LOS ANGELES, Nov. 8 (UPI) -- Mario Lopez and Emmitt Smith Wednesday made it into the final round of ABC's U.S. sensation, "Dancing with the Stars."
Actor Joey Lawrence was eliminated.
"It's been a wonderful ride really," Lawrence said. "We were a dark horse from day one and I am honored to have made it this far."
"Dancing" has been among the biggest hits of the season, Tuesday night capturing a 22.5 million viewers for the hourlong competition that began at 8:30 p.m. EST.
In next week's final round, Lopez, with partner Karina Smirnoff, and Smith, with partner Cheryl Burke, get to perform their favorite three dances.
"Mario is a very talented individual," Smith said.
Judge Bruno Tonioli has described Smith, an NFL MVP, as a "great American wonder."