Viewers of the “DWTS” finale were stunned by an incredible performance from one couple. However, after the winner was announced, many fans took to social media to express their disappointment with the unexpected results.
“Dancing with the Stars (DWTS)” has finally come to an end with many claiming the finale didn’t deliver the right result. Supporters of Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong were particularly vocal, claiming the top spot should have gone to them.
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong on “DWTS” on November 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
One fan vented their frustration on Instagram, saying Kinney and Armstrong were “robbed” and were easily the best dancers of the season. They argued that the couple should have at least been placed second, if not first, and criticized the voting process, claiming it was “rigged” since their scores were consistently higher.
Another fan expressed their anger, accusing the show of having “their winners from the beginning.” A fourth supporter praised Kinney for her outstanding performance throughout the season. The person called her achievement “so much bigger than a trophy” and something “nobody can take away.” They urged her to hold her head high with pride.
As the reactions kept flooding in, more fans voiced their frustrations. One particularly disappointed viewer wrote that they had hoped “this season would be different for Brandon,” believing it was finally his time to win his first mirrorball trophy.
They also noted that Kinney and Armstrong would have made history as the first black couple to win. Some fans were so upset they declared they would no longer watch the show, “I’m done with this show now. This isn’t about who danced the best, it’s a popularity contest.”
A fan comment dated on November 27, 2024 | Source: Instagram/dancingwiththestars
Another wrote, “This show is sooo rigged! Lost a loyal viewer! Chandler was amazing the WHOLE SEASON!” Others were equally passionate about the couple’s performance, with one fan asking, “Dare I say BEST DANCE OF THE SEASON???”
Many were in disbelief over Kinney and Armstrong’s third-place finish. They called it “crazy and unfair,” while others firmly stated, “This was not a third-place pair.” Several fans stood by their conviction that the couple “should have won,” continuing to rally for Kinney and Armstrong.
A fan comment dated on November 27, 2024 | Source: Instagram/dancingwiththestars
Just before the finale aired, Kinney and Armstrong posted on Instagram, urging fans to vote for them. They shared their photos and encouraged followers to vote online or via text.
They thanked their supporters for the love and expressed how much it meant to them, with Kinney also sharing her appreciation for Armstrong and their journey together.
Kinney’s path to “DWTS” wasn’t without challenges. Reflecting on her journey, she admitted she wasn’t sure she would have made it this far without Armstrong’s support. “He’s uplifted me, he’s pushed me harder than I ever thought I could be pushed,” she said. “He’s proven to me that I’m capable.”
She shared that the experience taught her so much, especially about how she approached performances. Kinney emphasized that the journey was unforgettable, saying, “I started this journey to prove something to myself, and winning this competition will be an incredible accomplishment.”
Despite not winning, Kinney and Armstrong said their final freestyle performance meant everything to them. They made history as the first black couple to compete in the finale.
In a brief interview, Armstrong explained their freestyle was a celebration of this milestone. “We decided to celebrate it and we did it the best way we know how by honoring the people that maybe didn’t have the same platform to get the same flowers and the recognition that you know people like us have been able to receive,” he said.
Kinney echoed his sentiments, stating, “Truly everyone who has come before us that has broken down barriers for us to even be in this space… um that was what that freestyle was all about. We wanted to honor them and dedicate it to their work.”
As the night came to a close, following an unforgettable Freestyle performance from Kinney, Armstrong, and other contestants, the tension mounted as the final results were about to be revealed.
Each contestant’s loved ones had shared heartwarming video messages to cheer them on, and the stage was set for the big announcement.
Hosts Alfonso Ribiero and Julianne Hough kicked off the reveal, starting with fifth place, which went to Danny Amendola and Witney Carson, followed by fourth place for Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold.
Kinney and Armstrong secured third place, leaving Joey Graziandei, Jenna Johnson, Ilona Maher, and Alan Bersten vying for the top spot.
Joey Graziandei Jenna Johnson, Alfonso Ribiero, Julianne Hough, Ilona Maher, and Alan Bersten on “DWTS” on November 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
With the audience on the edge of their seats, Hough said, “After weeks of intense competition, it’s time for the final result,” as the drumroll added to the suspense. Finally, Ribiero announced, “The winners and new champions of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ are Joey and Jenna!”
Winners Joey Graziandei Jenna Johnson on “DWTS” on November 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
As confetti filled the air, Alfonso turned to Graziandei, asking what winning the mirrorball trophy meant to him. With emotion, he replied, “It means everything. This whole experience has been unbelievable.”
The “DWTS” finale marked the end of another unforgettable season, filled with stunning performances and emotional moments. As the competition came to a close, fans were left reflecting on the incredible talent and dedication displayed by all the finalists.
