If you’ve ever wondered, did Alfonso Ribeiro win Dancing with the Stars? — the answer is a definite yes. Alfonso Ribeiro, best known for his role as Carlton Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, won Season 19 of Dancing with the Stars in 2014. His win remains one of the most celebrated victories in the show’s history, earning him both critical praise and a permanent place in DWTS legacy.
Now, more than a decade later, Ribeiro continues to be part of the Dancing with the Stars family — not as a contestant, but as one of the show’s hosts. His journey from mirrorball champion to co-host has made him one of the most recognized and respected figures on the DWTS stage.
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Alfonso Ribeiro’s Winning Season
Alfonso Ribeiro joined Dancing with the Stars in Season 19, which aired in the fall of 2014 on ABC. He was partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, who was 20 years old at the time and competing in only her second season as a pro.
From the very first episode, Ribeiro stood out as a strong contender. His natural rhythm, charisma, and comedic timing quickly made him a fan favorite. The pair delivered high-scoring performances week after week, impressing both the judges and the audience.
Key Highlights from His Season:
- Season: 19 (Fall 2014)
- Professional Partner: Witney Carson
- Winning Night: November 25, 2014
- Final Competitors: Sadie Robertson (runner-up) and Janel Parrish (third place)
- Winning Dance: Freestyle performance to “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” by Will Smith
Ribeiro’s performances blended technical skill with showmanship. His memorable routines — including his Carlton Dance tribute — became viral sensations, adding to his growing popularity.
The Iconic “Carlton Dance” Moment
One of the standout moments of Alfonso Ribeiro’s DWTS journey came during Week 4, when he and Witney Carson performed a jazz routine set to Tom Jones’s “It’s Not Unusual.”
The performance paid tribute to Ribeiro’s famous Carlton Dance from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which instantly became one of the most talked-about routines in the show’s history. Fans across social media praised the nostalgic moment, and the judges rewarded the performance with a perfect score of 40 out of 40.
That dance not only defined Ribeiro’s DWTS run but also cemented his image as both an entertainer and a skilled performer who could bring joy and precision to the ballroom.
His Road to the Mirrorball Trophy
Throughout Season 19, Ribeiro and Carson consistently ranked near the top of the leaderboard. They earned perfect scores in the semifinals and finale, including for their energetic freestyle dance, which featured a mix of hip-hop and jazz elements.
Ribeiro’s dedication to training and his natural ability to connect with the audience helped secure his victory. On November 25, 2014, he and Carson were crowned Season 19 champions, taking home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Their win marked Witney Carson’s first DWTS championship and Alfonso Ribeiro’s first major reality TV title. It also made him one of the most memorable celebrity winners in the show’s long-running history.
Where Alfonso Ribeiro Stands With DWTS Today
As of December 2025, Alfonso Ribeiro is no longer competing on the dance floor — but his connection to Dancing with the Stars is stronger than ever. He currently serves as co-host of the show alongside Julianne Hough, a role he has held since 2023.
Ribeiro first joined DWTS as a guest co-host during Season 31 in 2022, sharing duties with Tyra Banks. After Tyra’s departure, Ribeiro and Hough officially became the faces of the show. His charisma, humor, and deep understanding of the competition have made him a perfect fit for the hosting role.
Alfonso Ribeiro’s Legacy on Dancing With the Stars
Ribeiro’s DWTS journey represents one of the show’s best success stories — a contestant who not only won the Mirrorball Trophy but went on to become part of the production itself. His relationship with DWTS reflects how deeply he values dance and entertainment.
His hosting style blends encouragement and authenticity. Ribeiro often shares insights about the challenges contestants face, drawing from his own experience on the show. Fans appreciate that connection, as he understands the pressure and excitement that come with every live performance.
Even after more than a decade since his win, clips of his Season 19 routines continue to circulate online, reminding new viewers why his victory remains so iconic.
Quick Facts: Alfonso Ribeiro and DWTS
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| DWTS Season | 19 |
| Year Won | 2014 |
| Professional Partner | Witney Carson |
| Winning Dance | Freestyle to “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” |
| Current Role (2025) | Co-host of DWTS |
| Judge Panel (2025) | Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli |
| Network | ABC (Streaming on Disney+) |
DWTS: Then and Now
When Alfonso Ribeiro won Dancing with the Stars in 2014, the show was airing exclusively on ABC. Today, the series is broadcast live on ABC and streams simultaneously on Disney+, giving fans more ways to watch.
DWTS remains one of television’s most beloved reality competitions, and Ribeiro’s ongoing involvement has helped maintain the program’s charm and consistency.
His presence as a host has also been important for connecting long-time viewers with new audiences discovering the show for the first time.
What Alfonso Ribeiro Says About His DWTS Experience
Ribeiro has often spoken fondly about his time as a contestant, describing it as one of the most rewarding experiences of his career. In interviews, he’s shared how demanding the rehearsals were but also how much fun he had learning new styles each week.
He’s also credited his professional partner, Witney Carson, for helping him push through injuries during the competition. Despite suffering from back pain toward the end of the season, Ribeiro refused to let it affect his performances, showing the same commitment and discipline that ultimately earned him the Mirrorball Trophy.
Alfonso Ribeiro’s Impact on Pop Culture
Ribeiro’s DWTS win came nearly two decades after his breakout role as Carlton Banks. For many fans, his victory represented more than just a trophy — it was a celebration of a beloved actor finally getting recognition for his broader talent.
His performances showcased a side of him that audiences hadn’t seen since The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air: confidence, humor, and incredible rhythm. That combination turned his DWTS season into one of the most entertaining in the show’s history.
Today, Ribeiro continues to bring that same charm to television, whether hosting America’s Funniest Home Videos or leading the DWTS broadcasts.
A Champion Turned Host
From contestant to champion to co-host, Alfonso Ribeiro’s Dancing with the Stars story has come full circle. His transition from the dance floor to the host’s stage shows how much DWTS values his presence and personality.
His journey is also proof that winning the show can lead to lasting opportunities — not just in dance, but in television and entertainment as a whole.
So yes — Alfonso Ribeiro did win Dancing with the Stars, and his victory remains one of the defining moments in the show’s history. Today, he’s not just remembered as a champion but celebrated as part of the heart and soul of DWTS.
Who was your favorite celebrity to ever win Dancing with the Stars? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation!
