Dancing With the Stars Season 32 Episode 9 Recap: “A Five-Couple Finale!”

Dancing With The Stars Key Art

In a move that surprised some viewers, Dancing With the Stars opted to send all five remaining couples to the finals, skipping the usual elimination round in the semifinals. After each couple tackled two dances – one ballroom, one Latin – the judges’ scores seemed almost secondary. While the decision certainly fueled social media discussion, it does set the stage for a crowded finale.

So, who actually danced well? Joey Graziadei & Jenna Johnson, along with Chandler Kinney & Brandon Armstrong, tied for the top spot with a respectable 58 out of 60. Ilona Maher & Alan Bersten weren’t far behind at 57. Meanwhile, Danny Amendola & Witney Carson, and Stephen Nedoroscik & Rylee Arnold, brought up the rear with scores of 54 and 53 respectively. But hey, who’s counting when everyone’s a winner, right?

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Beyond the scores, the episode offered the usual blend of performances and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The “DWTS Live 2025 Tour” dancers performed to Tate McRae’s “greedy (Acoustic),” offering a preview of what fans can expect on the upcoming tour. The show opened with a lively pro and troupe number set to Dua Lipa’s “Dance The Night.”

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With five couples now headed to the finale, the competition is wide open. While Graziadei and Johnson have consistently impressed, Kinney and Armstrong have shown incredible growth and could easily pull off an upset. And with the fan vote playing a significant role, it’s truly anyone’s game. Next week’s finale is shaping up to be a must-see event.

Dancing with the Stars airs Mondays at 8/7c on ABC.

Mia Silva is a talented entertainment reporter whose passion for storytelling and diverse background (half Mexican, half English) adds a unique perspective to her coverage. With a keen eye for detail and an accessible, direct and witty style, she brings the latest features, news and previews to our avid readers.