Tolü 'truly grateful' for 'Dancing With The Stars' experience

Tullamore's Tolü Makay has described her 'Dancing With The Stars' journey as one which provided "understanding and joy".

The singer-songwriter failed to lift the glitterball trophy in the programme's grand finale last night (Sunday), but said she was "truly grateful" for all who "actively supported" her since the start of the series.

In the finale of the RTÉ, Tolü and her partner Maciej Zieba danced their routine from the second week of the series, an American Smooth to Olivia Dean’s smash hit ‘Man I Need’. Their showdance was to the ‘Kill the Lights’ by Alex Newell, Jess Glynne, DJ Cassidy and Nile Rodgers.

The couple received 77 points from the judges in recognition of both dances.

Taking to social media after the grand finale Tolü said the journey had brought her "so much joy, but it’s also reminded me what really matters".

"I’m someone who’s very used to just getting on with things and not expecting much. For a long time I’ve been used to doing things on my own, so sometimes I assume people aren’t really paying attention to what I’m doing.

"Being part of a show like this, where people across the country take the time to vote and actively support you, is something I’m truly grateful for. It’s reminded me how powerful it is when people show up for you.

"Seeing that support, especially from my family, has meant more to me than I can properly put into words. I’m deeply grateful".

After a nail-biting final show in the series, Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins was announced as the winner of Dancing with the Stars 2026.

The four finalists each danced two routines on the night, including an epic ‘showdance’ routine combining different dance styles.

The judges offered their scores as guidance, but it was the public vote that decided the fate of the winner.

Having received the most public votes, Katelyn took home the coveted glitterball trophy alongside pro partner Leonardo Lini.