Dancing with the Stars: Season 24 Cast Bios

Season 24 starts on Monday! Let's get ready and see who is dancing this season!

Brief Summary:

Hosts: Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews
Judges: Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Julianne Hough
Pros not competing: Derek Hough :(, Mark Ballas :(, Tony Dovalani, Cheryl Burke, Allison Holker
Pros returning after an absence: Peta Murgatroyd, Kym Johnson-Herjavec, Keo Motsepe
Star Breakdown:

• Athletes (5): Nancy Kerrigan (Olympic Ice Skater), Simone Biles (Olympic Gymnast), Bonner Bolton (Pro Bull Rider), David Ross (Baseball Player), Rashad Jennings (Football Player)
• Actors (3): Chris Kattan (SNL), Heather Morris (Glee), Mr. T (A-Team)
• Singers (2): Charo, Normani Kordei (member of Fifth Harmony)
• Reality TV (2): Nick Viall (The Bachelor), Erika Jayne (Real Housewives of Beverly Hills)

Spoiler, First Dances and Songs:
Credit: TV Guide


Simone & Sasha - Tango - "Untouchable" by Tritonal and Cash Cash
Bonner & Sharna - Cha Cha - "Move" by Luke Bryan
Charo & Keo - Salsa - "Cuban Pete" by Mambo Compañeros
Erika & Gleb - Salsa - "XXPEN$IVE" by Erika Jayne
Rashad & Emma - Cha Cha - "24K Magic" by Bruno Mars
Chris & Witney - Cha Cha - "What is Love" by Haddaway
Nancy & Artem - Viennese Waltz - "She's Always a Woman" by Billy Joel
Normani & Val - Quickstep - "Good Time Good Life" by Erin Bowman
Heather & Chmerkovskiy - Viennese Waltz - "Make Something Beautiful" by Ben Rector
Mr. T & Kym Herjavec - Cha Cha - "Theme from the A-Team" by Mike Post, Pete Carpenter and The Daniel Caine Orchestra
David & Lindsay - Quickstep - "Go Cubs Go" by Steve Goodman
Nick & Peta - Cha Cha - "Let Me Love You" by DJ Snake and Tiësto featuring Justin Bieber

Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.11 & 23.12: Finale

I can't believe we are at the finale already! I feel like I say that every season. It all just goes so fast. I'm not ready to say goodbye to our dancers yet! Can't wait for a great couple nights to close out the season.

I have a feeling that our final 2 are going to be Lauren and James, with Lauren having the final edge. She's just so darn likable and incredibly talented, to boot. She also came in with a larger fanbase than James. I will be happy with either of them winning...or Calvin or Jana for that matter. They are all VERY deserving. I would like to see Sharna get her first win, though, if I'm being honest. And I just adore James. I can't wait to see what the pros have cooked up for their freestyles...because as we all know: the freestyle is everything. Have a great one and it could push you over the top. Have just a mediocre one and it could cost you the mirrorball.

Round 1: Judges' Picks, Redemption Dance

Calvin & Lindsay - Viennese Waltz
He's going to kill this dance this week. His last Viennese Waltz was good, but he has improved so much since then. Most improved, I think, is his gracefulness and his musicality. He feels the song and he's so connected with Lindsay. It's just really beautiful. He is just such a joy to watch on the dancefloor.
Score: 35 Carrie Ann deducting for a mini lift? Come on...seriously?! And she gives him an 8?! On finale night! So, so wrong.


Jana & Gleb - Tango
Not a good week to get the flu! Poor Gleb! First it was his knee and now he comes down with the flu :( When you have to wear a mask so your partner doesn't catch it, that's so sad. But look who's stepping up again...it's Alan! (Seriously, he better get a chance to be a pro next season!). I'm so glad Gleb is feeling good enough to dance tonight! She looks totally gorgeous in that bright red!All of the lasers are cool, but a little bit distracting. I don't remember this being one of her weaker dances, but she is killing it regardless. Uh oh, did her feet come off the ground? Hope not.
Score: 35...and of course, Carrie Ann caught it. I agree with Len when it's not intentional, it shouldn't be penalized. I TOTALLY agree with that, and I think it's utterly ridiculous that the judges can each decide whether it should be penalized or not. Do I sense a conspiracy to get Laurie and James in the final 2?

Laurie & Val - Paso Doble
Her first paso doble was really good, so I don't know how she could improve much on it. So, so good, as expected! She came out in full attack mode.
Score: 38

James & Sharna - Foxtrot
Hello Helio! Nice to see him back again to give James some advice and have a dance off! He did this dance week 1, and it was already so good, I can't imagine how much better it's going to be. James is playing a lovable nerd...too cute. Oh no...the song..."It Had to Be You". I always think of A League of Their Own when I hear this song. I don't love the song or the theme, but he danced it well.
Score: 37

Clearly, the judges are saving their high scores for the freestyle. I expect we could see 4 perfect 40s.

Round 2: Freestyle

Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.10

Week 10: Semifinals!
And we're down to 5. I am not ready for this season to be over yet! I can't believe we are at the Semifinals already! Looking forward to some awesome trios tonight!

Round 1

James & Sharna - Argentine Tango
Yay, Sharna's back! She's going to be doing the dance blindfolded, so James will be leading her through the whole dance. Nice lift! And ouch! She stood on a chair and he leaned her all the way to the floor with an ouchy looking backbend. They are so in-tune with each other. It's like they didn't miss any time together. It wasn't a flashy dance, but it was sexy! HOLY CRAP!!!!!!!! I don't know what just happened, but James just did a handstand above Sharna on the chair, and he held it for like 10 seconds. That was ridiculous!!!!! WOW! I don't know that we've ever seen a guy do something that athletic on the show before - even athletes. Incredible.
Score: 29

Terra & Sasha - Rumba
This is a perfect song and lyrics for her and her story. Beautiful and so touching. Nicely done.
Score: 30

Jana & Gleb - Quickstep
What a weird song and concept for this dance...but somehow, it works! I think Len would be very happy to see a ton of quickstep choreography in there. She looked like she was having a blast. I don't know if all of Gleb's little bobbles were part of his character or if he really was tripping and slipping all over the place. If it was part of the routine, it was really cute.
Score: 28

Calvin & Lindsay - Tango
Great song! Always love "Seven Nation Army"! This is going to be amazing! They seemed to stumble a bit at the end when they were near the edge of the floor. Not quite sure if they just lost footing or what. Other than that, it was classic Calvin. In the replay it looked like Lindsay's leg slipped off of him a little bit too early.
Score: 26

Laurie & Val - Foxtrot
What sad news about Laurie's grandma passing away this week! So sad! She was hoping to be able to see her soon because she wasn't doing too well and she suffered from Alzheimer's. She passed away the day after that interview :( Laurie looks beautiful tonight (well, she always does). Val just whipped her across the floor, and she was with him every step of the way. He gives her the most challenging choreography and she always does so well. She broke down in tears at the end, and it was so beautiful to see the way that Val was there for her and in the video package. He's such an amazing guy. So many emotions! I'm in tears! Everyone is in tears! Carrie Ann said it perfectly when she said Laurie was breathing in every movement and feeling it. And Bruno commented on the difficulty of the choreography. (so it wasn't just my imagination that it looked really tough)
Score: 30

Round 2: Trios

Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.9

Week 9: Showstoppers
Guest Judge: Idina Menzel

Round 1

Marilu & Derek - Samba
Show: Jersey Boys
Look who's back - it's Mark Ballas! Mark is starring in Jersey Boys on Broadway, and he's singing live for their performance. Marilu looks a lot better than she has in the past couple of weeks. She looked like she was having a lot of fun. It was really quick, but she didn't really seem to stumble at all.
Score: 36

Calvin & Lindsay - Waltz
Show: Cats
Oh my word...Calvin in a cat suit! Hilarious! Too bad it was just for the rehearsal and not the actual show. What a beautiful dance! Leona Lewis sang "Memories" because she was actually in the show as Griselda. Calvin just proves that he can handle any dance with such ease. He was so graceful and he captured the essence of the dance so well. Well done, Calvin! Loved it!
Score: 37

James & Jenna (Sharna) - Jazz
Show: The Wiz
Sharna is trying to practice with James even though it's really risky for her knee. The doctor cleared her to dance, but because of the huge risk, she made the hard decision to not dance. Jenna is dancing with him again this week. I can't take my eyes off of him, literally. I don't even want to look down to type this because I don't want to miss anything. Uh oh, I think he might have just had a slight bobble where he kind of forgot a step, but he snapped back into it so quickly, so if you weren't watching closely, you probably missed it. He literally missed like one step and went into one movement a little early, but he held it and then was right back in sync. The entire dance as a whole was really amazing, as per usual. He could totally perform on Broadway because of how he acts out his characters...not to mention his dancing skills, obviously. He really missed his calling, I think :)
Score: 36

Terra & Sasha - Charleston
Show: Sweet Charity
She did a really nice job with this really fast dance. She brought so much personality to it, which isn't surprising. Lots and lots of lifts. Wow, that was actually really impressive. The choreography was really cute and as Len would say, "cheeky". The ending was hilarious.
Score: 38

Jana & Gleb - Waltz
Show: Waitress
Poor Gleb, he's got a problem with his knee - there's inflammation and fluid, and it's causing him a lot of pain. Alan (DWTS producers, if you're reading this - I love him - PLEASE make him a pro!) is standing in and practicing with her, but Gleb will be performing. Beautiful song, beautiful performance. So lovely!
Score: 40

Laurie & Val - Tango
Show: Chicago
As much as this is a great song to dance to, this jailhouse song and dance has been done SO MANY times. Val really wanted her to play sexy - which you have to do for this role. She did a great job and didn't go overboard which wouldn't have been appropriate for her age. Thank goodness she didn't pull an Amber Rose for this one. I loved her cute little wink at the beginning. She was sharp and intense when she needed to be. She also was playful and sexy when it called for it. Great job as always, Laurie!
Score: 40

Round 2: Team-Up Challenge
At one point, the celebs have to dance alone (without their pro) with each other.

Calvin/Lindsay & James/Jenna (Sharna) - Paso Doble
"Team Last Men Standing"
I can't believe these 2 are the last 2 guys standing! They are going to be so amazing together! Too much cuteness to handle! Calvin is the sheriff and James is the bandit. Like Erin, I love the bromance between these 2. Their rehearsal was so hilarious...can they get their own reality show. Their solo/duet was amazingly awesome. The look on Calvin's face! I've never seen him have such a gnarly scowl! Really cool, and totally lived up to my expectations! Epic battle for the cash, and the girls ended up with it! lol!
Score: 37

Marilu/Derek & Terra/Sasha
"Team Cubs"
Really fun routine! Marilu was too slow most of the time. She has such a different style than Terra. Terra just exudes fun, while Marilu is kind of a stiff and restrained kind of fun. Their solo/duet really wasn't all that impressive and it really was kind of boring. Terra might be smaller, but she dances so much bigger than Marilu somehow.
Score: 36

Jana/Gleb & Laurie/Val - Contemporary
"Team Sisters"
These 2 love each other so much. How cool that they each got the only 2 perfect scores of the night and now they get to dance with each other. I love the song they are dancing with: Sia's "Bird Set Free". I love these 2 together in the opening with them in the cage. They are both giving so much to the performance. I've got major goosebumps! They are both so strong. I can't take my eyes off of them - and that's saying a lot, because I love to look at Gleb and Val! Whoa! They both just did a death drop face first with their partners catching them at the last second before their faces smashed right into the floor. That was incredible! Wow...that was freakin' amazeballs! I had goosebumps during that entire performance! Love, love, love everything about that!!!!! And they both get another perfect 40!!!
Score: 40

Week 9 Leaderboard

Jana & Gleb - 40 + 40 = 80
Laurie & Val - 40 + 40 = 80
Terra & Sasha - 38 + 36 = 74
Calvin & Lindsay - 37 + 37 = 74
James & Jenna (Sharna) - 36 + 37 = 73
Marilu & Derek - 36 + 36 = 72

Results

In Jeopardy: Jana & Gleb, Marilu & Derek
Going Home: Marilu & Derek

Sorry, Derek, but WOOHOO!!!!!!!!! I am sooooo glad that everyone else is safe and heading to the semifinals! It was way past time for Marilu to go. Let's face it, had Derek not been her partner, she would have been gone week 2 or 3. He extended her time much longer than it really needed to go. She should have gone much earlier.

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.8

Theme: Halloween!

Highest score will get immunity from the instant dance-off. If there's a tie, they will look at cumulative scores to break the tie.

Terra & Sasha - ChaCha
Theme: Beetlejuice
It started out way slow for a chacha, and not much chacha going on. Once they got off the table, it picked up, but just slightly. I would say this was just "meh". Not real exciting, not really even that entertaining. I think it was the song. Totally agree with Carrie Ann.
Score: 24

Laurie & Val - Viennese Waltz
Theme: Willy Wonka
This should be really fun! This dance really was like a fairytale. Val did a great job bringing it to life. She was cute and adorable as always. It was really beautiful. Val was just about in tears at the end of it, just like he was in the rehearsal. This dance made him so emotional, because she is so good. Too adorable.
Score: 30

Marilu & Derek - Argentine Tango
Theme: Spiders/Spiderwebs
I love the "Sweet Dreams" and the set with the dancers using the bands like a web. Very cool! I really didn't want to like this because I'm ready for her to go home. Her footwork is way too slow and calculated. I think it needs to be a LOT sharper. Whoa, that was a big mess up! She was supposed to put her arm back around his head and she whacked him in the face! Yikes! It looked like something you would mess up in rehearsals. It totally threw her off and she didn't know what to do. There were a few other mistakes as well. She had a couple good weeks, and then last week was a major bump in the road. This didn't do much to get back in the groove. She is so in her head, I think. I'm sorry Derek, but I think she's done. He said he worked with her more last week than he has with any other partner and it wasn't great, and she didn't know why.
Score: 23

Calvin & Lindsay - Quickstep
Theme: Skeletons
I love his makeup and costume, it's fantastic! With the lights out, they really did look like dancing skeletons at times! This was such a fast quickstep. Lindsay didn't hold anything back. He continues to keep growing, just when you think he can't get any better. And those white teeth! They just glowed as usual, but looked so funny with him as a skeleton. Another great, fun dance. He's a contender, for sure!
Score: 30

Ryan & Cheryl - Tango
Theme: Maleficent
Cheryl was tough this week: Cheryl's house of pain! I think that's good...I think she can whip him into shape. He has been an underdog since day 1, and he's worked so hard to get this far. I hope they can really give him some good scores this week. I love the song, they're dancing to - it's perfect. His frame seems to be really strong and firm. I loved the slowed down part where they kind of dragged their feet..that was really cool. I think he did a great job, it was so fun! Ugh...they just always have something to pick on him for!
Score: 23

Jana & Gleb - Jazz
Theme: Little Shop of Horrors
Oh, Gleb...I just love him. He's so cute! Look at him in those glasses! Totes adorbs! What a fun routine! Her splits were amazing! Gleb's wasn't so bad either! One of her best routines yet! (Although nothing will beat their shower dance.)
Score: 27

James & Jenna - Viennese Waltz
Theme: Suicide Squad

Update: Sharna's knee injury is preventing her from dancing this week...and possibly for the rest of the competition :( We see that she slipped on her dress in rehearsals last week. She had reconstruction on the knee previously, and she felt something go. This is just so sad! She has a chance to win this season with James. No offense to Jenna, whom I love, but this was her first year as a pro, and she's been given arguably the best dancer in the competition. That is a lot of pressure! I'm not so sure that she is up to the task. Luckily, James is amazing and I'm sure he will be able to transition and work with her just as well as with Sharna. But I'm going to miss them dancing together. I hope she can come back, because I am dying to see their finale dances!

Great song for this - Grace's "You Don't Own Me". He looks amazing in that makeup. His character just continues to shine through, even with all the makeup. He brings all of his characters to life, so amazingly. He looks just like the Joker. I could watch him all day. I don't think he was quite as emotionally connected with Jenna as he would have been with Sharna, but that's totally understandable. It was still really amazing.
Score: 30

Dance-Off
James, Laurie, and Calvin all tied with 30. James has the most cumulative points, so he gets immunity. America will be voting live, as 2 couples go head-to-head. The winner of the dance-off will get 3 extra points added to their score.

Laurie & Val pick Calvin & Lindsay, who then pick Jive
Jana & Gleb pick Terra & Sasha, who then pick Salsa
Marilu & Derek will go against Ryan & Cheryl, doing a ChaCha

Laurie vs. Calvin - Jive
Judges picked Laurie & Val unanimously. America picked Laurie & Val - 63%. WINNER: Laurie & Val

Jana vs. Terra - Salsa
Judges picked Jana & Gleb 2-1. America picked Jana & Gleb - 54%.  WINNER: Jana & Gleb!

Marilu vs. Ryan - ChaCha
Judges picked Ryan & Cheryl 2-1. America picked Ryan & Cheryl - 58%. WINNER: Ryan & Cheryl!!!! Woohoo!!!!

Week 8 Leaderboard

James & Jenna --30 + 5 = 35
Laurie & Val -- 30 + 3 = 33
Calvin & Lindsay -- 30
Jana & Gleb -- 27 + 3 = 30
Ryan & Cheryl -- 23 + 3 = 26
Terra & Sasha -- 24
Marilu & Derek -- 23

Results

In Jeopardy: Ryan & Cheryl, Terra & Sasha
Going Home: Ryan & Cheryl

:( :( :(   I'm so sad to see him go, but I'm so happy for how far he made it. He made it so much further than I thought he would. Way to go, Ryan. You were awesome, and you will be missed!

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.7

Eras Night
All I can say is "Holy wigs, Batman!" The guy pros have gone all out in the wig department this week!

This week, 2 dances: a solo dance and then team dances

Round 1

Laurie & Val - Quickstep
Era: 1960s
Val loves playing the loveable nerd. It's nice to see her get to do a fun, upbeat number. I will say that this dance looked more like a jive or a lindy hop and less like a quickstep. But it was super cute and super fun.
Score: 34

Ryan & Cheryl - Rumba
Era: 1990s
He did really well with his contemporary routine a few weeks ago. I think he will be able to pull off this rumba. He needs to slow down his movements a little. I feel like he's just kind of throwing his arms around a little. He definitely pulled off the sexy. I hate that they didn't use the Aerosmith version of "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" because this version really stunk and was kind of distracting. It was too fast, which made them dance too fast. It was kind of like it was a tape in fast forward. I still liked it, though, but I'm afraid it's not going to help him move up the leaderboard any.
Score: 28

Marilu & Derek - Charleston
Era: 1920s
Fun music and fun choreography. Marilu's face was a little annoying throughout. I could tell she missed a few steps here and there and they weren't in sync the whole time, but overall, she did pretty well again. I think Derek finally went too fast for her. And then there was the obvious missed timing at the end of the dance when the music ended.
Score: 29

Calvin & Lindsay - Jive
Era: 1950s
More fun from Calvin this week! Another style that suits his bubbly charismatic persona perfectly. He just keeps getting better every week. I just love that smile! He brings so much energy to the dancefloor, it's just contagious! Nice job, Calvin! We better see some higher scores than we've been seeing so far tonight.
Score: 36

Maureen & Artem - Tango
Era: 1980s
I love her hair and outfit this week! But the 80s hair band award goes to Artem for sure. But his bandana looks severely misplaced. You can't go wrong with Bon Jovi's "You Give Love a Bad Name". It's actually perfect for a tango. She smiled a little too much for this angsty rock song, but it was still a good effort. The steps seemed to be there, but there was a little bit of mistiming at the end of the dance as Artem slipped on her skirt.
Score: 28

Terra & Sasha - Foxtrot
Era: 1930s
Oh, how I hate this song. This dance was just "meh". Nothing great and outstanding, but she did it well. The song ruined it for me. I did like the little nose boop that he did on her at the end to the music, though. That was cute.
Score: 34

Jana & Gleb - Samba
Era: 1970s
Oh my, Gleb! That hair is something else! It's like a hair train wreck and I can't look away. He's whipping his head so fast, I'm surprised the wig didn't just fly off. What a fun dance! I'm afraid that they weren't together enough and that they might rip into her like they did for her jive early on in the competition. I loved it, just like I loved that one, but the judges disagreed on that one.
Score: 34

James & Sharna - Jitterbug
Era: 1940s
James practicing lifts for the first time = totes adorbs. I literally can't wait to see this. The dance hasn't even officially started, but he has me grinning from ear to ear. Look at him leading those 4 pro guys...he's officially one of them. This dance totally suits his goofiness. He's goofy, yet totally masculine. He pulled off all the big lifts with ease. I smiled through the whole thing. I'm so in love with him. One of the cutest dances ever. Carrie Ann said it perfectly when she said he disappears into each role for each dance.
Score: 36

Round 2

Team Past: James & Sharna (captain, Calvin & Lindsay, Maureen & Artem, Ryan & Cheryl
I love this team - 3 hilarious male athletes...and Maureen. James's crocodile hunter impression is spot-on.

They look really good in their group choreography. It looks like they stepped right out of the French Court, doing a Viennese Waltz. I loved seeing all of their  intricate passes and twirls. Apparently, I missed their individual portions? I saw them do a little something, but it was so quick.
Score: 38

Team Future: Laurie & Val (captain), Jana & Gleb, Terra & Sasha, Marilu & Derek
Spoiler Alert: this is Derek's team, and he never loses team dances, so...

Interesting concept, but that's not surprising for Derek's team. The music could have been a little more futuristic and interesting at the beginning. Derek shoved Marilu at the end of their solo, and I don't think her fall was planned like that...it looked rather painful. Jana & Gleb's solo was impressive. Synchronicity could have been a little bit better. Overall, I was a little underwhelmed, especially for the theme.
Score: 35 - that means Derek's team loses, whoa!

Week 7 Leaderboard

Calvin & Lindsay: 36 + 38 = 74
James & Sharna: 36 + 38 = 74
Laurie & Val: 34 + 35 = 69
Terra & Sasha: 34 + 35 = 69
Jana & Gleb: 34 + 35 = 69
Ryan & Cheryl: 28 + 38 = 66
Maureen & Artem: 28 + 38 = 66
Marilu & Derek: 29 + 35 = 64

Results

In Jeopardy: Maureen & Artem, Jana & Gleb
Going Home: Maureen & Artem

Whew! That was close! Jana did not deserve to go home before Maureen. Maureen has done extremely well, but it is her time to go.

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.6

Latin Night! Guest judge tonight is Pitbull. He's been making this a regular appearance on Latin Night the past few seasons.

Ryan & Cheryl - Salsa
That is some bright neon yellow he's got on! He is really starting to loosen up on the dancefloor. This is so much better than his chacha a couple weeks ago. He's much more smooth and loosy goosy. And hello abs! He's feeling the beat and he's got those hips moving! This was such an improvement for him! I was worried about him doing another Latin dance, but he nailed this one. OK, now this is COOL! She ripped off his pants, and he's got neon shorts on. They hit the lights and their outfits are glowing and they have glowing body paint on! How cool is that?! I loved this dance! Way to go, Ryan!!! Let's see some big numbers!
Score: 30 (way too low!!!)

Terra & Sasha - Paso Doble
Again, this is going to be very interesting to see how she pulls off what is supposed to be a very strong and aggressive role. I'm sure she will surprise me like she does every week. I love the purple! Haha look at her go! Pure sassiness with that dress. It still looks funny because she's so tiny and looks like a little kid, but you can't say that she's not giving it her all and totally nailing it. Wow!
Score: 30

Amber & Maks - ChaCha
OK, Amber is done in rehearsals, and I'm way "done" with her, too. Her attitude has kind of sucked for quite some time, and I'm just tired of it. I'm also done with her non-existant costumes. Enough already. The choreography was cute, to a very interesting song. Another fine performance. I would just like to see her branch out and do some different characters. It seems like all we are getting from her is the sexy dominatrix.
Score: 28

James & Sharna - Rumba
I love his "Ricardo" alter-ego. He is so hilarious! Such a jokester, but he knows how to turn the sexy on. He has the most natural hip movement that I think I've seen in a long time from a celebrity. He just feels the music and the moment. He is so connected to Sharna. Like REALLY connected. This was such a beautiful dance. It wasn't overly sexy, but it was very sensual, and he was just amazing.  I like what Bruno said about him really stretching his moves, and I've noticed how big and graceful all of his moves are. Love this guy! He has surprised me so much! I never expected to like him this much. I mean I had no idea who he was and he's not extremely good-looking. BUT, his personality, sense of humor, and his talent has made me a huge fan! Couple that with the fact that he should have died in his accident, or at the very least experience some pretty huge limitations with his mobility. He shows ZERO signs of any problems whatsoever. Julianne just said that she thinks he's the best male celebrity that has ever been on the show. Wow! There have been some truly AMAZING guys...to say that he's the best, that is huge!
Score: 38

Marilu & Derek - ChaCha
It's nice to see her doing something other than ballroom. I hate to say it, but she's continuing to do a really good job. Of course, most of that can be attributed to Derek being her partner. She's not my favorite, by any means, but I can't say that she's not doing a good job.
Score: 34

Jana & Gleb - Argentine Tango
I'm glad they're back to the sexy! I feel like their last couple of dances have been really safe. She's channeling her inner Amber for this dance, apparently. So smokin' hot! Those lifts were so fast! I loved the choreography! She had really good, quick flicks with her legs. So, they started out in a bed and ended up in a shower. Yummy! That was amazing! And they are completely soaked! That wasn't just a sprinkle of water! Way to really go for it! Thank you for a wet, and now shirtless, Gleb :) Bruno approves...he's now upside down in his chair!
Score: 40 (WOW!!! And they're in jeopardy?!)

Maureen & Artem - Samba
I am so surprised that she is still hanging in there. She keeps doing rather well at some really difficult dances. She doesn't really "wow", but she's safe, consistent, and fun to watch because she enjoys herself. This dance's choreography didn't look as technically difficult as we've seen tonight or from her in her previous dances.
Score: 31

Calvin & Lindsay - Argentine Tango
Him trying to make a sexy selfie face was hilarious! Look at him bringing the sexy! Love the open shirt! "Hotel California" is a really cool song to do this style of dance to. Whoa, that was a cool cartwheel like lift he just did. And oh my! He whipped her up over his shoulder so quickly, and he spun her around so fast! That was incredible! I will say that he seemed a little more stiff than usual, but it was still a lot of fun to watch. I liked what Bruno said about him being in control and leading, and when they showed a quick replay, he was totally right! That look on his face - he meant business! BTW, his abs are incredible...I think you could actually wash clothes on the washboard that he's packin'.
Score: 37

Laurie & Val - Salsa
Right out of the gate, Val is flipping her all around! This is such a fast dance, but it is so right up her alley. She never misses a step. She was worried about the sexy hips, but she rocked it just like she has every other dance. Another really wild and crazy lift! Great choreography and really suited her personality.
Score: 37


Week 6 Leaderboard

Jana & Gleb - 40
James & Sharna - 38
Calvin & Lindsay - 37
Laurie & Val - 37
Marilu & Derek - 34
Maureen & Artem - 31
Ryan & Cheryl - 30
Terra & Sasha - 30
Amber & Maks - 28


Results

In Jeopardy: Amber & Maks, Jana & Gleb, Calvin & Lindsay (what?!)
Going Home: Amber & Maks

Woohoo! That was a close one! I can't believe that it came down to her and Calvin. I was going to be REALLY upset if Calvin went home...especially before her! It was her time to go.

I think Maks is secretly happy, because he has made it known that he wants to be a stay-at-home dad, so this will just give him more time to prepare.

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.5

Week 5: Most Memorable Moment

Maureen & Artem - Foxtrot
Year: 1985 - the year she married her husband
Great story, beautiful dress, beautiful song, lovely choreography. It was so dreamy and elegant. She's gotten lucky with a lot of ballroom dances of late.
Score: 24

Calvin & Lindsay - Jazz
Year: 2012 - the year he broke Jerry Rice's record
So flashy! Both the outfits and his smile, as usual! He just lights up the dancefloor. That over the head spinning lift was incredible! BUT...I don't know that jazz is one of the dances that Carrie Ann excuses lifts for. And he didn't just do one, they did 2 lifts! And oh look! There's Jerry Rice in his dance throwing him the ball! And then to find out that he didn't know that that was going to be Jerry (and they've NEVER met before?!)! What?! What a cool idea! Great dance as usual. I love to watch his enthusiasm.
Score: 24 (wow, that was low)

Jana & Gleb - Contemporary
Year: 2016 - the year her daughter was born
So, so beautiful.  Gleb created such beautiful choreography. It was danced so beautifully and gracefully. So light and effortless. I loved the lifts. Lots of emotions in that dance for her, especially at the end when they put her daughter's picture up on the big screen.
Score: 26

Ryan & Cheryl - Contemporary
Year: 2008 - won his first individual gold medal in the Olympics
I love seeing his emotions when he talks about swimming. So cute. He is dedicating the dance to his mom. I have been waiting to see him do a dance like this. And thank you, Cheryl, for having him dance with his shirt open! He had so much emotion and vulnerability, nd you could feel it through every movement. Holy crap, Cheryl! That slow motion backbend to the floor was scary good! The music is horrible, but he is doing so well! Very, very nice over the head spinning lift. Aw, great job, Ryan!
Score: 24

Laurie & Val - Paso Doble
Year: 2016 - went to the Olympics
This is the first week that we've seen her very vulnerable in rehearsals. Val was very hard on her and really pushed her. Very interesting beginning with her in this strange box. I love that she's dancing to Katy Perry's "Rise". She is rocking it so hard! So much intensity on that face! When you know how bubbly she is normally, to see her with such a stern look on her face, it's such a transformation! That was so incredilble! Somehow, she manages to top herself every week. I don't know how she does it! Surprisingly, they actually found things wrong with this?!
Score: 25

Marilu & Derek - Viennese Waltz
Year: 1978 - the year her mom died and a couple weeks later, she got the role on Taxi
I love her dress, and I love the smoke on the floor. What a weird song, though, it doen't really seem like the right kind of song for this type of dance. She did a really good job this week, and I think the judges are really going to like it. She looked a lot less stiff than usual. Whatever Derek did differently this week really worked. Not sure if her foot stayed on the floor in that wicked spin...we shall see what Carrie Ann says. Haha! Carrie Ann runs to hug her, Julianne joins in, and Bruno...hugs Derek and Derek dips him!
Score: 27

Amber & Maks - Samba
Year: 2013 - the year her son was born
She had a really rough week of rehearsals this week. I'm sorry, but her attitude...I'm over it. I'm ready for her to go home. This dance is clearly just building on the last 2 dances that she did and plays on what they have been telling her to do more of. It's a lot of butt and boob shaking, as always. That's part of this style of dance, but it's just so obvious and overstated.
Score: 24

James & Sharna - Tango
Year: 2015 - the year he had the biggest crash of his career and he almost died. Hearing his story was incredible...I didn't know just how bad it was. The surgeon said that no one should have been able to survive it. And it was 18 months ago! He said it was "the best thing that's ever happened to me." Wow!
He looks incredible, as usual. I loved the song and the laser lights. It was a little bit jerky in some places, but I always enjoy watching him. Always. And knowing what his body went through not long ago, makes what he is doing all the more incredible. His surgeon was waiting for him backstage and they are friends now...so cool! His outlook on life is so inspriring.
Score: 29

Terra & Sasha - Contemporary
Year: 2013 - the year her dad died and she started Little Women, L.A.
Not really much to say. It was beautiful, and had lots of emotion. That running leap was intense! She really flung herself at him!
Score: 27


Week 5 Leaderboard

James & Sharna - 29
Marilu & Derek - 27
Terra & Sasha - 27
Jana & Gleb - 26
Laurie & Val - 25
Calvin & Lindsay - 24
Maureen & Artem - 24
Ryan & Cheryl - 24
Amber & Maks - 24

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.4

Week 4: Cirque du Soleil Night!
I can't wait, I think this is going to be amazing!!! But on a VERY sad note, tomorrow is a double elimination?! What?! No fair!

Calvin & Lindsay - Charleston
I think I'm going to say this for every recap, but "holy crap!"! So fast, lots of lifts and they were totally in sync. He was having so much fun! He really captured the fun and goofy style and played it off perfectly. Loved it!
Score: 23

Maureen & Artem - Argentine Tango
I keep forgetting that she is 60 years old. She looks amazing. She seems to be with him every step of the way. I think her lines look really good and her intensity was good as well. The performance itself was a little underwhelming by Cirque du Soleil standards, but she did a good job.
Score: 24

Jana & Gleb - Foxtrot
They are just too cute. I loved Gleb's choreography. I'm just wondering when the Cirque du Soleil part is coming. So far, nothing is happening except them dancing...and they're done, and there were no other performers and there wasn't really anything spectacular happing. :( It was a great dance, though.
Score: 23

Marilu & Derek - Paso Doble
Now THIS looks like a Cirque du Soleil performance! Derek looks amazing - except for the weird mutton chop paint on the sides of his face. I knew Derek would not disappoint. There are lights and fire and lots of twirling red flags. By the end I realize that I didn't really pay much attention to the actual dancing. There were a lot of distractions. It was a fun piece, though, and I love the shooting flag at the end that "killed" Derek.
Score: 21

Amber & Maks - Tango
I know this is burlesque-inspired, but dang...she isn't wearing much, and what she is is painted on. Barely there lace and garter, and a swimsuit-like top that leaves nothing to the imagination. Costume aside, the dance was phenomenal. Maks said he was going to push the envelope, and he really did. She embraced it and did a great job. Maks really knew what he was doing to get people to vote for her in this week of a double elimination.

They spent way too much time about Julianne's comment from last week and she said she was a little uncomfortable watching her performance. Amber took that to mean that she was body shaming her and she only said that because of her body and no one says anything about the other girls who don't wear much. I don't think Julianne's comments had anything to do about her body type, but more on the raunchy booty shaking and grinding going on.
Score: 24

Ryan & Cheryl - Viennese Waltz
That was brave of him to have that piece at the beginning without Cheryl. It wasn't much, but it had to be timed to the music. He looks so fluid, like he's in water - which obviously is what this dance is about, and is where he is most comfortable. I sure hope the judges like it and give him some big scores! Overall, it was really lovely. The ending was a bit awkward. Uh oh - more shouting from the audience while getting his scores. Not sure what they were shouting. But...the judges seemed to love it!
Score: 22 (He deserved higher than that, especially after their comments)

Babyface & Allison - Tango
I feel like he already had a tango, didn't he? I think it was the Argentine tango, but close enough. I'm sorry, but he just really bores me. He looked a little lost in a couple places, and he pretty much confirmed that it "went away". It was definitely not anything too special or memorable. It seems to be the same low-key performance every week. I'm hoping he is one of the 2 eliminated tomorrow.
Score: 18

Terra & Sasha - Samba
That is some wild hair she's got going on this week! I'm loving Sasha's choreography. She is having a blast with this one and she is rocking it so hard! I don't know how she's doing it, but she's doing it! Wow!
Score: 25

Laurie & Val - Jazz
She learned most of the dance by watching Val's video because they were separated across the country. And she comes out, and absolutely kills it...as per usual! She looked amazing and she totally brought the character to life. You almost didn't even notice Val as Michael Jackson! Dream come true for her and it was a great moment. She had this competition won in week 1 and she hasn't slowed down since.
Score: 30!!!!!! First 10s of the season and the first perfect 30 of the season! Wow!!!

Vanilla Ice & Witney - Viennese Waltz
Come on Vanilla! We need a good week! He had 5 concerts and wasn't getting in until Monday - the day of the show?! Yikes! I love that they are using a bunch of the original dancers from the Cirque show. I love Witney's dress. It's probably good that Len isn't here this week to critique him on this ballroom dance. I think he's doing a good job, but what do I know. They will probably rip him apart for his footwork or his hold posture. I don't think you could tell that he had very little rehearsal time. He definitely pulled it off.
Score: 23

James & Sharna - Quickstep
I think this number is going to steal the show. I just love him more and more every week. I just can't believe how good he is at embodying different characters every week. He kept up so well with all of the pros that were on the floor. The acrobats were incredible, but James was phenomenal. I couldn't take my eyes off of him. He was out front and center leading the other dancers and he nailed it! Loved it!
Score: 28

Week 4 Leaderboard

Laurie & Val - 30
James & Sharna - 28
Terra & Sasha - 25
Maureen & Artem - 24
Amber & Maks - 24
Calvin & Lindsay - 23
Jana & Gleb - 23
Vanilla Ice & Witney - 23
Ryan & Cheryl - 22
Marilu & Derek - 21
Babyface & Allison - 18

Results

Going Home, 1st Elimination: Babyface & Allison,

In Jeopardy: James & Sharna (what?!), Vanilla Ice & Witney (what?!), Jana & Gleb (what?!)
I am in shock right now. NONE of these couples should be in jeopardy. NONE of them! Who is it going to be?! I don't want it to be any of them! I can't believe that Ryan was safe! I am SO HAPPY for him. I voted a ton for him. But...I didn't realize it would put 3 of my favorites in jeopardy. I figured it would be Amber or Maureen or Marilu maybe. Not these 3. Come on! This is not cool!

Going Home, 2nd Elimination: Vanilla Ice & Witney
Noooooo! He was doing so good! I'm really surprised that with the same judges' scores as Jana that he got fewer fan votes than she did. Shocked. I love Jana and Gleb, but I looked forward to seeing him every week. I'm really going to miss him.

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.3

Week 3: Face-offs!

Things are getting a little shake-up this week because of the Presidential debate tonight. We only have an hour show, so the couples are going to be paired up. Highest scored pairs will get immunity. Should be interesting! I sure hope it doesn't mean that someone good will go home tomorrow night just because of who gets immunity.

Babyface & Allison VS Jana & Gleb - Jive

Babyface & Allison
He' really showing his age. It wasn't the quickest jive, even though the music was really fast. Jive moves could have been better.
Score: 25

Jana & Gleb
Of course, this was awesome! Love the pink! They were so flirty and fun! Loved this! Their chemistry is amazing, and the choreography suits them so well.
Score: 26

WINNERS: Jana & Gleb 
Woohoo!

Rick & Emma VS Vanilla Ice & Witney - Paso Doble

Rick & Emma
Rick rolled his ankle in rehearsals - it looked really painful! Oh man, don't start getting good now! He's a little robotic and seems to be walking a little more than dancing. He's got some intensity, though the steps don't look super hard.
Score: 23

Vanilla Ice & Witney
Love the leather and glittery bling he's got going on! Len is going to hate this as his outfit for a paso. But it works for him! He's got a ton of intensity in that face! His moves are big and he's hitting the moves so hard. He better get an amazing score for this! Love it!
Score: 23

Tie: Len is the tie-breaker
WINNER: Vanilla Ice & Witney
That is just an absolute travesty! Vanilla should have gotten 7s and 8s for that dance. And we don't even get to find out what they didn't like about it. There is no way that it deserved the same score as Rick. I'm so glad Len did the right thing! That was too close!

James & Sharna VS Ryan & Cheryl - ChaCha

James & Sharna
Look at that smooth operator! He is so smooth! That was a hot chacha! He had loosy-goosy hips and their chemistry was amazing! His personality came through like a laser beam in this dance. I loved Sharna's choreography. They were grinding those hips on each other and so in sync!
Score: 29

Ryan & Cheryl
Ryan is so in trouble against James...and James just had an amazing dance! Come on, Ryan! Ooh, we get to see the abs! He looks amazing tonight! He looks a little uncomfortable, whereas James was right at home like he does it all the time. He needs to work on the hips and be a little more slinky. I think he did well, but not going to be good enough to get immunity, I'm afraid. He should feel good about that, though. He's trying and he's having fun.
Score: 25

WINNER: James & Sharna

Terra & Sasha VS Calvin & Lindsay - Viennese Waltz

Terra & Sasha
This dance and this song clearly meant a lot to her. She was graceful and flowing. There seemed to be a lot of separation between them. It looked a little more awkward than their other 2 dances.
Score: 30

Calvin & Lindsay
I love her dress! He seemed a little stiffer and robotic than normal. He loosened up a bit toward the end, but I'm afraid it wasn't enough. His smile, though, still lights up the room, even in the dark.
Score: 32

WINNER: Calvin & Lindsay
Wow! I'm shocked! I can't believe either of those dances scored as high as they did, and I'm equally as shocked that Calvin won!

Amber Rose & Maks VS Maureen & Artem - Salsa

Amber Rose & Maks
Dancing to J. Lo's "Big Booty"....yeah that's an understatement! Again, she looks so much better with hair! She's definitely working her ass-ets. The choreography looks way easy. There wasn't any part of that that looked challenging. It also doesn't look much like a salsa. She's just moving her butt around, but I don't really see anything resembling a salsa.
Score: 25

Maureen & Artem
She looks so pretty! This actually looks like a salsa! There were lots of intricate salsa moves and she nailed them all! She should feel really good about this dance! That looked WAY more challenging and so much more like a salsa than Amber's.
Score: 28

WINNER: Maureen
Woohoo! She deserved better scores than that, but at least she got the win!

Laurie & Val VS Marilu & Derek - Tango

Laurie & Val
I love her hair straightened like that! She looks so mature! She really brought the character (big surprise). I like how their shoes were lighting up with the lasers on the floor. It was almost like their feet were creating sparks. Really cool!
Score: 31 (Carrie Ann saw a lift)

Marilu & Derek
Wow, lots of flexibility on that backbend to the floor. I think she did a pretty great job. I think the lights and the song made it a great performance, but I don't know that her dancing was that spectacular.
Score: 28

WINNER: Laurie & Val
Again, the better pair won!

Week 3 Leaderboard

Calvin & Lindsay - 32 (immunity)
Laurie & Val - 31 (immunity)
Terra & Sasha - 30
James & Sharna - 29 (immunity)
Maureen & Artem 28 (immunity)
Marilu & Derek - 28
Jana & Gleb - 26 (immunity)
Ryan & Cheryl - 25
Babyface & Allison - 25
Amber Rose & Maks - 25
Vanilla Ice & Witney - 23 (immunity)
Rick & Emma - 23

Results

In Jeopardy: Rick & Emma, Terra & Sasha, Amber & Maks
Going Home: Rick & Emma

I was so happy that Ryan was safe! I was so worried because I totally forgot to vote! Good for him! So happy! I'm a little surprised Rick is going because I thought he seemed pretty popular. Definitely the right one to go.

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.2

Week 2! The theme is TV night!

All the couples will dance again tonight, and there will be a 2-hour results show tomorrow to eliminate the first couple.

Maureen & Artem - Quickstep
TV Theme: The Brady Bunch
Of course, Florence Henderson shows up to give support again! She was even a part of the on-stage routine. "Marsha, Marsha, Marsha!" It took way too long on stage to get to the actual dancing. She did a decent job, but it was a little on the slow side, but I think it was because the song was too slow. The song doesn't really fit the quickstep.
Score: 26

Jana & Gleb - Tango
TV Theme: One Tree Hill
LOVE! Gavin DeGraw is back in the ballroom! I love that he is singing his song that was the theme for One Tree Hill, which Jana was a part of. SAD! She tore some muscles between her ribs! Oh no! They told her she shouldn't dance, but she wanted to anyway. She was shrieking in pain in rehearsals. That has to be so painful! On to the dance...she looks amazing! I love the costuming! Gleb's choreography for this is really good - and so does his guyliner. She doesn't look to be in pain, which is amazing. Awesome performance!!!
Score: 29

Rick & Emma - Quickstep
TV Theme: Green Acres
OK, could have guessed that theme! She makes a good Lisa. He makes an even dopier Oliver. He's not moving too bad! It was actually a little bit entertaining! Much improved over last week's awkward endeavor.
Score: 22

Calvin & Lindsay - Foxtrot
TV Theme: Family Matters
Yes, he's Urkel! This is going to be so fun! He is so into character - he's got it nailed! Loved the suspender work - hilarious! He's got really nice lines. He was so much smoother than I thought he would be. Nicely done! That was neat! Best part is when Jaleel White sneaks up behind him after the dance. Mutual love and affection between those 2 - that was awesome! Urkel/Megatron bromance!
Score: 28

Amber & Maks  - Viennese Waltz
TV Theme: Game of Thrones
Holy crap! Maks as Khal Drogo?! What?! Amber as Khaleesi?! I can't stop looking at Maks! Wow, that was so good! That set, the feeling, it was all there. It was way too short, though! Can I just say...she looks so much better with hair.
Score: 24

Jake & Jenna - ChaCha
TV Theme: Go, Diego! Go!
That show was his big break into show business at age 9. This dance style suits the theme song very well. He was a little bit off with the fist pump to "Go, Diego! Go!". He was a little bit behind Jenna on the choreography, just like last week. He seems to always be trying to keep up. He looks good, though, and his moves look good. He just needs to work on his timing and the confidence that he knows the choreography.
Score: 24

Vanilla Ice & Witney - Foxtrot
TV Theme: Married with Children
OK, can't wait to see what he's going to do with this! I just love his attitude and him talking about being a dad. The audience who may not know him I think will love that about him. Witney as Peg is hilarious! I loved the Al Bundy character he brought to it. It was pretty good! He looked surprisingly (or not surprisingly) so comfortable in this dance style! That was so delightful! Way to go, Rob!
Score: 26

Terra & Sasha - Quickstep
TV Theme: Bewitched
So now, let's see how this works to be in hold on an extremely fast dance. Her feet are going to have to move twice as fast as his. She's got the nose twitch down. I don't know how he's doing it, but he doesn't look too bent over. I'm surprised that it doesn't look completely awkward. It has to feel so different for him, but he made it work. She actually pulled it off, and she looked really confident and comfortable. Wow!
Score: 31

Babyface & Allison - Argentine Tango
TV Theme; X Files
Interesting theme. Derek would have turned this into something futuristic, but the laser lights were cool. He was a bit too soft. he didn't have the quick and sharp kicks that are needed for this dance. I thnk he could have been a little more theatrical with it. It was still pretty good, though.
Score: 30

Laurie Hernandez - Jive
TV Theme: Duck Tales
Duck Tales?! Wow, they went way back for that one! How cute is this dance?! What's not to love about this, seriously? She will never have a bad dance.
Score: 32

James & Sharna - Paso Doble
TV Theme: Walking Dead
OK, yet another dance I can't wait to see! Walking Dead, are you kidding me?! Yes! He only had a couple days to prepare his dance, yikes! He is nailing the drama and the power. You would never know he didn't really practice this since last Wednesday. Other than the theme song not really being that close to the actual show, it was still really cool! He is quickly becoming a favorite. They said it might happen, but I didn't think it would happen. His personality and his talent are hard to deny. I'm a fan. Hopefully Sharna will be OK next week...she sustained a nasty zombie bite!
Score: 29

Marilu & Derek - Foxtrot
TV Theme: Taxi
Nothing overly special about this dance. It didn't help that the instruments hit some wonky notes. It was nice, but I didn't think the choreography was especially challenging. Derek struggled to come up with something, and this was probably one of his most underwhelming dances. It pains me to say it, but it was pretty forgettable.
Score: 29

Ryan & Cheryl - Quicksetep
TV Theme: Muppet Show
I love the support that his cast members showed him after what happened last week. I'm glad he can smile and move on. I love that he showed his fun, happy-go-lucky personality throughout the dance. He did great with all of the very fast footwork! I hope the judges loved it! Way to go, Ryan!
Score: 24

Week 2 Leaderboard

Laurie & Val - 32
Terra & Sasha - 31
Babyface & Allison - 30
James & Sharna - 29
Jana & Gleb - 29
Marilu & Derek - 29
Calvin & Lindsay - 28
Maureen & Artem - 26
Vanilla Ice & Witney - 26
Amber & Maks - 24
Jake & Jenna - 24
Ryan & Cheryl - 24
Rick & Emma - 22

Week 2 Results

In Jeopardy: Maureen & Artem, Ryan & Cheryl, Jake & Jenna, Amber & Maks
Going Home: Jake & Jenna

Poor kid, he just didn't have much of a shot. He didn't have a huge fan base, and he had a first-time pro for a partner. I'm so incredibly happy that Ryan gets another chance! I didn't want him to be the first to go!

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 23.1

Season 23! Here we go! This opening is pretty cool!

We have 4 judges this season, so the highest score will be 40.

Marilu & Derek - Jive
Wow, was she excited to get Derek or what?! I mean, who wouldn't be?! The jive is a hard one to start out the season with, but she had a lot of energy and it was definitely quick. It seemed like there was a lot going on, but I didn't really see a lot of kicks and flicks. It was a good opening number, though. I love her raw emotions. She is just so happy and grateful to be there. Good for her!
Score: 27

James & Sharna - Foxtrot
I didn't expect him to be such a goofball. He could be a lot of fun to watch. Their dance seemed EXTREMELY short! It barely got going and then was over. I think he had some really good technique. He moved across the floor very well and was very fluid and graceful. Definitely one to watch, for sure.
Score: 31

Calvin & Lindsay - Cha Cha
The season's resident football player with a huge smile from ear to ear that he keeps throughout the entire dance. When the dancers have fun, we have fun watching them. He was definitely having fun. The doubters all said he couldn't dance, but he didn't do half bad! It wasn't the hardest choreography, but for week 1, it was enough to show that he has some potential.
Score: 26

Maureen & Artem - Viennese Waltz
They are so cute together! She made him cry! I had no doubt that she would have a lot of grace and beauty on the dancefloor. She floated across the floor with really great form. I'm not sure how she will do on some of the quicker Latin dances, but I think she has ballroom nailed. How cool that Florence Henderson was there to support her! So lovely! Another celebrity who is just so happy and excited to finally be on the show. Very cool to see.
Score: 22

Babyface & Allison - Foxtrot
Horrible music. He was maybe a little better than I thought he was going to be. He showed some personality and looked like he was having a good time. I had a hard time enjoying it though, because of the crappy music.
Score; 26

Amber Rose & Maks - Foxtrot
If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. I will just remind myself of that as I critique her. Bruno said it best when he said "there was more to her than he expected". Let's just say, she has a very interesting physique. I think Maks is the perfect partner for her. With an attitude like that, I think he's the only one who can contain her her and understand her.
Score: 24

Vanilla Ice & Witney - Cha Cha
I can't wait for this! He's the one I've been most excited for! And to find out that he's never watched the show! He has no idea what he's getting into! Very cool that they are dancing to his most well-known song: "Ice, Ice Baby", of course. He's still got the moves! This wasn't nearly long enough, I want more! He was worried about making a fool of himself with his own song, but he owned it! Awesome choreography! I can't wait to see more from him! That was just awesome. Almost as good as Alfonso pulling out "The Carlton". Bummed the judges didn't think there was enough cha cha content. Boo! And how funny that Witney wasn't even born 25 years ago when his song was a hit. I loved Erin's comment "That's just annoying."
Score: 25

Dancing with the Stars, Season 23 Preview & Cast Bios

Season 23 starts TOMORROW, Monday, September 12 at 8:00 PM EST on ABC!

3 pros, who have taken a few seasons off, will be returning: Maks, Cheryl, and Derek! It will be great to see them dancing again!

Missing for the first time is Tony Dovolani. Tony has been a pro every single season, except for Season 1 (that's a LONG time!). Mark Ballas is also taking at least one season off to do the Broadway show Jersey Boys. It will be weird not seeing those guys.

I am super excited to see Gleb back! Gleb has only appeared on one other season, Season 10. He was partnered with Lisa Vanderpump, so he wasn't around for very long, but I've remembered him since that season and have been hoping that he would get another shot, with a better partner. He has definitely gotten that this season, being partnered with Jana Kramer. They are going to be a great partnership, I have no doubt.

I think my favorites going into the season are going to be Vanilla Ice, Jana Kramer, Ryan Lochte, and Laurie Hernandez. We'll see if that changes after seeing them all compete in week 1.

	Amber & Maks Amber Rose Talk Show Host, Model Age: 32 Maksim Cherkovskiy Pro Seasons: 15th Best Finish: Winner, Season 18 Age: 36
	Babyface & Allison Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds R&B Singer/Songwriter Age: 57 Allison Holker Pro Seasons: 4th Best Finish: 2nd, Season 20 Age: 28
	Calvin & Lindsay Calvin Johson Retired Football Player - Detroit Lions Age: 30 Lindsay Arnold Pro Seasons: 4th Best Finish: 3rd, Season 21 Age: 22
	Jake & Jenna Jake T. Austin Actor (Wizards of Waverly Place, The Fosters) Age: 21 Jenna Johnson Pro Seasons: 1st (former member of the DWTS Troupe, and competitor on So You Think You Can Dance) Best Finish: n/a Age: 22
	James & Sharna James Hinchcliffe Indy Race Car Driver Age: 29 Sharna Burgess Pro Seasons: 8th Best Finish: 2nd, Season 21 Age: 31
	Jana & Gleb Jana Kramer Actress (One Tree Hill), Singer Age: 32 Gleb Savchenko Pro Seasons: 2nd Best Finish: 10th, Season 16 Age: 32
	Laurie & Val Laurie Hernandez Olympic Gymnast Age: 16 Valentin Chmerkovskiy Pro Seasons: 11th Best Finish: Winner, Season 20 Age: 30
	Marilu & Derek Marilu Henner Actress (Taxi) Age: 64 Derek Hough Pro Seasons: 17th Best Finish: Winner, Seasons 7, 10, 11, 16, 17, 21 Age: 31
	Maureen & Artem Maureen McCormick Actress (The Brady Bunch) Age: 60 Artem Chigvintsev Pro Seasons: 4th Best Finish: 6th, Season 19 Age: 32
/	Rick & Emma Rick Perry Former Texas Governor Age: 66 Emma Slater Pro Seasons: 6th Best Finish: 4th, Season 17 Age: 27
	Ryan & Cheryl Ryan Lochte Olympic Swimmer Age: 32 Cheryl Burke Pro Seasons: 19th Best Finish: Winner, Seasons 2 and 3 Age: 32
	Terra & Saha Terra Jolé Reality TV Personality (Little Women: LA) Age: 36 Sasha Farber Pro Seasons: 3rd Best Finish: 7th, Season 22 Age: 33
	Vanilla Ice & Witney Robert "Vanilla Ice" Van Winkle Singer, TV Personality (The Vanilla Ice Project) Age: 48 Witney Carson Pro Seasons: 6th Best Finish: Winner, Season 19 Age: 22

Photos: TVLine.com
Cast Bios: Wikipedia

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Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 22.10 & 22.11 Finale

Sad news from the ballroom on finale night. Ginger injured her pelvis a few days ago. As of today, she still wasn't sure if she was going to be able to dance. She received x-rays and at 2 different exams they said her pelvis was too far forward and then too far back - it was moving all around! She was having a lot of spasms and was giving out on her. I feel so bad for her. That has to be so painful.

Tom says this finale is very close - all judges' scores and viewer votes there is only 3% between each of them.

Round 1: Redemption Dances

Ginger & Val - Contemporary
They have a lot of elements from many of their dances throughout the season. He is whipping her all around and I can only imagine how painful that has to be. She's got a smile and she's giving it her all. It was a gorgeous dance! She missed out on so much rehearsal time, and but it didn't really show at all.
Score: 28

Nyle & Peta - Quickstep
He got a lot of criticism on this dance the first time. I can't wait to see his improvement on this dance! Oh my...Nyle in a cowboy hat! Hot! I can already tell he's more in frame and a lot sharper. I think the Mask last time got him too excited and he overdid the steps. This looks amazing this time around! He seems so in control this time around...not so loosy-goosy and chaotic. That was so good, Nyle!
Score: 27

Paige & Mark - Salsa
This was the dance that Mark had to miss because he was injured. He is putting in the move that he injured himself on. Good luck, Mark - don't do it again! I absolutely love dances to this song. She is most definitely a fireball! Mark's legs are as crazy as ever. The choreography in this dance is ridiculously hard! and so fast! And that lift...incredible. That was so much fun!!! Very nice, Paige! She is so happy after that one. I'm so glad she got to do it with Mark.
Score: 29

Round 2: Freestyle

Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 22.9

The Semi-Finals!

Round 1: Trios

Paige & Mark & Alan - Samba
Ay Carumba! Muy Caliente! So much flirting going on...so cute! Was there any doubt that this dance was going to be spectacular? The three of them made a perfect trio. They were so in sync throughout the whole thing. This dance was made for Paige. Very cool concept! And the flirting and embarrassment continued after the dance...Alan was turning so red! He is just too adorable! I am going to say it now...Alan will be the next troupe member to get a chance to be a pro. He has been everywhere the last 2 seasons...his time is coming!
Score: 30

Antonio & Sharna & Haley - Argentine Tango
I like that this Argentine Tango is more on the playful side than the more serious side. It suits his fun personality so well. Those eyes are so intense! He pulled off some amazing lifts. Like super amazing! He did well with the quick and tricky footwork. And then that smile! Gets me every time! What a fun routine!
Score: 27

Wanyá & Lindsay & Witney - Paso Doble
Of course, Witney will be their 3rd! It's only fitting. Not only is Witney Lindsay's best friend, but she was also Wanyá's switch-up partner. Those red dresses are insane! I hope he can have a good week because he was really feeling bad about last week. Look at him go! So many quick switches from one girl to the other. It is so hard to tell them apart - so much blonde hair everywhere! He brought the power, and he commanded those girls. Very nicely done, Wanyá! Unfortunately, I think his fate is sealed in this double elimination :(
Score: 30

Dancing with the Stars, Ep. 22.8

Round 1: Regular Dances

Nyle & Peta - Paso Doble
I can't wait to see him take on the paso! I think it's a good idea to have 8 seconds of silence for the audience to get to hear what Nyle hears. His troupe was having trouble getting the timing without the music. Love the song choice: "Victorious" by Panic at the Disco and it's the original version and not some messed up version from the band. He is looking smokin' as usual. Add in the smoke, holy crap. The part without music was stunning and so dramatic! Overall it was so much fun to watch. I did get the sense that he felt a little rushed through the whole thing and maybe just a little off his game and trying to catch up throughout the whole thing. Len found a lot to critique, but he always ends with just as much positivity and admiration for what Nyle does each week. Carrie Ann was so moved, she could hardly get out her critique. Wow.
Score: 29 (and Bruno said there is no confusion this week and he wrote the 10 himself - ha!)

Antonio & Sharna - Viennese Waltz
Haha he can't pronounce Viennese!  He looks so sharp! That smile is everything. I get lost in that smile! He's moving so smoothly and he looks like he's really taking the lead on this dance. He and Sharna really look like a couple in love in this dance. So beautiful. I sure would hate to see him go, but I think it's going to be either him or Jodie tonight. I think this was one of his best dances, which would be appropriate if it turns out to be his last night on the show. The extra time he put in this week really seemed to pay off.
Score: 27

Jodie & Keo - Jive
Well, it looks like I'm not the only one who thinks that Keo is holding Jodie back. Ouch. Sorry Keo. He's a great dancer and a decent choreographer. But her week with Val proved our point. This was a very cute and fun jive. They were having a blast. To me, it looked pretty near flawless. We'll see what the judges saw.
Score: 30

Paige & Mark - Viennese Waltz
I love Mark's concept for their costumes making them look like frozen stone statues for Demi Lovato's song "Stone Cold". This is such a powerful and strong song, and I can see Mark bringing that to the dance. Not only are they stones, he wanted to make a blizzard in the ballroom. They look like they are frozen. Was there any doubt she was going to be amazing. I liked their robotic movements - they acted it out perfectly. I really loved this dance! For a Viennese Waltz, it had so much drama and creativity. Way to go Mark on the choreography! Perfection! I got goosebumps!
Score: 28 (can't believe that wasn't a perfect 30)

Ginger & Val - Argentine Tango
Those outfits are insane! The lifts were incredible. The passion and intensity were palatable. The whole time all I'm thinking about is why can't I figure out what song they're dancing to! It's an instrumental version of something I know because I'm humming along to the whole thing. What is it! It's driving me nuts! Something Lady Gaga? What is it?! Is it "Telephone"? I think that's it. I can't wait to watch it again because my mind was so distracted by trying to figure out the song.
Score: 30

Wanyá & Lindsay - Jive
Wow, seeing Wanyá now vs. Week 1 and 22 lb lighter! That is incredible! I knew he was a lot thinner, but 9 weeks and he's lost 22 lb! A western jive...this should be fun! I just don't know how he can be in jeopardy - he's just so much fun! He is so much fun to watch because he just loves every second. I say it every week, but his interpretation of the dance moves is all his own and it's just so quirky and fun! Ooh, he really started to lose his timing and really botched some of the steps at the end. That's going to hurt him in scores. But man, was it fun! And he slipped on her bandana, but he kept going! And wow, for the first time, Len said almost word for word, my entire critique! He mentioned the missed timing, he mentioned his unique and quirky rhythms and how much he always enjoys watching them.
Score: 25

Round 2: Judges' Team-Up