Is it just me or does every new season of Dancing with the Stars feel like a cosmic alignment of talent, drama, and pure entertainment? For years, I watched the glittering spectacle from the sidelines, entranced but unsure if I should dive in — and let me tell you, it was the all-too-common focus on ballroom and those head-scratching results that kept my heart at bay. After all, how can you cheer for a show where sometimes the best dancers don’t get the Mirrorball? I mean, with Venus flitting through Libra, we’re all about balance and fairness, right? Yet, here we are, witnessing jaw-dropping performances by contestants whose journey from clueless to champion gets overshadowed by veteran dancers. As the new season approaches, it’s time to reflect on those dazzling stars who shone brightly yet still missed out on the grand prize! Let’s take a trip down memory lane to celebrate the talent that should have twirled away with that trophy! LEARN MORE.

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One reason I stayed away for so many years was its focus on ballroom and the fact that so many talented dancers didn’t end up winning.

Now, I know coming onto the show with dance experience is always controversial, and I usually agree. I think anyone who comes onto the show with zero dance experience and then learns quickly enough to match the pros deserves the Mirrorball trophy over someone with years of experience.

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However, in some seasons, there were standout STARS who 100% deserved the trophy. Either they were leagues above everyone else, or there was no dance newbie who was truly blowing everyone away. Yet, they still lost!

Since the new season is around the corner, I think now is the perfect time to revisit all the ones that got away!

CHECK OUT THESE COLLECTIBLES AND MORE ON AMAZON!

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$50.99 (as of August 18, 2026 17:47 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

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$109.00 (as of August 18, 2026 17:58 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

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Kayou My Little Pony Friendship Eternal Cards, Moon Edition, Series 3, Collectible Trading Card, Paper, 24 Packs, 8 Cards/Pack

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$94.80 (as of August 18, 2026 17:47 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)