The winner of Dancing With the Stars and the prestigious Mirror Ball Trophy has been determined following an incredible season of rumba, salsa, and cha-cha magic. Six celebrities competed in the grand finale on Sunday night, hosted by Daryl Somers and Gold Logie nominee Sonia Kruger.
Competing in a freestyle dance-off to impress judges Todd McKenney, Sharna Burgess, Mark Wilson, and Craig Revel Horwood were performer Paulini, Human Nature singer Phil Burton, Home and Away star Emily Weir, actors Virginia Gay and Christie Whelan Browne, and comedy legend Mary Coustas.
After combining the judges’ scores with the live audience vote, the winner was announced as Human Nature singer Phil Burton with dance partner Ash-Leigh Hunter. Phil expressed his gratitude for the experience and thanked his family and Ash for their support.
The performances were exceptional throughout the night, starting with Emily Weir and Lyu Masuda’s energetic salsa/Charleston routine. Paulini showcased her natural rhythm and elegance with a fun, funky modern dance. Mary Coustas delivered a deeply personal routine about her love for her daughter, Jamie. Phil Burton and Ash-Leigh Hunter brought their Motown groove to the stage, while Christie Whelan Browne delivered a moving routine to “Stairway to Heaven.” Virginia Gay and Ian Waite closed the night with a feisty, gender-swapping routine.
After a tribute to Tina Turner, Emily Weir and Phil Burton were revealed as the top two finalists. The live audience vote was then counted, and Phil Burton was declared the winner, earning $20,000 for his chosen charity, NSW Police Legacy.
To vote for Sonia Kruger at the 2023 Logie Awards for the TV Week Gold Logie, visit www.tvweeklogies.com.au. Voting is open until the end of the red carpet telecast on Sunday, July 30, with the exception of the Gold Logie, which will remain open until 10:30 pm AEST. The Logies can be watched on Sunday, July 30, on Channel 7 and 7plus.