Dancing With The Stars: A Spectacular Season That Stole Hearts And Broke Records

Celebrating Two Decades of Dance

"Dancing with the Stars" has taken the reality TV world by storm this fall, breaking voting records and relaunching careers while uniting millions of fans. The 20th anniversary and 34th season of the show featured 13 professional dancers, 13 celebrities, four troupe members, and three judges, providing viewers with a rollercoaster of laughter, tears, and second-hand embarrassment every Tuesday night from September through November.

The Irwin Legacy Continues

In a season that celebrated its 20-year history, "Dancing with the Stars" brought back passion and excitement. This year's coveted "Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy" went to wildlife conservationist and current heartthrob Robert Irwin, along with his talented partner, Whitney Carson. Their hard work and dedication each week paid off, with Robert following in the footsteps of his sister Bindi Irwin, who won the mirrorball ten years ago.

"Watching ‘Dancing with the Stars’ became a predictable rhythm in my life for three months watching every Tuesday night with my husband, friends, or family," said Pullman resident Becca Leggett. "Then I got to relieve it throughout the week in conversations about our favorite dances, favorite moments and who we were rooting for. It was a beautiful picture of something simple creating authentic community."

Rumors and Marketing Magic

This season's success can be attributed to several factors, including brand deals, marketing strategies, and social media buzz. Two big rumors floated around regarding Robert Irwin's participation. First, his appearance made sense for a season touted as one of the biggest yet, bringing back a member of a beloved family. Second, it was a strategic move by Disney, who owns DWTS, to promote "Zootopia 2," a film in which Irwin had a cameo. The movie topped box office ratings, and Disney has Irwin to thank for drawing viewers to theaters.

The Show Must Go On

Even though the season has wrapped up, the excitement continues. The "Dancing with the Stars" official tour kicks off on January 22, with pros and a few celebrities already training to deliver a spectacular live dance show. Fans can find more details on the official website. This season has proven that gathering around the TV every Tuesday night has revived the communal spirit of reality TV, creating lasting memories and joyous conversations among fans.