Danny Amendola On DWTS: From NFL To The Ballroom & Beyond!
Can a gridiron great truly master the ballroom? Danny Amendola, the former NFL wide receiver, traded touchdowns for tangos, captivating audiences on "Dancing with the Stars," proving that athleticism can indeed find its rhythm in the world of dance.
A quick peek at Danny reveals a journey far beyond the football field. Danny Amendola and Whitney Carson's interactions with ET's Denny Directo, especially during the high-energy Hair Metal Night in week 3, offered a glimpse into the athlete's foray into the world of competitive dance. The show, airing on ABC and streaming on Disney+, has become a platform for Amendola to showcase a different facet of his personality. Though some details, like the identities of certain "kids" and the whereabouts of Amendolas immediate circle, remained somewhat veiled, the program offered viewers a mixture of anticipation and lightheartedness. This season has had its moments of controversy, but the inclusion of figures like Anna Delvey and guest judge Gene Simmons for Hair Metal Night certainly offered entertainment value.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Amendola |
| Born | November 2, 1985 (age 38 years), The Woodlands, Texas, United States |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 198 lb (90 kg) |
| Sport | American Football |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| Years in NFL | 2009-2022 (13 Seasons) |
| NFL Teams |
|
| Super Bowl Wins | Two (XLIX, LI) with the New England Patriots |
| "Dancing with the Stars" Partner | Witney Carson |
| Known For | His athleticism, reliable hands, and versatility as a wide receiver. Also known for his performances on "Dancing with the Stars" |
| Current Status | Retired from NFL; pursuing other ventures including television appearances. |
| Relationship Status | Linked to DJ Xandra Pohl (as of June 2024) |
| Reference | Danny Amendola - Wikipedia |
Amendola's performances on "Dancing with the Stars" were noteworthy. His contemporary routine earned a score of 36/40. The judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and guest judge Mark Ballas, provided their critiques. Amendola and his pro partner Witney Carson showcased a tango to "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" by Shaboozey and David Guetta, and delivered a high-energy jive to "Good Golly Miss Molly" by Little Richard. The series, which returned on Tuesdays at 8 p.m., gave fans an opportunity to watch Amendolas progress. Clips of his performances were available on YouTube.
While Danny O'Carroll wasnt the winner in the 2025 edition, which saw Rhys McClenaghan crowned champion, Amendola's presence created memorable moments. His partner, Salome Chachua, and he earned a score of 37 for their show dance. A pre-performance video often added emotional depth to the experience. Amendolas participation in "Dancing with the Stars" offered him a chance to step into the world of reality television. It is a realm that often involves public scrutiny and rumors.
Since his debut in Season 33, Amendola has been a subject of speculation regarding his personal life. His performance during the Hair Metal Night included a nod to his New England Patriots days. The show also featured appearances by other personalities, like Danny O'Carroll, who had an emotional reunion with his father, Brendan, during rehearsals. The emotional aspect brought a more human touch to the competitive environment.
Amendola's smooth lifts on "Dancing with the Stars" were imitated, albeit with varied results. The show, propelled into a new phase by season 33 and its subsequent live tour, has been a beloved competition series. Amendola's time on the show has given him a broader platform to share his story with the public. This is the world of a former NFL star exploring new ventures after retiring from the league in 2022.
Amendola's dance floor debut on "Dancing with the Stars" season 33 has sparked an interest in his personal life. Discussions of his friendship with Xandra Pohl arose as a result of their public appearances together. This sparked speculation about a possible relationship. His mother, Rose, is said to adore Pohl, contributing to the narrative around their connection.
Before the season 33 premiere, Amendola, then 38, spoke about his journey. His dance performances and television appearances became a way to engage with a new audience. Amendola never got to celebrate his Super Bowl wins with a trip to Disney World. However, "Dancing with the Stars" gave him a magical moment. His contemporary dance scored 36/40, and his jive brought him a score of 21/30, with sevens from all three judges. His total score from the initial weeks of the competition demonstrated his consistent progress.
Witney Carson, the ballroom pro, hadn't known Amendola before the season. The show became a reflective experience for the season 33 finalists. The winner, Joey Graziadei, alongside Amendola, Chandler Kinney, Ilona Maher, and Stephen Nedoroscik, were featured on "Good Morning America" after the finale, showcasing their experiences. Amendola continues to forge a path outside of the football field, maintaining a high public profile. "Dancing with the Stars" not only brought him a new audience but also demonstrated his adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges.
