In a stunning culmination of talent, dedication, and cultural pride, Home and Away actor Kyle Shilling has been crowned champion of Dancing with the Stars, securing the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy alongside his dance partner Lily Cornish. This victory is not merely a personal triumph for Shilling but resonates deeply with the character he portrays on Australia’s beloved long-running drama, Mali Hudson, an embodiment of resilience, community, and a profound connection to his Indigenous heritage.
The Grand Finale saw Shilling and Cornish deliver an unforgettable performance that captivated audiences and judges alike. Their deeply moving cultural piece, set to Mo’ju’s “Native Tongue,” was distinguished by Kyle’s live didgeridoo playing, an element that infused the dance with authentic Indigenous spirit and powerful storytelling. This performance earned a perfect score, with judge Helen Richey hailing it as “one of the best performances” she had ever witnessed on any series of the show. Shilling’s emotional response to his win underscored the profound journey: “I’m feeling mixed emotions, as it’s come to an end… We built such a strong family here… It’s amazing to be able to stand here and hold this trophy, knowing all the hard work we put in has paid off.”
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the ballroom, Shilling’s victory carried significant meaning through his choice of charity. The $20,000 prize money was awarded to The Indigenous Literacy Foundation, an organisation dedicated to raising literacy levels in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This act of giving reflects Kyle’s commitment to his community and echoes the themes of cultural pride and support often explored through his character, Mali Hudson, in Home and Away.
Mali Hudson, a Yuin man, first arrived in Summer Bay as a friend of Dean Thompson, bringing with him a laid-back surfing lifestyle and a strong connection to his roots. From the outset, Mali distinguished himself as a character grounded in his identity, often sharing aspects of his culture and traditions with those around him. His storylines have frequently highlighted the importance of family, land, and heritage, offering viewers a nuanced portrayal of contemporary Indigenous life. This mirrors Kyle Shilling’s ability to seamlessly integrate his cultural background into his Dancing with the Stars performances, creating a bridge between entertainment and education.
Mali’s journey in Summer Bay has been one of growth and adaptation. Initially establishing a surf lesson business, he later expanded into a successful board shop, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. His strong work ethic and friendly demeanour quickly made him an integral part of the community. Like any resident of Summer Bay, Mali has faced his share of challenges and heartbreaks. His romantic entanglements, particularly with Rose Delaney and more recently with Xander Delaney, have explored themes of trust, commitment, and navigating complex relationships. These personal trials, much like the rigorous training and intense competition of Dancing with the Stars, have tested Mali’s resilience, demonstrating his ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger.
One of the most compelling aspects of Mali’s character is his unwavering dedication to his family, even when they are not physically present in Summer Bay. His visits back to his community on Yuin land and the stories he shares about his elders reinforce the deep intergenerational bonds and the importance of collective well-being that are central to Indigenous cultures. This sense of belonging and the support network he draws upon resonate with Kyle Shilling’s grateful acknowledgment of the “strong family” he built during his time on Dancing with the Stars. Both the character and the actor embody the strength derived from community ties and shared purpose.
Kyle Shilling’s win on Dancing with the Stars serves as a powerful testament to his versatility as an entertainer and his commitment to cultural representation. His ability to move from the dramatic storylines of Home and Away to the demanding physical and emotional realm of competitive dance, all while infusing his performances with authentic elements of his heritage, sets a new benchmark. It highlights how contemporary Australian popular culture, through platforms like Home and Away and mainstream reality television, can effectively showcase and celebrate Indigenous talent and culture on a national scale.
The success of Kyle Shilling is more than just another celebrity win; it’s a narrative of hard work, cultural pride, and the profound impact one individual can have by staying true to themselves. His journey from Summer Bay to the dance floor champion, while advocating for a vital cause like Indigenous literacy, weaves a compelling story that enriches both his public persona and the beloved character of Mali Hudson. As viewers continue to follow Mali’s life in Summer Bay, they do so with the added context of Kyle Shilling’s remarkable achievement, reinforcing the powerful connection between art, identity, and the broader Australian community.