Good Morning America has revealed the celebs and pairs already so it's a good time to make this thread! Following another tumultuous pre-season full of casting rumors and several pro lineup rotations, including the news about Artem getting the boot bc of domestic violence allegations, we've finally set sail! Here are the couples:

 

• infamous con artist Anna Delvey and new pro Ezra Sosa

• model Brooks Nader and pro Gleb Savchenko

• DCOM darling Chandler Kinney and pro Brandon Armstrong

• NFL player Danny Amendola and returning pro Witney Carson

• NBA center Dwight Howard and Season 30 champ Daniella Karagach

• the Master himself, Eric Roberts, and pro Britt Stewart

• Professional rugby player and Olympian Ilona Maher and Season 28 champ Alan Bersten

• the most recent Bachelorette Jenn Tran and pro Sasha Farber

• Bachelor star Joey Graziadei and Season 26 champ Jenna Johnson

• Real Housewife Phaedra Parks and last season's champ Val Chmerkovskiy

• Family Matters star Reginald VelJohnson and Season 24 champ Emma Slater

• Bronze-winning pommel horse icon Stephen Nedoroscik and pro Rylee Arnold

• 90210 darling Tori Spelling and pro Pasha Pashkov

 

We're one season away from the 20th anniversary! Who's getting the Mirrorball this year? Check it out on Disney+!

I'm gonna do something different with these blogs - instead of a live blog since that means catching EST feeds, I'll do a compulsory ranking of the dances each week :D

 

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(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE GOOD

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 8, 7, 8 = 23/30)

In terms of technical prowess and overall dance ability, Chandler is miles ahead of the crowd and this dance proves it. She has an innate ability to interpret the music and you can tell that she absolutely LOVES the dance floor. Brandon has another good partner, but with less name recognition and lack of a judges' save, she'll need to really impress the half of America that is able to watch and vote. My fear is that this is another Tinashe level robbery, but this could also be his best placement since DWTS Juniors.

 

2.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21/30)

I feel like if there is a more traditional type of winner this season then the Mirrorball will go to Mr. Pommel Horse. It's very gangly but agile and shows off his potential well. Also in character for Rylee, the dance shows off a lot of personality. Could this be a parallel of Louis and Flavia in Strictly? Them and Team Chandler seem to be the early frontrunners.

 

3.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

It's official: Daniella definitely has the Midas touch. The massive height difference threw me off and I was skeptical at first but the pair handled it well and the added lifts and tricks during the salsa were a nice touch. Probably a dark horse a la Iman Shumpert if voters can gel with them and other fandoms aren't careful.

 

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THE POTENTIAL

4.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 7, 6, 6 = 19/30)

She definitely has the story to take her through and possibly the fandom rallying for her as well? They could go for Joey based on how rabid Bachelor Nation is with male contestants, but her season is fresher on people's minds. She definitely has what it takes based on her dance. Maybe with a better song and dance combination she'll rocket up the leaderboard?

 

5.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21/30)

I wasn't expecting this good of a dance week 1 from a male Bachelor Nation contestant, especially given the precedent he's following. I still have nightmares of Grocery Store Joe. He does seem like he can move well though, so we'll just have to see how well he does in harder dances.

 

6.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

Once she mentioned The Traitors it all of a sudden made sense as to why they paired her up with Val :lol: The dance is a bit slower than I would have expected from Val but she has the charisma and stage presence that can light up the room, and that can carry her through the performances. I see her making it to team dances.

 

7.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 7, 6, 7 = 20/30)

He has the work ethic and he has the agility football players normally possess working for him. Plus he has Witney who clearly has not lost it despite taking another season off. If he works on the technique and being less stiff in his dances then he can trouble the top of the leaderboard.

 

8.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 6, 6, 6 = 18/30)

She has such an amazing personality and they have probably the best team chemistry amongst all of the couples. They both clearly love working together and both really want to be here. She has the same problem Danny does. Once she let's loose a bit more and works on her technique, I think they have a chance to dark horse. The public clearly loves them.

 

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THE UNDERWHELMING

9.) Tori & Pasha (Scores: 6, 6, 5 = 17/30)

I'm surprised she turned the show down so many times and decided that this year, at such a tumultuous time in her life, was the right time to do the show :lol: The Ariana Madix effect for sure. Definitely thought she'd be MUCH better at this. However, I still hold hope that she will improve under Pasha's tutelage.

 

10.) Brooks & Gleb (Scores: 6, 6, 6 = 18/30)

I called out her balance and timing issues throughout the dance and was very much vindicated by the judges' comments. Again, if she loosens up, then she can do well but I just know that the show won't focus on her improvements but rather craft a showmance angle between her and Gleb, which will hinder him artistically.

 

11.) Anna & Ezra (Scores: 6, 6, 6 = 18/30)

For someone who mentioned that she did ballet as a child I would have expected her to keep some of that technique but I guess not 🤷 The dance is nice enough, but could have been a lot better. I don't see her getting votes. She's just too controversial of a figure and doesn't have the lunatics to keep her afloat like Sean Spicer did.

 

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THE JUST PLAIN BAD

12.) Reginald & Emma (Scores: 6, 5, 5 = 16/30)

Bless his heart :lol: Emma did great but that man did maybe like six steps in total throughout the whole routine. He'll probably be the one the public keeps afloat for a week replacing Anna.

 

13.) Eric & Britt (Scores: 5, 5, 5 = 15/30)

Same as Reginald but OH MY GOD double it. He was stiff, had timing issues, the whole nine yards. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets booted first but I also wouldn't be surprised if his legend status carries him. I do appreciate that Britt's choreo lets them use the floor a bit more.

 

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Finale Picks: Chandler & Brandon, Stephen & Rylee, Dwight & Daniella, Joey & Jenna

Winner Pick: Stephen & Rylee

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE GREAT

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

Her facial expressions! Her balance! They did a rumba this early and she handled it well and straight up DELIVERED. I love how the dance and her face came together and fit the song and the concept well. Derek saying he has more notes for Brandon than Chandler made me very hopeful that they will do much better than he's done prior. This was one tasty rumba.

 

2.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

Okay are we sure Joey doesn't have any dance experience? He's absorbing these routines like a SPONGE. The dance felt so natural and fluid and his musicality is improving super fast. There were some clunky moments but they were few and far between and he reeled it in very well. This was one exceptional dance.

 

3.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

They are really pushing that Clark Kent thing for him huh :lol: He really pushed the hardness to 100 and I think it harmed the dance more than helped it in the technical aspect but he had the right feel and the dance had a lot of paso content. I do agree that he needs to soften up the moves later but it was a past so I can excuse it - the rest of the dances are gonna be less rough and tough now that he got the paso doble out of the way.

 

4.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21/30)

SHE LIFTED HIM SHE ACTUALLY LIFTED HIM!!! I think after the first stunt she really started to let loose and her smile just radiated throughout the room. Her hip action and footwork were fantastic and she used her energy well! I LOVED that she had so much fun with the dance. Now this is the couple that I expected pre-season!

 

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THE GOOD

5.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

Well they handled the dance in hold pretty well! Dwight's frame was pretty good despite his partner being closer to 5 ft than 7 ft. It seemed like the judges had similar worries when it came to their technique in hold but thought it was better than expected.

 

6.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21/30)

Phaedra looked like she was in the ZONE during that dance. There were points where it felt that she was chasing the beats but she was FEELING HERSELF during that dance and she tackled the dance like a pro. The end of the dance felt more rumba than foxtrot but other than that the foxtrot content was super nice and refined. Definitely nailed the brief as well - she really did channel the Dreamgirls for this dance.

 

7.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21/30)

I was scared he was gonna crash during the small stunts but he did so well! The choreography complimented well and you can feel more joy coming through his moves. They're still a bit clunky and I think he should work on his facial expressions but I truly enjoyed that dance!

 

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THE OKAY

8.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 6, 6, 7 = 19/30)

Was it just me or was there a ton of form breaks during that tango? I actually didn't know that there were tech difficulties regarding the music - guess that's the side effect of dancing with an orchestra to a crowd that won't stop cheering. They seemed like they were having a ton of fun though.

 

9.) Brooks & Gleb (Scores: 7, 6, 7 = 20/30)

Okay well this was pretty fun and I think this dance showed up more of Brooks' personality than last week. She has the potential to be a good dancer but something isn't clicking with me so far. I think the feet were fantastic with the quickstep and she's improved since the previous dance. I honestly wish they didn't focus too much on the showmance angle because she can get solid scores.

 

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THE UNDERWHELMING

10.) Tori & Pasha (Scores: 7, 6, 6 = 19/30)

Definitely the dance that had the most heart this week. The hip action could have more improvement but I love her lines and the way she put 100% into the dance. It was kinda similar to her dance last week: technical issues but she put herself out there fully and it carried the performance.

 

11.) Anna & Ezra (Scores: 6, 5, 6 = 17/30)

Better than most dances but there's zero energy. I really do think she's kinda holding back because she's not that bad of a dancer. Better than Teresa Giudice for sure.

 

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THE JUST PLAIN BAD

12.) Eric & Britt (Scores: 6, 4, 5 = 15/30)

It was still hella stiff but much better than last week. He played the part well and the slower dances suited him more. It was pretty much what I expected - he would perform much better in slower dances. Britt can only do so much. The "respectfully" from Derek took me OUT though :lol:

 

13.) Reginald & Emma (Scores: 6, 4, 5 = 15/30)

It still feels like Emma is dragging him through the dance but I'm glad that they used more of the floor and that he's moved a lot more than last week. It's still kinda meh but it's getting there.

 

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Safe Are...

Danny & Witney!

Chandler & Brandon!

Eric & Britt! :o

Joey & Jenna!

Ilona & Alan!

Dwight & Daniella!

Jenn & Sasha!

Brooks & Gleb!

Stephen & Rylee!

Phaedra & Val!

 

and...

 

 

 

 

Reginald & Emma!!! :o :o :o

Eliminated: Tori & Pasha, Anna & Ezra

Anna's exit line must be one of the most iconic TV moment :lol:

 

I'm not sure if she was being sarcastic as in 'I stole nothing from the show' but it was iconic.

that along with Derek's "Respectfully....... 4 😬" and Brooks throwing Gleb under the bus :lol: this week was truly something

Watch all Soul Train Night performances below!

 

 

This week is gonna be a two night special, with tonight being Soul Train Night and the next episode being Hair Metal Night! Legendary Soul Train dancer Rosie Perez joins the judges' panel for this night.

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Rosie Perez | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE GREAT (8)

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 = 36/40)

What a killer way to blend both hip hop and cha cha! You can tell they went in with the performance and they absolutely killed it choreography and energy wise. The chemistry is also evident with the two of them - you can tell they're such good friends despite it being such a short time between their first dance and now.

 

2.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 = 30/40)

Now this is what I'm talking about! She showed off her grace phenomenally and yet still gave the personality and the pizazz that I've wanted to see from her. She floated across that dance floor super well.

 

3.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 9, 9, 8, 8 = 34/40)

Joey was a cheerleader in high school. That explains so much now. He did so well matching the musicality of the dance and he didn't let up ONE BIT during that jive. He's definitely one to watch, but I think he still has some edges that Jenna needs to smooth out.

 

4.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 8 = 31/40)

They went a completely different route than what I was expecting from this Viennese Waltz! They glided through the dance floor and they kept the frame throughout the entire dance. It was fast paced and yet she still kept that grace. Regardless, what an improvement from last week.

 

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THE GOOD (7)

5.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 = 30/40)

Okay Witney is just GOING FOR IT with this choreo! I fear that Danny is gonna excel more in dances that don't have such a strong hold because the parts in hold were a bit slow for my liking. He did bring a lot of groove into the dance, and I think he's handling the heightened difficulty well.

 

6.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 = 30/40)

Everything about Stephen's style of dance is unapologetically Gen Z and honestly I'm here for it! It did feel a little stiff at places but there was energy and personality and you can tell that they have such good chemistry. The judges feel like his energy is working against him and that the musicality and technique suffer as a result.

 

7.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 = 30/40)

I LOVE that she stands on business but is it just me or does it look like she was chasing the beat and choreography in a few places? As always, the character and the acting are the highlights of this dance and her stage presence helps carry that. I think out of everyone Phaedra has the most natural boogie and groove and that works well for this week.

 

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THE OKAY (6)

8.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 6, 6, 5, 6 = 23/40)

He's reminding me of Nelly with the way he's going through this dance. There's a lot of old school groove laced in with every step he takes and mixed in with the choreography it just makes you feel good on the inside. I feel like there should have been more content and whatever content could have been polished so much more

 

9.) Brooks & Gleb (Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7 = 28/40)

Whoever decided that they should be dancing to "Sexual Healing" deserves JAIL :drama: The dance was nice and she has great lines, but it feels like she's giving 60% of herself to her dance. There wasn't that much hip action and the movements while lovely didn't feel like a true rumba.

 

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THE UNDERWHELMING (5)

10.) Reginald & Emma (Scores: 6, 4, 5 = 15/30)

This was a cute dance. It did feel a bit "father daughter dance" for me and everything about it is super heartwarming. It was still stiff, he used like a quarter of the stage, but man did it tug at the heartstrings.

 

11.) Eric & Britt (Scores: 7, 6, 5, 6 = 24/40)

One thing I like about the dance is that you can see the point where he starts to feel more comfortable and gets his nerves out of the way. Britt is doing a great job guiding throughout the process. It was still slow and very stiff but it's an improvement from the first two dances.

Watch all Hair Metal Night performances below!

 

 

KISS frontman Gene Simmons joins the judges' panel for this night.

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Gene Simmons | Bruno)

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

1.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 9, 9, 8, 8 = 34/40)

Well that song choice was just poorly timed :lol: That said, Joey LOCKED IN for this dance. I do think his facial expressions need work because it looks like he's pulling it off yet he looks like he has zero idea that he's killing it. But WOW what a tango. It's kinda reminiscent of Gabby Windey's tango? If Joey wasn't a contender before he just locked himself into the finals with this dance.

 

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THE GREAT (8)

2.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 8, 8, 9, 8 = 33/40)

Okay this was insanely fun. You can tell that they really got into the character and their dance was red hot and as fast as a speeding bullet. I think they could have ended with as much energy as the start but she was nailing the choreography. Maybe Brandon just needs to push her more choreo-wise? I think she can pull off harder dances. She's ready. Give it to her.

 

3.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 8, 8, 7, 8 = 31/40)

The one thing that I appreciate about this dance is that Jenn had zero inhibitions with that dance - she just WENT for it. She tackled the choreo and content like a seasoned pro, and it paid off SUPER well. This is definitely a dark horse contender to potentially watch out for.

 

4.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

The frame... fantastic. The flares, to die for. The musicality also seems to be improving. It was kinda the same issue as his paso doble - I just need some more fluidity in his steps, and him trying to fit the concept was what probably hurt it the most. However, he applies corrections and he's taking his improvement slow. Definitely the makings of a more traditional Mirror Ball winner.

 

5.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 8, 7, 7, 7 = 29/40)

MAN that choreo from Daniella was insanely good. Not only did she work it, but she gave Dwight enough of a spotlight to show that last night was a fluke. I do think they're still working out the issues regarding the hold and the height difference. Regardless, it was definitely a redemption dance and drove home the point that he can't be counted out.

 

6.) Brooks & Gleb (Scores: 8, 8, 9, 8 = 28/40)

This was a surprise for me. Finally we get a dance that shows off more of her personality! I didn't know she had all that in her. Sometimes all you really need is a change in vibe to bring out another side of yourself artistically. Her lines are fantastic and technically she did great, but it lacked hip action for a cha cha and that's probably what hurt it. It was hella enjoyable though, so low 8 sounds about right.

 

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THE GOOD (7)

7.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 7, 6, 7, 6 = 26/40)

It started off so well. The chemistry and friendship radiating between these two is insane. However, she just overthought the choreo after coming down from the table. It sucks because she's capable of pulling off so much better. I think they need to work on transitioning between lifts and they'll be unstoppable.

 

8.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 7, 7, 5, 7 = 26/40)

Again, her stage presence carries the dance. Val does very well with a Paso Doble and this is another solid effort. There is room for improvement and she can definitely work on loosening up in the ballroom dances, but man can she hype the audience well.

 

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THE OKAY (6)

9.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 7, 7, 9, 7 = 30/40)

It was pretty interesting to say the least. The paso content felt too wonky and stoic to fit the mood yet there was enough effort from his end that it didn't feel phoned in. It kinda fell apart once the wardrobe malfunction came in, but even then there were slight timing problems. I think with a little more commitment during the harder dances

 

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THE UNDERWHELMING (5)

10.) Reginald & Emma (Scores: 6, 5, 5, 5 = 21/40)

He maybe took 6 steps from his spot throughout the dance and Emma twirled her ass off around him. I'm glad he felt the music though, that's the attitude I'm looking for in a paso - go out there and just feel it.

 

11.) Eric & Britt (Scores: 6, 5, 6, 5 = 22/40)

Oh god, the timing... I definitely get what Britt was going for with this dance. Thank god it was a bit more serious rather than it becoming a parody of itself which is very easy considering the song choice ("Cherry Pie" by Warrant). I think technique wise he did just about as well as I expected from him. But I can't get over the timing issues.

 

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Safe Are...

Joey & Jenna!

Brooks & Gleb!

Stephen & Rylee!

Chandler & Brandon!

Jenn & Sasha!

Phaedra & Val!

Danny & Witney!

Dwight & Daniella!

 

and...

 

 

 

 

Ilona & Alan! :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

Eliminated: Reginald & Emma, Eric & Britt This was the right decision. This season will be a nail biter from now on.

also I’m fairly certain that this episode is gonna get Gene Simmons cancelled bc HOLY FUCK THE JUDGING TONIGHT… I could visibly see the women getting uncomfortable during their critiques, especially Witney, Brooks & Chandler who got some of the ickiest comments 🥴🥴🥴

 

on the upside… MARK BALLAS IS GUEST JUDGING NEXT WEEK :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

Watch all Dedications Night performances below!

 

 

MARK BALLAS GUEST JUDGE ERA :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Mark Ballas | Bruno)

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

1.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

How does she have better hip action than most of the cast? :lol: This was a fantastic redemption dance and one of the better rumbas shown on this show. Her emotion and lines are to die for, and you can tell she worked really hard to make this dance as great as it was. I can feel some 10's coming their way soon.

 

2.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

Her toe point is INSANE *.* There seemed to be a bit of a problem with the lift but other than that she has fantastic technique and she capitalized on that heavily with this contemporary. Her lines are fantastic and the concept and song choice fit perfectly. It's very standard choreography though. Hopefully they pull something huge for Disney Night.

 

3.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 = 36/40)

Somehow he just keeps turning it out. Carrie Ann mentioned that there were some balance issues, and honestly I didn't see them because he seemed so focused on what he was doing and he nailed the choreography and musicality required for this dance. I still don't believe he doesn't have the dance experience that I think he has. Powder Puff cheer my ass.

 

4.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

Music being a form of escapism for her is so relatable, she is so real for that :lol: There were parts of the dance that were choreographed so well (like the "one little jump" part) and she glided through the floor with ease. She handled the amount of content and difficulty well but she definitely needs to tighten it up musicality wise. Regardless a fantastic dance.

 

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THE GREAT (8)

5.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8 = 33/40)

Am I a little wrong in saying that Stephen looked a little nervous? I think as soon as they did that first stunt his face started tensing up and it showed once he started to get ahead timing wise but other than that the dance was pretty crisp! I like that Mark gave him some pointers on how to augment his frame. Also every time they tell Stephen to get into a harder character he ends up being stiff - he needs that balance.

 

6.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 = 36/40)

One thing that I will say is that lifts really do pull the focus, and Witney did an amazing job in highlighting his physical strength and balance, especially with an emotional concept and dance. I think his emotion started to pour through by the end of the dance and you can feel that vulnerability.

 

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THE GOOD (7)

7.) Brooks & Gleb (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

A very very VERY fun dance. Very much a Dallas Cowboys-esque dance. I will say that she brought it down with her lines but her lack of hip action brought her down. However, her extensions are fantastic and this was another dance that showed off more of her personality. I need Gleb to step it up though - we got the right idea with highlighting her rather than anchoring themselves into being a showmance, but they need more content that fit the dance.

 

8.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 7, 8, 7, 7 = 29/40)

It's...... a standard rumba. Honestly I could barely concentrate on it because the song sounds like an inferior version of "Wanted" by Hunter Hayes... anyway moving on. I can feel him having a good time but at times he pulls off the hip action well and other times it feels slow?

 

9.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 = 32/40)

I know this was a slow dance and she always has that regal presence that carries her through the performance despite her technique not matching up to the top scorers, but it lacked a bit of hip action and it was visible this time around :( I will say that as always she was feeling herself throughout the dance and her beaming throughout put a smile on her face.

 

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Safe Are...

Jenn & Sasha!

Ilona & Alan!

Phaedra & Val!

Joey & Jenna!

Stephen & Rylee!

 

 

 

 

 

and...

Danny & Witney! :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

Bottom 3: Chandler & Brandon, Brooks & Gleb, Dwight & Daniella

Eliminated: Brooks & Gleb Well it was good that it was them bc they were giving ZEROOOOO otherwise.

Watch all Disney Night performances below!

 

 

We're not getting a guest judge this week :drama:

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 9, 9, 9 = 27/30)

Now this is more like it!!! The choreo is INSANE and much better, and like always she tackles the brief like a true artist. Her playing her own character just makes sense in this case. I have been saying that she needs to be pushed technically and while Disney Night is not a very orthodox time to do that, I'm glad it happened this way. A 10 should be coming their way soon, right?

 

2.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 9, 9, 9 = 27/30)

I choose to think that Deadpool did a number to the multiverse and that's the reason why we're getting a Deadpool/Marvel dance for Disney Night. A VERY unorthodox choice in a sense, but if there's anything Witney does well with, it's unorthodox character pieces. The fight sequence and the lifts were AMAZING, but there were parts where I felt that he was holding back? Either way WOW they're killing it. I do worry Danny might be peaking too early but there's always time to surprise.

 

3.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 9, 8, 8 = 25/30)

My jaw DROPPED when I saw Alan as a donkey :o I see the spirit of Mark has entered into him this time :lol: I like how the dance was simple yet challenging, which puts the spotlight more on Ilona performing as Luisa, and it fits the vibe. They really needed this dance, and while I do think they could have done much more choreo-wise, they did what they were supposed to do.

 

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THE GREAT (8)

4.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 8, 8, 9 = 25/30)

Joey keeps surprising me every dance. I was worried about the samba being too technical for him but he handled it well. Parts of the dance needed to be more fluid and he does look like a deer in the headlights sometimes, but wow he's great.

 

5.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/40)

The way they got this cutie pie to be Hercules blows my mind :lol: The stuns were out of this world, and he had a lot of joy and personality coming into the dance but it felt like he lost energy as the dance went on and that's what caused the slight timing issues. Charleston is always a stamina draining dance so the worst is probably over in that front.

 

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THE GOOD (7)

6.) Phaedra & Val (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

They picked a character that she can body with her stage presence. The slow parts were fantastic and definitely Broadway ready, she showed off a lot of sensuality and embodied the pizazz of Cruella. I do wish the faster parts were a lot better since she looked rattled by the tempo change and ended up noticeably late in parts of the choreo.

 

7.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/40)

They did not just mention Sasha being a crab :lol: I do feel that Jenn moved too sharp in the movements during the rumba but I do feel the elegance and joy with her. Apparently she had a balance issue and it was a major enough mistake for the judges to take notice, but it was a cute dance.

 

8.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

Daniella just breaks so much new ground with her choreo every season and it blows me away. The height difference made for some nice comedic moments in the dance (especially when she hid behind him), and their consistency on hold is something to be studied. I'm not sure where they're seeing the numerous mistakes but other than that it was a cute dance.

 

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TEAM DANCE RANKING

Team Goofs (Ilona, Chandler, Joey, Jenn): (Scores: 9, 9, 9 = 27/30)

WOW WOW WOW. The team dances are usually when the season kicks into hyperdrive. I love that they used Ilona as an anchor for the lifts especially, and each person held their own. Chandler is fantastic as always, Jenn brought in an innocence and cuteness, and Joey was great in the opening as Powerline. Overall a very cohesive team dance.

 

Team Roar (Dwight, Danny, Stephen, Phaedra): (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

REALLY cute dance. They pulled off the "it takes a village" feel very well, but the real highlight of the dance came when Dwight lifted Stephen up like he was Simba :lol: The solo parts could have been better, but it was really good as a team.

 

-

 

Safe Are...

Chandler & Brandon!

Ilona & Alan! :cheeseblock:

Danny & Witney!

Joey & Jenna!

and...

 

 

 

 

 

Dwight & Daniella! :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

WOW! What an upset! Could we be seeing a repeat of Iman Shumpert?

 

Bottom 3: Stephen & Rylee, Jenn & Sasha, Phaedra & Val

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eliminated: Phaedra & Val

I think all the comments about Phaedra not knowing the choreo and being unsure were the nail in the coffin. Also Val's lowest placement since Olivia Jade. Ouch.

Watch all Halloween Night performances below!

 

 

We have no guest judge again but we have dance offs! But right after we get a dance inspired by everyone's nightmares. Stephen is shirtless, Joey is giving Dead Silence, and Chandler is dressed like a broken doll, yet my eyes are on Ilona's I Dream Of Jeannie costume :heart:

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE JAW-DROPPING AND ICONIC (10)

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Scores: 9, 10, 10 = 29/30)

THE CONTENT! THE AMBIANCE! THE SLIGHT OUTFIT ALTERATION! This was absolutely what I was looking for with her! I knew she had to absolutely turn it out with her having immunity and thus only one chance to impress the judges. This was truly a Viennese Waltz that stands out as the best of the best. Carrie Ann is off her rocker truly.

 

-

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

2.) Stephen & Rylee (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

Now THIS is what I want to see in a contemporary! They really felt like a team and their synchronicity is an absolute treat! This showed that Stephen cannot be counted out just yet - when the going gets tough he can clutch out a fantastic result.

 

3.) Dwight & Daniella (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

When I saw the height difference I just knew that she was going to cook up another show stopping contemporary. Dwight absolutely SLAUGHTERED IT character-wise. He gave the right aura and intensity to be this boogeyman. The lifts were astronomical as well - I think Dani spent half of the dance with the blood rushing to her head :lol: Maybe with a bit more side by side synchronized dancing it could have reached the same iconicity as Iman's Halloween Week dance.

 

4.) Danny & Witney (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

So he almost missed her hand at one point... It started off pretty weak and I got worried, but he revved up the confidence as the dance went on. Then he did that one lift and all of a sudden everything clicked. Danny's commitment to the bit carries him in every dance and you can feel his enthusiasm in every dance. He needs to keep his footwork consistent and he'll be golden.

 

5.) Jenn & Sasha (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

Jenn was LOCKED IN tonight! There was so much contemporary content, Jenn handled it like a pro, and she absolutely bodied this dance! You can tell that she put a lot of trust in Sasha especially when it came to the major partner work. Also can she does excellent in a group setting? The beginning section in particular is something I can see being an iconic moment. Overall her strongest dance.

 

6.) Joey & Jenna (Scores: 10, 9, 10 = 29/30)

I feel like this was a dance that is much better as a whole than the individual parts are. It was great as a whole but when you start to break it down you see the problems - his technique is still pretty inconsistent but the dance felt brisk and the lifts, while rocky and unstable, didn't feel like the celeb's partner's life was flashing before their eyes.

 

-

 

THE GREAT (8)

7.) Ilona & Alan (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

At first I thought that the dance felt a bit underwhelming and there weren't that many lifts for an Argentine Tango... but then I realized it wasn't an AT. She did pretty well despite the slight footwork issues, but I do need to see her get into character a bit more. I think she gets lost in the excitement that she ends up losing it in the face. 8's seem right.

 

-

 

DANCE-OFFS

Ilona vs. Dwight

My pick: Ilona & Alan

The judges' pick: Dwight & Daniella

 

The drags won it out for me idk

 

Stephen vs. Jenn

My pick: Stephen & Rylee

The judges' pick: Jenn & Sasha

 

Another hard one - the tricks and Stephen's energy won it out for me but Jenn's technique was superior so I understand the picks

 

Joey vs. Danny

My pick: Danny & Witney (I'm picking this knowing it's futile)

The judges' pick: Joey & Jenna

 

Danny & Witney fit the song better, but Joey had better technique... another hard one

 

-

 

Safe Are...

Dwight & Daniella!

Danny & Witney! (THANK GOD)

Joey & Jenna!

and...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilona & Alan! :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

ILONA SAFE!!!!!!! She's for sure getting the votes and thank Jesus she is

 

Bottom 3: Stephen & Rylee, Jenn & Sasha, Chandler & Brandon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eliminated: Jenn & Sasha

Yeah as soon as Ilona was called safe I was pretty sure Jenn was a goner :(

Watch all 500th Episode Celebration performances below!

 

 

This show has been going on for 500 episodes wow :o Sharna returning was such a surprise, I wish she just ended up as guest judge

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE JAW-DROPPING AND ICONIC (10)

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 10, 10, 10 = 30/30)

SHE WAS LOCKED IN. They focused more on technique and precision, and while it didn't have as many show stopping death defying lifts as other Argentine Tangos, it helped them stand out from the crowd. The energy was inhibited and yet so laser focused, and man that was appropriate for this AT.

 

2.) Ilona & Alan (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

...this was GAG WORTHY!!! They were determined to put on a show with them and what came out was one of the most whimsical and serotonin-injected dances out there. If there was one dance that I think encapsulated what they were looking for with the theme then this would be it. Like Jordan and Lindsay, they just had so much fun with their dance and it showed.

 

3.) Dwight & Daniella (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 8, 9, 9 = 26/30)

HOW DOES SHE DO THIS????? I am continuously blown away with what she does; she really continues to push the bar choreography-wise while pushing and showcasing Dwight to the best of his potential. The beginning with the platform where they're finally eye level with each other was a GENIUS move and they never let up throughout the entire dance. Truly a dance that is 10-worthy... and yet it got the scores it did.

 

4.) Chandler & Brandon (Instant Dance: Cha Cha) (Scores: 10, 10, 10 = 30/30)

This was so Week 1 coded and yet it was an absolute blast of energy and refinement. Truly a dance of a winner.

 

-

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

5.) Ilona & Alan (Instant Dance: Salsa) (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

Another couple that stuck to what they knew. It was a fun salsa that showed their partnership once again but they still need to work on their lift transitions. I'm glad they took the risk regardless because it's always a treat to watch them lift each other.

 

6.) Stephen & Rylee (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 10, 10, 9 = 29/30)

Actually a solid dance! You can feel their chemistry and partnership in this dance, and it felt like a prom dance at times. It was a beautiful combination of skill and emotion. They were solid and LOCKED IN with this performance.

 

7.) Joey & Jenna (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 9, 10, 9 = 28/30)

Well this was a strong performance! They seem very solid as a partnership and I was scared that the choreo might go over Joey's head since it's more geared towards ballet technique but I didn't see any mistakes, so that was good. I think if he works on the facial expressions for the more somber dances he'll be golden!

 

8.) Stephen & Rylee (Instant Dance: Jive) (Scores: 10, 10, 9 = 29/30)

His footwork was pretty good and an improvement from the last time he did the jive. However, from the waist down he looked so nervous. I'm glad that he got the jive since that seemed to match his personality the most.

 

9.) Joey & Jenna (Instant Dance: Rumba) (Scores: 9, 10, 9 = 28/30)

This was a nice and fluffy Rumba. I do think they played it safe for this one save for one drag and I think it was the right decision for them. I was anticipating this to be very hard but they handled it well.

 

-

 

THE GREAT (8)

10.) Danny & Witney (Iconic Dance) (Scores: 9, 9, 9 = 27/30)

This was a HARD song to keep up with. While I do think Danny did well and nailed the choreography and character I think at times the song got away from him and he tried hard to keep in sync with Witney and the technique suffered a bit from that.

 

11.) Dwight & Daniella (Instant Dance: Paso Doble) (Scores: 8, 7, 7 = 22/30)

As soon as Dani knew what she was given she immediately got to WORK. Man they tried as hard as they could. She really held Dwight together and I do think they committed to the dance but the technique was weaker than usual and he did mess up a few times (like when he missed Dani's hands at one point).

 

12.) Danny & Witney (Instant Dance: Jive) (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

I could tell that they were sticking to what they know. Shirtless Danny, fun drag, the technique was a bit weaker than expected but they were nice enough.

 

-

 

Safe Are...

Ilona & Alan! (THANK GOD)

Stephen & Rylee!

and...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Danny & Witney! :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock: :cheeseblock:

 

Bottom 3: Stephen & Rylee, Chandler & Brandon, Dwight & Daniella

Eliminated: Dwight & Daniella

 

Yeah... I can tell this wasn't the bottom 3 because the two front runners there???? They threw Dwight and Dani to the WOLVES.

Watch all Semi Finals performances below!

 

 

Each couple has two dances to perform this week: one ballroom dance and one latin dance

 

(scores: Carrie Ann | Derek | Bruno)

 

THE JAW-DROPPING AND ICONIC (10)

1.) Chandler & Brandon (Ballroom Dance: Foxtrot) (Scores: 9, 10, 10 = 29/30)

My jaw was on the FLOOR with that dance :o THE TECHNIQUE! THE CHOREO! THE STAGE PRESENCE! THE FLEXIBILITY!!!!! THIS HAD EVERYTHING!!!!

 

2.) Ilona & Alan (Ballroom Dance: Viennese Waltz) (Scores: 10, 9, 10 = 29/30)

Ilona always feels like she's floating on a cloud whenever she dances and it warms my heart so much :heart: It was just so pretty! The musicality was everything, their emotion was spot on, my god this was beautiful.

 

3.) Joey & Jenna (Ballroom Dance: Foxtrot) (Scores: 9, 10, 9 = 28/30)

Well Joey just proved that his front runner status is not a fluke. This was his best dance by MILES. I was worried that he wouldn't be able to keep up his frame or energy throughout the dance but he fought every urge and stayed locked in throughout the whole performance. It should easily be him vs. Chandler for the win.

 

4.) Joey & Jenna (Latin Dance: Paso Doble) (Scores: 9, 10, 9 = 28/30)

He knew what he was getting into with that Paso. He had the right attitude, his stage presence was pretty good, his timing was solid save for a few parts at the end, I do think he could utilize his lines better to fit his full potential but other than that another solid dance.

 

5.) Chandler & Brandon (Latin Dance: Salsa) (Scores: 10, 9, 10 = 29/30)

She just WENT FOR IT. I like how the two just performed the hell out of it and while it could have used more content, the content they did have was executed so well that it felt like two pros dancing out there. I do worry that going first may have hurt her chances at the finale but she's leaving her mark regardless.

 

6.) Stephen & Rylee (Ballroom Dance: Tango) (Scores: 10, 9, 9 = 28/30)

At first I was scared because he was off balance a couple times but then the judges pointed out that he did the entire dance while fighting a wardrobe malfunction!!! Apparently he was supposed to be wearing his glasses the entire time but then they started to fall off as soon as he stepped off the platform! That just earned all my respect.

 

-

 

THE FANTASTIC (9)

7.) Ilona & Alan (Latin Dance: Paso Doble) (Scores: 9, 10, 9 = 28/30)

She has the right attitude and also had the right facial expressions for this dance. This was one dance where I felt like she was in the zone and this was the dance where she was the most in her element. The ensemble dance in sync was fantastic and killer. I just wish the dance wasn't played too straight and she was a lot smoother and less stompy during the parts on hold.

 

8.) Danny & Witney (Latin Dance: Salsa) (Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24/30)

This dance proves that lifts really do pull the focus. They went for the death defying lifts just in case they went home that week and honestly if they pay off I won't be surprised. As for the salsa content I wish that he wasn't off balance a few times and that the beginning went by as smoothly as the lifts, but what a way to end the show.

 

-

 

THE GREAT (8)

9.) Danny & Witney (Ballroom Dance: Viennese Waltz) (Scores: 9, 9, 9 = 27/30)

Danny gets a dance where he can't rely on lifts. This was one hard dance. I can tell he really tried to keep up but at the same time there were a few bobbles. Derek pointed out that he lacks a bit in the performance aspect (lack of facial expressions!!!) but the judges agreed that he fought hard for this opportunity and delivered another solid dance.

 

10.) Stephen & Rylee (Latin Dance: Cha Cha) (Scores: 8, 8, 9 = 25/30)

It felt so slow :drama: The technique could have been a lot better but at the same time I think he had the right energy for the dance. I don't know. They should have just danced the song at the normal BPM.