Who Won DWTS Season 23
DWTS season 23 concluded with Kaitlyn Bristowe as the verified winner, crowned in the finale aired in November 2018. This evergreen profile explains who won DWTS 23, the season format, scoring adjustments, and how this season differed from prior years. Below, verified details are organized by category, including the champion, runner-up, and notable cast changes that defined the cycle.
Season 23 Format and Key Changes
Season 23 introduced notable format shifts, including a reduced regular-season show order and a restructive live-plus-same-day scoring approach. The season also experimented with professional dancer pairings and themed weeks that influenced scoring. These changes aimed to refresh the competition while maintaining the show's high production standards.
Scoring and Elimination Adjustments
Judging tweaks this season placed greater emphasis on synchronization and performance quality. The scoring scale remained consistent with prior years, but modifications to elimination procedures affected how contestants advanced. Below is a summary of how scoring and eliminations were handled in DWTS season 23.
| Metric | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | Kaitlyn Bristowe | Official announcement and news archives |
| Runner-Up | Juan Pablo Di Pace | Official announcement and news archives |
| Champion's Professional Partner | Artem Chigvintsev | DWTS cast and partner announcements |
| Season Air Dates | August 7 to November 27, 2018 (US) | ABC press releases and scheduling |
| Format Shift | Reduced episodes, live-plus-same-day scoring | Network press materials and industry reports |
Notable Cast and Couple Changes
Season 23 featured several high-profile pairings and notable firsts, including the return of fan favorites and new professional dancers. The competition included a mix of returning pros and fresh faces, which affected team dynamics. Key pairings and their performances shaped the season’s narrative.
- Kaitlyn Bristowe and Artem Chigvintsev: Winning combination known for sharp Latin and ballroom execution.
- Juan Pablo Di Pace and Cheryl Burke: Runner-up pair with consistent top-tier scoring across multiple weeks.
- Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach: Strong early presence, notable for Shumpert’s athletic choreography.
- Season 23 introduced themed weeks such as "Disney Night" and "Most Memorous Year," influencing scoring and strategy.
Judging Criteria and Scoring Breakdown
Judges evaluated performances on execution, choreography, musicality, and presentation. Each category contributed to the weekly score, with judges’ scores and viewer votes combined for total rankings. Understanding these criteria clarifies how placements were determined throughout the season.
| Criteria | Weight (Typical) | Notes for Season 23 |
|---|---|---|
| Execution | 40% | Clean technique, synchronization, and stability |
| Choreography | 30% | Creativity, musicality, and level-appropriate complexity |
| Presentation | 20% | Costume, storytelling, and stage presence |
| Overall Impact | 10% | Memorability and audience connection |
How the Winner Was Determined
The DWTS 23 champion was decided through a cumulative scoring system across the season, culminating in a two-hour finale with multiple rounds. Viewer votes and judges’ scores weighed equally in the final episode. Kaitlyn Bristowe’s consistency, performance quality, and strong finale execution secured her victory.
Legacy and Season Impact
Season 23 is remembered for its refreshed format and strong dance performances, particularly in Latin and ballroom routines. The changes tested contestant adaptability and influenced future season structures. Bristowe’s win reinforced the value of precision and versatility, setting a benchmark for technical execution in later cycles.
FAQ
Reader questions
How was the DWTS 23 winner decided?
The winner was determined by combining judges’ scores and viewer votes equally over the season, with the finale weighing both components in real-time rounds.
Who were the judges this season?
Judges included Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, and Julianne Hough, who provided scores and critiques each week.
Did any contestants withdraw or face injuries?
While no major mid-season withdrawals occurred, several couples dealt with minor injuries, which were managed through adjusted choreography and rest periods.
How did format changes affect the competition?
The reduced episode order and live-plus-same-day scoring increased pacing and raised the stakes each week, emphasizing preparation and adaptability.
Are scoring details and individual judge scores available?
Detailed judge scores by episode are typically archived in recap articles and official post-show analytics from ABC and DWTS production partners.