Ilona Maher may not have taken home the Mirrorball trophy on “Dancing with the Stars,” but she certainly won the admiration and hearts of many fans during the show’s 33rd season. The rugby player, alongside her dance partner Alan Bersten, secured the runner-up position on Tuesday’s finale, while Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson claimed the championship title.
Fans expressed their disappointment over Maher’s second-place finish, with many emphasizing her journey throughout the competition. One fan noted her embodiment of the season’s spirit, highlighting her consistent growth, vulnerability, and empowerment of young girls. Social media was flooded with support from fans who celebrated her achievements and growth, with one commenter stating, “Ilona getting second is amazing! She’s a true representation of what this show’s about.”
Although some believed that third-place finishers Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong were deserving as well, Maher’s supporters passionately defended her impressive performance and dedication. Fans actively engaged on platforms like Reddit and X, debating the fairness of the final results and passionately supporting Maher’s resilience and hard work.
Maher, who has garnered millions of followers online for her entertaining social media presence, has established herself as a significant figure in the competition. Even in moments of stress or adversity, she displayed humor and authenticity that resonated with her audience, such as her light-hearted reactions during the finale.
Interestingly, some fans voiced that perhaps Maher’s second-place finish might be fortuitous, suggesting that it shields her from potential backlash had she won amid a divided fan base. Reflecting on her experience, Maher stated after the show that she recognizes the value of continuous improvement, expressing pride in her journey: “I had some really tough episodes this season, but I felt like I always came back stronger.”
Alan Bersten, her partner, humorously noted, “Everybody knows first is the worst, second is the best,” showcasing a lighter perspective on their outcome.
In summary, Maher’s journey in “Dancing with the Stars” exemplifies not just her dance talent, but her ability to inspire and connect with others, proving that success can be measured in various ways beyond a trophy.
This experience could pave the way for more opportunities in entertainment and sports for Maher, reflecting a bright future where her influence continues to grow.