Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa showed impressive grit and determination. Their Paso Doble was intense and powerful. Judges felt that Jordan’s aggression was overdone, but their overall feedback was positive.
Their Tango came through as crisp and polished, earning perfect scores. Their Freestyle was dubbed a “showstopper” and many felt it lived up to the title. Judges called it one of the best freestyles the show had seen, commending Jordan.
Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach’s journey felt like it had depth. Their Foxtrot in the Instant Dance to “Ordinary” was widely praised. Carrie Ann was even moved to tears. Their Freestyle, a routine to “Something In The Heavens,” stood out for storytelling: dramatic lifts and a water effect made an impact.
Their judges’ choice dance was not as strong as the others technically, but they definitely had a memorable finale.
Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten started the night strong: her judges’ choice Rumba was elegant and graceful, and perfectly matched to the music. Their Quickstep was shakier. Judges noticed footwork issues and a few minor faults. Their freestyle redeemed them to “I Hope I Get It,” which showed off Elaine’s strengths.
They had a season of ups and downs, but they were solid contenders.
Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy ended the season as runners-up, but it’s hard to imagine anyone watching the finale and thinking they didn’t belong in the top two. Their judges’ choice of samba — ”Hip Hip Chin Chin” — opened the night with energy and confidence; with three perfect 10s, it felt like a statement: “We’re here to win.”
Their Cha-Cha was strong, showing growth in their dancing since the early weeks. But the real high point came in the Freestyle, a powerful routine to “Maneater” and “Sports Car.” Judges praised it as arena-tour level, calling Alix “an absolute superstar.”
However, despite their technique, charisma, and growth, the next couple stole the show.
Robert Irwin and Witney Carson deservedly emerged with the Mirrorball Trophy. Their Quickstep in the judges’ round to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” was crisp, energetic and made me grin. Judges remarked on Robert’s athleticism and use of the floor; even though there was a minor wobble, the overall impression was stronger than the rest. Their Cha-Cha was consistent and controlled, and they came through under pressure.
The Freestyle sealed the deal: dancing to “Black & Gold” and “The Nights,” the routine earned perfect marks. Their win was absolutely the right call — Robert’s presence and progression stood out, and Witney guided him like the pro she is.
“Did the Right Couple Win?” is without doubt the question of the season. YES!! I believe Robert and Witney deserved the win. They got better week to week. Robert and Witney crowd-pleased with every performance and I rooted for them from the start — it feels like the fair result of a season where we saw them work episode to episode to win. When you watch the finale, you can even see it on Val’s face –he agreed that it should be Robert and was genuinely happy for him.
Bravo to all five finalists — they delivered a worthy finale that will be talked about until the next.
