Mark Ballas served 20 total seasons as a pro dancer on Dancing with the Stars. After winning the Mirror Ball trophy last fall with celebrity partner Charli D’Amelio, he announced that he is leaving the show permanently.
The three time Mirrorball champion announced his retirement at the Dancing with the Stars tour stop in Las Vegas on March 12, according to E News.
“I’ve done 20 seasons now,” Mark told the crowd “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.”
Mark went on to drop the shocking news.
“My mom is here tonight, my dad is here tonight, my wife is here tonight, my wife’s mom and dad are here tonight,” he continued. “I just want to finish this by saying that this will be the last time you see me dance in this capacity. I’m coming to a close tonight. This is going to be my last dance.”
Mark finished his DWTS run on top after he and Charli won season 31 of the Disney+ competition. Charli was by his side as he made his big announcement.
“Charli means the world to me,” Mark said. “D’Amelio family, you guys mean the world to me. Thank you for everything.”
In addition to winning with Charli, the 36 year-old also won the competition in season six with partner Kristi Yamaguchi and in season eight with partner Shawn Johnson.
“Thank you guys for a lifetime of memories”
However, Mark assured his fans, he may have closed the chapter on Dancing with the Stars, but he is in no way hanging up his dancing shoes.
“Thank you guys for a lifetime of memories,” Mark said. “I appreciate it. I’m not saying this is the end. This is just the last time I’ll be dancing with a partner.”
Dancing with the Stars tour host Emma Slater then brought out the entire Dancing with the Stars Live cast to celebrate Mark.
“Mark, we love you so much,” Emma said. “Look at all the cast coming out to see you. Such a champion. I don’t think Dancing with the Stars would have been the same without this guy right here.”
