The Grand Farewell: Revisiting Every Star Who Sparkled Back on the DWTS Season 32 Finale

Ah, the "Dancing With the Stars" finale! There’s truly nothing quite like it, is there? That electric mix of nerves, excitement, and just a touch of bittersweet farewell. Season 32 was certainly no exception, culminating in a dazzling spectacle on December 5, 2023. We all watched with bated breath as the fantastic finalists—Ariana Madix, Jason Mraz, Charity Lawson, Alyson Hannigan, and ultimately, our brilliant winner, Xochitl Gomez—prepared to give it their all. But beyond the main competition, there’s always a special kind of magic that unfolds when the entire cast reunites for one last hurrah.

And boy, did they reunite! One of the most cherished traditions of any DWTS finale is seeing all those familiar faces, the ones who perhaps didn't quite make it to the mirrorball trophy, return to the ballroom. It's a testament to the incredible bond that forms over weeks of intense training, shared laughter, and a few tears. These aren't just contestants; they become a little family, and watching them dance together again, free from the pressure of elimination, is just pure joy.

Let's talk about some of those wonderful return performances, shall we? Who could forget Barry Williams, our beloved "Brady Bunch" dad, taking to the floor with Peta Murgatroyd? They revisited their charming Foxtrot to Lesley Gore's "It's My Party," and honestly, it felt like a delightful blast from the past. Then there was Mauricio Umansky, from "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" fame, gliding gracefully with Emma Slater to Lizzo's "Fought & Won." He really brought such a warm, genuine energy to the show, didn't he? And of course, the internet's own Harry Jowsey, paired with Rylee Arnold, gave us another dose of their infectious enthusiasm, dancing to One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful." It was lovely to see how much they’d grown, even after their earlier exit.

The night continued with more delightful surprises. The always vibrant Lele Pons and Brandon Armstrong were back, bringing their undeniable flair to Madonna's iconic "Vogue." It's hard not to smile when Lele is on screen! Oscar winner Mira Sorvino, a true class act, reconnected with Gleb Savchenko for a poignant Rumba to Amy Winehouse's "Tears Dry On Their Own." It was such a beautiful, understated moment. And let's not forget NFL legend Adrian Peterson and Britt Stewart, who commanded the stage once more with their powerful Paso Doble set to Queen's anthemic "We Are The Champions." Talk about a powerhouse duo!

While not everyone performed, it was wonderful to see faces like Matt Walsh and Jamie Lynn Spears also present in the ballroom, soaking in the atmosphere and cheering on their fellow castmates. The Season 32 finale truly felt like a celebration, not just of Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy's well-deserved victory, but of every single person who stepped onto that iconic dance floor. It reminded us all why we love "Dancing With the Stars" so much: it's the journey, the camaraderie, the sheer effort, and the unadulterated joy of watching stars truly shine.