sueponine

"However, as with most cases of this nature, we can't really ignore how the show has treated female contestants of color: Monique Coleman, Mya, Mel B, Brandy, were to all at varying extents treated very dismissively by the show despite talent. I leave out Wendy and Nene because they were't that great of dancers to begin with. I'm sure there may be other contestants I can't remember off hand however I have counter question. I think the biggest frustration for Tamar in terms of viewers that are airing grievances is that she is simply being added to the list of black female contestants that are getting a very targetted narrative on this show (unapproachable, lacks warmth or connection, too much attitude). The only time she's come off as slightly vulnerable is when she spoke about her husband almost dying. That's a bit extreme and I'm sure for her routines to come out as good as they have been she has to listen to Val at some point, why not show these times?" You bring up good points....issues that always must be looked at and addressed. This old white lady is always on the lookout for people who may be receiving different treatment for a plethora of reasons. I don't know that I completely agree with everything you put forth but it is a very important discussion. Someone has already talked about Mel B. (loved her and she seemed to be a strong and well liked contestant), Laila Ali....well, you try to put Laila in a corner and she will set things straight. I do admire her grace and the way she carries herself. I think she may be a lot like her dad. I am enjoying reading this thread. Many good and important points being made. Sus.

Thanks, Jennifer. Sus.

Really dumb question but I need help. I live in Kentucky, EST. Can anybody tell me what network/channel Srictkly Come Dancing appears on. I have never seen that show and I would like to watch it I think. I just don't know where to find it and I've tried. Thanks. Oh, and I'm an Alek fan to the last. Sus.

"Alek has been my favorite in the competition so far, and while I'd understand if being on a dancing show suddenly felt to him like an inappropriate thing to be doing, I'd hope he might stick with it out of an obligation to Lindsay if not to the show. She has a reasonable shot at getting to the finals if he keeps working as hard as he's been, and there would be a cost for her in payment, visibility, and opportunity if he bowed out (not that she wouldn't be supportive, but this is her livelihood). He seems like the kind of guy who might keep going and trying his best for that reason if nothing else. The burden will be on the show then not to do anything exploitive. Not sure they have that in 'em, but hope so." I agree. I think it comes down to Lindsey as this is her second chance as a DWTS pro and the first take was not cool. Alek and she have been described as a power couple and I see it as well. I've had a bad headache today and have other things to do but I just have to go with my feeling that Lindsey and Alek have a real connection. Thinking about it, I don't think he would let her down. Sus. Oh, he seriously needs to make that trip to Paris after this gig is over.

I just read about this on CNN and it's just unbelievable that this guy would have to suffer so much. As for Alek.....I hope, sincerely, that he continue with DWTS. For me, personally, he's my favorite in the competition. He didn't look so glad to be there this past Monday night and it's completely understandable. I imagine he will have a conversation with Spencer that might go something like this....."Alek, stay with it. There's nothing you can do for me but you can represent and win DWTS. I'll see you when you get finished over there and we'll talk then." I'm sure he's speaking with Spence several times a day. If he does choose to leave, it's completely understandable. I just hope he doesn't. He's been a real delight on that sagging show. Sus.

Have you LOOKED at Alek lately. His looks beat Nick Carter's by at least one mile, I don't follow those things like trending wherever but that is no surprise to me. Sus.

Adork....agree completely. No one has really mentioned this but am I the only one who thinks that Alek is drop dead handsome. I hope he doesn't go out with any of those dancing girls as has been suggested, well last week re Alek's tango. This guy needs to get to some kind of normalcy. Think.....Afghanistan, the trip to Paris and then this shooting. He will need some PTSD counseling and I'm sure he'll be fine. He's just so cute. Sus.

I hope he stays with the program. His most memorable time would have to be the train to Paris. I do really feel for the guy as he is so young, already been to Afghanistan, then the train. His family is split. I just wish him the very best. He seems to be very level headed and I sure don't see him quiting the show. He's all DWTS has going for it this season, AIMHO. Sus.

I feel so disappointed that Karina will probably be eliminated. She is and always has been my favorite pro. She and Alek would have made a great couple. Sus.