The stage is set for a thrilling finale of Dancing with the Stars this Saturday, as the remaining contestants prepare to battle it out for the coveted Glitterball trophy. The competition culminates just as Ireland gears up for a crucial Six Nations showdown against Scotland, adding to a weekend of high-stakes entertainment and sporting drama.
Singer Tolü Makay is among those vying for the win, having described the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Makay has experienced both the highs and lows of the competition, earning perfect scores alongside a recent stint in the dance-off. She told the Irish Independent she needed to “give herself a bit of pep talk” leading up to the final, acknowledging the exhaustion from the semi-final round. “I gave my everything…to the point that I was in trance,” she explained, detailing the physical toll of the competition.
The singer-songwriter revealed she plans to continue dancing after the present concludes, already taking Afro-Brazilian dancing classes. While acknowledging the pressure, Makay is embracing the final performance as a celebration of her journey. “I had to shift my mind to like: ‘We’re at the final, just freaking have a ball, and that’s all that’s required of you’,” she said.
The Dancing with the Stars Grand Finale will feature performances choreographed by the professional dancers, with Arthur Gourounlian playing a key role in the event. Oliver Callan previewed the finale on RTÉ Radio 1, discussing the anticipated performances and the competitive spirit among the finalists. Listen to the preview here.
A Rollercoaster of Emotion and Performance
The current season of Dancing with the Stars has been marked by both impressive routines and unexpected eliminations. Earlier in the competition, on February 15th, 2026, Eurovision winner Niamh Kavanagh was eliminated after facing Apprentice star Jordan Dargan in the dance-off, according to the Irish Examiner. Despite praise from the judges for her improvement, Kavanagh’s tango wasn’t enough to secure her place in the landmark 100th episode.
Meanwhile, Katelyn Cummins, the current Rose of Tralee, has consistently impressed the judges with her performances. Her rumba was lauded as “the best female celebrity rumba” in the show’s history by judges Karen Byrne and Brian Redmond, with head judge Oti Mabuse calling it “the rumba of dreams.” Cummins scored a near-perfect 39 out of 40 for the routine.
Tolü Makay’s salsa also received high praise, with judge Arthur Gourounlian awarding her a perfect 10 and describing it as “electric, intoxicating, exhilarating!” Although, Brian Redmond noted it was “a bit messy in the feet.”
Six Nations Showdown Looms
As the nation anticipates the Dancing with the Stars finale, attention is also turning to the Six Nations Championship. Ireland is preparing to face Scotland in a crucial match, with manager Andy Farrell having named his team for the showdown. More details on the team selection can be found here. Ireland is described as “desperate” for a Triple Crown victory, according to AOL, though Scotland has never won a Triple Crown in the Six Nations era.
The combination of the Dancing with the Stars finale and the Six Nations match promises a weekend filled with excitement and national pride. Fans will be eagerly tuning in to both events, supporting their favorite performers and athletes.
The outcome of both the dance competition and the rugby match remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this weekend will be a memorable one for Irish entertainment and sport. The dedication and talent on display in both arenas are a testament to the passion and commitment of the participants.
What will be the lasting impact of this season of Dancing with the Stars? And can Ireland secure a Triple Crown victory against a determined Scotland side? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
