“Dancing With the Stars” delivered a major shake-up on November 18, 2025, when Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas exited the competition just one week before the finale. They scored the third-highest total of the night, yet the semi-finals still marked the end of their Season 34 journey. Ballas and Leavitt engaged in post-episode interviews about their elimination which has caused uproar online.
WATCH: Ballas & Leavitt Post-Show Interviews
Leavitt and Ballas’s exit immediately reshaped the Season 34 finale lineup. Their departure cleared the field for the final five couples: Alix Earle, Robert Irwin, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, and Elaine Hendrix. Viewers and competitors felt the shift instantly, because Leavitt and Ballas consistently performed at a finalist level.
The elimination also injected fresh drama into “Dancing With the Stars.” Fans flooded social platforms with shock, disappointment, and speculation about the finale. The moment reminded viewers that no contestant can rely solely on scores, every performer must actively rally fan support week after week.
Leavitt used her exit moment to strengthen her public presence. Her sincerity and optimism resonated with viewers, and she positioned herself for future opportunities outside the ballroom. Reality television thrives on personality arcs, and Leavitt used hers to build momentum that will likely carry into brand partnerships, influencer projects, and dance-related ventures.
Performance Highlights & Judging Results
Leavitt and Ballas entered the semi-finals determined to secure a spot in the finale, and they performed with confidence and precision. They opened the night with a sharp cha-cha to “1999,” then followed it with an expressive Viennese waltz to “Slow Love.” They earned 58 points, one of the top scores of the round, and the judges praised their timing, transitions, and connection on the floor.
Leavitt expressed gratitude moments after the results. She said the show changed her life and made her feel like a winner regardless of the outcome. Ballas matched her emotions and told viewers he loved every minute of the season. Their reactions framed the elimination as an emotional but meaningful conclusion to their competition run.
Despite their strong scores, the audience vote ultimately determined their fate. “Dancing With the Stars” often creates this tension between judge feedback and fan support, and the semi-finals reinforced just how much viewer engagement shapes the competition.
What to Expect Before the Finale
With Leavitt and Ballas gone, the remaining contestants now elevate their strategies to secure the Mirrorball trophy. Each finalist plans to deliver more complex choreography, sharper technique, and emotionally charged routines that energize both the judges and the audience. “Dancing With the Stars” traditionally packs the finale with spectacle, and fans can expect surprise appearances, elevated production value, and a final push from each star to secure votes. The finale was revealed on the episode last night to have each couple perform a record-breaking three dances.
Contestants will also accelerate their off-stage engagement. They will increase social media activity, release behind-the-scenes content, and interact directly with fans to build momentum. With one strong duo out of the way, the path to the trophy feels more open, which will heighten competition and pressure.
The finale of “Dancing With the Stars” promises glamour, high stakes, and standout performances. By the end of the night, one team will claim the Mirrorball trophy through a combination of technical mastery and undeniable viewer support.
