with the Stars 2022 was a season full of amazing dances, memorable moments, and inspiring stories. From the dazzling performances to the surprising eliminations, there was never a dull moment. It was a season that reminded us of the joy of dance and the power of human connection. We can't wait to see what the next season brings!