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Zendaya's Secret 'DWTS' Animosity: 7 Shocking Facts About Her Season 16 Run That Still Sting

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As of today, December 23, 2025, Zendaya is one of the most celebrated and powerful figures in Hollywood, a two-time Emmy winner, and a global fashion icon. However, a recent revelation has brought her back to a stressful, high-stakes moment from her past: her 2013 run on *Dancing with the Stars*. Despite being a fan favorite and delivering spectacular performances, the loss of the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy still "harbors a little animosity," a candid admission that has surprised fans over a decade later. This candid look back at her time on *DWTS* Season 16 with professional partner Valentin "Val" Chmerkovskiy offers a rare glimpse into the intense pressure and emotional investment the then-16-year-old star poured into the competition. It wasn't just a dance show; it was a grueling test that ultimately paved the way for her transition from a Disney Channel star to the critically acclaimed actress we know today.

Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman: A Brief Profile

Before becoming a household name with roles in *Euphoria*, *Dune*, and *Spider-Man*, Zendaya’s career began with a strong foundation in dance and performance.

  • Full Name: Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman
  • Born: September 1, 1996 (Currently 29 years old as of this date)
  • Birthplace: Oakland, California, US
  • Primary Occupations: Actress, Singer, Producer, Model
  • Breakthrough Role: Rocky Blue on the Disney Channel series *Shake It Up* (2010–2013)
  • Key Career Highlights: Two-time Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (*Euphoria*), starring roles in the *Spider-Man* and *Dune* franchises, and the lead in *Challengers*.
  • DWTS Season: Season 16 (2013)
  • DWTS Partner: Valentin "Val" Chmerkovskiy
  • DWTS Result: Second Place (Runners-up)

The Shocking Revelation: Why Zendaya Still Holds 'Animosity'

The biggest headline regarding Zendaya’s *DWTS* experience in recent years isn't about her perfect scores, but her lingering feelings about the finale. She recently opened up about the intense stress and pressure of the competition, admitting that she is "still harboring a little animosity" over losing.

This admission, made over a decade after the show aired, highlights the high-stakes environment of reality competition television, especially for a young star. At just 16, Zendaya was juggling a demanding schedule and the emotional weight of competing on live television.

The loss was to country music star Kellie Pickler and her partner, Derek Hough. While the competition was close and both couples were highly praised, Zendaya’s candid revelation suggests that the drive for excellence and the sting of second place never truly fade, even for an actress who has since reached the pinnacle of global stardom.

She described the experience as "highly stressful," which is understandable given the rigorous training schedule and the public scrutiny. Her comments offer a fresh, humanizing perspective on a moment that was previously viewed simply as a successful stepping stone in her career.

A Deep Dive Into Her Record-Breaking Season 16 Run

Zendaya’s participation in *Dancing with the Stars* Season 16 in 2013 was historic for several reasons. She was paired with the popular professional dancer, Val Chmerkovskiy, forming one of the most dynamic and talented partnerships the show had ever seen.

The Youngest Contestant: At 16 years old, Zendaya was the youngest contestant ever to compete on the show at that time. Her youth and energy brought a fresh dynamic to the ballroom, captivating both the judges and the audience. This record has since been broken, but her impact as a teenage powerhouse remains legendary.

Consistent Excellence: Throughout the season, the partnership, affectionately known as "Team Valdaya," consistently earned high scores. They delivered memorable performances across various styles, including the Viennese Waltz, Jive, Samba, and Foxtrot. Their technical precision and emotional delivery were often lauded by the judging panel.

The Mirror Ball Near-Miss: Despite their consistent high scores and a massive fan following, they ultimately finished as the runners-up. The final vote came down to a razor-thin margin, with Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough taking the Mirror Ball Trophy. The closeness of the competition is likely what contributes to Zendaya's decade-long "animosity" over the loss.

The 'DWTS' Effect: How the Show Paved the Way for a Global Icon

While she may be "salty" about the loss, Zendaya’s time on *Dancing with the Stars* was undeniably a crucial turning point in her career trajectory. It served as a powerful platform to showcase her talent and versatility beyond her Disney Channel persona.

Validating Her Dance Skills: Coming from *Shake It Up*, where the dancing was highly choreographed and rehearsed, her work on *DWTS* cemented her status as a serious, versatile dancer. The show’s demanding schedule and live performance pressure proved her dedication and natural ability to master complex ballroom and Latin routines.

Bridging the Gap: The show provided a vital bridge for Zendaya to transition from a successful children's television star to a mainstream adult entertainer. It allowed a wider, older audience to connect with her personality, work ethic, and immense talent, setting the stage for her future dramatic roles in film and prestige television.

The Power of Public Perception: By competing fiercely and maintaining a positive attitude under stress, Zendaya earned respect and admiration. This public goodwill became an important asset as she navigated the challenging shift to more mature, complex roles, such as Rue in *Euphoria* and Tashi in *Challengers*.

Ultimately, her *DWTS* run showcased the grit, focus, and star power that would define her career for the next decade. Even if the loss still stings, the experience was a foundational step in building the global brand that is Zendaya today, transforming a Disney darling into a bonafide Hollywood powerhouse.

zendaya dancing with the stars
zendaya dancing with the stars

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