Mario Lopez and Emmitt Smith Wednesday made it into the final round of ABC's U.S. sensation, "Dancing with the Stars."

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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."

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"Dancing" has been among the biggest hits of the season, with Tuesday night's broadcast 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."