Derek Hough And Mark Ballas Redefine Gender Roles On ‘DWTS’

Derek Hough and Mark Ballas delivered an unforgettable efficiency to cap off this season of “Dancing with the Stars.”

In the course of the season 33 finale on November 26, Hough and his longtime good friend took to the stage for a particular routine. The finale featured a showdown between Ilona Maher, Stephen Nedoroscik, Danny Amendola, Joey Graziadei, and Chandler Kinney as all of them competed for the coveted prime spot.

Derek Hough and Mark Ballas wowed the viewers with a surprising Argentine tango set to “Libertango” by Tango Bardo.

Earlier than stepping onto the ballroom ground, the duo defined the historical past of the dance, noting that it grew to become common for males to carry out collectively in Argentina through the late 1800s, a time when there was a gender imbalance.

Following their efficiency, co-host Alfonso Ribeiro turned to actor Seann William Scott, who was within the viewers, for his ideas. The “Shifting Gears” star praised the dance, calling it “horny.”

Hough and Ballas’ efficiency got here on the heels of a groundbreaking second in “Dancing with the Stars” historical past. In the course of the thirtieth season, Jenna Johnson and JoJo Siwa made historical past as the primary all-female couple to compete on the present.

JoJo Siwa, recognized for her vibrant character as a former “Dance Mothers” star and common YouTuber, teamed up with Jenna Johnson, a seasoned skilled dancer with a number of seasons of “Dancing with the Stars” beneath her belt.

Collectively, they created a partnership that captivated followers for its daring break from conventional ballroom norms. Their pairing was broadly praised for difficult gender expectations in dance. All through the season, JoJo and Jenna wowed each judges and viewers with their simple chemistry and fascinating performances, demonstrating each technical prowess and emotional depth.

They carried out quite a lot of types, together with cha-cha, jazz, and up to date, and constantly earned excessive marks from the judges. Their genuine connection made them fan favorites, they usually proved that love and partnership on the dance ground aren’t restricted by gender.

Regardless of ending in second place, the duo’s groundbreaking participation in “DWTS” marked a major second within the present’s historical past, opening the door for larger inclusivity in ballroom dance. Their partnership grew to become a robust image of empowerment for the LGBTQ+ group and people who defy societal expectations.

Hough and Ballas aren’t the primary same-sex couple to carry out collectively on “Dancing with the Stars.”

Again in 2016, throughout season 23, Nyle DiMarco and Keo Motsepe made historical past as the primary same-sex duo to bop on the present. Their efficiency to “Habanera” by Georges Bizet was a groundbreaking second, with each dancers switching companions through the routine. The provocative dance noticed a shirtless DiMarco and Motsepe exchanging roles, leaving followers speechless.

“It was a number of enjoyable dancing with Keo,” DiMarco informed PEOPLE Magazine after the competitors. “Bruno requested me to bop with him, and Peta to bop with Jodie, and we’re like, ‘these are his guidelines, we’ll do it, and we’ll respect that. It’s a contest and you have to be prepared to try this.”

On Tuesday, November 26, “Dancing with the Stars” season 33 topped its winner after eight weeks of thrilling competitors.  Every couple took to the ground with a Freestyle routine that includes extra dancers, adopted by a redemption dance earlier than the winner was topped.

Ultimately, it was revealed that Danny and Witney took fifth place, whereas Stephen and Rylee secured fourth. Chandler and Brandon adopted carefully in third.

This left the ultimate showdown between Jenna and Joey and Ilona and Alan. In the end, Joey and Jenna was the couple to take house the Mirrorball Trophy.

“It means every little thing, this entire expertise has been unbelievable,” Joey mentioned after his win. “Thanks for bearing with us. I attempted my greatest, I promise!”