Dancing with the Stars Archives - Showbiz Cheat Sheet

‘Dancing with the Stars’ Most Awkward Moments as the Show Celebrates Episode 500

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:02:46 +0000

Dancing with the Stars celebrates episode 500 by honoring its past as today’s contestants add a twist to some iconic performances during season 33.

DWTS is a live show, so that means anything can happen on stage as the celebrity cast and their pro partners compete for a mirrorball trophy. Along with the best routines are the most awkward moments. Here are some of the most memorable.

Master P’s unfortunate ‘DWTS’ record

‘DWTS’ season 2 featured Master P and pro Ashly DelGrosso | Adam Larkey/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

In season 2, rapper Master P joined the show as a replacement for his son, Romeo, who dropped out of the cast due to an injury. However, P ended up creating an unfortunate DWTS record that still stands 500 episodes later.

He made it to week four of the competition. However, his stiff and uncomfortable to watch Paso Doble alongside pro Ashly DelGrosso received the lowest score ever in Dancing with the Stars history: an 8/30.

Kate Gosselin and Tony Dovolani feud

Reality star Kate Gosselin and her partner Tony Dovolani had to overcome personal issues during season 10 of Dancing with the Stars. The easygoing pro threatened to quit after a heated on-camera exchange with the celebrity.

While rehearsing their Jive, the DWTS cameras caught Gosselin saying she wasn’t a fan of the seasoned ballroom veteran’s teaching style. She added he wasn’t receptive to how she learned.

Dovolani took offense, stating that he had been a dance teacher for years and no one had ever questioned him. He later said, “I had a weak moment where I let her get to me. I completely overreacted and I feel terrible about it.”

Gosselin reacted, “I know that I can be frustrating at times, so I don’t blame Tony. I wouldn’t want to teach myself.”

Ryan Lochte protestors rushed the stage

Protesters rushed the stage after Olympian Ryan Lochte’s first Dancing with the Stars performance alongside two-time mirrorball winner Cheryl Burke, interrupting the live show. The incident occurred as Lochte was receiving one of the judge’s critiques of his dance routine.

Lochte joined season 23 to overcome of negative publicity he received over claims that he and fellow swimmers were robbed at gunpoint in Rio de Janeiro. Host Tom Bergeron quickly cut to a commercial break during the incident, but not before the camera captured the shock on Lochte and Burke’s faces.

Marie Osmond collapses

While receiving notes on her season 5 Ssamba with partner Jonathan Roberts, Marie Osmond collapsed to the ground. The singer subsequently received medical attention and was cleared to continue on the series.

It was later revealed that Osmond had been feeling lightheaded throughout the day. She was reportedly having breathing difficulties due to California wildfires that raged through the state in 2007.

Maks Chmerkovskiy tells Len Goodman he should retire in season 13

After dancing with Hope Solo during DWTS season 13, pro Maks Chmerkovskiy wasn’t too keen on criticism of their performance. Len Goodman, then the series’ head judge, had some harsh words regarding the technical aspects of the couple’s dance.

Goodman said it was Solo’s “worst dance” thus far. Chmerkovskiy challenged him, saying, “As long as the audience likes our journey.”

Goodman countered, “The audience liked the effect. I’ve been in this business for nearly 50 years…” before Chmerkovskiy told him he should “retire.” The pro was corrected by judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli for disrespecting Goodman.

Sabrina Bryan’s elimination

Mark Ballas and Sabrina Bryan perform on ‘DWTS’ | Carol Kaelson/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

In season 15, front-runner Sabrina Bryan was axed in week six. She was a fan and judge’s favorite and received the season’s highest score for her first dance, followed by a perfect 30 score in week four.

Voters may have assumed Bryan was safe and decided not to vote for her, even though they loved her performances. “We had a lot of advice from other celebrities and producers that if we came out too strong we could get a backlash,” she said to ABC News.

However, the duo didn’t take heed and continued to give their all in every performance. “We wanted to be true to ourselves,” Bryan explained.

Dancing with the Stars celebrates its 500th episode on Nov. 12, 2024. The series airs at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and the next day on Hulu.

Beloved ‘DWTS’ Pros Confirmed, Rumored to Return to the Ballroom For the Series Milestone 500th Episode

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:50:54 +0000

Dancing with the Stars is celebrating a major milestone. The dance competition series will mark its 500th episode with the return of some beloved pros to the ballroom. Who’s returning? Will they be dancing? Here are all the details of the DWTS‘ 500, featuring 33 seasons of mirrorball-worthy performances.

The confirmed and rumored pros returning to for ‘DWTS’ 500

Dancing with the Stars shared details of the special episode, featuring some of the series’ most iconic dances. However, they didn’t reveal any details about returning pros joining the celebration. But some pros appeared to spill the beans on their social media pages.

Sasha Farber shared a video on his Instagram story. In it, he took fans behind the scenes of the episode’s stage blocking.

Peeking her head around pro Gleb Savchenko was Sharna Burgess. The season 27 mirrorball winner looked directly at the camera and smiled in the video clip.

Burgess has not appeared in the series since season 30. She danced alongside her fiance, former Beverly Hills 90210 actor Brian Austin Green. She was not asked back for a pro tribute to the late Len Goodman in season 32.

A Reddit post shared details of other former pros who will likely also return for the milestone episode. These include Mark Ballas, Lindsay Arnold, Karina Smirnoff, and Allison Holker, but ABC has not confirmed their attendance.

The rumored returning pros are connected to 6 tribute dances

To honor DWTS‘ longevity, the remaining six stars will perform dances made famous by pros and stars throughout its history. Each couple will pay tribute to past performances while adding their unique reinterpretation and flair.

Super Bowl champion Danny Amendola and Witney Carson will perform a quickstep to “Hey Pachuco” by Royal Crown Revue, inspired by Helio Castroneves and Julianne Hough’s performance in season 5. The Bachelor‘s Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson dance contemporary to “Work Song” by Hozier, inspired by Riker Lynch and Allison Holker’s performance in season 20.

NBA champion Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach will perform an Argentine tango to “Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)” by Gotan Project, inspired by James Hinchcliffe and Sharna Burgess’s performance in season 23. TV star Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong will dance the same style to “Para Te” by Appart in a routine inspired by Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough’s performance in season 16.

Olympian rugby player Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten will perform a quickstep to “Chuck Berry” by Pharrell Williams, inspired by Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold’s performance in season 25. Finally, Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold will Viennese waltz to “Glimpse of Us” by Joji, inspired by Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas’ performance in season 3 .

The first dance of the evening uses the same song as ‘DWTS’ first episode

The stars of season 1 of ‘DWTS’ in June, 2005 | Bob D’Amico/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

DWTS 500 will kick off with an electrifying opening number, choreographed by married pros Pasha Pashkov and Daniella Karagach. As a thrilling nod to the past, the dancers perform a routine showcasing the very same song that opened the first episode of Dancing with the Stars in season one; “Crazy in Love” by Beyonce and Jay-Z.

Dancing with the Stars premiered on June 1, 2005, as a summer replacement series. The first celebrities to compete were Kelly Monaco (who would win the season’s mirrorball), Trista Sutter, Evander Holyfield, Rachel Hunter, Joey McIntyre, and John O’Hurley.

Since then, 394 stars have competed and the series has earned 124 Emmy nominations. Judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli have been with the series since day one. They judged alongside the late Len Goodman and are now joined by Derek Hough, a six-time mirrorball winner.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney. The series’ latest episode airs the next day on Hulu.

Is ‘Dancing with the Stars’ on Tonight, Nov. 5?

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 13:16:27 +0000

Dancing with the Stars is one of Tuesday night’s biggest network television draws. The celebrity dance competition series is one of ABC’s most popular, and this season is one of its most exciting yet. As the series passes its midway point and with only six celebrities left in the competition, fans are waiting to see the next set of dances. But, as today is Election Day, is Dancing with the Stars on tonight, Nov. 5, 2024?

‘Dancing with the Stars’ will waltz onto television screens for a special episode

After 33 seasons, Dancing with the Stars remains a draw for families who enjoy a lighthearted competition series that all members can enjoy. From young to old, viewers have become accustomed to the ballroom techniques featured in the series and have made celebrities out of the series’ pros, who garner as much attention as the celebrities they’re paired with.

However, these viewers will have to find a different series to watch tonight, or perhaps head to their favorite streaming service or cable channel, as Dancing with the Stars will not air their regularly scheduled live show. Election Day coverage will dominate the airwaves on most if not all, local networks and many news channels.

Dancing with the Stars will return to its regularly scheduled slot on ABC’s schedule on Nov. 12. The series will celebrate a milestone moment, 500 episodes, with a spectacular installment filled with memories.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ celebrates 500 episodes

After winning 21 Emmys, generating 32 winners, and celebrating 51 pros, 394 stars, and thousands of iconic performances, Dancing with the Stars celebrates its milestone 500th episode on Nov. 12. Season 1 of Dancing with the Stars debuted on June 1, 2005. Thus, six celebrities were paired with six professional ballroom dancers. Tom Bergeron and Lisa Canning were the hosts while Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman, and Bruno Tonioli judged.

At the close of season 1, former General Hospital star Kelly Monaco and Alec Mazo took home the series’ first mirrorball. Since that first installment, celebrities, athletes, social media stars, musicians, and showbiz legends have learned ballroom basics in their quest to take home a glittering trophy.

For the series 500th installment, the historic celebration kicks off with an electrifying opening number, choreographed by married pros Pasha Pashkov and Daniella Karagach. Subsequently, as a nod to the past, the dancers will perform to the song “Crazy In Love” by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z, the same tune that opened the first episode of season 1 of Dancing with the Stars.

However, the show promises even more surprises with the return of some fan-favorite faces to the ballroom. Will these be some of the pros who returned to celebrate Len Goodman such as Mark Ballas, Maks Chmerkovskiy, Kym Herjavec, Anna Trebunskaya, Louis van Amstel, Karina Smirnoff, Edyta Sliwinska, and Tony Dovolani?

What types of dances can viewers expect from this very special episode?

In celebration of the 500th episode of Dancing with the Stars, the remaining six celebrities and their pros will dance Contemporary, Quickstep, Argentine Tango, and Viennese Waltz. Thus, to celebrate iconic performances from the past 32 seasons, each couple will pay tribute to dance from the past, adding a unique reinterpretation.

Following, the celebrities and their pros will take on the “Instant Dance Challenge.” They won’t know the dance style or the song until approximately five minutes before performing it live.

Danny Amendola and Witney Carson will perform a Quickstep, inspired by Helio Castroneves and Julianne Hough’s performance in season 5, to “Hey Pachuco” by Royal Crown Revue. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson will perform a Contemporary, inspired by Riker Lynch and Allison Hol k er’s performance in season 20, to “Work Song” by Hozier.

Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach dance Argentine Tango, inspired by James Hinchliffe and Sharna Burgess’s performance in season 23, to “Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)” by Gotan Project. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong dance an Argentine Tango, inspired by Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough’s performance in season 16, to “Para Te” by Appart.

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten dance the Quickstep, inspired by Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold’s performance in season 25, to “Chuck Berry” by Pharrell Williams. Finally, Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold will perform a Viennese Waltz, inspired by Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas’ performance in season 31, to “Glimpse of Us” by Joji.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m., ET on ABC, and Disney Plus. New episodes air the next day on Hulu.

The 4 Most Thrilling and Chilling Halloween Routines in ‘Dancing with the Stars’ History

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 20:22:27 +0000

Dancing with the Stars Halloween episode is always one of the season’s most anticipated. Celebrities and their professional partners team up to thrill and chill viewers as they dance for votes and the chance to remain on the series and win a mirrorball trophy. These dances have a lot to live up to, as some of the most iconic routines have appeared during spooky season. Here are 4 of the most unforgettable Halloween routines in DWTS history.

Milo Manheim and Witney Carson (Season 27)

Witney Carson and Milo Manheim ‘Dancing with the Stars’ | Eric McCandless/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

Milo Manheim and Witney Carson performed an unforgettable contemporary Halloween dance set to 2WEI’s version of Britney Spears’s “Toxic.” It perfectly captured the essence of Halloween; scary and spooky and entertaining as well.

Manheim was seen in a padded cell, and Carson played his nurse. The routine was deeply unsettling, as Manheim wore colored contact lenses and utilized jerky movements to depict a man in deep distress.

By the end of the dance, it was revealed that Carson was a figment of his imagination, and Manheim was left alone. The couple received a perfect 30 for the routine, putting them at the top of the night’s leaderboard.

Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach (Season 30) of ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Perhaps one of the most disturbing and electric Halloween routines Dancing with the Stars has ever generated was Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach during season 30. The couple performed a contemporary based on Jordan Peele’s horror film Us.

The NBA player and his pro partner were dressed in the movie’s iconic red jumpsuits. They danced to a song from the film’s soundtrack, “I Got 5 on It (Tethered Mix).” This routine earned the duo a perfect score of 40. Shumpert and Karagach would also go on to win the season and take home a mirrorball trophy.

Nev Schulman and Jenna Johnson (Season 29)

Jenna Johnson and Nev Schulman during Halloween night on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ | Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty Images

During season 29, Jenna Johnson and Nev Shulman’s professional partnership took a dark turn on the dance floor as they channeled the film Black Swan. The couple performed a Paso Doble to the song “Swan Lake Remix” by District 78.

Jenna portrayed the white swan while Nev, the darker side. Their performance was a mashup of the traditional ballet and the horror film.

The traditional ballet tells the story of a curse that turns young women into swans during the day and humans at night. The only way to break the curse is through faithful love.

In the film, Nina (Natalie Portman) is a ballerina chosen by her ballet company’s artistic director to replace his prima ballerina for a production of Swan Lake. However, Nina has a competitor, Lily (Mila Kunis) whom he wants to play the Black Swan. A rivalry between the dancers transforms into a twisted relationship.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold (Season 25)

Jordan Fisher and his pro-partner Lindsay Arnold danced a routine to a nightmarish rendition of the children’s story, “Little Red Riding Hood.” They danced a Paso Doble where Fisher played the Big Bad Wolf during season 25.

The couple danced to “Animals” by Martin Garrix. The result was straight 10s from the judges for a total of 30 out of 30 points.

Fisher and Arnold would go on to win the season in 2017. They beat out violinist Lindsey Stirling and actor Frankie Muniz for a glittery mirrorball. The dance duo set a record that remains in place to this day, the most perfect scores in a single season with nine.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ presents ‘Halloween Nightmares’ dances and team matchups

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During season 33, the remaining couples will dance through each celebrity’s nightmare. These performances will focus on this particular fear.

Danny Amendola and Witney Carson dance Argentine Tango to “Poison” by RAVN based on his nightmare: snakes. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson will perform an Argentine Tango to “Ramalama (Bang Bang)” by Róisín Murphy based on his nightmare: ventriloquist dolls.

Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach dance Contemporary to “Ring Around The Rosie” by District 78 featuring Natalia Lillee where Dwight becomes the nightmare: the boogeyman. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong perform a Viennese Waltz to “Secret” by Denmark + Winter based on her nightmare: creepy dolls.

Olympian rugby player Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten Tango to “Psycho Killer” by Miley Cyrus based on her nightmare: psycho killers. Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold dance Contemporary to “I Ran (So Far Away)” by Hidden Citizens based on his nightmare: the dark. Finally, Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber will perform a Contemporary routine to “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo based on her nightmare: vampires.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney Plus. The episode airs the next day on Hulu.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ Viewers Shipping Sasha Farber, Jenn Tran Relationship

Lucille Barilla — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:11:55 +0000

Former The Bachelorette star Jenn Tran and pro-Sasha Farber may have been the last cast for season 33 of Dancing with the Stars, but they’ve become first in friendship throughout the first half of the season of the ballroom competition. However, some viewers think their friendship has blossomed into something more.

The blossoming friendship between Sasha Farber, Jenn Tran

Sasha Farber is known for becoming very close with his celebrity partners. His easygoing personality has allowed him to maintain friendships with past partners such as Alyson Hannigan, Selma Blair, Nicole Polizzi, and Simone Biles to main a few.

However, it appears Sasha and Jenn are enjoying one another’s company on-and-off camera. Both are single at the moment.

Jenn was engaged to Devin Strader during The Bachelorette finale. However, two months later, Strader broke off their relationship in a 15-minute phone call.

On the heels of a heartbreaking The Bachelorette finale, Jenn was whisked to New York to be a part of season 33 of Dancing with the Stars. She was paired with Sasha, who was to be a part of this season’s troupe. Sasha was married to fellow pro-Emma Slater from 2018 through 2023.

The friends appear to be together all the time, during rehearsals and after, where they are regularly featured on Sasha’s Instagram page. However, one series of snapshots leads fans to believe there could be something more than friendship between them.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ fans speak out on Sasha Farber, Jenn Tran’s friendship

On Instagram, Sasha Farber shared a new photo with Jenn Tran as they enjoyed dinner together after rehearsal. Fans inquired if there was something more between them than a growing friendship.

One viewer wrote, “Love the friendship you two have built over the season. Your dances always bring a smile to my face.” A second penned, “Can’t believe we were almost robbed of seeing this partnership.”

“You both are adorable together and week after week Jenn you get so much better. As far as dating goes it’s up to them but Jenn I think he’s an amazing person for you just saying,” noted a third Dancing with the Stars viewer.

Finally, a fourth fan wrote, “I luv this partnership. You take care of each other and trust fully. I am so glad you both are here another week. What happens personally with you two is between the two of you. I mean, I’m here for it but know, you two are nothing short of perfection together.”

Will ‘DWTS’ Halloween King make an appearance next episode?

On Tuesday, Oct. 29, Dancing with the Stars airs its annual Halloween episode. Details thus far, have not been revealed regarding the dances and frightening themes.

Throughout his tenure on the ABC competition dance series, Sasha Farber has explored his spooky side during the show’s Halloween installments. He’s known for having fun with themes and music alongside his celebrity partners.

Most importantly, Sasha is the undisputed king of Halloween on the series’ set. He loves to scare his fellow pros and celebrity contestants.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney Plus. New episodes air the next day on Hulu.

‘Dancing with the Stars’: Here’s Why Chandler Kinney and Joey Graziadei Could Dominate Disney Night

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 23:30:00 +0000

Two celebrities have the best shot at winning a Mirrorball trophy in season 33 of Dancing with the Stars. The Bachelor star Joey Graziadei and Zombies star Chandler Kinney have been battling for the top spot on DWTS‘ leaderboard since the season’s start. Here’s why they could dominate the ballroom during Disney Night as the series hits its midway mark.

Joey Graziadei and Chandler Kinney could dominate Disney Night for one key reason

Both Joey Graziadei and Chandler Kinney have strong ties with Disney, the parent company of ABC; both starred in popular shows on the networks.

However, close ties to a network do not a Mirrorball champion make. So while Joey and Chandler may be familiar faces to viewers, it’s their ballroom skills and viewer votes that have kept them in the competition.

In weeks 1. 2, and 3, Joey and his pro partner Jenna Johnson came in second to Chandler and her pro, Brandon Armstrong. However, Joey outpaced Chandler during episode 4’s Hair Metal Night by three points and by four points in episode 5.

During Disney Night, Joey and Jenna will perform a samba to “Trashin’ the Camp” from Tarzan. Chandler and Brandon will paso doble to “We Own the Night” from ZOMBIES 2.

These two celebrities will dominate Disney Night not only by showcasing their superior ballroom skills but tapping into their built-in fan base, which will ensure they reach the next level of competition. Chandler and Joey appear to be the judge’s favorites, but that could also be a double-edged sword moving forward. Setting the bar so high each week could also be difficult to maintain as the competition becomes more challenging.

The remaining celebrities and dances for ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Disney Night

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Although Joey Graziadei and Chandler Kinney appear to be the ones to beat on Dancing with the Stars, it’s still anyone’s game as the Mirrorball quest continues during season 33. Their fellow competitors are training just as hard to stay in the game as they perfect their dances for Disney Night.

During tonight’s episode, Super Bowl champion Danny Amendola and pro Witney Carson will perform a jazz routine to “Bye Bye Bye” from Deadpool & Wolverine. NBA champion Dwight Howard and pro Daniella Karagach tango to “When Can I See You Again?” from Wreck It Ralph.

Olympian rugby player Ilona Maher and pro Alan Bersten dance jazz to “Surface Pressure” from Encanto. Her fellow Olympian, gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, and pro Rylee Arnold dance a Charleston to “A Star Is Born” from Hercules.

Reality star Phaedra Parks and pro Val Chmerkovskiy will dance jazz to “Cruella de Vil” from 101 Dalmatians. The Bachelorette star Jenn Tran and pro Sasha Farber will perform a rumba to “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mermaid.

The pressure remains intense as there’s more than one dance at stake. For the first time this season, celebrities will have to perfect two routines.

Disney Night features the first team dance of the season

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Disney Night kicks off with an opening number to “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin, choreographed by Taylor Swift’s choreographer Mandy Moore. The routine features a special appearance from Michael James Scott, who stars as Genie in the hit Broadway musical. Also, a brand-new song from Moana 2, titled “We’re Back,” makes its broadcast debut with a routine by the troupe and eliminated pros, and choreographed by Britt Stewart.

The pressure is on for the remaining eight celebrities. For the first time this season, they learned two separate routines. Two groups of four battle against each other for extra judges points.

Team Goofs will dance to the tune “I2I” from A Goofy Movie. Ilona Maher is the team’s captain. She is joined by her partner Alan Bersten, Joey Graziadei, Jenna Johnson, Chandler Kinney, Brandon Armstrong, Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber.

Team Roar performs a routine to “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King. Dwight Howard is the team’s captain and will dance with Daniella Karagach, Danny Amendola, Witney Carson, Stephen Nedoroscik, Rylee Arnold, Phaedra Parks, and Val Chmerkovskiy.

Dancing with the Stars airs live at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. The episode airs the next day on Hulu. Viewer votes must be placed during the live show and end at the close of the evening’s last performance.

‘Dancing with the Stars’: How Many Mirrorballs Has Mark Ballas Won?

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:48:00 +0000

Ballroom pro Mark Ballas’ Dancing with the Stars return is special for longtime viewers, who watched him dance for 20 seasons. From 2005, Ballas was a ballroom favorite. But how many mirrorballs did he win?

Mark Ballas is a three-time mirrorball winner

Mark Ballas won three mirrorball trophies during his 20 seasons as a Dancing with the Stars pro. These were spaced throughout a journey that lasted over 17 years.

The dance pro took home the show’s most coveted prize during seasons 6, 8, and 31. His celebrity partners were Olympians Kristi Yamaguchi and Shawn Johnson, and social media star Charli D’Amelio.

Ballas’ first win came a season after a surprise elimination still hotly debated among longtime fans. He danced with Sabrina Bryan during season 5 and their week-one Cha-Cha scored 26, an early series record for the highest score in the first week of competition.

In week four Ballas and Bryan received a perfect score of 30 for their Paso Doble, making her the first contestant to receive a perfect score so early in the competition. However, the couple was eliminated in week six, as voters may have assumed Bryan was safe based on past episodes and decided not to vote for her.

Mark Ballas retired as a ‘Dancing with the Stars’ pro in 2022

Alfonso Ribeiro, Jujlianne Hough, Charli DAmelio and Mark Ballas in 2022 on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ | Eric McCandless/DISNEY via Getty Images

After winning a mirrorball with Charli D’Amelio in season 31, Mark Ballas announced he would be retiring from Dancing with the Stars. Deadline reported that during the show’s 2023 live tour, he told an audience during the tour’s final stop that he was ending his run on the ABC series.

“I’ve done 20 seasons now,” Ballas said. “I started this journey when I was 21, 22 and honestly being able to dance and perform for you fans, you guys are the best fans.”

He continued, “I just want to finish by saying, this will be the last time you see me dance in this capacity. I’m coming to a close tonight. This is going to be my last dance.”

“I had the best time ever this season. And this dance is a great way to finish it off,” he added. “I’m not saying this is the end. I’m just saying this is the last time I’ll be dancing with a partner.”

What does Mark Ballas do now?

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Mark Ballas is a husband, father, and musician. He married singer and songwriter BC Jean in November 2016. They first met at a singer-songwriter night at a mutual friend’s house.

Ballas and Jean started dating in 2012. The couple announced their engagement in January 2016 and tied the knot later that year.

In late 2023, the couple welcomed their first child, a son, named Banksi Wylde Ballas. “Welcome to Earth my son,” Ballas wrote on Instagram.

Together, they form the band Alexander Jean, a combination of their middle names. The group originated in 2015.

Their debut single was “Roses and Violets”, which reached the Top 20 on Billboard’s Hot 100 “Bubbling Under” chart. They also had success with “Waiting for You” and “Whiskey and Morphine.”

The couple performed “Roses and Violets” on Dancing with the Stars in 2015. Alexander Jean also accompanied Derek Hough, who, with wife Hayley Hough, danced to the couple’s version of “Another One Bites the Dust” for the ABC special, Queen Family Singalong.

Mark Ballas will appear as a guest judge during Dancing with the Stars‘ “Dedication Night.” The episode airs tonight beginning at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney Plus. It airs the next day on Hulu.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ Legend Mark Ballas Makes Electrifying Return for ‘Dedication Night’

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 21:57:00 +0000

Mark Ballas makes an electrifying return to Dancing with the Stars after a two-year hiatus. However, the three-time mirrorball winner will not be performing. He will sit alongside judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli to share his ballroom expertise as the remaining nine celebrities compete during “Dedication Night.”

Mark Ballas won three mirrorball trophies before stepping back as a pro

Mark Ballas debuted on Dancing with the Stars in 2007 during season 5, and was paired with actress Sabrina Bryan. He remained a fan-favorite pro throughout 20 seasons. Ballas won mirrorballs in season 6 with figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, season 8 with gymnast Shawn Johnson, and season 31 with social media star Charli D’Amelio.

Ballas was the only pro to make the finals 11 times. He also holds the 4-time record for second-place finishes with celebrity partners Katherine Jenkins, Sadie Robertson, Paige VanZant, and Lindsey Stirling.

He retired from the ballroom after winning season 31. However, Ballas briefly returned in the Fall of 2023, for a touching tribute to the show’s head judge Len Goodman.

Mark Ballas judges the remaining 9 celebrities for ‘Dedication Night’

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For “Dedication Night,” the celebrity dancers will perform partner dances including Contemporary, Viennese Waltz, Rumba, Salsa, Argentine Tango, and Foxtrot. These performances are dedicated to those who have influenced their lives.

Super Bowl Champion Danny Amendola and Witney Carson will perform a Contemporary to “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors. Amendola dedicates the routine to former NCAA head football coach Mike Leach. The Bachelor star Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson dance a Viennese Waltz to “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims, dedicating the routine to Joey’s fiancée, Kelsey Anderson.

NBA Champion Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach perform a Rumba to “Shoot For The Stars” by Dwight Howard, and dedicate the routine to his children. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong perform a Contemporary routine to “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack in honor of her mother.

Olympian rugby player Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten will perform a Rumba to “My Way” by Yseult for the U.S. women’s national rugby sevens team. Model Brooks Nader and Gleb Savchenko dance Salsa to “Mi Gente” by J Balvin & Willy William, dedicating the routine to her sisters.

Olympian gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold dance an Argentine Tango to “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes for men’s gymnastics. Reality star Phaedra Parks and Val Chmerkovskiy Rumba to “Because You Loved Me” by Céline Dion to honor Parks’ mother. Finally, The Bachelorette Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber a Foxtrot to “The Archer” by Taylor Swift, dedicating the routine to the entertainer.

Derek Hough and his wife Hayley, return to the ballroom for a special performance

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Derek and Hayley Hough celebrate her triumphant ballroom return with a moving routine to “Beautiful Things (Acoustic)” by Benson Boone. The couple wed in August 2023 after dating for eight years. However, just months after the couple’s stunning wedding in a redwood forest in Monterey, California, Hayley fell ill.

During a performance of their Symphony of Dance tour on Dec. 7, 2023, Hayley became disoriented. She was ultimately diagnosed with a cranial hematoma, a burst blood vessel that causes blood to collect in the skull and press on the brain.

She underwent a craniectomy, a major brain surgery that removes part of the skull. A second surgery was required to replace part of her skull that was removed during the initial surgical procedure.

In an Instagram post, Erbert spoke of her recovery and return to dancing, calling it a “blessing” and a “surprise.” She wrote, “My healing journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Being able to dance again is igniting my soul in all the ways; speeding up my recovery even more.”

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC and Disney Plus. The episode airs the next day on Hulu.

‘DWTS’ Hair Metal Night Heats Up: Gene Simmons Judges Who Rocks on or Rolls Out in a Double Elimination

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:17:32 +0000

Dancing with the Stars will bring the fun of hair metal to the ballroom with a night of dances dedicated to this hard-rocking genre of music. KISS’s Gene Simmons will join the panel of DWTS judges to see who rocks on or rolls out in a double elimination evening, whittling down the celebrity contestants even further.

All the songs and dances celebrating Hair Metal Night on ‘Dancing with the Stars’

The remaining celebrities face a double elimination as they put their best foot forward in the ballroom to celebrate a genre dedicated to the feel-good music of the 1980s and ’90s. The night begins with an opening number to KISS’s “Rock And Roll All Nite,” featuring guitarist Joel Hoekstra from Whitesnake and choreographed by DWTS pro Pasha Pashkov.

Danny Amendola and pro Witney Carson will perform a paso doble to “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi. Joey Graziadei and pro Jenna Johnson tango to “Rock You Like A Hurricane” by Scorpions.

Chandler Kinney and pro Brandon Armstrong dance jive to “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister. Ilona Maher and pro Alan Bersten will also jive to “Cum On Feel the Noize” by Quiet Riot.

NBA champion Dwight Howard and pro Daniella Karagach paso doble to “Walk This Way” by Aerosmith. Phaedra Parks and pro Val Chmerkovskiy will perform the same ballroom dance style to “You Give Love A Bad Name” by Bon Jovi.

Brooks Nader and pro Gleb Savchenko cha cha to “Nothin’ But A Good Time” by Poison. Stephen Nedoroscik and pro Rylee Arnold foxtrot to “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake.

Eric Roberts and pro Britt Stewart will paso doble to “Cherry Pie” by Warrant. Jenn Tran and pro Sasha Farber paso doble to “The Final Countdown” by Europe. Finally, Reginald VelJohnson and pro Emma Slater will perform a cha cha to “I Wanna Rock” by Twisted Sister.

KISS’s Gene Simmons joins the judging panel

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Gene Simmons, bassist, songwriter, and co-founder of KISS, will sit alongside DWTS judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. For Hair Metal night, Simmons will critique the dances from the point of view of a legend in the metal music industry.

KISS’s co-founders, Simmons and Paul Stanley, met in 1970 through a mutual friend. Stanley joined Simmons’s band, Wicked Lester. By 1972, the band had dropped several members, added Peter Criss and Ace Frehley, and renamed itself KISS.

Adding black costumes and kabuki face paint generated even more excitement around the band. KISS developed a following by constantly touring and releasing new music on the Casablanca record label.

KISS would gain a strong foothold in the music industry once their live album Alive was released in 1975. The album spawned the group’s first hit single, “Rock and Roll All Nite,” which hit the Billboard Top 40 charts and became a rock and roll classic. The band rocked through 50 years and several lineup changes before playing their final concert on Dec. 2, 2023.

How many celebrities will be eliminated tonight?

The cast of ‘DWTS’ season 33 during ‘Soul Train’ Night | Disney/Christopher Willard

The celebrities and their pros will put their best foot forward in their quest for a mirrorball trophy during DWTS‘ Hair Metal Night. However, it will be the end of the road for two celebrity fan favorites in a double elimination.

The double elimination follows two nights of dances. On Oct. 7, the couples danced for viewer votes for Soul Train Night.

The night of fun dedicated to the popular television series that helped launch the careers of some of the industry’s most legendary groups and singers ended with a tight race for the top of the show’s leaderboard. However, Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong topped the leaderboard for the third week in a row. They scored a 36/40 for their cha-cha-cha to “It’s Tricky” by Run-DMC.

Fans can cast their votes during the live show. During this time, online voting will be available to fans in any time zone in the U.S., its territories, and Canada via dwtsvote.abc.com and by text to 21523.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, Disney+, and the next day on Hulu.

‘Soul Train’ Takes Over ‘DWTS’: Every Song and Dance Revealed, Rosie Perez Judges

Lucille Barilla — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:49:48 +0000

Dancing with the Stars brings back the fun and funk of the legendary television series Soul Train. Celebrities and their pro partners will strut their stuff to iconic soul tunes as they continue their quest for a mirrorball trophy. The most incredible music of all time will be honored as the Soul Train chugs its way onto the ballroom floor with guest judge Rosie Perez.

What songs and dances featured as ‘Dancing with the Stars’ honors ‘Soul Train?’

Season 33‘s remaining 11 couples of Dancing with the Stars get their groove on with performances worthy of Soul Train. The night begins with a soulful opening number to “T.S.O.P. (The Sound Of Philadelphia)” by MFSB, featuring The Three Degrees, plus guest dancer and Soul Train alum Popin Pete of The Electric Boogaloos, a street dance crew that popularized popping and electric boogaloo.

Celebrities and pros attempt to gain judges’ points by perfecting their ballroom techniques in week 3 of the competition. This dynamic opener will be followed by the following dances.

Danny Amendola and pro-Witney Carson will perform a Foxtrot to “Dancing Machine” by Jackson 5. Joey Graziadei and pro-Jenna Johnson dance a Jive to “Shout” by The Isley Brothers.

Dwight Howard and pro-Daniella Karagach Cha Cha to “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire. Chandler Kinney and pro-Brandon Armstrong will perform the same dance to “It’s Tricky” by Run-DMC.

Ilona Maher and pro Alan Bersten will Foxtrot to “Lady Marmalade” by LaBelle. Brooks Nader and pro-Gleb Savchenko will Rumba to “Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye.

Stephen Nedoroscik and pro-Rylee Arnold will perform a Quickstep to “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder. Phaedra Parks and pro-Val Chmerkovskiy will also Quickstep to “Think” by Aretha Franklin.

Eric Roberts and pro-Britt Stewart Foxtrot to “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green. Jenn Tran and pro-Sasha Farber will perform a Viennese Waltz to “Fallin’” by Alicia Keys. And finally, Reginald VelJohnson and pro-Emma Slater Foxtrot to “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash.

Guest judge Rosie Perez will oversee the dances and add her professional opinion

Rosie Perez was recruited to appear on Soul Train in the 1980s after a talent scout saw her dancing at a California nightclub. At the time, she was attending Los Angeles City College.

However, Perez reportedly loved dancing on Soul Train so much that she dropped out of school. Consequently, Spike Lee saw Perez dancing at LA’s Funky Reggae dance club and hired her for his 1988 film Do the Right Thing. Thus, the role of Tina was her first major acting role.

Perez would become a Hollywood star with roles in In Living Color, White Men Can’t Jump, Won’t Back Down, Riding in Cars with Boys, Pineapple Express, Untamed Heart, Somebody to Love, Fearless, and Human Nature. Perez’s performance in Fearless earned her a 1994 Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Is there an elimination during ‘Dancing with the Stars’ ‘Soul Train’ night?

The cast of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ season 33 | Disney

No celebrities will be eliminated on Dancing with the Stars’ Soul Train night. Furthermore, viewer votes from Soul Train night and Hair Metal night, which airs on Tuesday, Oct. 8, are combined with judges’ scores to determine the couples in jeopardy of elimination.

Fans can vote during the show’s live broadcast in the ET and CT time zones. Online voting is available to fans in any time zone in the U.S., its territories, and Canada at dwtsvote.abc.com. Additionally, fans can text their votes. There are 10 votes per celebrity.

Dancing with the Stars celebrates Soul Train beginning October 7 at 8 p.m. EST. The show will air on ABC, Disney Plus, and Hulu the following day.