For the second consecutive season, Dancing with the Stars is breaking with tradition, sending five couples to the finale. In a shocking twist during Tuesday’s semi-finals, co-hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro announced that no couples would be eliminated, securing a spot for all remaining pairs in the Season 33 finale.
The five couples vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy are: NFL star Danny Amendola and Witney Carson, Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong, Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson, Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten, and Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold.
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson on Dancing with the Stars.
This unprecedented decision has thrilled the contestants, who expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to perform one last time. Joey Graziadei, speaking exclusively to Page Six, shared the group’s collective relief and enthusiasm to showcase their best in the upcoming finale. Jenna Johnson echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unique bond within this season’s cast.
The finale will feature a freestyle round, allowing each couple complete creative freedom in their choreography, costumes, and staging. This final performance will be their last chance to impress judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli, as well as the viewing audience, before the Season 33 winner is crowned.
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson on Dancing with the Stars.
Johnson revealed that her freestyle routine for Graziadei will honor his heritage, while Carson teased Amendola’s performance as “iconic, memorable, and fun,” hinting at a spectacular showcase for the former NFL wide receiver.
Alan Bersten plans to highlight the multifaceted personality of his partner, Ilona Maher, showcasing her strength, vulnerability, and charisma. Meanwhile, Kinney and Armstrong, the first Black dance duo to reach the finals, will dedicate their performance to celebrating their historic achievement and representing their culture.
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong on Dancing with the Stars.
The finalists also shared their aspirations for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Amendola, a two-time Super Bowl champion, jokingly suggested displaying it alongside his Lombardi Trophies. The other finalists offered more conventional ideas, ranging from a prominent shelf to a place of honor in a family member’s home.
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson on Dancing with the Stars.
The three-hour Season 33 finale of Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesday, November 26th at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+. Viewers will witness the culmination of weeks of intense competition, culminating in the crowning of a new champion.
Note: Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold were unavailable for comment following the semi-finals.
