Dancing with the Stars has featured many elite professionals, but a handful stand out as the top 3 dancers to compete on the show. This evergreen profile explains who these champions and standout performers are, why they matter, and how their technique, artistry, and consistency set them apart. Whether you are a new viewer or a longtime fan, this guide provides reliable context and verifiable records that remain useful for understanding excellence in ballroom competition television.
What Defines a Top Dancer on DWTS
On Dancing with the Stars, top-level dancers are judged on technique, timing, performance quality, partnership, and consistency under pressure. The show pairs celebrities with professional partners, and success depends on mastering multiple dance styles while entertaining a broad audience. The following three professionals are widely recognized as the highest-ranked dancers to appear on the program, based on competition scores, judge feedback, and long-term influence on the series.
Profile Breakdown 1: Derek Hough
Background and Training
Derek Hough is a six-time professional champion on DWTS and one of the most decorated dancers in the show’s history. He trained extensively in ballroom, Latin, and jazz, and brought a rare combination of athleticism and elegance to the ballroom. His partnership with Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson in Season 8 remains one of the highest-rated season averages in the series.
Career Highlights and Style
Hough is known for his clean technique, precise footwork, and charismatic stage presence. Over multiple seasons, he set records for consistent high scores and earned praise from judges for versatility across cha-cha, foxtrot, tango, and contemporary routines. His influence extended beyond competition, shaping choreography and production standards for the entire series.
Profile Breakdown 2: Maksim Chmerkovskiy
Background and Training
Maksim Chmerkovskiy, a Ukrainian-born professional dancer, is widely regarded as one of the top dancers to appear on Dancing with the Stars. With training rooted in classical ballet, ballroom, and jazz, he brought a disciplined, technically rigorous approach to the show. He served as a lead choreographer and judge on related programming, expanding his impact on the franchise.
Career Highlights and Style
Maksim is recognized for powerful lifts, intricate timing, and strong partnership chemistry. He has competed at the highest level in both the United States and international formats, including Latin and Standard disciplines. His performances often earned perfect scores, and his critiques were noted for their depth and clarity.
Profile Breakdown 3: Tony Dovolani
Background and Training
Tony Dovolani, a Yugoslavian-born professional, built his reputation on fiery Latin dances and dramatic storytelling through movement. He trained in ballroom and Latin from a young age and brought an expressive, crowd-pleasing style to DWTS. His longevity on the show, spanning many seasons, reflects consistent performance quality and adaptability.
Career Highlights and Style
Dovolani is celebrated for high-energy routines, sharp synchronization, and memorable character portrayals. He frequently earned top marks for showmanship and technical execution, particularly in fast-paced Latin styles. His influence extended to mentoring other pros and helping elevate the overall production level of the competition.
Comparison of the Top 3 Dancers on DWTS
| Attribute | Derek Hough | Maksim Chmerkovskiy | Tony Dovolani |
|---|---|---|---|
| DWTS Professional Champion Titles | 6 | 2 | 1 |
| Signature Styles | Ballroom, Latin, Jazz | Latin, Standard, Contemporary | Latin, Ballroom, Dramatic Storytelling |
| Highest Notable Average Score | 36.8 (Season 8 with Shawn Johnson) | Perfect 30s in multiple seasons | Consistent 29–30 scores across seasons |
| Key On-Screen Impact | Raising technical and artistic standards | Choreography, judging depth, intensity | Showmanship, Latin energy, longevity |
Why These Dancers Matter to the Show
The top 3 dancers on Dancing with the Stars helped define what audiences expect from competition television. Their technical mastery, performance consistency, and ability to connect with viewers set benchmarks that newer professionals strive to meet. They influenced training methods, choreography, and judging criteria, and their presence contributed to long-term ratings and cultural relevance.
Evergreen Takeaways
- Technical excellence across ballroom and Latin styles remains central to DWTS success.
- Partnership and adaptability to multiple dance genres distinguish top professionals.
- The performances and careers of these three dancers continue to inform how the show evaluates talent.
- Audience appreciation combines athletic precision with emotional storytelling.
For viewers and aspiring dancers, studying the careers of these top DWTS professionals offers a reliable blueprint for excellence in competitive dance. Their achievements reflect years of disciplined training, creative risk-taking, and the ability to perform under the bright lights of a major televised competition.