The upcoming finale of Dancing With The Stars brings together the most consistent performers and the most dramatic storylines of the season. Viewers tune in to see which celebrity and pro pair can deliver under the brightest lights.
As scores reset for the night, the competition narrows to a final few couples chasing mirrorball glory. This article breaks down the finalists, scoring details, and what to expect from the season finale.
| Celebrity | Professional Partner | Dance Style | Season Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan Murphy | Sasha Farber | Contemporary / Jazz | Final 3 |
| Xochitl Gomez | Val Chmerkovskiy | Cha-cha / Salsa | Final 4 |
| Amy Purdy | Derek Hough | Foxtrot / Tango | Final 2 |
| Skai Jackson | Alan Bersten | Latin / Quickstep | Final 5 |
Meet The Finalist Couples
Each finalist brings a unique background and performance history to the stage. Judges evaluate technique, chemistry, and consistency under intense pressure.
From reality stars to Olympic athletes, the finalists reflect the show’s mission to pair entertainment with high-level dance. Their journeys determine who advances into the finale showdown.
Scoring System Explained
Judges award points for technique, presentation, and creativity, while viewer votes add another layer to the competition. Understanding this system helps fans follow every move.
Scores are tallied in real time during the finale, and the combination of judge points and audience votes decides who lifts the mirrorball trophy.
Performance Order And Theme
The finale follows a carefully planned performance order designed to maximize drama and showcase each couple’s strengths. Themes often revolve around empowerment, nostalgia, or celebration.
Producers collaborate with choreographers to ensure that every routine highlights the journey of the season while keeping viewers engaged until the last vote is counted.
Behind The Scenes Preparation
Rehearsals in the studio push finalists to refine timing, footwork, and expression under bright lights. Coaches adjust formations and staging to fit the stage and camera angles.
Costume fittings, music edits, and last-minute tweaks ensure that each performance feels polished. The pressure of a live audience and televised broadcast intensifies every detail.
Key Takeaways For Finalists
- Focus on clean technique and precise timing in every routine.
- Maintain strong chemistry with your professional partner throughout the season.
- Study judges’ feedback to refine style and avoid recurring mistakes.
- Engage viewers with expressive storytelling that complements the music.
- Prepare physically and mentally for live television and long rehearsal hours.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which celebrity holds the highest score heading into the finale?
Amy Purdy enters the finale with the highest cumulative score after a consistent season of strong technique and emotional storytelling.
How are the judges’ scores weighted compared to viewer votes?
Judges’ scores count for forty percent of the total, while viewer votes through app and text contribute the remaining sixty percent to determine advancement.
Can a previously eliminated celebrity return to the finale?
No eliminated celebrity can return to the finale; only the top scoring couples who have not been voted off are eligible to compete on finale night.
What happens immediately after the winner is announced?
Following the announcement, the winning couple performs a victory encore while the network airs a highlight reel and thanks the viewers and sponsors.