The ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Career Lift
Season 2, third place
Before “Dancing with the Stars”: Stacy Keibler, the leggy, blonde former Baltimore Ravens cheerleader was best known as a WCW and WWE diva, usually parading around in short skirts and short-shorts.
After “Dancing with the Stars”: It could easily be argued that no “Dancing” veteran has gotten as impressive a career boost as Keibler. Suddenly a viable actress, Keibler appeared on multiple episodes of “George Lopez” and had a long arc on “What About Brian.” Most recently she had one-off appearances on “How I Met Your Mother” and “Psych.” (Richard Soria/Zap2it.com)
Zap2It
Dozens of celebs have passed through ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” and some have even revived their careers by appearing on the show.
Season 2, sixth place
Before “Dancing with the Stars”: Tia Carrer, the one-time “Wayne’s World” star had been heard often (voice work on “Lilo & Stitch” and “Duck Dodgers”) but not seen too much in the couple years before she went “Dancing” (she also gave birth in September 2005).
After “Dancing with the Stars”: She saw her on-camera TV work take a jump, landing guest roles on “The O.C.” and “Nip/Tuck” and a recurring part on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” (Richard Soria/Zap2it.com)
Season 1 winner
Before “Dancing with the Stars”: Cutting her soap opera teeth on the “General Hospital” spin-off “Port Charles” as Olivia Locke, Kelly Monaco has been playing Sam McCall on “GH” since 2003.
After “Dancing with the Stars”: Ah, Kelly, our cautionary tale. Much buzz surrounded Monaco for the first couple of months following her win, including rumors that she would show up on “Desperate Housewives” as Eva Longoria’s little sister. But ever since lost a rematch to runner-up John O’Hurley she’s been right back in Port Charles making a string of bad relationship choices. (Richard Soria/Zap2it.com)