“Dancing With the Stars” winner Kym Johnson knew she had a potential champion on her hands when she teamed up with Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward. Athletes do it best, says the shapely Australian dancer.
“Having an athlete is always the best because they’re very agile and know what it takes to be in a competition,” she told Esquire magazine.
“They’re the best celebrities that you can really hope for. Hines, especially — he’s so light on his feet.”
In fact, professional athletes have won, or been top finishers, on the show more than any other profession, including show business.
Check out Kym’s photos; click to enlarge.
The winners include Olympians Apolo Anton Ohno, Kristi Yamagucy and gymnast Shawn Johnson.
Ward also joins former NFL running back Emmitt Smith in the winner’s circle. NFL stars Jason Taylor, Warren Sapp and Jerry Rice were second place finishers, along with Olympic skater Evan Lysacek.
As for the plucky Kirstie Alley, “She actually blew me away on her first dance. Watching her on the floor, she’s improved ever since. She’s just fun, just so ridiculous,” says Kym.
Kym also revealed that there is definitely chemistry between the dancers and contestants.
“Spending that much time with someone can do that for you. With Hines, I’ve got a friendship now for life,” she says.
“Everyone I’ve danced with I’m still really good friends with. I mean, you do spend eight hours a day together, for a good thirteen weeks. It’s a lot of time with two people working toward one common goal. It does make you bond.”
“I’ve just had the best time with Hines. He’s such an amazing person and the best partner. I can’t even wrap my head around it right now.”
Just try wrapping your head around Kym’s photos. Click them to enlarge.
