Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas made a graceful exit from Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars, acknowledging that their semifinal departure was a reality they had quietly prepared for. On the Nov. 18 episode — themed as a tribute to legendary artist Prince — they learned they would be eliminated, placing them as the final couple to leave before the finals.
Though judges’ comments and scoreboards during the competition had frequently placed the pair near the top, both Whitney and Mark sensed the outcome in advance. Mark told reporters simply: “We knew, we felt it.” Whitney chimed in, “We had a gut feeling it was us.”
For Whitney, the elimination carried emotional weight. “It’s sad, it does feel like a breakup,” she admitted. The intense schedule of rehearsals and filming creates deep bonds between cast and crew, and her connection to Mark as a partner only amplified the sentiment. Yet she left not in regret but in gratitude. “I’m leaving with just a grateful heart,” she said. “This show has meant the absolute world for me. It’s changed my life and I’ll forever be so grateful to have this experience.”
Mark likewise reflected on his return to the floor. After stepping away from the show for some seasons, his comeback was marked by joy and satisfaction. “I had the best time. I love this show,” he said.
Their elimination brings an unexpected twist to the season’s final lineup, yet Whitney’s optimism remains undiminished. “I already feel like a winner,” she said on stage. She emphasized that while some variables in the competition can’t be controlled, she maintained one constant: giving every dance her very best.