For over two decades, Dancing with the Stars has been a staple of ABC's lineup, turning celebrities into graceful performers and capturing the hearts of millions. Among its most beloved traditions is the Disney-themed night, where contestants bring the magic of the Mouse House to the ballroom. With the show now in its 35th season, we've seen everything from Broadway-inspired numbers to classic animated tributes. Here's our ranking of the most spellbinding Disney dances ever to grace the DWTS stage.
10. Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas – 'The Simpsons' Jazz
During Season 31, which aired exclusively on Disney+, the show introduced a Disney+ night. Charli D'Amelio and Mark Ballas took on the iconic theme from The Simpsons with a jazz routine that was as playful as it was polished. Dressed as Marge and Homer, the duo brought a surprising charm to Springfield's favorite couple. Though Charli showed a few early jitters, her confidence grew as the routine unfolded, and she delivered a performance that earned a 36 out of 40. That momentum carried her all the way to the mirror ball trophy, proving she was far more than just a social media star.
9. James Maslow and Peta Murgatroyd – 'Let It Go' Contemporary
Season 18 marked the show's first-ever Disney night, and James Maslow and Peta Murgatroyd made it unforgettable with a contemporary piece set to Frozen's anthem, "Let It Go." The routine revealed a tender side of the Big Time Rush star that fans had never seen, and his serene expressions brought a quiet elegance to the performance. The chemistry between the pair was palpable, culminating in a loving embrace that sealed the deal. The judges were so moved they awarded a perfect score.
8. Heather Morris and Alan Bersten – 'For the First Time in Forever' Jazz
Heather Morris, a seasoned dancer, joined Season 24 with partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy, but after his injury, Alan Bersten stepped in. Their jazz routine to Frozen's "For the First Time in Forever" was a burst of pure joy. While it may have lacked traditional jazz technique, Heather's infectious happiness was impossible to ignore—even the late Len Goodman couldn't resist giving spirit fingers from his seat. She earned 34 points, but sadly, that wasn't enough to save her from a shocking elimination the following week.
7. Juan Pablo Di Pace and Cheryl Burke – 'Gaston' Viennese Waltz
Juan Pablo Di Pace fully embraced his inner villain in Season 27 with a Viennese waltz to "Gaston" from Beauty and the Beast. His portrayal of the arrogant Gaston was so convincing that it reminded everyone why he's not exactly husband material. The choreography was clever, building to a dramatic moment where Juan hung from a chandelier. The judges were impressed, giving him a near-perfect 29 out of 30.
6. Rumer Willis and Val Chmerkovskiy – 'Poor Unfortunate Souls' Samba
Rumer Willis transformed from a frontrunner into the sea witch Ursula for a samba set to The Little Mermaid's "Poor Unfortunate Souls." Her shimmies and exaggerated arm movements made Ursula feel like a living, breathing creature rather than just a cartoon villain. Rumer never broke character, and her performance was so captivating that audiences almost forgot Ursula's sinister plans. The judges awarded her 39 out of 40, and she went on to win the season.
5. Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson – 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious' Jazz
Harry Shum Jr. channelled Dick Van Dyke in a Mary Poppins-inspired jazz routine to the famously long word. The number was a whirlwind of quick footwork, playful quirks, and umbrella tricks that would make any musical theater fan swoon. Harry even threw in a few knee spins reminiscent of his Glee days. It was a delightful homage that showcased his versatility and charisma.
4. Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold – 'Remember Me' Rumba
Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold delivered a heartfelt rumba to "Remember Me" from Coco during Season 25. The routine was a beautiful tribute to family and memory, with Jordan's emotional connection to the song shining through. The judges praised the pair's chemistry and the dance's storytelling, awarding them a perfect score. It remains one of the most touching Disney performances in the show's history.
3. Milo Manheim and Witney Carson – 'He's a Tramp' Foxtrot
Milo Manheim and Witney Carson brought a jazzy, playful foxtrot to Lady and the Tramp's "He's a Tramp" in Season 27. The routine was full of sass and swing, with Milo's youthful energy perfectly matching the song's cheeky vibe. The choreography was sharp, and the pair's connection was undeniable, earning them a 29 out of 30 and solidifying their place as fan favorites.
2. Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough – 'Kiss the Girl' Samba
Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough's samba to The Little Mermaid's "Kiss the Girl" in Season 21 was pure Disney magic. Bindi's infectious smile and Derek's expert choreography made for a routine that was both technically impressive and utterly charming. The judges were won over, giving them a perfect score, and Bindi went on to win the mirror ball that season.
1. Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson – 'Friend Like Me' Quickstep
At the top of our list is Alfonso Ribeiro and Witney Carson's quickstep to "Friend Like Me" from Aladdin in Season 19. Alfonso, already known for his Fresh Prince moves, brought an unmatched energy and charisma to the ballroom. The routine was a whirlwind of spins, kicks, and pure showmanship, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Genie. The judges were blown away, awarding a perfect score, and Alfonso went on to win the season. It's a dance that still gets fans talking years later.
These performances remind us why Disney night is so special on Dancing with the Stars. Whether it's a villainous waltz or a joyful jazz number, these routines capture the magic of Disney and the artistry of dance. For more on the show's history, check out our Disney holiday special coverage or explore other upcoming TV highlights.
