Three-time Mirrorball trophy winner Mark Ballas told an audience in Las Vegas at the terminus for the Dancing with the stars Live 2023 tour last night that his time with the show is up.
“I’m now 20 seasons behind me,” said the 36-year-old as he took to the stage with partner Charli D’Amelio. “I started this journey when I was 21, 22 and honestly being able to dance and perform for you fans – you guys are the best fans.”
Ballas comes out on top after winning the show’s 31st season with D’Amelio last year.
“My mother is here tonight. My father is here tonight. My wife is here tonight. My wife’s mom and dad are here tonight,” he continued. “I just want to say in closing that this will be the last time you will see me dance in this capacity. I’m finishing up tonight. This will be my last dance.”
A chorus of shocked screams erupted from the crowd and that point, but Ballas pressed on.
“I had the best time ever this season. And this dance is a great way to end it,” he said, before giving fans some hope.
“I’m not saying this is the end,” he said. “I’m just saying this is the last time I dance with a partner.”