It’s time to swing those hips, kick those legs, and glide across the dance floor. That’s right, a record-breaking Dancing with the Stars Season 35 has begun.
This has been one of the best casts in recent years, since I recognized more than half of the stars, and many of them attempted entertaining first routines.
During Dancing with the Stars Season 35, the judges seem to be judging lower than usual and holding back higher scores until later in the season.
It made sense in some ways because, while the dancers worked out their nerves, I felt some of them were underscored.
The leader and the elimination of the male dancers were accurate, but some of the verdicts for the female dancers were unfair.
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Let’s discuss how some glitches, new pros, and some stars’ popularity may have factored into this verdict.
Would the Extra Votes Have Made a Difference for the Men?
Many fans guessed Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson would lead the men at the end of night one, and they were right.
But just because he had dance experience from Glee and his movies didn’t mean his disco-themed cha-cha to “Let’s Groove” was perfect.
He’s used to performing, and it showed, and he and Jenna sizzled. His biggest problem was exaggerating his arm movements, but that leaves him something to work on.
The biggest surprise was how well Paralympian Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach performed.
Since I have a disability, too, I have a soft spot for Paralympians.
I was terrified that his running blade would buckle and he’d fall during his performance, but he took control and led Daniella around in a strong tango to Kelly Clarkson’s “Since You’ve Been Gone.”
I can’t wait to see how he improves, as he’ll be a contender.
Unfortunately, some dances were weak, and since online voting glitched on Tuesday night, we’ll never know whether the extra votes would have made a difference.
I thought Guillermo Rodriguez would be eliminated after getting only a 10 out of 30 on his cha-cha. It was entertaining, but he had minimal cha-cha steps.
However, he must have more fans from Jimmy Kimmel Live than I thought.
Conner Leavitt was eliminated, likely because he’s only recurring on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, and he doesn’t have a dedicated fanbase.
His partner, Adele Zaikman, was new, and we don’t talk about it much, but the pros often bring fans, too. She didn’t have many yet.
I’m not sure extra votes would have helped since the other lowest dancer was Guillermo, and he has a large fanbase.
Were the Judges Tougher on the Ladies?
When the cast list came out, many assumed that Jenna Dewan, Amber Glenn, or Julia Stiles would lead the pack.
While all three ladies earned respectable scores, Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas blew the judges and the crowd away with their sultry Foxtrot to “Black Velvet.”
Maura has never danced before, but she was already friends with Mark from their time on The Traitors. That helped because they were used to each other’s quirks.
Even so, I wasn’t prepared for Maura to dance so elegantly and effortlessly across the ballroom. She may take the others by surprise.
Jenna Dewan danced beautifully, and she also worked with Val Chmerkovskiy years ago. They wanted to dance together again and finally got the opportunity to.
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While their tango wasn’t perfect, it still felt strong, and the judges seemed cautious not to play favorites with those who had a dance background.
Jenna could be another top contender if the judges and audience give her a chance. She was a joy to watch.
This could be Pasha Paskov’s year to win a trophy. I think Amber Glenn is his best partner so far.
We all know that figure skaters have won the Mirror Ball Trophy before, from Kristi Yamaguchi to Meryl Davis.
She wasn’t used to working with a partner, but she had beautiful lines and musicality. She has definite potential.
I think three 6s were a bit low, and we should have thrown in at least a 7, but that will be the goal next time.
I felt similarly about Julia Stiles, especially since her quick step was to a Dolly Parton song. What a bittersweet tribute.
Julia brought her acting chops and her dancing in her first dance, and she’ll be one to watch. She’s determined to prove to Andy Cohen that she can dance.
The ladies’ field is very stacked.
Again, a lesser-known celebrity and a new pro went home.
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It was disappointing because Sarah Jane Nadar and Hailey Bills were the first same-sex pairing on Dancing with the Stars.
I would have liked to see more of what they could do, but neither had a huge fanbase, and their routine was fun but messy.
Over to you, Dancing with the Stars Fanatics.
Do you agree with the judges’ scoring this year? Who is your favorite?
Let us know in the comments.
Let’s keep the conversation going — it’s the only way the good stuff survives.
Say something in the comments, share if you’re moved to, and keep reading. Independent voices need readers like you.
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