Jasper and Maya’s freestyle was set to a mix of “Eye of the Tiger” and a weirdly beautiful lullaby. It started with him doing a series of pirouettes that ended in a handstand. I dropped my popcorn.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba said it was “the most innovative routine in 20 years of the show.” Bruno Tonioli literally climbed onto the judges’ table. Derek Hough just smiled and said, “That was art, my friend.” High praise from a man with cheekbones that sharp.
And get this: they earned a perfect 40 out of 40. The first perfect score of the entire season. Talk about saving the best for last.
Here's Who Won 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 34 in 2026
The Moment of Victory
When the winner was announced, Jasper dropped to his knees. Maya screamed so loud you could hear it in the parking lot. The other finalists ran over and hugged them, which was so sweet. No drama. All love.
(Side note: Chloe Kim immediately pulled out her phone to film the aftermath for TikTok. Because of course she did.)
Jasper hoisted the Mirrorball Trophy over his head like it was a snowboard. He then accidentally bonked a cameraman on the head. It was chaotic, clumsy, and absolutely perfect.
The Underdog Story We Needed
Let’s be real: nobody thought the snowboarder dude would make it past week five. He had two left feet and the rhythm of a confused cat. But Jasper kept improving, kept smiling, and kept doing those weird little hand-springs on the dance floor.
His wife, a former ballerina, said she cried every single week. She wasn’t crying because he was bad. She was crying because he was trying. And that, my friend, is what this show is all about.
Even the most cynical viewers—you know, the ones who roll their eyes at the fake tan and the sequins—had to admit he earned it. He showed up, he stumbled, he got back up, and he danced like nobody was watching.
'Dancing with the Stars' Season 35 cast list with pro partner pairings
