Danny Amendola's DWTS Barbie Transformation: Ken & Finale!
Could a Super Bowl champion truly conquer the dance floor, trading the gridiron for glitter and the spotlight of the "Dancing with the Stars" finale? Danny Amendola, the retired NFL star, proved that he was more than just a formidable athlete; he was a captivating performer, embracing the role of Ken with a performance that resonated far beyond the ballroom.
The "Dancing with the Stars" (DWTS) Season 33 finale, held on November 26, 2024, brought together a constellation of stars, each vying for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Among the finalists were Chandler Kinney, Danny Amendola, Ilona Maher, Joey Graziadei, and Stephen Nedoroscik. Each celebrity, alongside their professional dance partner, prepared to deliver a freestyle performance, a final opportunity to showcase their growth and artistry throughout the season. Amendola and his partner, Witney Carson, chose a theme that was both timely and visually striking: a tribute to the blockbuster "Barbie" movie. Their dance, set to a medley including Lizzo's "Pink" and Ryan Gosling's anthem "I'm Just Ken," was a vibrant spectacle that quickly became a highlight of the evening.
Amendola's performance was not merely a dance; it was a transformation. Donning a blonde wig and showcasing his physique, he embodied the playful spirit of Ken, the iconic character from the Barbie universe. The couple's routine was characterized by energetic choreography and a strong stage presence, a testament to their dedication and hard work over the season. The staging included a bed prop, a nod to the film's "Mojo Dojo Casa House" setting, adding an element of fun and creativity to the performance. Following their freestyle, host Julianne Hough engaged Amendola in a discussion, asking about his experience portraying Ken, underscoring the significance of his portrayal. The audience loved this performance and this made him more popular and gave him a big name in dancing as well.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Amendola |
| Date of Birth | November 2, 1985 |
| Birthplace | The Woodlands, Texas, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 198 lb (90 kg) |
| NFL Career | Wide Receiver: 2009-2021 |
| NFL Teams |
|
| Super Bowl Champion | Super Bowl XLIX, LI, LIII (with New England Patriots) |
| Dancing with the Stars | Season 33 Finalist, Finished 5th |
| Dance Partner (DWTS) | Witney Carson |
| Freestyle Song (DWTS) | "Pink" by Lizzo and "I'm Just Ken" by Ryan Gosling |
| Redemption Round Dance (DWTS) | Tango to "I Had Some Help" by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen |
| Reference Website | Wikipedia |
While Amendola didn't take home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy, his performance resonated with audiences. His appearance on the show marked a significant shift in his career. Before this, he had already demonstrated his mettle on the gridiron. He played wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams, the New England Patriots, the Miami Dolphins, and the Detroit Lions. During his tenure with the New England Patriots, he secured three Super Bowl rings, becoming a respected name in the league. His transition to the world of dance displayed a new side of his personality and athleticism, opening up new horizons.
The "Dancing with the Stars" finale was a memorable event, featuring a blend of competition and entertainment. The other contestants also created memorable performances. Joey Graziadei and pro Jenna Johnson performed a freestyle, and each couple brought their unique style and perspective to the dance floor. The competition was intense, with each finalist putting forth their best efforts in the hope of securing the victory. The evening was filled with moments of excitement and anticipation, as the audience eagerly awaited the judges' scores and the final results. Beyond the performances, the night also highlighted the dedication and perseverance of the celebrity contestants, who had spent weeks mastering new skills and pushing their limits.
Amendola's involvement in the finale was a testament to his adaptability and willingness to try something new. His journey on "Dancing with the Stars" began weeks before the finale. He was tasked with learning various dance styles and collaborating with his professional partner to create routines that would impress the judges and the audience. His participation also brought attention to the sport of football and broadened his appeal to a wider audience. The show gave him an opportunity to display his athleticism in a different context. He showed that skills he'd developed throughout his career as an NFL player were not easily transferable and he was dedicated to his dance performances.
His freestyle routine to "Pink" and "I'm Just Ken" was a turning point. The song choices, coupled with the visual presentation, perfectly captured the spirit of the "Barbie" movie, turning the ballroom into a vibrant and energetic spectacle. Amendola showed not just the moves, but also the acting skills and the joy of performance. The judges and viewers were thoroughly impressed by his transformation, which elevated his dance from a competition routine into a complete act of entertainment.
Amendola's experience on "Dancing with the Stars" was more than just a performance; it was a journey of self-discovery. It gave him a chance to explore a new form of artistic expression. The dedication and hard work he invested in the show, reflects his commitment to excellence, whether it's on the football field or the dance floor. Although he has retired from professional football, Amendolas presence in the entertainment industry is a testament to his versatility. This has given him the opportunity to showcase his talent in a different light.
The final results of the show confirmed that while Amendola's performance was remarkable, he was not the winner of the season. Despite this, Amendola's performance will be remembered as one of the most exciting and unique moments of the show. His willingness to take on such a role and to execute it with such enthusiasm made him a fan favorite. The 2024 finale of "Dancing with the Stars" not only celebrated dancing; it also underscored the power of reinvention and the spirit of competition. Amendola and his partner Witney Carson, joined Julianne Hough onstage to get their scores and all ended up on a bed prop, which was a nod to the "Barbie" movie, as well. Amendola's dance would be remembered as a symbol of his post-NFL career. The performance solidified Amendola's position as a multi-talented celebrity.
The presence of other high-profile contestants added further depth to the competition. Joey Graziadei, known for his appearances on "The Bachelor," and his partner, Jenna Johnson, brought a different energy to the show. The dynamic between the couples enhanced the viewing experience. The semi-final rounds had set the stage for the final, as the celebrities had to demonstrate their growth and adaptation throughout the season. The elimination process, each week, had added to the excitement. The finale was a culmination of the hard work and effort put in by all the participants, the judges, and the entire crew.
In the end, while Amendola didn't win the Mirrorball trophy, his performance and the memories from his time on the show remain a source of joy. Amendola's "Ken" was one of the highlights of the night. He has proven that athletes have great talent and can transition into a new path. His journey is an inspiration for many people.
A LOOK BEHIND "THE SCENE" PHOTOSHOOT WITH NEW ENGLAND PATRIOT, DANNY
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