The Season 33 finalists of Dancing with the Stars were Joey Graziadei, Chandler Kinney, Ilona Maher, Stephen Nedoroscik, and Danny Amendola. These five celebrities and their professional partners successfully navigated ten weeks of rigorous competition, overcoming double eliminations and high-pressure semi-finals to compete for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy during the 2024 season finale.
The High-Stakes Reveal of the Season 33 Finalists
The journey to the Season 33 finale was marked by one of the most competitive fields in the history of the ballroom. As we look back from 2026, the reveal of the five finalists remains a pivotal moment for the franchise, signaling a shift toward a multi-generational audience and a heavy emphasis on Olympic-level athleticism. The reveal took place during the emotional semi-final episode, where the remaining couples faced the "Redemption Dance" and a second, new routine designed to showcase their growth.
To understand how these five emerged from the pack, one must look at the mechanics of the reveal. In Season 33, the show maintained its high-stakes format: a 50/50 split between judges' scores and viewer votes. The semi-final was particularly brutal because the leaderboard was incredibly tight. When hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough finally announced the names of the five couples moving forward, it confirmed that for the second consecutive year, the show would feature five finalists instead of the traditional three or four. This expanded finale format allowed for a more diverse range of freestyle performances and ensured that the most popular contestants remained in the hunt until the very end.
The reveal was not without controversy. Many viewers were shocked to see the elimination of high-scoring contestants in the weeks leading up to the semi-final. However, the five who remained represented a perfect cross-section of the Dancing with the Stars appeal: the reality TV sweetheart, the technical prodigy, the Olympic icons, and the gritty athlete.
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson: The Bachelor’s Transformation
Joey Graziadei entered Season 33 fresh off his stint as The Bachelor, and while Bachelor Nation contestants have a long history on the show, Joey’s trajectory was unique. Paired with professional dancer Jenna Johnson, Joey evolved from a charming but stiff novice into a technically proficient and emotionally expressive performer.
Their journey to the finalist reveal was defined by consistency. Joey’s ability to handle the "Leading Man" role in ballroom dances like the Waltz and the Foxtrot earned him early praise from judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. However, it was his breakthrough in the Latin rounds—specifically his Samba and Contemporary routines—that solidified his spot in the finale. Jenna Johnson’s choreography pushed Joey to utilize his athleticism, focusing on hip action and frame stability that often eludes non-professional male dancers.
By the time the finalists were revealed, Joey was no longer just the "Bachelor guy"; he was a legitimate contender. His narrative arc focused on the vulnerability of learning a new skill in the public eye, a theme that resonated deeply with the voting block. His placement in the finale was a testament to the power of the Bachelor Nation fanbase combined with undeniable technical improvement.
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong: The Technical Powerhouse
Chandler Kinney, known for her role in Pretty Little Liars: Summer School, was the undisputed technical frontrunner of Season 33. From the premiere night, it was clear that Chandler possessed a natural aptitude for dance that bordered on professional. Paired with Brandon Armstrong, she became the "couple to beat," consistently topping the leaderboard with near-perfect scores.
The challenge for Chandler was never the steps; it was the "connection" and "storytelling" that the judges often critique in "ringers" (contestants with prior dance experience). Throughout the season, Brandon Armstrong crafted routines that forced Chandler to step out of her perfectionist shell. Their Contemporary and Argentine Tango performances were masterclasses in precision and passion.
When the 5 finalists were revealed, Chandler’s inclusion was the least surprising but perhaps the most earned from a scoring perspective. She represented the "gold standard" of the season. Her journey served as a benchmark for the other contestants, proving that while popularity is vital, sheer excellence in the craft of ballroom dance still holds significant weight in the competition.
Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten: The Empowerment Narrative
Olympic rugby star Ilona Maher brought a completely different energy to Season 33. Paired with Alan Bersten, Ilona became a symbol of body positivity and female strength. Her journey to the finale was less about technical perfection and more about the "growth arc" that Dancing with the Stars viewers traditionally love.
Ilona faced unique challenges as a professional athlete. Her height and muscular build required Alan Bersten to rethink traditional ballroom frames and lifts. In the early weeks, Ilona struggled with the "softness" required for dances like the Rumba. However, as the season progressed, she leaned into her strength. Her performances became a celebration of power, often incorporating lifts where she was the one doing the heavy lifting—literally and figuratively.
The reveal of Ilona as a finalist was a victory for her massive social media following. She utilized platforms like TikTok and Instagram to bring a new, younger demographic to the show. Her presence in the finale ensured that the message of "anyone can dance" remained central to the show's mission.
Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold: The "Clark Kent" Effect
Following the 2024 Paris Olympics, "Pommel Horse Guy" Stephen Nedoroscik became a household name. His transition to the ballroom with pro Rylee Arnold was one of the most anticipated pairings of the season. Stephen’s narrative was built on his transformation from a "nerdy" specialist athlete into a charismatic performer.
Stephen’s background in gymnastics provided him with incredible core strength and balance, but it also gave him "gymnastics feet," which the judges frequently corrected. Rylee Arnold, in her second season as a pro, capitalized on Stephen’s viral popularity by creating high-energy, acrobatic routines that played to his strengths. Their Jive and Paso Doble were highlights of the season, showcasing Stephen’s infectious energy and Rylee’s modern choreography.
The reveal of Stephen as a finalist underscored the "Olympic bump" that often propels athletes to the end of the competition. His journey was characterized by a genuine joy for the process, making him one of the most likable contestants in recent memory.
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson: The Underdog Athlete
Former NFL wide receiver Danny Amendola entered the competition as a dark horse. Paired with the returning Witney Carson, Danny had to overcome the "stiff athlete" stereotype that often plagues football players in the ballroom. Unlike the explosive energy of Stephen or the technical grace of Chandler, Danny’s strength lay in his discipline and work ethic.
Throughout Season 33, Danny and Witney focused on the "meat and potatoes" of ballroom dance. They didn't always rely on gimmicks; instead, they focused on the traditional mechanics of the dances. This approach saw them steadily climb the leaderboard. Danny’s "tough guy" exterior slowly melted away, revealing a dedicated student of the art form.
His inclusion in the 5 finalists reveal was a testament to the "middle-of-the-road" contestant who works their way to the top. Danny represented the traditional Dancing with the Stars demographic’s appreciation for hard work and classic masculinity tempered by the grace of dance.
Comparative Performance Data for the Season 33 Finalists
The following table breaks down the standing of the finalists at the time of the reveal, based on their average scores and the styles that propelled them to the finale.
| Finalist Couple | Primary Background | Average Judge Score (at Finale) | Signature Dance Style | Key Narrative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joey & Jenna | Reality TV (The Bachelor) | 27.2 / 30 | Contemporary | The Vulnerable Leading Man |
| Chandler & Brandon | Acting (Disney/Freeform) | 29.1 / 30 | Argentine Tango | The Technical Prodigy |
| Ilona & Alan | Olympic Rugby | 25.8 / 30 | Paso Doble | Body Positivity & Strength |
| Stephen & Rylee | Olympic Gymnastics | 26.5 / 30 | Jive | The Nerdy Transformation |
| Danny & Witney | Professional Football (NFL) | 26.0 / 30 | Viennese Waltz | The Disciplined Underdog |
The Mechanics of the Finale: Scoring and Voting
Reaching the finale is only half the battle. Once the 5 finalists were revealed, the scoring system shifted slightly in weight for the final night. In the Season 33 finale, each couple performed two dances: a "Redemption Dance" chosen by one of the judges to show improvement in a previous style, and the fan-favorite "Freestyle" routine.
The Redemption Dance
The Redemption Dance is a technical challenge. For example, if a couple struggled with their frame in the Quickstep in Week 3, a judge would mentor them to fix those specific issues for the finale. This allows the judges to see if the contestant has truly mastered the fundamentals of ballroom dance.
The Freestyle
The Freestyle is the most important dance of the season. There are no rules, no specific steps required, and no limits on production. This is where the pros (Jenna, Brandon, Alan, Rylee, and Witney) showcase their creativity. Historically, the Freestyle wins the Mirrorball. It is the final "pitch" to the audience for votes. In Season 33, the Freestyles ranged from Ilona’s powerful, stunt-heavy routine to Joey’s emotional, storytelling-driven performance.
Behind the Scenes: The Road to the Reveal
The reveal of the 5 finalists is the result of hundreds of hours of rehearsal. During Season 33, reports surfaced regarding the grueling schedule the finalists endured. Most couples practiced between 8 and 10 hours a day in the lead-up to the semi-finals.
The logistical challenges were also significant. With two Olympic athletes in the mix, the show had to coordinate around various post-Olympic commitments and media tours. This added a layer of fatigue that made the finalists' performances even more impressive. The bond between the pros and the celebrities is often what carries them through this "exhaustion gap." In Season 33, the chemistry between the top five pairs was frequently cited by the judges as a reason for the high quality of the semi-final performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Dancing with the Stars Season 33?
Joey Graziadei and his partner Jenna Johnson were crowned the winners of Season 33, taking home the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. They were followed by Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong in second place.
Why were there 5 finalists in Season 33?
The show opted for 5 finalists to increase the excitement of the finale and accommodate the high level of talent and popularity among the top contestants. This format was first introduced in Season 32 and maintained for Season 33 due to positive viewer feedback.
How are the finalists determined?
Finalists are determined by a combination of judges' scores (from the semi-final and previous weeks) and live viewer votes. During the semi-final episode, the couples with the highest combined totals are "revealed" as safe and move on to the finale.
Did any finalists have prior dance experience?
Chandler Kinney had significant prior dance training, which contributed to her high technical scores. Joey Graziadei and the athletes (Ilona, Stephen, and Danny) had no formal ballroom training prior to the show, though their athletic backgrounds provided a foundation for physical coordination.
Where can I watch the Season 33 finale performances?
As of 2026, the Season 33 finale and all previous episodes are available for streaming on Disney+. High-definition clips of specific performances, including the Freestyles, are also archived on the official Dancing with the Stars YouTube channel.
What happened to the couples after Season 33?
Following the 2024 finale, several finalists participated in the Dancing with the Stars Live! tour. Ilona Maher continued her advocacy for women’s sports, while Joey Graziadei returned to various television projects within the Disney/ABC ecosystem.
Final Recommendation for Fans
If you are looking to relive the excitement of the Season 33 reveal, the best way is to watch the semi-final "Double Elimination" episode in its entirety. Pay close attention to the "Redemption Dances," as they provide the clearest evidence of how each finalist earned their spot. For those interested in the technical side of the show, following the professional dancers' social media archives from late 2024 provides fascinating insight into the choreography process for the finale.
Whether you were rooting for "Team Joey" or "Team Ilona," the Season 33 finalists represented one of the most talented and charismatic groups in the show's history. Their journey serves as a roadmap for future contestants on the importance of balancing technical skill with a compelling personal narrative.
