Top 10 Best Dancing With The Stars Episodes of All Time
Since its debut in 2005,Dancing With The Starshas captivated audiences as a beloved staple on American television. The show's unique premise pairs professional dancers with celebrities—from A-list actors and influencers to Olympic athletes—who compete weekly in stunning dance routines until one winning couple claims the mirrorball trophy. With 33 seasons under its belt and more to come, it's no wonder fans keep tuning in. Dive into our ranked list of the top 10episodes that stand out for their creativity, drama, and unforgettable moments—perfect for reliving the magic!
“Halloween Night” – Season 31, Episode 8 (2022)
This chilling episode split contestants into Team Wicked and Team Scream, delivering Halloween-themed dances that had everyone on edge. Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant brought a post-apocalyptic vibe with their shimmy-filled routine, while Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas channeledThe Exorcistwith a creepy backward-walking tango. Shangela and Gleb Savchenko stole the show, earning a perfect 40/40 for their fierce jazz number to Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do.” As noted on the official ABC Dancing With The Stars site (abc.com/shows/dancing-with-the-stars), these spooky spectacles always boost viewer engagement.
“Rock Week” – Season 1, Episode 11 (2010)
Rock ’n’ roll fever gripped the ballroom as contestants amped up the energy with head-banging tracks and guitar solos. A thrilling twist allowed weaker performers a Redemption Dance redo, leading to sexy tangos and intense paso dobles. Kurt Warner and Anna Trebunskaya faced challenges with “The Final Countdown,” but Brandy and Maksim Chmerkovskiy dominated with their sizzling routine to Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero.” IMDb's episode guide (imdb.com/title/tt0471016/episodes) highlights this as a foundational high-energy theme.
“Vegas Night” – Season 24, Episode 3 (2017)
Glitz and glamour ruled with poker tables, feathers, and slot machines setting the scene. The evening opened with a high-energy group bachelorette dance fusing samba, Charleston, and jazz. MLB star David Ross shocked fans with his playful jazz to “Candy Shop,” partnered with Lindsay Arnold and inspired byMagic Mike Live. Heather Morris and Alan Bersten topped scores with a sultry tango to Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” proving Vegas vibes deliver big wins.
“Britney Night” – Season 30, Episode 3 (2021)
A heartfelt tribute to Britney Spears unfolded amid the pandemic, with no live audience but boundless energy focused on tangos. Olivia Jade and Val Chmerkovskiy slayed “Hold It Against Me,” JoJo Siwa and Jenna Johnson owned “…Baby One More Time,” and Suni Lee powered through injury for a fresh foxtrot to “I’m a Slave 4 U.” Variety magazine (variety.com) praised this episode for sustaining hype without crowds.
“Michael Bublé Night” – Season 31, Episode 7 (2022)
Jazz-pop icon Michael Bublé lit up the stage with live renditions of “Sway” and “Higher,” doubling as guest judge to award bonus points. Shangela hilariously pulled fried chicken legs from her costume after a “crispy legs” compliment during her tango, but Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas clinched the night with a perfect foxtrot to “Fever”—Bublé’s favorite. What’s your favorite guest judge moment?
“A Celebration of Taylor Swift” – Season 32, Episode 9 (2023)
Swifties rejoiced in this theatrical tribute, emphasizing storytelling as key choreographer Mandy Moore from theEras Tourshared pro tips. Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy bubbled through a quickstep to “Paper Rings,” while Alyson Hannigan and Sasha Farber grooved a cha-cha to “You Belong With Me.” Relive it on YouTube clips for that Eras energy!
“Whitney Houston Night” – Season 32, Episode 8 (2023)
Honoring the legendary Whitney Houston, charismatic Billy Porter judged while hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro joined him for an opening “How Will I Know.” Xochitl Gomez tangoed epically with Val Chmerkovskiy to “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” despite a sprained ankle, and Ariana Madix nearly perfected a paso doble to “Queen of the Night” with 39/40. Billboard (billboard.com) covered the diva-level drama.
“Disney Heroes Night” – Season 30, Episode 4 (2021)
No eliminations meant pure fun, with Disney magic everywhere and a “Mickey Dance Challenge” looming next week. Olivia Jade and Val Chmerkovskiy samba’d to “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” fromThe Lion King, while Emma Slater and Jimmie Allen’s emotional paso doble to “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” honored Allen’s late father, moving all to tears.
“Grease Night” – Season 30, Episode 6 (2021)
BeforeHigh School Musical,Greaseruled with its 1950s flair—leather jackets, poodle skirts, and film-inspired moves. Amanda Kloots and Alan Bersten waltzed elegantly to “Beauty School Dropout” live by Frankie Avalon for top scores, but Melanie C and Gleb Savchenko’s quickstep to the classic hit led to a shocking elimination.hit.
“Most Memorable Year” – Season 32, Episode 5 (2023)
Deeply emotional, this episode honored late judge Len Goodman with a poignant waltz by Julianne and Derek Hough to “Moon River,” choreographed by Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy. Mira Sorvino’s mother-daughter dance with Mattea brought tears, and Charity Lawson and Artem Chigvintsev scored highest with “Lose You to Love Me,” mirroring her toxic relationship escape. Stream these on Disney+ and share your most memorable DWTS year!
