Ginger Zee: 'Dancing with the Stars' will make me a better woman, meteorologist, wife and mother

Ginger Zee can't help but gush about how her experience on Dancing with the Stars has improved her quality of life.


"I'm surprised by the emotional journey. I knew physically it would change me and be very quick, but emotionally and the woman I've become, I'm stronger and more confident that I've ever been," Zee said during a Wednesday appearance on Good Morning America, where she works as a meteorologist.

Zee finished Dancing with the Stars' 22nd season in third place with pro partner Val Chmerkovskiy. They were defeated by runner-up Paige VanZant and partner Mark Ballas as well as winners Nyle DiMarco and partner Peta Murgatroyd.

"I have Val to thank for that [confidence], and I have my family, my husband and my baby. It really changed who I am, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be next to all of these amazing people... The opportunity to do something like this and to change yourself," she said.

Zee, who said she's feeling much better after a pelvis injury, suggested DiMarco and Murgatroyd deserved to win the mirrorball trophy.


"Nyle has inspired so many people. The show has been on for 22 seasons for a reason," Zee said.

Zee is now excited to head back to her job at GMA since she's this new and improved individual.

"[Working] is going to feel even better than it did. [DWTS] gave me even more perspective. I feel like I'm going to be a better woman, a better meteorologist, a better wife, a better mother. And that's the beauty of this show, because it allows you to grow as a person in front of so many people and to learn this new skill but also share and learn about yourself," Zee explained.

Chmerkovskiy insisted that Zee was an absolute "pleasure to work with" on the show.

"I envy you guys for having an awesome time with Ginger on [GMA] every morning. This show is more than just about dancing and Nyle had a very incredible, powerful message -- not just for the deaf community but for all humanity," Chmerkovskiy said.


"And Ginger was a great role model for women as well, that you can be a scientist and still be beautiful. And Paige as well, that you can be rough and still be classy and graceful."






About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski