The winner of Dancing with the Stars 2018 was Olympic gymnast and television personality Simone Biles, who partnered with professional dancer Sasha Farber. Their victory highlighted athletic precision, emotional storytelling, and consistent high-energy performances across the season.
Below is a detailed overview of key facts from the season, including scores, performance highlights, and placement that shaped the finale.
| Contestant | Professional Partner | Average Score | Finale Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simone Biles | Sasha Farber | 38.9 | 1st Winner |
| Juan Pablo Di Pace | Emma Slater | 38.4 | 2nd Runner-Up |
| Rashad Jennings | Emma Slater | 38.2 | 3rd Runner-Up |
| James Hinchcliffe | Sharna Burgess | 37.6 | 4th Runner-Up |
Judging Criteria and Scoring Breakdown
Judges assessed each routine on technique, artistry, and presentation. Technical elements included footwork, timing, and execution of lifts, while artistry covered musicality and emotional expression. Presentation involved stage presence, costume impact, and storytelling through movement.
Scores were averaged across multiple dances, with higher weight given to the freestyle and fusion rounds. Consistent high marks in each category helped Simone Biles maintain the lead throughout the season.
Performance Highlights of the Season
Each week brought new challenges, from jitterbug to contemporary storytelling. The competition featured daring lifts, intricate footwork, and well-chosen music that revealed deeper narratives. Key standout moments included emotional tributes and technically demanding routines that set the tone for the finale.
Simone Biles impressed viewers with routines that balanced power and grace, turning complex choreography into visually compelling stories. Her partnership with Sasha Farber emphasized clarity of movement and strong connection, which resonated both with judges and audiences.
Athlete and Celebrity Preparation
Behind the scenes, rigorous training schedules, physical therapy, and choreography rehearsals shaped the journey. Celebrities worked closely with mentors to refine timing, expression, and stamina required for live performance under intense pressure.
Support teams included choreographers, physiotherapists, and mental coaches who helped manage stress and optimize recovery. This structured preparation contributed directly to the high level of consistency seen in the winner's performances.
Dance Styles and Music Choices
The season showcased a diverse lineup including foxtrot, paso doble, samba, and contemporary pieces. Music selections ranged from classic pop to cinematic scores, each tailored to highlight the athlete’s strengths while challenging their comfort zone.
Judges often rewarded risk-taking when it translated into clean lines and emotional authenticity. The strategic pairing of music and movement played a key role in distinguishing the winner from strong competitors.
Key Takeaways from the 2018 Season
- Consistency in scoring is more valuable than occasional perfect scores.
- Strong partnerships built on trust and clear communication lead to better stage synergy.
- Strategic music and choreography choices can amplify an athlete's strengths.
- Physical readiness and recovery planning support performance longevity across the season.
- Audience connection combined with technical excellence creates memorable performances.
FAQ
Reader questions
How were the final scores calculated in Dancing with the Stars 2018?
Final scores were calculated by averaging judge scores across all dances, with additional points added for the freestyle and fusion rounds based on complexity and execution.
Who were the professional partners for the top four finalists?
Simone Biles danced with Sasha Farber, Juan Pablo Di Pace with Emma Slater, Rashad Jennings with Emma Slater, and James Hinchcliffe with Sharna Burgess.
What made Simone Biles' performances stand out compared to other finalists?
Simone Biles combined elite athleticism with clear storytelling, maintaining high technical quality and emotional engagement across every routine.
Were audience votes a major factor in determining the winner?
Audience votes influenced the bottom two and finale stakes, but the winner was primarily determined by the judges’ averaged scores across all performances.