The Shocking Winner Of Dancing With The Stars 2024: 5 Things You Need To Know About The Season 33 Champion

The most recent season of *Dancing with the Stars* (Season 33) concluded with a highly emotional and competitive finale, crowning a new champion on November 26, 2024. The coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy ultimately went to fan-favorite celebrity Joey Graziadei and his professional partner, Jenna Johnson, after a spectacular season of stunning routines and consistent high scores. This victory cemented their place in *DWTS* history, capping off a remarkable journey that saw the former *Bachelor* star transform into a polished ballroom dancer. The 2024 season was packed with intense competition, featuring a diverse cast of celebrities from the worlds of sports, television, and entertainment. The final night saw the remaining couples perform two crucial dances: a "Redemption Dance" and an all-important Freestyle, which often determines the winner. Graziadei and Johnson’s performances earned them perfect scores from the judges, Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli, securing the top spot against a field of incredibly talented finalists.

The Champion's Profile: Who is Joey Graziadei?

The winner of *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 is a familiar face to reality television viewers, celebrated for his charm and genuine nature. Here is a complete profile of the 2024 champion:

• Full Name: Joseph Michael Graziadei
• Born: May 24, 1995
• Age (at time of win): 29
• Hometown: Collegeville, Pennsylvania
• Primary Profession: Television Personality, former Teaching Tennis Professional
• Known For:
  • Runner-up on Season 20 of ABC's The Bachelorette (starring Charity Lawson).
  • Star of Season 28 of ABC's The Bachelor.
  • Winner of Dancing with the Stars Season 33 (2024).
• DWTS Professional Partner: Jenna Johnson
• DWTS Achievement: Winner of the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.

Graziadei's background as a tennis pro gave him a strong foundation in physical coordination and discipline, which translated well to the ballroom. His emotional openness and dedication to the craft, guided by the expert choreography of Jenna Johnson, made him a consistent threat throughout the competition and a clear favorite with the voting audience.

The Road to the Mirrorball: Joey and Jenna's Perfect Score Finale

The journey for "Team JoJo" was characterized by a steady improvement, emotional connection, and several show-stopping routines. While they faced stiff competition, particularly from the Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher, Graziadei and Johnson peaked exactly when it mattered most: the finale.

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Their final night performances were a masterclass in blending technical skill with performance quality. Their first dance, the "Redemption Cha-Cha," was a chance to revisit a style they struggled with early in the season. They executed it flawlessly, earning a perfect score of 30 out of 30 from the judging panel. This moment was crucial, showcasing the enormous growth Joey had achieved over the 10 weeks of competition.

The second and most anticipated performance was their Freestyle dance. The Freestyle is where couples can break the traditional rules of ballroom, incorporating lifts, props, and unique concepts. Joey and Jenna's routine was hailed as one of the most memorable Freestyles in recent *DWTS* history, combining high-energy choreography with a powerful, personal narrative. The judges awarded them their second perfect 30 of the night, bringing their total finale score to an unbeatable 60 points. This final performance, coupled with the massive viewer vote, secured their victory.

The Final Standings: Who Were the Runners-Up and Finalists?

Season 33 featured an incredibly strong field of celebrity contestants, making the competition one of the tightest in years. The finale showcased five exceptional couples, all of whom delivered high-scoring performances. Understanding the final placements provides a complete picture of the season's competitive landscape and the quality of the top contenders.

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The following couples were the top finalists, battling for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy:

Runner-Up: Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten

The Olympic rugby sevens player, Ilona Maher, and her partner, Alan Bersten, finished as the official runners-up. Maher was a powerhouse throughout the season, known for her incredible strength, infectious personality, and ability to handle complex lifts. Many pundits and fans considered her a strong contender, and her consistent improvement made her a formidable opponent in the final week. Her second-place finish is a testament to her dedication and the quality of her partnership with Bersten.

Third Place: Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong

Actress Chandler Kinney, best known for her roles on Disney Channel and HBO Max, and her pro partner, Brandon Armstrong, secured third place. Kinney was one of the most technically proficient dancers of the season, often receiving some of the highest scores early on. Her youth and natural grace allowed her to master intricate routines, and she consistently impressed the judges with her precision and artistry.

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Fourth Place: Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold

Gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik and his partner, Rylee Arnold, finished in fourth place. Nedoroscik, an Olympic medalist, brought his incredible athleticism and flexibility to the ballroom. His partnership with Arnold, who was in her second season as a pro, was a fan favorite. They consistently delivered entertaining and physically demanding routines, showcasing the versatility of an elite athlete.

Fifth Place: Danny Amendola and Witney Carson

The former NFL wide receiver, Danny Amendola, and his pro partner, Witney Carson, rounded out the top five. Amendola’s journey was a classic underdog story, as he started with raw potential and steadily improved his technique and stage presence. His performances were marked by intensity and passion, earning him a spot in the finale and a respectable fifth-place finish.

The Legacy of Season 33 and the Future of the Champions

The victory for Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson marks a significant moment in the show's history, highlighting the power of the audience vote and the appeal of a celebrity who genuinely embraces the challenge of ballroom dancing. Jenna Johnson’s win is her second Mirrorball, further solidifying her status as one of the show's elite professional dancers. Her first win was with Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon in Season 26.

The *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 champions have successfully transitioned their reality TV fame into a new realm of entertainment. For Joey, the win is a capstone on his year of television appearances, proving he is a versatile and engaging performer beyond the dating show format. The entire season, with its diverse cast and high level of competition, has set a high bar for the upcoming Season 34, which fans are already eagerly anticipating.

The success of the 2024 season is also a tribute to the late Len Goodman, whose name now graces the iconic trophy. His spirit of constructive criticism and passion for ballroom excellence continues to influence the show's judging and the dedication of the celebrity dancers.