Donald Driver Beats Katherine Jenkins To Mirror Ball Trophy

American footballer Donald Driver has seized the trophy for ABC's 2012 series of Dancing With The Stars alongside partner Peta Murgatroyd in a surprise finale. The Green Bay Packers wide receiver held the mirror-ball trophy whilst trying to find the words to express his gratification. "Amazing. This is awesome", he said, "Thank you so much!".

Finishing second was Welsh opera singer Katherine Jenkins and coming in at third place was Cuban actor William Levy. The couples were each given 24 hours to prepare their final dance which was judges' choice and freestyle. After performing a cha-cha, Driver was told by Bruno Tonioli, "You really have the strategy of a champion. Your performances are always inspired and you peaked at exactly the right time". Carrie Ann determined him 'the one to beat' after his final performance and Len dubbed him the 'best footballer' that has ever taken part in the show. Katherine Jenkins also received positive comments from the judges after her jive, and Carrie Ann spoke of Levy's "true star quality" after he performed a salsa.

Jenkins accepted her narrow defeat with dignity and warmly congratulated Driver on his accomplishment. She expressed her enjoyment of the experience saying "It's been an absolute dream".