Ranking the Most Memorable 'Dancing With the Stars' Routines
As the reality competition enters its 35th season, a new list highlights the standout performances from celebrity-pro partnerships across the show's history. The compilation includes an honorable mention for a tribute to late judge Len Goodman, which was excluded from the main ranking. The season premiere aired on Sept. 15.
The ranking spotlights partnerships that elevated the competition, including Iman Shumpert with Daniella Karagach, Bindi Irwin with Derek Hough, Juan Pablo Di Pace with Cheryl Burke, and Meryl Davis with Maksim Chmerkovskiy. The list was published to mark the season 35 premiere on Sept. 15, celebrating performances that stood out through chemistry, friendship, or matched skill between celebrities and their professional partners.
The honorable mention recognizes a season 32 tribute to Len Goodman, the longtime head judge who retired in 2022 and died in April 2023. Choreographed by Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy, the group number aired during Most Memorable Year night and brought former pros back to the ballroom. Johnson described the piece as timeless, nostalgic, and pure, noting the collaborative spirit among dancers united to honor Goodman's legacy.
This ranking could reinforce the cultural staying power of dance competition television, potentially drawing lapsed viewers back for the new season and sparking social media discussion around beloved performances. The tribute to Len Goodman may deepen emotional engagement for longtime fans, connecting the show's history to its present. Such lists could also influence how audiences evaluate future routines, setting expectations for what makes a partnership memorable.