Highlights
- Ilona Maher aims to win the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy in the DWTS finale.
- She encourages fans to vote through messages and the DWTS website for her and Alan Bersten.
- Maher shares a heartfelt tribute to her partner, calling him a lifelong friend.
- Her historical achievement includes being the first female to lift a male partner during a DWTS routine.
- Her mother humorously credits early ballet lessons for Ilona’s dancing skills.
- Critics debated her semi-final performance, but judges praised her improvement and effort.
- Speculation arises about Maher’s potential appearance on *The Bachelorette*.
Rugby star and social media sensation Ilona Maher has captivated audiences throughout her journey on Dancing With The Stars (DWTS).
Maher is determined to clinch the prestigious Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. While the competition has been fierce, her passion, resilience, and emotional connection with her dance partner, Alan Bersten, have made her a fan favorite and a standout contender.
Maher has remained candid about the challenges of transitioning from rugby to ballroom dancing.
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Despite her athletic background, the journey hasn’t been without hurdles. However, her ability to channel her competitive spirit and determination has helped her grow both as a dancer and a performer.
Ilona Maher’s Call for Fan Support
Maher rallied her fans to cast their votes. Using her social media platforms, she encouraged supporters to send all 20 votes her way, either through text messages or the DWTS website.
“Vote for Ilona and Alan tonight,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram story, emphasizing how crucial their support would be in securing the win.
Maher has always been a vocal advocate for her fan base, sharing behind-the-scenes clips and updates to connect with her followers. In her final message before the show, she also reflected on the significance of redemption in her last dance.
This mindset mirrors the growth she has exhibited throughout the competition, proving to critics and skeptics alike that athletes can excel in any field they put their minds to.
A Bond Beyond the Ballroom
Central to Maher’s success on DWTS has been her partnership with professional dancer Alan Bersten. In an emotional social media post, Maher shared a touching tribute to her dance partner.
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Accompanied by a montage of rehearsal clips and behind-the-scenes moments, Maher expressed her gratitude, writing:
“Dear Alan, no matter what happens, whether we win or lose, I will forever cherish our time together. You always make me feel beautiful, powerful, and worthy out there. You have truly changed me for the better. I hope to have found a forever friend in you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything.”
Bersten responded with equal sentimentality, calling Maher “one of a kind” and praising her for inspiring so many. He added, “I couldn’t have asked for a better partner, or even more importantly, a friend. I’m so happy I get to see you shine again tomorrow!”
Their connection and chemistry on the dance floor have led fans to speculate about a possible romantic relationship, though both have maintained that their bond is rooted in friendship and mutual respect.
A Historical Achievement
Maher’s journey has been groundbreaking. Not only is she the first rugby player to compete on DWTS, but she also made history as the first female contestant to lift her male partner during a performance.
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Using her strength and athleticism, Maher showcased a bold and empowering moment that resonated with viewers and judges alike.
Her mother, Mieneke Maher, humorously credited this success to Ilona’s early ballet lessons. Appearing on the Got It From My Momma podcast, Mieneke quipped, “The six-week ballet course I put her in when she was four years old must have helped. That’s what did it!”
While Maher has faced criticism along the way, particularly during her semi-final performance of the Paso Doble to Sam Smith and Kim Petras’s Unholy (Orchestral Version), she has steadily improved her scores.
Judges praised her growth, with Derek Hough calling her dance ownership “impressive,” even as fans debated the choreography and execution on social media.
What’s Next for Ilona Maher?
Beyond DWTS, Maher’s growing popularity has sparked rumors of her participation in other shows, including The Bachelorette. While no official announcements have been made, fans are eager to see what the multi-talented athlete has in store.
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Regardless of the finale’s outcome, Maher’s journey on DWTS has been an inspiring story of transformation. She has proven that with hard work and determination, it’s possible to thrive in entirely new fields.
The three-hour DWTS finale aired on November 26 at 8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+.
