Zendaya Still Feels the Sting of Her ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Loss

Zendaya, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Dune and The Challengers, recently opened up about a lingering regret: her runner-up finish on Dancing with the Stars in 2013.

Competing in Season 16, Zendaya, who was just 16 years old at the time, lost the Mirror Ball Trophy to Kellie Pickler and her partner Derek Hough. While Pickler’s victory was undoubtedly deserved, Zendaya admitted in a recent interview with W Magazine that she’s still harboring some resentment.

“Listen, I’m still harboring a little animosity about that. I felt that loss,” Zendaya confessed. “I was only 16 years old, and it was highly stressful. Being on live television every week? It’s so scary.”

Zendaya revealed that the pressure of live competition took a toll on her enjoyment. “I took it very seriously, which, in retrospect, I wish I didn’t. I wish I’d enjoyed it a little bit more and just was like, ‘Eh, whatever.’ You know what I mean? But I was stressing myself out. I really went through it on that.”

Since her time on the show, Zendaya hasn’t revisited Dancing with the Stars. She previously told EW’s The Awardist podcast, “I didn’t really watch Dancing With the Stars before I was on Dancing With the Stars. I don’t think I was the target demographic. My grandma loves Dancing with the Stars, that’s her bag. But yeah, I also think it was a very stressful experience. I was like, I don’t think I’m gonna be watching this anymore.”

Despite the lingering disappointment, Zendaya’s journey on Dancing with the Stars showcased her talent and dedication. Partnered with Valentin Chmerkovskiy, she secured second place, beating NFL wide receiver Jacoby Jones and partner Karina Smirnoff.

Have you watched Zendaya on Dancing with the Stars? Share your thoughts in the comments below!