AceShowbiz - Cheryl Burke, a former "Dancing with the Stars" pro with 26 seasons under her belt, believes that Ilona Maher, an Olympic rugby player partnered with Alan Bersten, delivered an exceptional performance throughout season 33. Burke considers Maher's dancing abilities and overall charisma superior to that of the eventual winner, Joey Graziadei.

Burke commends Maher's charisma, quick wit, and freestyle monologue, suggesting she would excel on "Saturday Night Live". She also acknowledges Graziadei's fair win but emphasizes that the show does not always favor the best dancers.

"Let's talk about Ilona Maher, she's the true star, right?" she said.While Burke agreed with guest Breanne Heldman that Joey "won fair and square," she pointed out that "this is not a show where necessarily the best dancer wins."

According to Burke, Maher surpassed her expectations with her freestyle dedicated to inspiring young girls. She excelled with multiple costume changes and a compelling narrative, earning a perfect score of 30. While Graziadei and Jenna Johnson received a near-perfect 29, Burke believes that Chandler Kinney should have placed higher with her exceptional dancing skills.

Despite being a novice dancer, Graziadei impressed Burke with his natural abilities and consistency throughout the season. Nonetheless, Maher's unwavering presence and standout performances solidified her as a true star in Burke's eyes.