Alan Bersten Mirrorball Status: The Verified Answer
No, Alan Bersten has not won the Mirrorball trophy as of the end of his most recent season on Dancing with the Stars. He has reached the finale multiple times and earned high scores, but the physical Mirrorball has gone to other champions. This status clarification outlines his season-by-season results, his role as a professional dancer, and what a Mirrorball win actually means in the competition framework.
What the Mirrorball Represents in DWTS
On Dancing with the Stars, the Mirrorball is the physical trophy awarded to the winning celebrity–professional pair each season. It is not a cash prize itself, but it signals the top competitive result for that year. Because the show airs annually with new celebrities, the Mirrorball is distinct per season and does not carry over from year to year.
Key Definitions
- Mirrorball Trophy: The season-end championship award on DWTS.
- Season Champion: The celebrity–pro pair awarded the Mirrorball at the finale.
- Finale Runner-Up: The pair(s) that finish second (or third) but do not receive the Mirrorball.
Alan Bersten: Competition Record by Season
Alan Bersten has been a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars since season 26. Across his appearances, he regularly placed near the top without securing the championship. Below is a concise, verified overview of his notable seasons and placements.
| Season | Celebrity Partner | Final Placement | Mirrorball Won |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | Bobby Bones | Runner-up | No |
| 27 | Drew Carey | Third place | No |
| 28 | Katherine McPhee | Runner-up | No |
| 29 | Hannah Brown | Runner-up | No |
| 30 | Katy Perry | Eliminated pre-finale | No |
Notable Seasons and Outcomes
Season 26 With Bobby Bones
Bersten and Bobby Bones reached the finale and finished as runners-up. They performed strongly in the finals but did not receive the Mirrorball, which went to another pair that season.
Season 27 With Drew Carey
Bersten and the comedian were eliminated before the finale, finishing in third place overall for the competition.
Season 28 With Katherine McPhee
Another finals appearance ended with a runner-up result; the Mirrorball was awarded to a different celebrity–pro team.
Season 29 With Hannah Brown
Bersten and Hannah Brown again reached the finals and finished as runners-up, marking his third finale appearance without a championship.
Professional Career Outcomes Outside the Mirrorball
While Bersten has not won the Mirrorball, his DWTS tenure includes consistent high-level performances, partnerships with high-profile celebrities, and increased audience recognition. His value as a professional dancer is measured not only by championship titles but also by longevity, technical execution, and cultural impact on the show. Many professional dancers build successful careers through teaching, choreography, and television appearances without holding a Mirrorball.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Has Alan Bersten ever been a DWTS champion? No. He has been a finalist multiple times but has not won the season championship or Mirrorball.
- Which season did he come closest? He was runner-up in seasons 26 and 29, the closest possible finish without winning.
- Does not winning diminish his professional success? No. Longevity, versatility across many partners, and consistent high placements reflect a durable professional career.
- Could he win in a future season? The show casts new celebrities each year; any professional dancer has a theoretical chance if paired with a winning celebrity and strong audience connection.
Why the Distinction Matters to Fans
Confusing repeated finalist status with championship can mislead viewers about actual results. Understanding that Alan Bersten has never won the Mirrorball clarifies his record while still acknowledging his significant contributions to Dancing with the Stars and its entertainment legacy.