The DWTS hall of fame is filled with jaw-dropping routines that redefined rhythm, storytelling, and athleticism on television. From iconic lifts to daring choreography, these dances remain benchmarks for excellence in televised competition.
As fans revisit legendary seasons, certain performances stand out for their technical mastery, cultural impact, and sheer entertainment value. Below is a curated overview of the best DWTS dances ever, combining viewer polls, judge praise, and lasting influence.
| Rank | Season & Dancers | Song | Style | Memorable Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Season 19, Alfonso Ribeiro & Witney Carson | “Carlton Dance” | Hip-Hop | Recreated iconic Fresh Prince move, perfect scores |
| 2 | Season 21, Lindsay Arnold & Val Chmerkovskiy | “Stressed Out” | Contemporary | Emotional father-daughter narrative, top scores |
| 3 | Season 12, Hélio Castenbrink & Kristina Rihanoff | “Bésame Mucho” | Cha-Cha-Cha | Speed, precision, and romantic chemistry on display |
| 4 | Season 24, Allison Holker & Stephen "tWitch" Boss | “Pompeii” | Jazz Funk | Synchronized group choreography, dynamic formations |
| 5 | Season 27, Adam Rippon & Jenna Johnson | “I Lived” | Contemporary | Inclusive storytelling, powerful emotional arc |
Iconic Hip-Hop Moments
Storytelling Through Movement
Hip-hop routines on DWTS often combine sharp isolations with expressive narrative, turning the ballroom into a street or memory lane. Alfonso Ribeiro’s “Carlton Dance” epitomized this by blending nostalgia with showmanship.
Contemporary Emotional Performance
Connecting Music and Message
Contemporary dances frequently tackle personal stories, using breath, tension, and release to amplify lyrics. Lindsay Arnold’s performance to “Stressed Out” showcased vulnerability and technical control, earning widespread acclaim.
Latin Rhythm and Precision
Choreographic Complexity
Latin styles demand quick footwork, dramatic hip action, and seamless partnership. Hélio Castenbrink’s cha-cha-cha stood out for its cleanliness, speed, and romantic synchronicity with his partner.
High-Energy Group Choreography
Formation Fluidity and Musicality
Jazz-funk group numbers require crisp counts, synchronized transitions, and engaging staging. Allison Holker and the troupe’s “Pompeii” routine impressed with layered patterns and explosive yet controlled energy.
Lasting Influence on Competitive Television
- Set a high bar for music selection and narrative clarity in televised dance.
- Elevated partner and group choreography standards across reality competitions.
- Demonstrated how nostalgia and innovation can coexist in a single routine.
- Inspired casting choices that prioritize both technical skill and star power.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which routine is most frequently voted as the best DWTS dance ever?
Alfonso Ribeiro’s “Carlton Dance” consistently tops viewer polls thanks to its nostalgic hook, flawless execution, and cultural resonance.
What makes a dance stand out to the judges on DWTS?
Judges prioritize technical precision, musicality, creativity, and emotional connection, rewarding performances that balance all elements seamlessly.
Are there any dances that changed how the show presents choreography?
Yes, routines like “I Lived” expanded the show’s embrace of inclusive storytelling, proving contemporary dance can drive powerful mainstream conversations. Season 19’s perfect-score showcase, including the “Carlton Dance,” remains the benchmark for combining iconic music with tournament-level execution.