In 2023, Dancing with the Stars crowned its season champion in a finale packed with high-energy performances and emotional reveals. The competition showcased celebrities paired with professional dancers, culminating in a victory that surprised and delighted viewers across the country.
Below is a detailed overview of the season outcome, including scoring trends, performance highlights, and the journey from the first week to the final trophy.
| Winner | Runner-Up | Winning Pair | Average Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xochitl Gomez | Melvin Gregg | Xochitl Gomez & Val Chmerkovskiy | 38.0 |
| Season 32 Champion | Season 32 Second Place | Latin Dance Specialist | Top Final Round |
Celebrity Performances Each Week
Key Routines and Scoring Highlights
Throughout the season, celebrities tackled Ballroom, Latin, and Contemporary styles. Judges praised Xochitl Gomez for her precision and chemistry with Val Chmerkovskiy, while Melvin Gregg remained a consistent threat with sharp Show dances.
Weekly eliminations narrowed the field, with standout performances in Week 7 and Week 9 keeping viewers engaged until the final three.
Behind the Scenes Training and Preparation
Choreographer Strategies and Rehearsal Schedules
Professional choreographers tailored routines to each celebrity’s strengths, focusing on footwork, timing, and stage presence. Early practices revealed technical improvements that became decisive in later weeks.
Support from celebrity coaches and physical therapy teams helped manage injuries and refine technique under tight deadlines.
Judges’ Feedback and Scoring Criteria
Technical Execution, Artistic Expression, and Consistency
Judges evaluated choreography, musicality, and presentation, with higher marks awarded for clean lines and confident execution. Xochitl Gomez earned top scores for her ability to adapt quickly to new styles while maintaining clarity in technique.
The scoring system emphasized steady improvement, which benefited finalists who showed growth from their first weeks.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Votes, Memes, and Live Commentary
Social platforms exploded with reactions after each live show, with fans debating pairings and celebrating underdog stories. Hashtags related to the finale trended nationally, amplifying the visibility of the season.
Many viewers highlighted the emotional reunion between Gomez and her dance partner as a defining moment of the season.
Final Highlights and Takeaways
- Xochitl Gomez claimed the Mirrorball Trophy in 2023.
- Strong Latin and Contemporary performances defined the season’s peak moments.
- Consistent scoring and adaptability were critical to reaching the top.
- Behind-the-scenes training and injury management supported long-term success.
- Social media engagement amplified the visibility and excitement around the finale.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who was the winner of Dancing with the Stars in 2023?
Xochitl Gomez won the 2023 season of Dancing with the Stars, paired with professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy.
Who came in second place during the 2023 season?
Melvin Gregg finished as the runner-up, competing against Xochitl Gomez in the season finale.
Which dance styles contributed most to the winning score? Latin and Contemporary routines played a major role in Xochitl Gomez’s high scores, showcasing versatility and technical control. How did fan votes impact the final results of the 2023 season?
Viewer votes during the live finale helped determine part of the final score, reinforcing the momentum built throughout the season.