Three finalists remained as the 10th season of Dancing With the Stars came to an end last night. Three finalists, each of whom made such compelling quests for the glory.

After the filler settled, the winner of the coveted Mirrorball trophy was ...

... Nicole Scherzinger! To the surprise of no one! Congratulations, girl!

Despite a heck of a late-season run by Erin Andrews and a formidable challenge from Olympian Evan Lysacek, Nicole and her partner Derek Hough took home the crown.

Deservedly so, too. They were the best all season long and their final dance netted them a perfect 30, putting an exclamation point on an amazing campaign - jive style.

Nicole Scherzinger and Derek Hough are your Dancing with the Stars winners!

Not only did Nicole's jive earn a perfect 30, but it won Len’s praise - that Nicole deserved to be the winner of the competition - and a hug from Gladys Knight. Hard to top that.

Erin Andrews finished third, which despite her terrific performances, was probably the correct result. She just couldn't match the raw talent and athleticism of Nicole or Evan.

As for Lysacek, the figure skater fell just short in his bid to succeed fellow Olympian champions Apolo Anton Ohno, Kristi Yamaguchi and Shawn Johnson as the DWTS winner.

For a longer breakdown of everything that transpired on the ballroom floor on this epic night, follow the link for a comprehensive recap of the Dancing with the Stars finale.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.