Reflecting on ‘Dancing with the Stars’: Zendaya’s Unfinished Business

In a recent interview, actress Zendaya opened up about her 2013 experience on “Dancing with the Stars,” expressing lingering disappointment over not securing the Mirrorball Trophy. At just 16, she and partner Val Chmerkovskiy finished as runners-up to Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough in Season 16.

Zendaya described the competition as “highly stressful,” noting that live television each week was daunting. She admitted to taking the show very seriously and now wishes she had enjoyed the experience more. The stress was significant enough that she hasn’t watched “Dancing with the Stars” since her participation.

Despite the challenges, Zendaya’s performances were well-received, earning perfect scores from the judges. Her partner, Chmerkovskiy, praised her professionalism and maturity, describing her as a “superstar from the get-go.

Since her stint on the show, Zendaya has achieved significant success in her acting career, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for her role in “Euphoria.”