Imagine the thrill of the spotlight, the swirl of sequins, and the heart-pounding anticipation—because this Tuesday, November 25th, 'Dancing with the Stars' Season 34 will crown its champion in a spectacular live finale that promises to be unforgettable!
The iconic Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, a glittering symbol of victory in this beloved ballroom competition, is about to find a new home after a season that's shattered records and celebrated the show's 20th anniversary. But here's where it gets really exciting: five finalist pairs, each blending a celebrity's charisma with a professional dancer's expertise, will take to the floor for not one, not two, but three electrifying routines apiece. According to an ABC announcement, they'll showcase a judges' choice dance, an instant dance that captures spontaneity and creativity, and the signature finale freestyle—a wild, choreographed expression of their partnership's journey. It's a format designed to test every skill, from precision to passion, making every performance a potential game-changer.
And this is the part most people miss: the judges' choice dance lets the pros call the shots, drawing from past routines to highlight favorites, while the instant dance adds an element of surprise, often inspired by pop culture or personal stories. The freestyle? Pure magic, where anything goes to wow the audience and secure that trophy. For beginners tuning in, think of it as a high-stakes dance-off where technical flair meets emotional storytelling—it's why DWTS has captivated millions for two decades.
Now, let's dive into the details you need to catch every twirl and tumble. The season's semifinal round on November 18 saw Whitney Leavitt and her partner Mark Ballas exit gracefully, leaving these dynamic duos as the last standing:
- Alix Earle, the vibrant social media influencer, paired with the talented Val Chmerkovskiy.
- Dylan Efron, the engaging television personality, teaming up with Daniella Karagach.
- Elaine Hendrix, the accomplished actress, dancing alongside Alan Bersten.
- Jordan Chiles, the Olympic gymnast with a flair for flips, partnered with Ezra Sosa.
- Robert Irwin, the passionate wildlife conservationist, matched with Witney Carson.
Each of these celebrities brings a unique backstory—from gymnastics prowess to conservation advocacy—adding layers of excitement and relatability to the competition. But here's where it gets controversial: some fans passionately debate whether the show's outcomes favor celebrity charisma over raw dance ability, arguing that star power can overshadow technical skill. Others say it's all about the chemistry, creating fairytale moments that transcend the dance floor. What do you think—should DWTS prioritize entertainment over expertise?
As for timing, the live finale kicks off at 8 p.m. EST and runs for a full three hours, wrapping up at 11 p.m. EST based on TV schedules. It's a marathon of moves, interviews, and surprises, so grab your snacks and settle in!
To watch this dazzling display, tune in live on ABC or stream it via Disney+. The next day, it'll be available on both Disney+ and Hulu for those who prefer their viewing on demand. Disney+ offers flexible plans, like the ad-supported basic option at $11.99 per month or the premium ad-free version for $18.99 monthly or $189.99 annually. Hulu's lineup includes an ad-supported plan at $11.99 per month or $119.99 yearly, and an ad-free tier at $18.99 monthly. For the ultimate deal, their bundle with Disney+ starts at just $12.99 per month, giving you access to a treasure trove of entertainment across both platforms—perfect for binge-watching past seasons or exploring other hits.
In a world of endless streaming choices, DWTS stands out for its mix of glamour, grit, and heart. But is it truly the best way to celebrate dance, or should we push for more inclusive formats? Share your views in the comments—do you love the celebrity pairings, or do they stir up debates about merit? We'd love to hear your take on what makes this finale so special!
Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for USA TODAY. She can be reached at melina.khan@usatoday.com.
