Andy Richter's DWTS Journey: From Conan Sidekick to People's Princess

The Unexpected Star of the Ballroom

From the late-night couch of Conan O'Brien to the glittering dance floor of ABC's Dancing with the Stars, comedian Andy Richter has undergone one of 2025's most surprising transformations. Known for his deadpan humor as Conan's trusted sidekick, Richter charmed audiences nationwide with his unlikely ballroom success, culminating in the viral "People's Princess" moniker that defined his DWTS season.

"I never thought I'd be here, let alone connect with people like this," Richter shared during a recent appearance on NPR's Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! in Phoenix.

Richter's Ballroom Breakthrough

What began as a celebrity cameo quickly turned into a cultural phenomenon. Richter's self-deprecating charm and genuine enthusiasm resonated with viewers, propelling him far beyond early expectations. His partnership with professional dancer Emma Slater became one of the season's most beloved narratives, with Gulf Breeze News noting the duo's "great friendship" that kept audiences invested even after Richter's elimination.

"The ratings for the ABC competitive-reality series were higher than ever this past season, and part of it was due to Richter's journey," reported Gulf Breeze News, highlighting how his unexpected star power contributed to the show's surge in viewership.

The Holiday Special: Highs and Hips

While his main run concluded with elimination, Richter returned for the Dancing with the Holidays special, though not without some criticism. TVLine's review questioned the "clumsy performance" during the festive showcase, noting that some fans found his routine underwhelming compared to his earlier season magic.

Yet the misstep did little to tarnish Richter's legacy. His journey became a testament to how authenticity and humor can triumph over technical perfection in reality TV. As he quipped on NPR, "I'm not going to win any trophies, but I might win a few hearts."

What's Next for the People's Princess?

Though Richter and Slater parted ways professionally on the show, fans remain hopeful for future collaborations. "Will they find a way to work together again?" pondered Gulf Breeze News, reflecting on the pair's palpable chemistry.

Regardless of his next steps, Richter's DWTS run has redefined public perception of the comedian. From Conan's stoic straight man to America's favorite dancing underdog, he proved that sometimes the most memorable performances come from those who least expect the spotlight.

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Behind the Glitter: Richter's Reflections

During his NPR interview, Richter opened up about the surreal experience of becoming a viral sensation. "The thing that surprised me most was the genuine connection," he explained. "People weren't rooting for me to win; they were just enjoying the journey."

This humility endeared him further to viewers, who appreciated his lack of entitlement in the highly competitive environment. His willingness to laugh at himself – whether tripping during a paso doble or cracking jokes about his dance skills – made him the breakout star of the season.