5 Reasons Ilona Maher's Paso Doble Was The Most Shocking Performance Of DWTS Season 33

The world watched in awe as Olympian and social media phenomenon Ilona Maher traded her rugby cleats for ballroom heels, culminating in a semi-final performance that defied all expectations. Her Paso Doble, performed with professional partner Alan Bersten, was a masterclass in dramatic transformation, solidifying her status as a true dark horse in the competition. This deep dive, updated for December 2025, reveals why this single dance remains one of the most talked-about moments of *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33. The fierce, powerful routine was set to an orchestral version of Sam Smith and Kim Petras's controversial hit "Unholy," a choice that perfectly encapsulated the raw intensity of the Spanish dance. Maher, a bronze medalist in Rugby Sevens, channeled her athletic prowess into the demanding role of a matador, delivering a performance that was both technically strong and emotionally captivating, even though it was a style that initially caused her anxiety.

The Phenomenal Rise of Ilona Maher: A Complete Biography

Ilona Delsing Rosa Maher is far more than just a reality television star; she is a decorated athlete and a massive social media personality who has leveraged her authentic voice to connect with millions globally. Her journey from the rugby pitch to the ballroom is a testament to her versatility and magnetic public appeal.

• Full Name: Ilona Delsing Rosa Maher OLY
• Date of Birth: 1996 (Age 29 as of 2025)
• Hometown: Burlington, Vermont, U.S.
• Primary Career: Professional Rugby Union Player (USA Rugby Sevens)
• Olympic Achievement: Bronze Medalist in Rugby Sevens (Tokyo 2020/2021 Games)
• Collegiate Career: Began at Norwich University, then transferred to Quinnipiac University, where she became a standout player.
• Reality TV Career: Contestant on *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS) Season 33
• DWTS Result: Runner-Up (Season 33)
• Social Media Influence: One of the world's most-followed rugby players, with over eight million followers across platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
• Notable Content: Viral videos focusing on body positivity, mental health, and the realities of being an elite female athlete.

Maher's transition to the spotlight was largely fueled by her candid and humorous TikTok presence during the Olympics, where she gained millions of followers almost overnight. This massive social media following, which has grown to over eight million, made her a highly anticipated and powerful competitor on DWTS Season 33.

The Matador's Fierce Stance: Analyzing Ilona Maher's Paso Doble

The Semi-Finals of *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 demanded two high-stakes performances from each celebrity, and for Ilona Maher, the Latin dance challenge was the dramatic and powerful Paso Doble.

1. The "Unholy" Orchestral Twist

The choice of music was immediately a talking point. Ilona and Alan Bersten performed to an orchestral arrangement of "Unholy" by Sam Smith and Kim Petras. This provided a moody, cinematic backdrop that stripped the song of its pop-club feel and amplified its inherent drama, which is essential for the Spanish-themed Paso Doble. The music choice signaled that this would not be a traditional, light-hearted routine.

2. Ilona’s Matador Role

The Paso Doble is a theatrical dance that traditionally depicts the bullfight, with the male dancer as the matador and the female dancer as the cape or the bull. In a powerful subversion of the classic roles, Ilona took on the matador persona, complete with a stunning, fierce costume and commanding presence. This casting decision perfectly suited her strong, athletic build and her history as a powerful competitor.

3. The Technical Challenge and Judges' Feedback

The Paso Doble is notoriously difficult, requiring sharp, precise movements, strong arm lines, and a consistent frame—all elements that are foreign to a rugby player's natural, explosive movements. In her pre-performance package, Ilona expressed concern over capturing the dance's required intensity and sharpness. Upon completion, the judges were generally complimentary of her dramatic flair and commitment. Judge Bruno Tonioli, known for his expressive critiques, noted the sultry and dramatic nature of the performance. While the routine was visually striking and emotionally powerful, the judges' scores reflected minor technical imperfections, particularly in the footwork and the maintenance of the rigid, classic Paso Doble frame. Despite this, the dance was a clear highlight of the semi-finals, showcasing her growth throughout the season.

From Rugby Scrums to the Ballroom: The DWTS Journey and Its Impact

Ilona Maher’s participation in *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 was a cultural moment that transcended the show itself. Her journey demonstrated a powerful shift from the physical demands of elite sport to the artistic discipline of ballroom dance.

The Power of the Partnership with Alan Bersten

Ilona was partnered with seasoned professional Alan Bersten, whose choreography successfully blended Ilona’s raw athleticism with the required ballroom technique. Their partnership was a fan favorite, largely due to Ilona’s infectious personality and Bersten’s supportive coaching style. This dynamic allowed Ilona to tackle challenging Latin dances like the Paso Doble and Samba with confidence, even though they were outside her comfort zone.

A Platform for Positivity and Body Image

Throughout her DWTS tenure, Ilona used her platform to continue the themes she champions on social media: body positivity and destigmatizing the female athletic physique. Her powerful stage presence and willingness to embrace a variety of costumes and dance styles, including the fierce matador for the Paso Doble, sent a strong message about strength and self-acceptance. This resonated deeply with viewers, who consistently voted for her, propelling her all the way to the finale.

The Runner-Up Legacy

Ultimately, Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten finished as the runners-up of Season 33. Her journey, capped by the memorable Paso Doble, proved that an Olympic athlete could successfully cross over into the entertainment world. Her success brought massive attention to the underrepresented sport of women's rugby, fulfilling her mission to use her viral fame for a greater purpose. The Paso Doble stands as a testament to her versatility, her ability to embody a character, and her unforgettable presence on the dance floor. The "Unholy" Paso Doble was more than just a dance; it was a statement. It was the moment the world saw Ilona Maher, the Olympic rugby star, transform into a fierce, dramatic, and compelling ballroom artist. This performance cemented her legacy not just as a great athlete, but as a true entertainment force.