“Dancing with the Stars” has thrilled audiences for decades. Over the years, some winners have faced personal struggles, health challenges, and even untimely deaths.
“Dancing with the Stars” premiered on June 1, 2005, pairing celebrities with professional dancers. Over 33 seasons, it has crowned winners from diverse backgrounds, including athletes, musicians, and actors.
These winners have faced challenges beyond the dance floor, from health struggles like endometriosis and cancer to untimely losses. Here’s a look at their lives today.
Season 1 (2005): Kelly Monaco
Soap opera actress Kelly Monaco, known for her role in “General Hospital,” won the first season of “Dancing with the Stars” with partner Alec Mazo.
Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo pictured on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Years later, Philadelphia native mourned the loss of her “General Hospital” co-star Billy Miller, who passed away at 43 in 2023.
Kelly Monaco and Billy Miller on the set of “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,” 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Season 2 (2006): Drew Lachey
Following Monaco’s memorable win, singer and occasional actor Drew Lachey took home the mirrorball trophy in season two alongside partner Cheryl Burke.
Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2006 | Source: Getty Images
Married to Lea Lachey since October 14, 2000, Drew has raised their two children in Cincinnati, providing them with a grounded Midwestern upbringing.
Drew Lachey and his son taking a selfie, dated May 2024 | Source: Instagram/therealdrewlachey
Season 3 (2006): Emmitt Smith
After Lachey’s win, NFL legend Emmitt Smith secured the season three championship with Cheryl Burke, proudly stating, “I am so proud of this trophy and I am proud to share it with Cheryl. We worked our tails off.”
Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2006 | Source: Getty Images
A devoted family man, Smith is married to Patricia Southall, with whom he shares children. In 2021, the NFL Hall of Famer made headlines when he sold his 10,806-square-foot Dallas home for $2.2 million in just 22 hours.
Season 4 (2007): Apolo Anton Ohno
After Smith’s win, Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno secured the season four title with Julianne Hough, saying, “I feel amazing. From day 1 I feel like everyone here has been champions.”
Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2007 | Source: Getty Images
After retiring from speedskating, he became a motivational speaker, advocating for mental health and substance use awareness, stating, “Mental health is such an important part of society & the resources, care, and support are the lifeblood of making positive movement and change.”
Season 5 (2007): Helio Castroneves
Ohno’s inspiring triumph paved the way for IndyCar driver Hélio Castroneves, who claimed the season five title with Julianne Hough. Reflecting on his victory, he said, “It’s not only about dancing, you know? It’s about popularity. That’s what I’m actually very happy about.”
Hélio Castroneves and Julianne Hough on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2007 | Source: Getty Images
His journey took a challenging turn in 2008 when he faced tax evasion charges, but he was acquitted on all counts the following year. In 2023, Castroneves announced stepping back from full-time racing, though his quest for a fifth Indianapolis 500 win remains.
Season 6 (2008): Kristi Yamaguchi
Castroneves’ thrilling victory was followed by former Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi’s season six win with Mark Ballas.
Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark Ballas on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2008 | Source: Getty Images
Known for her 1992 Olympic gold in women’s singles, Yamaguchi continues to inspire through her foundation, Always Dream, which ensures children have access to quality books and family engagement support. Married to former ice hockey player Bret Hedican, she is a proud mother of two daughters, now 19 and 21.
Bret Hedican and Kristi Yamaguchi attend the 2022 ESPYs on July 20, 2022, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
(C-R) Bret Hedican, Kristi Yamaguchi and guest attend Eat. Learn. Play.’s 10th Annual Christmas with the Currys Celebration on December 11, 2022, in Oakland, California. | Source: Getty Images
Season 7 (2008): Brooke Burke
Yamaguchi’s inspiring win was followed by actress and TV host Brooke Burke, who claimed the season seven title with Derek Hough. Celebrated by the judges as the “sensation of season seven,” Burke reflected on her journey, saying, “It’s such an accomplishment, just to try things that you’ve never done before. For me, it’s been an incredible experience.”
Derek Hough and Brooke Burke on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2008 | Source: Getty Images
Three years after her win, the co-host bravely announced her thyroid cancer diagnosis, stating, “I need to have thyroid surgery and a thyroidectomy,” exemplifying resilience during a challenging time.
Since then, the Connecticut native has been married twice and is now a mother of four, with two children from each marriage.
Season 8 (2009): Shawn Johnson
Following Brooke Burke’s remarkable victory, Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson became the eighth champion, partnering with Mark Ballas. At just 17, the show’s youngest competitor called her win “my new gold medal,” adding, “It’s made me the happiest person ever and changed my life.”
Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas at ABC Studios on May 20, 2009, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2009 | Source: Getty Images
Johnson, a decorated 2008 Olympian with one gold and three silver medals, has since embraced family life with her husband Andrew East and their three children—a daughter and two sons—while contributing to Yahoo Sports during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Season 9 (2009): Donny Osmond
Johnson’s youthful triumph was followed by music and entertainment icon Donny Osmond, who won season nine alongside Kym Johnson. Reflecting on his achievement, Osmond proudly stated, “I am really proud of this. I am the oldest recipient of the Mirror Ball Trophy.”
Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2009 | Source: Getty Images
Kym Johnson and Donny Osmond on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2009 | Source: Getty Images
In September 2024, the five-time Emmy nominee announced the extension of his award-winning solo show, “Donny,” at Harrah’s Las Vegas Showroom. Celebrating its third anniversary, the residency will now continue through June 2025, delighting fans with his timeless performances.
Season 10 (2010): Nicole Scherzinger
Osmond’s iconic win was followed by Nicole Scherzinger, lead singer of The Pussycat Dolls, who won season ten with Derek Hough. Praised as the best dancer in the show’s history, Scherzinger later starred in the 2024 Broadway revival of “Sunset Boulevard,” which drew capacity crowds in its one-week run.
Derek Hough and Nicole Scherzinger on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2010 | Source: Getty Images
Scherzinger, who was nominated for Most Popular TV Judge on “The X Factor: UK,” also celebrated her engagement to Thom Evans in 2023 and shared a birthday tribute to him in April 2024.
Season 11 (2010): Jennifer Grey
Scherzinger’s victory set the stage for actress Jennifer Grey, famed for “Dirty Dancing,” who won season 11 with Derek Hough. Grey called the experience “so much more difficult” than her iconic film role.
Derek Hough and Jennifer Grey on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2010 | Source: Getty Images
She later revealed struggles with performance anxiety, which led her to decline reprising a role on “Friends,” and shared her journey in her memoir, Out of the Corner, including challenges with rhinoplasty.
Season 12 (2011): Hines Ward
Grey’s emotional journey was followed by actor and former NFL wide receiver Hines Ward, who claimed the season 12 title with Kym Johnson.
Kym Johnson and Hines Ward on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2011 | Source: Getty Images
In 2014, he married his wife, Lindsey Georgalas, at Heinz Field. A decade later, in April 2024, he began a new chapter as Arizona State University’s wide receivers coach.
Season 13 (2011): J.R. Martinez
Ward’s inspiring story transitioned to Army veteran and actor J.R. Martinez, who won season 13 with Karina Smirnoff, and called it “amazing” to create “magical moments.”
Karina Smirnoff and J.R. Martinez on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2011 | Source: Getty Images
In 2018, the motivational speaker married Diana Gonzalez-Jones in Tulum, Mexico, and in August 2024, earned a medal in a Half Marathon.
Season 14 (2012): Donald Driver
Martinez’s victory led to former NFL wide receiver Donald Driver winning season 14 with Peta Murgatroyd, earning perfect 10s for their Cha-cha-cha.
Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Married since 2000 with three children, Driver once said, “The goal isn’t getting married. […] The goal is staying married and creating a lifetime of memories.” In 2024, he celebrated his daughter Charity’s Co-MVP win and partnered with AT&T to support digital literacy by donating laptops to Milwaukee students.
Season 15 (2012): Melissa Rycroft
Building on Driver’s heartfelt triumph, Melissa Rycroft, a writer and director, emerged as the season 15 champion alongside Tony Dovolani, earning the title of champion of champions with the highest combined scores.
Tony Dovolani and Melissa Rycroft on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Married to TV personality Tye Strickland, the Texas native, a former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, is also a proud mother of three.
Season 16 (2013): Kellie Pickler
Rycroft’s victory gave way to country singer Kellie Pickler, who won season 16 with her dance partner, Derek Hough.
Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2013 | Source: Getty Images
In 2010, Pickler’s life changed when songwriter Kyle Jacobs proposed, leading to 12 happy years of marriage before his tragic passing in 2023. A year later, she honored his memory by returning to the stage to perform “The Woman I Am,” a song they wrote together, at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
Kellie Pickler performs onstage during “Walkin’ After Midnight: The Music Of Patsy Cline” on April 22, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee. | Source: Getty Images
Season 17 (2013): Amber Riley
Pickler’s emotional triumph was succeeded by Amber Riley’s commanding season 17 win alongside Derek Hough, where their perfect final dance earned her the title. Riley, who joined the show uncertain of herself, inspired women of all sizes to pursue their dreams.
Derek Hough and Amber Riley on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2013 | Source: Getty Images
In her personal life, Riley called off an engagement in 2022, but introduced her new boyfriend on Valentine’s Day in 2023. She keeps their relationship private out of respect for his role as a father.
Amber Riley and her boyfriend posing together, dated October 2024 | Source: Instagram/msamberpriley
Season 18 (2014): Meryl Davis
Riley’s uplifting story paved the way for Olympic figure skater Meryl Davis, who glided to victory in season 18 with Maksim Chmerkovskiy. A 2014 Olympic gold medalist and two-time World champion, Davis brought her elegance to the dance floor.
Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Married to fellow skater Fedor Andreev since 2019 and a proud mother of one, Davis splits her time between Los Angeles and Detroit. In March 2024, she joined #womenshistorymonth to honor women’s achievements in sports.
Season 19 (2014): Alfonso Ribeiro
After Davis’s elegant win, Alfonso Ribeiro brought his charisma to season 19, taking home the trophy with Witney Carson. The actor and comedian has spent over three decades making his mark in entertainment and later hosted shows such as “Dancing with the Stars” and “America’s Funniest Home Videos.”
Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Since 2012, he has shared his life with his wife, Angela Unkrich, balancing a successful career with his role as a devoted husband.
Season 20 (2015): Rumer Willis
Ribeiro’s electrifying presence was succeeded by actress Rumer Willis, who claimed the season 20 title alongside Val Chmerkovskiy.
Val Chmerkovskiy and Rumer Willis on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2015 | Source: Getty Images
Years later in November 2022, Willis introduced her relationship with singer Derek Richard Thomas and announced her pregnancy a month later. The couple welcomed their daughter, Louetta, in April 2023 after a home birth. By August 2024, Willis revealed their split.
Season 21 (2015): Bindi Irwin
Following Willis’s heartfelt journey, actress Bindi Irwin lit up season 21, winning with Derek Hough. In March 2023, Irwin shared her 10-year struggle with endometriosis, describing it as a “very long road” before undergoing surgery with a friend’s support.
Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2015 | Source: Getty Images
That same month, she posted a throwback photo with her husband, Chandler Powell, whom she married in 2020. The couple shares a daughter and embraces life as a family.
Season 22 (2016): Nyle DiMarco
After Irwin’s, actor and model Nyle DiMarco brought his own groundbreaking story to the spotlight, winning season 22 with Peta Murgatroyd. In 2015, he made history as the first deaf winner of “America’s Next Top Model,” cycle 22.
Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Now, DiMarco is widely recognized for his advocacy and creative achievements, including Netflix’s “Deaf U” and the Oscar-nominated docu-short “Audible.”
Season 23 (2016): Laurie Hernandez
DiMarco’s groundbreaking win was followed by Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez, who shone as the season 23 champion alongside Val Chmerkovskiy. A trailblazer in her own right, she earned team gold and individual silver in gymnastics at the Rio Games.
Laurie Hernandez and Val Chmerkovskiy on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Now a two-time Olympic medalist, Hernandez has transitioned from the mat to the screen, where she serves as a TV analyst.
Season 24 (2017): Rashad Jennings
As Hernandez passed the torch, former NFL star Rashad Jennings impressed audiences, earning the season 24 crown with Emma Slater.
Rashad Jennings and Emma Slater on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Jennings has since channeled his passion into The Rashad Jennings Foundation, focusing on empowering youth through education, mentorship, and health initiatives. He is now balancing his philanthropic efforts with family life.
L-R) Rashad, Destiny, and Rashad Jennings Jr. attend the 23rd annual Off the Field Charity Fashion show on February 9, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. | Source: Getty Images
Season 25 (2017): Jordan Fisher
AfterJennings’ inspiring season, Jordan Fisher brought his triple-threat talent to season 25, securing the trophy with Lindsay Arnold. Now a Broadway star, the actor captivates audiences as Orpheus in “Hadestown” which celebrated its 5-year anniversary in 2024 and continues to thrive.
Tom Bergeron, Jordan Fisher, Lindsay Arnold, Corbin Bleu on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Married to Ellie Woods, since 2020, the Birmingham native balances his thriving career with fatherhood, welcoming their child in 2022.
Season 26 (2018): Adam Rippon
As Fisher’s Broadway brilliance captured hearts, Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon brought his own flair to season 26, winning with Jenna Johnson. A 2018 Olympic bronze medalist in the team event, Rippon dazzled both on the ice and the dance floor.
Adam Rippon and Jenna Johnson on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Now a TV favorite, Rippon, who describes himself as a “dramatic monster,” is a regular on “Pictionary” and “Name That Tune.” In 2023, he claimed victory on the FOX series “Stars on Mars.”
Season 27 (2018): Bobby Bones
After Rippon’s win, radio host and TV personality Bobby Bones brought his unique charm to season 27, earning the trophy with Sharna Burgess. Beyond his “Dancing with the Stars” success, Bones is a celebrated podcaster and New York Times bestselling author.
Bobby Bones and Sharna Burgess on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Married to Caitlin Parker since 2021, the couple recently celebrated their third anniversary in July 2024, with Bones, who has two dogs, sharing a heartfelt tribute on Instagram to mark the occasion.
Season 28 (2019): Hannah Brown
Following Bones’ unforgettable season, Hannah Brown brought her charm to season 28, winning with Alan Bersten. A New York Times bestselling author, the TV personality announced her engagement to Adam Woolard in August 2023 after two years together.
Alan Bersten and Hannah Brown on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Brown and Woolard moved in together in 2022 and relocated to Nashville in March 2023 to begin their next chapter.
Season 29 (2020): Kaitlyn Bristowe
Brown’s success paved the way for actress and TV personality Kaitlyn Bristowe, who won season 29 to win alongside Artem Chigvintsev. Beyond her victory, Bristowe showcases her entrepreneurial flair as the founder of Spade & Sparrows, a thriving wine brand.
Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2020 | Source: Getty Images
The Canadian native has embarked on a new path, settling into her new Nashville home after ending her engagement to Jason Tartick.
Season 30 (2021): Iman Shumpert
Bristowe’s triumph paved the way for Iman Shumpert, who made history in season 30 as the first NBA player to win, partnered with Daniella Karagach. His groundbreaking victory added a new dimension to the competition.
Daniella Karagach and Iman Shumpert on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Shumpert has since broadened his horizons, launching his ESPN series, “Taking One For The Team,” in October 2024, alongside his ongoing podcasting ventures.
Season 31 (2022): Charli D’Amelio
With Shumpert’s historic victory still celebrated, media personality Charli Grace D’Amelio impressed in season 31, winning with Mark Ballas.
Alfonso Ribeiro, Jullianne Hough, Charli D’Amelio, and Mark Ballas on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Known for her massive TikTok following, she launched D’Amelio Footwear and made her Broadway debut in 2024’s “& Juliet,” a fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic.
Season 32 (2023): Xochitl Gomez
D’Amelio’s rise was followed by actress Xochitl Gomez, who claimed the season 32 title alongside Val Chmerkovskiy. “It’s unbelievable. I didn’t see it coming,” she said of her victory.
Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2023 | Source: Getty Images
At just 18, the Los Angeles native has already made waves, joining the Marvel Multiverse as America Chavez and starring in Netflix’s “The Baby-Sitters Club.”
Season 33 (2024): Joey Graziadei
After Gomez’s standout season, Joey Graziadei brought his own unforgettable energy to the ballroom, winning season 33 with Jenna Johnson. “It means everything to me. This whole experience has been unbelievable, honestly,” said Graziadei.
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson on the set of “Dancing with the Stars,” 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Making history as the first “Bachelor” lead to claim the top prize, the TV personality’s win marked a new milestone for “DWTS.”
Over the years, “DWTS” has become more than a competition—it’s a stage for triumph, determination, and unforgettable stories. From historic wins to personal battles, the show continues to captivate audiences with its blend of talent and heart.
