In The Media: DWTS

[tv echo]

‘Dancing With the Stars’ Boss Defends Anna Delvey Casting, Ponders Adding On Set Therapists and Previews ‘Fierce’ Season 33
By Emily Longeretta   Sep 12, 2024
https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/dancing-with-the-stars-anna-delvey-casting-therapist-season-33-1236141548/

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There’s been a bit of backlash around the casting of Anna Delvey this year, since she was a convicted felon and had to get permission from ICE to compete. What do you say to that?

[SHOWRUNNER CONRAD GREEN:] We’ve always tried to be a very broad church when it comes to the types of people, the types of backgrounds, the types of stories we have on the show. Anna is fascinating to a lot of people, a lot of people have watched the dramas about her life and have followed her story, so I think there is an inherent curiosity about her. She’s very into the world of fashion and those kinds of things, so I think she’ll actually present very well as a dancer. I think people really want to see her. She’s a very valid and interesting part of that cast. Yes, she had the issues she’s had, but we’ve had other people on the show who’ve had criminal issues in the past. She served her time. I think it’s perfectly valid for her to be on the show, and I think people have been really curious to see how she performs.

Edited September 13 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik jokes it’s time his feet 'get the spotlight' on Dancing With the Stars (exclusive)
By Emlyn Travis  Published on September 12, 2024
https://ew.com/olympian-stephen-nedoroscik-wants-feet-in-spotlight-on-dancing-with-the-stars-8711506 

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When asked if he’d keep his glasses on in the ballroom, Nedoroscik replied, “Not sure yet.” The 25-year-old, who has multiple eye conditions, jokingly added that he could very well find himself without them if something goes wrong during his and pro partner Rylee Arnold’s performance. 

“You never know which one of these kicks is gonna [make them go] pew,” he said, making a soaring sound.
*  *  *
Nedoroscik admitted that he’s got “no dance background at all,” but maintained that it just provides a “clean slate” for Arnold to teach him. At the time of the press event, the pair had already completed a few of their rehearsals. 

“It’s been great. It's been so fun,” Arnold said about their practices. “Stephen works so hard, and we have a good time together. It’s been so good.”

Edited September 15 by tv echo

[tv echo]

2024 Official Trailer | Dancing with the Stars
Dancing With The Stars   Sep 12, 2024

[Bliss]

Searched... and can't find a thread for this season. Help?

[tv echo]

How Much Do the Celebrities and Pro Partners Get Paid on 'Dancing with the Stars'?
Paulette Cohn   Sep 17, 2024
https://parade.com/1240167/paulettecohn/dancing-with-the-stars-salaries-celebrities-pro-partners/ 

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According to several sources, including Variety, the starting salary for celebrities is $125,000, which includes training for at least 20 hours per week, including several weeks prior to the premiere of the season.

But the money goes up if a celebrity gets votes and stays in the competition. Of course, no one wants to be eliminated in the first few weeks out of pride, but there is also a financial incentive to stay in the game. For stars who make it to weeks three and four, there is an added bonus amount of $10,000 per week.

If they make it to week five, the additional pay is $15,000, weeks six and seven add $20,000 per week, and then weeks eight and nine see $30,000 deposited in their bank account.

And if they are lucky enough to make the semi-finals and the finale, there is an additional $50,000 prize money each week, plus the winner gets the Mirror Ball trophy.

Added up, in an 11-week season, the stars who make it to finale have the potential to walk away with $360,000 if the rumored figures are correct. Not a bad pay day, but there is also a report that in 2019, the pay was cut so that the maximum the final three could earn was $295,000. Even so, it is definitely still an impressive amount.
*  *  *
When it comes to the professional partners, the numbers are much less impressive and much less reported. Their job requires them to train their celebrity partner at least 20 hours a week, choreograph the dance numbers, and then perform on the show.

It is rumored that a starting salary for a pro is $1,600 per episode, which keeps them motivated to stay in the season for as long as possible to keep the paychecks coming in. But for the pros that have been on the show for several seasons and have garnered a fan following, the rumor is their salary is negotiable and can go up to as much as $5,200 per episode, but they still have to stay in the competition to collect it. The reported cap for a professional dancer is said to be $100,000 per season, again, DWTS has never confirmed these salaries, so it is speculation.
*  *  *
But the DWTS payout isn’t the only money that results from participating. Many of the celebrities who participate on Dancing with the Stars have the thought in mind of boosting their careers. So, by performing on the ABC competition show, they land other gigs.

Edited September 19 by tv echo

[tv echo]

I still don't understand the judges' scoring...

DWTS judge Carrie Ann Inaba says when Anna Delvey danced 'energy in the room was really low'
By EW Staff    September 18, 2024 
https://ew.com/dwts-judge-carrie-ann-inaba-season-33-premiere-anna-delvey-8715008 

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ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Who surprised you the most on night one?

CARRIE ANN INABA: Joey and Jenna had the moves. Stephen and Riley had so much joy! Dwight and Dani made the impossible possible (height difference-wise). Chandler and Brandon stunned all three of the judges with her polished tango.
*  *  *
Reginald VelJohnson didn't have many steps in his dance, but you gave him a 6, which seemed to surprise his partner, Emma. What did you see in his performance to give him that score?

Well, quite honestly, I was surprised at Emma's reaction. Why should she be so surprised that her partner scored well? Reginald gave us quite an entertaining performance. The audience reacted and connected with him. But more importantly, I could see that he was leading Emma in his salsa, and that he can actually dance. His musicality and rhythm were on point, which is a huge factor in dance. Someone can be great at the movements, and the choreography, but if you aren't moving to or with the music, and aren't performing to the audience in a way that is captivating or entertaining, it can be uncomfortable to watch. This performance was fun, comfortable, and he was in the pocket of the music, which is the "sweet spot." It was an entertaining performance all around. People often write off older people in our society. But I believe that everyone who enters the ballroom is capable of a performance worthy of a perfect score. And because everyone comes in with their own unique abilities, I take that into consideration. As the season progresses, I'll share more and more about my scoring process.
*  *  *
Anna Delvey's casting has been controversial, and you encouraged viewers to give her a chance and keep it about the dancing. What would you say to people who are having a difficult time doing that?

Let's be clear, I don't have anything to do with the casting. And yes, her casting is controversial, maybe even upsetting for people. I can understand that. But my job is to score her performances, not her criminal past. I look at what she is doing for those 90 seconds, from when the music starts to that final pose. And by doing that, I'm not commenting on what she did that earned her that ankle monitor. I'm also not making light of the fact that she is a convicted felon. But in the context of my interaction with her, it's about what she does in the ballroom. And my comments about giving her a chance were more for the studio audience who are a part of the show. The energy in the room was really low when she danced. And I think when someone enters your house as a guest, we should treat them as such. I think that's just being a good human. The beauty is that, as always, the fans can vote or not vote for whomever they choose, and they have the power to make their statement about it by the way they vote. It's also Ezra's first season and I'm like the DWTS mom. I want to create a safe and welcoming space for Ezra to perform with his partner as well.

Fans were a little confused by Tori Spelling's score being only 1 point above Reginald's when it seemed like she had a lot more movement to hers. What do you think accounts for the disconnect between judges and the home audience?

I love how passionate our fans are! And their passion is what keeps DWTS alive. So, I'm grateful for that. I score from what I know from being in the world of dance and entertainment for almost 40 years, as a dancer, choreographer, recording artist, producer, and student of ethnographic studies — as well as from being behind the scenes and in front of the camera for most of my life, and most notably — from my experience of being one of the original judges on this show.

In general, "moving a lot" and doing a lot of "steps" is not dancing. Dancing is a form of self-expression, athleticism, artistry, specific techniques, musicality, grace, showmanship and so many other elements. I don't count the number of steps a contestant does in their routine, but rather look at is as a whole. What I loved about Tori is that you could see how nervous she was, but she was able to conquer her fears and get through the routine with grace and a true sense of accomplishment. Remember, there are only so many scores to give out. I don't think I've ever given anyone lower than a 4… so there are only six numbers left to work with. It would be nice if we could add a decimal and give 7.3 or 6.5 like they do in gymnastics, but that's not how we do it. I thought Tori should be very proud of her performance. I was proud of her. 

And as for the "disconnect" between the judges and the audience — I don't think I would call it that. The audience is an active participant in our show. Sometimes the three or four judges don't agree, we don't have to. We don't have to agree. We can have different opinions and be agreeable while disagreeing. This is what makes our show so special. Our audience is an active participant, they always have been. And we (the judges on DWTS) actually give scores. We don't just get to say something and not take accountability. We put up a number along with our comments. Sometimes people agree, and sometimes they don't, and that is exactly the way it should be. We all have a voice that matters at DWTS, and I encourage everyone to use their power to vote for what they believe in.

Edited September 19 by tv echo

[Fellaway]

On 9/17/2024 at 8:11 PM, Bliss said:

Searched... and can't find a thread for this season. Help?

Here is the link for the first episode:

Season 33 Premiere

[tv echo]

Exclusive: DWTS’ Derek Hough Reveals the Contestant He Thinks Is the *One* to Watch
Jason Pham   Sep 22, 2024
https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/745879/derek-hough-dancing-with-the-stars-winner-prediction/ 

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Hough, who has been a judge on Dancing With the Stars since Season 29 and was previously a pro on the show for 17 seasons, has a specific criteria for judging contestants, at least in the beginning. “For the first couple weeks, it’s really just basing off each person’s own individual level. It’s also hard because you might give somebody a six and give somebody else a six, but this person’s definitely better than this person. But they’re not quite a seven, so internally, there’s a low six and a high six,” he told Soaps.com. “Sometimes people go, ‘How do they get the same score? Because this person is definitely better.’ Yes, they are, but they’re also not quite a seven just yet. And this person isn’t a five. Sometimes it’s hard to balance them because you only have a few numbers to work with.”

As Hough explains, the playing field isn’t leveled until toward the end of the competition. “I don’t really compare anybody until the end,” he says. “That last two weeks, semi final and final, you’re like, ‘OK, this person is better than this person.’ But at least this first week, it’s about their own personal journey and their personal best.”
*  *  *
Soaps.com: Dancing With the Stars premiered this week. Who were you the most surprised by? 

Derek Hough: Joey [Graziadei] from The Bachelor was fantastic. So is Jenn [Tran]. She was great. Dwight [Howard] was so fun to watch. Chandler [Kinney], she’s a pro. She looks incredible. So much finesse. Her facility is incredible. Fantastic, beautiful. Stephen [Nedoroscik] was great. So charismatic. So full of energy, great performer. I love that he was using the athleticism with that jive. Honestly, Danny [Amendola], the football player, I could see he was thinking about the dance a little bit, but his actual movement, I was really impressed. He actually had good lead and structure in his dancing. It was a jam-packed night. 

Soaps.com: Who would you say is the one to watch?

Hough: Chandler, for sure, as far as her ability and her capacity. She will be really hard to beat on a technical level. But we all know this show isn’t just about technique. It’s about connecting with the audience, connecting with the judges. It’s about performance. It’s about choreography. It’s about even the music. Everything plays a part. I think Joey and Jenna [Johnson] are gonna be strong. I foresee Stephen staying in there. Dwight, I’m curious to see how they’re gonna do with the more technical dances. Salsa is fun and a party. It’s tricks and lifts. Bu from a charismatic standpoint, he’s gonna be hard to beat. It depends on what you are going for. Because I remember, even last season, you know, people loved Harry [Jowsey]. He got the lowest scores, and he made it really far. 

Soaps.com: Who do you think is the dark horse?

Hough: Let’s give it to Anna Delvey. I’m gonna be real. Leading up to the show, I was like, “Oh, man. She doesn’t even want to be here. What are we doing?” But regardless of what she says, she had moments where I was like, “You could actually be really good.” She had some facility there. Some nice lines. I was at a loss for words when I saw her last night. 

Edited September 22 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Week 2 (Sep. 24) spoilers of dance styles and song choices...

Dancing with the Stars 2024 Oscars Night Dance Styles, Song Choices
09/20/2024 mj santilli
https://www.mjsbigblog.com/dancing-with-the-stars-2024-oscars-night-dance-styles-song-choices.htm 

[tv echo]

Anna Delvey shocked her 'Dancing With the Stars' partner with this one-word response
By Samantha Kubota   Sep 24, 2024
https://www.today.com/popculture/tv/anna-delveys-dancing-stars-surprised-blunt-reaction-voted-rcna172595 

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When asked what she would take from her experience on the show, Delvey deadpanned a one word response: "Nothing."

The blunt response seemed to surprise Sosa, who raised his eyebrows and laughed.

The shows hosts, Julianna Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro, also laughed off her comment as the show credits rolled.
*  *  *
In a TikTok on Monday ahead of the show, Sosa revealed that Delvey had cried in a bathroom following her "DWTS" debut.

"On my end, I was feeling so much positivity," he said in the video. "On my partner’s end, she wasn’t receiving the same. I think the hardest part of my day after (the) press line, she was reading the comments and we couldn’t find her. They finally found her in the bathroom. She was crying. I’ve never seen her like that, and it broke my heart."

‘Dancing With the Stars’: Tori Spelling & Pasha Pashkov on Shocking Elimination and Scores
Michael Maloney   September 25, 2024
https://www.tvinsider.com/1153725/dancing-with-the-stars-tori-spelling-anna-delvey-eliminated/ 

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“This was an amazing experience,” Spelling concurred. She may have only been in the competition for two weeks, but she’s as joyful about her tenure on the program as any Mirrorball champion has ever been. “This was one of the best experiences of my entire life,” the daughter of late legendary TV producer Aaron Spelling (Dynasty, Charlie’s Angels) said.
*  *  *
“Ezra did a great job,” concurs Valentin Chmerkovskiy. “I think he needs to be given another chance with somebody that wants to be here.”

Edited September 25 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Dancing With the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba says Anna Delvey was 'dismissive' of what show had to offer
By Maureen Lee Lenker   September 25, 2024
https://ew.com/dwts-judge-carrie-ann-inaba-says-anna-delvey-dismissive-of-what-show-offers-8718435 

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ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Anna Delvey and Tori Spelling were the first two contestants to go home. Did either of those results surprise you?

CARRIE ANN INABA: The first eliminations always bring a mix of emotions. This week, we said goodbye to Anna and Ezra, and Tori and Pasha.

Tori’s departure caught me off guard. She wasn’t at the bottom of the leaderboard, and I felt she had a real breakthrough during her performance last night. I hope she will continue to dance, and I want to thank her for sharing her story and taking the leap of faith into the unknown with all of us, in our magical ballroom. 
...
As for Anna, I was taken aback by her comment when asked what she learned from being on the show, and she flatly said, "Nothing." That was dismissive not only of the opportunity she was given, of her wonderful and supportive partner Ezra in his debut season, but also of all of us who work on the show-from the dancers to behind the scenes to the creative team. We all put in the effort to give her a fair opportunity. But I don’t think she could see that and it’s a shame. A little gratitude could have changed the narrative. 
*  *  *
We couldn’t hear the music malfunction in her [Jenn Tran] and Sasha's routine at home. How long did it last and how disruptive could it have been to the performance?

Ahh.. yes. LIVE TV! I love it. In Jenn’s performance, the music did not play to the house in the beginning, which made it very difficult for them to perform. Quite honestly, for me, it was confusing to watch because it looked like they were not in sync. We could hear our incredible vocalist singing and a very muffled click track, but that’s about it and they weren’t quite in sync. I’m so glad to hear that the audience at home could hear the track. It looked like a mistake.
...
Side note: We now have monitors on the table because we realized the home viewers had a different experience so we get the live feed, or the “line cut” and sometimes when a set piece is blocking our view, or they are starting a number off stage it helps!
*  *  *
You told Reginald that everyone’s 10 looks different. But as a judge, are you evaluating everyone by the same standard?

Yes, this can be complicated to understand. But here it is: From day one, I have judged the same way. I believe everyone has the ability to get a ten. And that ten will be the ten they can achieve with their ability.  That is what makes it fair. For example, Amy Purdy — the talented and beautiful para- olympian who was partnered with Derek Hough in season 18 — was dancing on prosthetic legs. So, how could I expect her to point her toes? Her perfection would have to be one without pointed toes or certain movements that might be impossible for her to achieve due to the way her body moves. And her unique abilities. 

There are so many areas to look at when we judge. I judge the performance as a whole. I’m less concerned about the exact details of each dance style, and more concerned with the way it all comes together as a performance, how they are growing as a dancer, how entertaining it was. 
...
Of course, everyone’s ten is different and I’m judging everyone by the same standard. I can’t speak for Bruno and Derek. We each look for different things. It’s always been that way. And from day one, I’ve always judged this way.

Edited September 26 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Tori Spelling reflects on DWTS elimination and 'unlikely' friendship with Anna Delvey: 'The big word is just gratitude'
By Ryan Coleman   September 26, 2024
https://ew.com/tori-spelling-reflects-on-dwts-elimination-and-unlikely-anna-delvey-friendship-8719341

Anna Sorokin speaks out after dramatic exit from 'Dancing With the Stars'
By Pilar Melendez   September 26, 2024
https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/tv/anna-delvey-sorokin-speaks-dancing-stars-dramatic-exit-rcna172914

[tv echo]

Stephen Nedoroscik on ‘DWTS’ Clark Kent Moment & GF Tess’ Support (Exclusive)
extratv   Sep 27, 2024

[tv echo]

Did Chicago P.D. Tease Car Crash? Are Grey’s Doc’s Days Numbered? Did DWTS Scores Not Jibe? Was SEAL Team Sentry Blind? And More TV Qs!
By Vlada Gelman, Matt Webb Mitovich, Kimberly Roots, Dave Nemetz, Rebecca Iannucci, Ryan Schwartz, Nick Caruso, Charlie Mason   September 27, 2024
https://tvline.com/features/greys-anatomy-catherine-tumor-debbie-allen-leaving-season-21-1235340097/ 

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6 | We don’t usually question Dancing With the Stars’ scoring, but how could Carrie Ann Inaba think Jenn Tran and Eric Roberts — who gave performances of very different quality — both deserved sixes?

Edited September 29 by tv echo

[tv echo]

She should stop doing interviews - it's not helping her...

Anna Delvey Doesn’t Think She Got a Fair Shot on Dancing with the Stars
By Charlotte Phillipp   September 28, 2024
https://people.com/anna-delvey-doesnt-think-she-got-fair-shot-on-dancing-with-the-stars-8720110 

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Additionally, Delvey detailed her concerns about connecting with the DWTS audience, as the show's viewers skew older. According to the 33-year-old, she believed that most people who would be interested in watching her compete were on the younger side.

"At first, I had concerns to be on the show because I was thinking what it's going to do to my image because obviously, none of the older audience can relate to me because of my past," Delvey said, referring to her scam case which ended in her serving prison time. "So I'm like, everyone who's a fan of me, they're on the younger side."

"It's not the kind of people who watch live TV necessarily or who know about Dancing with the Stars," she added.
*  *  *
Delvey also called out her fellow competitors Eric Roberts and Reginald VelJohnson, stating that she felt both herself and Spelling were better dancers than the two men.
*  *  *
"He's a great person, and he's a cultural icon, but he's not a good dancer," she later added of VelJohnson. "And I thought I signed up for a dancing competition and not a popularity competition — who is the most well-liked person in Hollywood."

Edited September 29 by tv echo

[Fellaway]

11 hours ago, tv echo said:

She should stop doing interviews - it's not helping her...

Anna Delvey Doesn’t Think She Got a Fair Shot on Dancing with the Stars
By Charlotte Phillipp   September 28, 2024
https://people.com/anna-delvey-doesnt-think-she-got-fair-shot-on-dancing-with-the-stars-8720110 

Anybody who doesn't know this show is part popularity contest hasn't been paying attention. Also, way to pigeonhole people.  And also also! She has fans?

[tv echo]

Spoilers of dance styles and song choices for Soul Train Night...

Dancing with the Stars 2024 Soul Train Night Dance Styles, Song Choices
10/02/2024 mj santilli
https://www.mjsbigblog.com/dancing-with-the-stars-2024-soul-train-night-dance-styles-song-choices.htm 

Edited October 5 by tv echo

[tv echo]

DWTS choreographers were nominated for a 2024 World Choreography Award...

‘Barbie’ and ‘Wonka’ Among 2024 World Choreography Awards Nominees
By Emiliana Betancourt   Oct 3, 2024
https://variety.com/2024/artisans/news/world-choreography-awards-full-nominations-list-2024-1236166366/

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Television Reality/Variety Show:
Tessandra Chavez – “The Kelly Clarkson Show”
Mark Ballas – “Dancing with the Stars,” “Give It To Me Baby”
Luam Keflezgy – “Dancing with the Stars,” Season 32 Opening
Jason Gilkison – “Strictly Come Dancing,” Disney’s 100th Birthday
Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson – “Dancing with the Stars,” Len Goodman Tribute

https://www.worldchoreographyawards.com/services-2

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On Sunday, November 17, 2024, all winners will be announced at the World Choreography Awards Show, at the Avalon Hollywood, in Hollywood, California.

Edited October 4 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Spoilers of dance styles and song choices for both Soul Train and Hair Metal Night (DWTS is on 2 nights in a row, starting Monday, next week)...

‘DWTS’ Season 33 Soul and Metal Night Songs Revealed: Brooks and Gleb’s ‘Sexual Healing’ Dance and More
By Yana Grebenyuk 
https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/dancing-with-the-stars-season-33-soul-train-night-songs-revealed/ 

Spoiler

Danny and Witney will perform a foxtrot to “Dancing Machine” by Jackson 5 during the two-night event followed by a paso doble to “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi.
*  *  *
The Isley Brothers’ song “Shout” will be playing as Joey and Jenna perform their jive followed by a tango to “Rock You Like A Hurricane” by Scorpions.
*  *  *
Dwight and Daniella got “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire for their cha cha performance and a paso doble to “Walk This Way” by Aerosmith.
*  *  *
Chandler and Brandon are also dancing a cha cha to “It’s Tricky” by Run-DMC and a jive to “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister.
*  *  *
Ilona and pro Alan will perform a foxtrot to “Lady Marmalade” by LaBelle and a jive to “Cum On Feel the Noize” by Quiet Riot.
*  *  *
Fans should expect to see Brooks and Gleb bring the heat with “Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye and“Nothin’ But A Good Time” by Poison.
*  *  *
Stephen and Rylee are performing a quickstep to “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder and a foxtrot to “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake.
*  *  *
Aretha Franklin‘s “Think” is Phaedra and Val’s next song as they prepare a quickstep and a paso doble to “You Give Love A Bad Name” by Bon Jovi.
*  *  *
After the surprising decision to keep Eric and Britt, they are channeling the foxtrot with “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green and “Cherry Pie” by Warrant.
*  *  *
The Bachelorette [Jenn] and Sasha will perform a viennese waltz to “Fallin’” by Alicia Keys and a paso doble to “The Final Countdown” by Europe.
*  *  *
Another couple [Reginald and Emma] fans thought would be going hope will prove themselves with a foxtrot to “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash and a cha cha to “I Wanna Rock” by Twisted Sister.

Edited October 5 by tv echo

[tv echo]

DWTS’ Eric Roberts Says Julianne Hough Comparing Him to Anna Delvey ‘Hurt My Feelings’ (Exclusive)
By Shelby Stivale    October 9, 2024
https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/eric-roberts-reacts-to-julianne-houghs-anna-delvey-comment-on-dwts/ 

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Eric Roberts was “devastated” to get eliminated from Dancing With the Stars season 33 — but he wasn’t trying to recreate an Anna Delvey moment.“It’s a very simple answer,” Roberts told Us Weekly exclusively following the DWTS live show on Tuesday, October 8. “It’s very sad that I have to leave Britt [Stewart]. It is very happy that I don’t have to learn another dance.”

.... When DWTS cohost Julianne Hough went to speak with Roberts after his elimination, he didn’t offer much in terms of responses to her questions. (Reginald VelJohnson and Emma Slater were also eliminated.)

“Is this another ‘nothing’ moment?” Hough, 36, wondered. Roberts was quick to deny, saying, “No, no.”
*  *  *
“That really hurt my feelings. It really hurt my feelings,” the actor told Us. “I was devastated at how badly I danced, and I was speechless. To be compared to somebody I don’t really know made me feel funny, but I’m fine.”
*  *  *
Despite their elimination, Roberts told Us that he and Stewart will take away “a great friendship” from the show.

Gene Simmons Slammed By ‘Dancing With The Stars’ Fans For ‘Creepy’ Comments And Harsh Scores
Monica Mercuri   Oct 9, 2024
https://www.forbes.com/sites/monicamercuri/2024/10/09/gene-simmons-slammed-by-dancing-with-the-stars-fans-for-creepy-comments-and-harsh-scores/ 

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In celebration of Hair Metal night on Dancing With the Stars, ABC invited KISS frontman Gene Simmons as a guest judge on October 8. However, by the end of the two-hour broadcast, some fans felt the ’80s icon was not only out of touch with his scoring but also made comments that fans found “creepy” and offensive.
*  *  *
Throughout the broadcast, Simmons repeatedly commented on the competitors’ physical appearances, particularly the women. He told actor Reginald Johnson that he’s “got a beautiful woman right beside you who can twist it and turn it and knows how to move it,” referring to his partner Emma Slater.

Simmons also told actress Chandler Kinney that she “fogged up my glasses,” adding that the 24-year-old “moved me—not just with your gyrations, but with your beautiful face.”
*  *  *
Beyond the inappropriate comments, viewers also had issues with his scores, which were all over the place. For example, Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli each awarded reality TV star Phaedra Parks and Val Chmerkovskiy sevens, while Simmons gave the duo a five. Former Bachelorette Jenn Tran earned eights from the other three judges, while Simmons said “don’t hate me” before giving her a seven.
*  *  *
Simmons also tried to give model Brooks Nader and Gleb Savchenko the first 10 of the season, but he had already locked in a nine beforehand, so the 10 didn’t count.

“If Gene doesn’t think the woman is hot, she gets a low score. Get this man off my screen. No reason he tried to give Brooks a ten and THE Phaedra Parks a five? #DWTS,” user @shelbykvosburg weighed in.

Edited October 10 by tv echo

[realdancemom]

Thanks for the media links, tv echo. This quote right here is my biggest issue with Gene.

“If Gene doesn’t think the woman is hot, she gets a low score. Get this man off my screen. No reason he tried to give Brooks a ten and THE Phaedra Parks a five? #DWTS,” user @shelbykvosburg weighed in."

A 5 for Phaedra and 10 for Brooks is ridiculous. His comments were creepy but Bruno makes similar comments about contestants being hot. The difference is that he kind of says that to everyone. It's part of his act. He also gives constructive criticism afterwards. Gene offered nothing.

[TVMovieBuff]

Gene Simmons had no idea who Stephen Nedoroscik is. He demonstrated that during the critique. 

Having Gene on is ridiculous. He may know metal music, but knows nothing about dance. If I was a producer, I would have it so his scores are not counted in the final tally which affects who goes and who stays. They only seem to count for the broadcast. 

[Andiethewestie]

Next week Dances 

https://ew.com/jenn-tran-dedicates-dancing-with-the-stars-routine-to-taylor-swift-8726568
 

Super Bowl champion Danny Amendola and pro Witney Carson will perform a contemporary dance to "Unsteady (Erich Lee Gravity Remix)," by X Ambassadors, and dedicate the routine to former NCAA head football coach Mike Leach.

Bachelor alum Joey Graziadei and pro Jenna Johnson will perform a Viennese waltz to "Lose Control," by Teddy Swims, while dedicating the routine to Graziadei's fiancée, Kelsey Anderson.

NBA champion Dwight Howard and pro Daniella Karagach will perform a rumba to Howard's song "Shoot for the Stars," dedicating the routine to his children.

TV star Chandler Kinney and pro Brandon Armstrong will perform a contemporary to "I Hope You Dance," by Lee Ann Womack, dedicating the routine to Kinney's mother.

Olympian rugby player Ilona Maher and pro Alan Bersten will perform a rumba to "My Way," by Yseult, dedicating the routine to the U.S. women's national rugby sevens team.

Model and cover girl Brooks Nader and pro Gleb Savchenko will perform a salsa to "Mi Gente," by J Balvin and Willy William, dedicating the routine to Nader's sisters.

Olympian gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik and pro Rylee Arnold will perform an Argentine tango to "Seven Nation Army," by the White Stripes, and dedicate the routine to men's gymnastics.
 

Reality royalty Phaedra Parks and pro Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a rumba to "Because You Loved Me," by Céline Dion, dedicating the routine to Parks' mother.

Bachelorette alum Jenn Tran and pro Sasha Farber will perform a foxtrot to "The Archer," by Taylor Swift, dedicating the routine to Swift.

[tv echo]

Was Agatha Needle Drop Bewitching? Did Superman & Lois Channel Saw? Did Ghost Tease Force Swan Song? Did Summit Sendoff Shock? And More Qs!
By Vlada Gelman, Matt Webb Mitovich, Kimberly Roots, Dave Nemetz, Andy Swift, Rebecca Iannucci, Ryan Schwartz, Nick Caruso, Charlie Mason   October 11, 2024
https://tvline.com/features/agatha-all-along-teen-wiccan-reveal-billie-eilish-you-should-see-my-crown-1235348647/ 

Quote

12 | Which of Dancing With the Stars guest judge Gene Simmons’ offenses was worse: making creepy comments about the female dancers’ looks, or scoring some of the couples below what the actual judges had given them? (For us, it might be the latter. The nerve!)

[tv echo]

‘DWTS’ Music Director Ray Chew Says Pros Are ‘Very Specific’ With Music Requests (Exclusive)
By Sara Donnellan  October 19, 2024
https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/dwts-music-director-says-pros-are-very-specific-with-music-requests/ 

Kelsey Anderson Issues a Direct Response to 'DWTS' Critics About Relationship With Joey Graziadei
Mike Bloom    Oct 17, 2024
https://parade.com/tv/dancing-with-the-stars-dedication-night-kelsey-anderson-joey-graziadei-criticism 

Edited October 19 by tv echo

[tv echo]

Chandler Kinney Questions What More ‘DWTS’ Judges Are Expecting From Her: ‘A Little Difficult’ (Exclusive)
By Yana Grebenyuk  October 16, 2024
https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/chandler-kinney-questions-what-dwts-judges-expect-from-her/ 

[DEL901]

One of this week’s teams seems pretty stacked…

[tv echo]

Spoilers of dance styles and song choices for Disney Night...

Dancing with the Stars 2024 Disney Night Dance Styles, Song Choices
10/21/2024 mj santilli
https://www.mjsbigblog.com/dancing-with-the-stars-2024-disney-night-dance-styles-song-choices.htm 

[crowceilidh]

Do we have a guest judge tonight?

[babyhouseman]

3 hours ago, crowceilidh said:

Do we have a guest judge tonight?

I don't think so. Disney characters usually appear.

[TVMovieBuff]

I heard on Cheryl Burke's podcast that Brooks Nader is moving to LA. Wonder if it has anything to do with Gleb. Way premature, if it does, IMO. 

Cheryl's podcast is so juicy. Dish, not dirt. Lots to know about dance too, and the whole dance world. 

[twilightzone]

Danny and Witney's Leg Lift (with the Contemporary Dedication dance) has gone viral on Tik Tok - with viewers trying to replicate the move.  

LOL, Alan and Ilona weren't able to do it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbGbM7OHT60

Edited October 25 by twilightzone

[DEL901]

Well, that’s that.   https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/brooks-nader-and-gleb-savchenko-split-following-dwts-exclusive/

[Stats Queen]

On 10/25/2024 at 6:42 PM, DEL901 said:

Well, that’s that.   https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/brooks-nader-and-gleb-savchenko-split-following-dwts-exclusive/

Well, since I don’t believe that they were actually “dating” I’m not surprised

[tv echo]

Is Tracker Going Sci-Fi? Was DWTS Donkey Disturbing? Was Chicago Med Doc a Perfect Ken? How Touching Was Blue Bloods Gift? More TV Qs!
By Vlada Gelman, Matt Webb Mitovich, Kimberly Roots, Dave Nemetz, Ryan Schwartz, Nick Caruso, Charlie Mason, Andy Swift   October 25, 2024
https://tvline.com/features/tracker-season-2-unidentified-aerial-phenomena-ufo-twist-sci-fi-1235370749/ 

Quote

13 | Why didn’t Dancing With the Stars save Alan’s deeply disturbing Encanto donkey costume for next week’s “Halloween Nightmares” theme? ?

[Bliss]

Just saw a FB post saying Jenna and Val are expecting their 2nd!

[DEL901]

https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/dwts-pros-alan-bersten-and-emma-slater-are-hooking-up-source/

[DEL901]

Ezra dressed as the criminal for Halloween.  
https://people.com/ezra-sosa-dresses-as-dwts-partner-anna-delvey-for-halloween-with-ankle-monitor-8738602

[Soapy Goddess]

I hope this is true:

https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/750729/carrie-ann-inaba-leaving-dancing-with-the-stars/

[crowceilidh]

It doesn't sound very authentic. 

And the point that if Mark got it, Bruno or Derek would have to go is sound.  They can't have a 3 dudes judging panel.  I would like Bruno to go, or better yet to tone it down a hell of a lot.

[Soapy Goddess]

3 hours ago, crowceilidh said:

They can't have a 3 dudes judging panel.

Why not?

[crowceilidh]

Yes, well, good point.  I think the audience would object to the lack of female perspective, but given how off CAI is and that the objections to her haven't borne fruit at all, possibly not.

[tv echo]

DWTS’ Maks Chmerkovskiy *Finally* Addresses Derek Hough Feud Rumors: ‘The Reality Is… ‘
Wendy Michaels   Nov 10, 2024
https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/751474/maks-chmerkovskiy-derek-hough-drama/ 

Quote

During a November 2024 interview on the Boyfriend Material With Harry Jowsey podcast, Chmerkovskiy was asked whether he had “show rivalries” with anyone at Dancing With the Stars. “Yeah. I mean we all beefed at some point, you know?” he admitted.
*  *  *
The dance pro revealed how there were definitely rumors of tension with Hough, but he set the record straight. “It’s so cute, like people think that Derek and I were lethal enemies always, you know, and f***ing hated each other,” Chmerkovskiy said. “I literally texted today at 6:30 in the morning like to me, Val [Chmerkovskiy], Mark [Ballas], and Derek, like ‘Yo we should go play pickleball.’”

He continued, “I mean, so you know the reality is that when you’re in… we were so consumed, we were so competitive, we were so f***ing in it, you know? You got somebody winning mirrorballs. I also want to win, you know what I’m saying, next season. I like you as a person, but I f***ing hate you as a competitor, you know? Like, those feelings got, I guess, looked at a little bit strange.”

Chmerkovskiy may have chalked up some of the friction to the competition, but he also admitted he had “a couple of beefs” with his celebrity partners. “I was like ‘Yo, the show is over, I really don’t want to see any of you, you know? And I would be happy if you don’t want to see any of me,'” he explained.

The former DWTS pro addressed his problematic pairing with Olympic soccer player Hope Solo. “It was just, it got worse… and there’s a few [other] people,” he said.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy Has Moves, DWTS Tea to Spill & Lots of Vodka
Boyfriend Material with Harry Jowsey    Nov 4, 2024

Edited Sunday at 02:45 PM by tv echo