How a tennis pro became the first Bachelor star to win Dancing with the Stars
In short: From the courts of Hawaii to the heights of reality television stardom, Joey Graziadei has undergone a rapid transformation. After navigating the emotional complexities of The Bachelorette, he pivoted to the ballroom, achieving a historic victory that bridged two vastly different worlds of entertainment.
Joey Graziadei’s rise to national recognition followed a diverse path through sports and media. A native of Royersford, Pennsylvania, born May 24, 1995, Graziadei competed in tennis for West Chester University before earning a communication and media studies degree in 2017. Before his television career took flight, he worked as a teaching tennis professional and an ambassador for Ike Kuluz at the Club at Kukui'ula in Koloa, Hawaii.
His transition to reality television began in March 2023 when he appeared on season 20 of The Bachelorette, starring Charity Lawson. While he reached the final two contestants, he was ultimately rejected in favor of Dotun Olubeko. However, this setback proved to be a stepping stone; on August 21, 2023, it was announced that Graziadei would serve as the lead for season 28 of The Bachelor.
Graziadei's most significant competitive achievement came on the dance floor. Partnering with Jenna Johnson, he competed in season 33 of Dancing with the Stars. On November 26, 2024, the duo was crowned the season winners, earning the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. This victory was notable as Graziadei became the first man from the Bachelor franchise to win the competition. During his personal life, he became engaged to Kelsey Anderson on November 12, 2023, following her victory on his season of The Bachelor.
Beyond his public persona, Graziadei has managed personal health challenges, having been diagnosed with Gilbert's syndrome during his high school years.
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