Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) Season 20 (S20) was filled with exciting performances and compelling storylines as celebrities and their professional partners took to the dance floor. This season, which first aired in 2015, introduced several changes that refreshed the format and drew in viewers from around the country. Let's take a closer look at the DWTS S20 cast, hosted once again by Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews.
The DWTS S20 cast was an eclectic mix of celebrities from various backgrounds, each bringing their unique skills and personalities to the table. The season began with ten celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners, who trained together and performed a mix of ballroom and Latin dance styles each week to impress the judges and secure votes from the viewing audience.
DWTS S20 Cast Overview
The diverse group of dancers included actors, singers, athletes, and TV personalities, each with their own fan bases and individual challenges to overcome. Here, we'll highlight some of the most notable contestants from the DWTS S20 cast.
Most Memorable Performances
One of the standout stars of DWTS S20 was Triple Crown-winning jockey Victor Espinoza, who made history as the first jockey to compete on the show. Espinoza, along with his partner Karina Smirnoff, delivered unforgettable performances, even scoring a perfect 40 for their Viennese waltz and ultimately finishing as runners-up.
Another memorable contestant was Wanya Morris, a member of the Billboard chart-topping R&B group Boyz II Men. Paired with professional dancer Emma Slater, Morris consistently impressed judges and audiences alike with his smooth moves and show-stopping performances. He eventually won the Mirrorball Trophy, cementing his place as one of the best DWTS competitors.
Underestimated Gems
Sometimes, contestants who may not have been considered frontrunners ended up stealing the show with their incredible determination and rapidly improving skills. One such standout was Nastia Liukin, a five-time Olympic medalist in gymnastics. While she had the athletic ability, she was new to dancing and had to learn faster than her competitors. Liukin's resilience and dedication, along with her partnership with professional dancer Derek Hough, resulted in outstanding performances and a surprising fourth-place finish.
Another underdog story came from Damon Suit Jr., a Frog Trouble Puppeteer who surprised everyone with his natural dance talent. Paired with mutations)Kym Johnson, Suit Jr. delivered impressive performances and even won over the hearts of the judges, eventually landing in sixth place.
Introducing New Elements & Challenges
To keep things fresh, DWTS S20 introduced several new elements and challenges that tested the stars' abilities and kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Disney Night & Live Music Performances
For the first time, DWTS brought an enchanting Disney Night, where celebrities and their partners performed iconic Disney ballroom numbers, surrounded by immersive themes and spectacular scenography. Adding to the excitement, the dancefloor was lit up by live performances from talented musicians, making every episode a unique and unforgettable experience.
Throughout the season, the show also incorporated live music performances, with celebrities and their professional partners dancing to songs played by popular bands or singers right there in the studio. These live music performances enhanced the overall atmosphere, creating a more dynamic and engaging experience for the contestants and the audience at home.
As DWTS Season 20 came to an end, fans and contestants alike celebrated a successful run filled with breathtaking performances, powerful stories, and heartwarming friendships. With the Mirrorball Trophy ultimately going to Wanya Morris and his partner Emma Slater, the stage was set for more unforgettable moments in the future seasons of Dancing with the Stars. Looking ahead, fans eagerly anticipate new contestants, innovative themes, and captivating storylines that continue to make DWTS a beloved and successful reality television show.