DWTS Winners: From Season 23 To Today's Champions! [Breaking]

Wondering who twirled their way to victory in season 23 of "Dancing with the Stars"? Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez and her partner Valentin Chmerkovskiy seized the coveted Mirrorball trophy, showcasing athleticism and artistry that captivated audiences.

The electrifying finale, broadcast live from Los Angeles on November 22, 2016, saw Hernandez and Chmerkovskiy triumph over fierce competition. IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe and his partner Sharna Burgess secured a commendable second place, while Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson and Lindsay Arnold rounded out the top three. The season was filled with memorable performances, stunning choreography, and the undeniable chemistry between the stars and their professional partners. The journey to the finale was a whirlwind of cha-chas, tangos, and emotional stories that resonated with viewers, making season 23 a standout in the show's history.

Before her Mirrorball victory, Laurie Hernandez had already captured the hearts of millions with her extraordinary talent and infectious personality. As a member of the "Final Five," the gold-medal-winning U.S. women's gymnastics team at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Hernandez showcased her incredible athleticism and grace on the world stage. Her journey to "Dancing with the Stars" was met with excitement from fans who eagerly anticipated seeing her translate her skills from the gymnastics mat to the ballroom floor.

• Luke Scornavacco Unveiling His Job Kt Smith Marriage More
• Demi Moore Bruce Willis A Hollywood Love Story Beyond

Partnered with Valentin Chmerkovskiy, a seasoned "Dancing with the Stars" pro, Hernandez quickly proved to be a natural dancer. Their performances were characterized by a blend of technical precision, artistic flair, and genuine connection. Each week, they tackled a variety of dance styles, from the elegant waltz to the high-energy jive, consistently earning high scores from the judges and praise from viewers. Their dedication to perfecting each routine and their undeniable chemistry made them a formidable duo throughout the competition.

The road to the finale was not without its challenges. Hernandez and Chmerkovskiy faced tough competition from other talented celebrity contestants, each with their own unique strengths and fan base. James Hinchcliffe, with his infectious enthusiasm and impressive dance skills, emerged as a strong contender. Calvin Johnson, despite being a relative newcomer to the world of dance, demonstrated remarkable improvement and captivated audiences with his charm and charisma. The pressure was on as the finale approached, with each couple vying for the coveted Mirrorball trophy.

In the end, it was Laurie Hernandez and Valentin Chmerkovskiy who emerged victorious, captivating the judges and viewers with their exceptional performances and undeniable connection. Their freestyle routine, in particular, showcased their athleticism and artistry, earning them a standing ovation and rave reviews. The moment their names were announced as the winners was a culmination of weeks of hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

• Barry Manilow Garry Kief A Love Story Finally Revealed
• Corey Feldman Courtney Shocking Divorce Details Revealed

But let's not forget the other memorable moments that peppered the "Dancing With the Stars" landscape. Before Hernandez's triumph, "The Bachelorette" star Kaitlyn Bristowe claimed the Mirrorball trophy in season 29, partnering with Artem Chigvintsev to defeat finalists Justina Machado, Nelly, and Nev Schulman on November 23, 2020. Then came Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach, whose victory in season 30 was announced on a Monday night, edging out Jojo Siwa, Cody Rigsby, and Amanda Kloots. These moments underscore the show's unpredictable nature and its ability to consistently deliver surprises.

More recently, Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson were crowned the champions of season 33. The announcement followed weeks of intense competition, freestyle dances with additional performers, and redemption dances aimed at showcasing growth. The journey culminated in a live finale where audience votes ultimately determined the winners, solidifying Graziadei and Johnson's place in "Dancing With the Stars" history.

It's important to remember that "Dancing with the Stars" is a journey, not just a destination. As the season 33 cast wrapped up their tour in Rosemont, Illinois, they celebrated the end of an era. The show's format, consisting of judges' scores and audience votes, creates a dynamic where anything can happen. Each couple puts their best foot forward, performing routines honed over weeks of grueling rehearsals. The freestyle dances, in particular, become spectacles of creativity and athleticism, often incorporating additional dancers and elaborate set designs.

Laurie Hernandez's win in season 23 was particularly significant for several reasons. As a young and accomplished athlete, she brought a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the ballroom. Her background in gymnastics provided her with a strong foundation in movement and coordination, but she also demonstrated a willingness to learn and adapt to the nuances of different dance styles. Her partnership with Valentin Chmerkovskiy was a testament to the power of teamwork and mutual respect, as they worked together to create memorable and inspiring performances.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the ballroom, "Dancing with the Stars" offers contestants an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Many celebrities enter the competition with little to no prior dance experience, and they are challenged to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. Through rigorous training and unwavering dedication, they develop new skills, build confidence, and forge lasting bonds with their partners. The show also provides a platform for them to share their stories and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Kelly Monaco, renowned for her role as Sam McCall on ABC's "General Hospital," holds the distinction of being the inaugural champion of "Dancing with the Stars." Her victory set the stage for the many memorable moments and talented contestants that have graced the show over the years. From actors and athletes to singers and reality stars, "Dancing with the Stars" has brought together a diverse array of personalities, each with their own unique story to tell.

The show's enduring popularity can be attributed to its blend of entertainment, competition, and heartwarming moments. Viewers are drawn to the spectacle of elaborate costumes, dazzling choreography, and the camaraderie between the contestants. They also appreciate the opportunity to witness the personal transformations that occur as celebrities embrace the challenges of learning to dance. "Dancing with the Stars" is a celebration of movement, music, and the human spirit, making it a beloved television staple for millions of viewers around the world.

The finale of season 23, as covered by numerous media outlets including Us Weekly, was a nail-biting affair. Hernandez, Hinchcliffe, and Johnson each delivered their best performances, leaving it up to the judges and viewers to decide who would take home the Mirrorball trophy. The live blog coverage captured the excitement and anticipation of the night, providing fans with real-time updates and behind-the-scenes insights. The finale was a fitting culmination to a season filled with memorable moments and exceptional talent.

Ultimately, Laurie Hernandez's victory in season 23 of "Dancing with the Stars" was a testament to her exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and infectious personality. She captured the hearts of viewers with her grace, athleticism, and genuine connection to her partner, Valentin Chmerkovskiy. Her journey from Olympic gymnast to Mirrorball champion is an inspiring example of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Her legacy as a "Dancing with the Stars" champion will undoubtedly endure for years to come.

The competition for the Mirrorball trophy is always fierce. Each season brings new surprises, new partnerships, and new stories to tell. But one thing remains constant: the dedication and passion of the celebrities and professional dancers who give their all on the ballroom floor. "Dancing with the Stars" is a celebration of the art of dance and the human spirit, and it continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of entertainment, competition, and heartwarming moments.

The odds may have been in Laurie Hernandez's favor from the start, as some observers noted the anticipation surrounding her participation in the show. However, she still had to deliver week after week, impressing the judges and winning over the viewers. Her background in gymnastics undoubtedly gave her an advantage in terms of physical strength and coordination, but she also possessed a natural grace and artistry that translated beautifully to the ballroom. Her partnership with Valentin Chmerkovskiy was a key factor in her success, as they formed a strong bond and worked together seamlessly to create memorable performances.

As ET's gallery of past "Dancing with the Stars" champions reveals, the show has a rich history of crowning diverse and talented winners. From actors and singers to athletes and reality stars, the show has celebrated individuals from all walks of life. Each champion brings their own unique style and personality to the ballroom, adding to the show's enduring appeal. The legacy of "Dancing with the Stars" is one of entertainment, inspiration, and the celebration of the human spirit.

So, while the search for the winner of "DWTS" season 23 leads directly to Laurie Hernandez, it also opens a door to the rich tapestry of "Dancing With the Stars" history. From Kelly Monaco's inaugural win to Joey Graziadei's recent victory, each season leaves a mark on pop culture. The show's blend of athleticism, artistry, and personal stories continues to captivate audiences, making it a beloved staple of television entertainment.