DWTS11 Week 8 Power Rankings
Ok, so instant choreo wasn’t the trainwreck we all thought it would be. I think all of the couples did decently well given the circumstances, and the only indicator I could really see that flagged it as an “instant dance” to me was the fact that the music and the choreography didn’t always stop at the same time.
I’m left in a definite quandry again tonight, as I don’t think anyone really & truly sucked – plus the eliminations have been so wonky, I never know who’s in danger and who couldn’t be safer. Ooh wee…where to begin?
1 & 2.) TIE: Jennifer & Derek and Brandy & Maks – Prior to the Maks vs. Carrie Ann “Instantgate” at the close of the show, I would have put Brandy & Maks first…however, I think he may have put a few people off (including some of the pros…check out Lacey’s face as he talks about Carrie Ann observing their rehearsal) with some of the comments he made; or who knows, maybe Team BranDMC fans will rally because of it. Brandy did well tonight – I will say that. While I found their waltz to be a bit overwrought with emotion, it was indeed a nice waltz, and I thought their cha-cha was cute – but I actually agree with Carrie Ann, it seemed to take quite awhile for them to actually start it. I think it would have had just as much impact if they had taken 2 bars of music walking out onto the floor hand-in-hand, looking lovingly at each other. Thought Jennifer & Derek had a very pleasant, light, fluffy quickstep, but at times I could tell she was struggling with the pain in her knee. LOVED the instant rumba – although I must say I’m appalled that they had never heard “Waiting for a Girl Like You” (god I love Foreigner…”I Wanna Know What Love Is” is my go-to karaoke song!). They definitely nailed the connection that they were trying so hard for. I don’t think there’s any doubt that these two ladies will be duking it out in the finale (barring any more “shock” eliminations…*shudder*), but both seem to have an Achilles heel. For Jennifer, it’s injury – it seems like every week, the poor woman is experiencing some new sort of ache or pain to overcome. This week I really noticed it in her quickstep. Hopefully she can practice a bit of mind over matter and power through those injuries. For Brandy (and this is something it’s taken me awhile to put my finger on), I almost feel like she’s desperate to win this competition – as if this is all she has going on right now and if she doesn’t win, she’ll be devastated. I know everyone seems to complain about Jennifer crying week after week – but seriously, Brandy does it AFTER EVERY DANCE. It’s really becoming bizarre for me. I kinda wish she would maintain her work ethic, but really focus on having fun and letting loose. While I’m really reluctant at this point to declare anyone totally safe, I’m about 80% sure these two ladies have nothing to worry about tomorrow night…fingers crossed…
3.) Kyle & Lacey – Not a whole lot to say about these two – decent Viennese, fun jive. I think it’s becoming clear that Kyle really excels in the Latin dances, and seems to struggle a bit more with the ballroom. And he’s still the consumate entertainer – just a riot to watch. Wish I had more to say, but overall, these two did well tonight. I think he deserves to be in the finale, and hopefully he’ll make it through this week and next in order to be there.
4.) Bristol & Mark – Do I think she deserves to go home this week? Absolutely. Do I think, based on historical evidence, that she will? No. Thanks to the judges, who were pretty liberal in their scoring tonight, we have only 1 point separating her and Kurt, and that will mean little to nothing in the great voting game. I actually think she was pretty damn good in her Argentine tango tonight – maybe she didn’t quite have the intensity that Jennifer had, but I was surprised we got as much heat out of her as we did. Samba was pretty heavy on the fluff, and she did forget her steps and get a bit off-time once or twice (whether or not it was truly Mark’s fault, I don’t know)…thought she should’ve gotten docked at least 2 more points for that, but the judges were up to their usual wackadoo scoring tonight and only gave her 1 point less than Kurt, who did not get off time or forget any steps. If she’s anything like Chad last season (who I didn’t think was that great, but managed to stick around to the semi finals nonetheless), I think she’s got one more week in her.
5.) Kurt & Anna – Thanks to the judges and their inability to score everyone relative to one another, my beloved redheaded Russian will probably be headed home this week along with her teddy bear quarterback partner. Though they did every bit as good as Bristol and Mark in the ballroom round, and better than them in the instant choreography round. I think they got the crappiest song pick of the night (seriously? Cha-cha to “Hella Good”? 
), which didn’t quite seem believable as a cha-cha; but I loved that they salvaged the waltz song that Kyle & Lacey rejected during storytelling week (“Take it To the Limit” by the Eagles) and managed to create a very pleasant waltz with it. I guess it will come down to Tea Party vs. NFL this week…who will prevail? I hope to god I’m wrong…I just want one more week of Anna, PUH-LEASE 
Alright kids, let’s hear it – were you impressed or horrified by instant choreography week? Lay it on me, because I will not be ranking next week due to being on vacay in Arizona 
In my absence, the fabulous Heidi will be doing the rankings…so be good to her. I mean it! 
I thought Maks and Brandy’s instant dance was horrible. It was like a grade school dance and talk about no musicality. I was surprised at how well Bristol did considering she got stuck with the samba. Kurt was a pleasant surprise too. Kyle blew us all away, and Jennifer and Derek were fantastic!
“I almost feel like she’s desperate to win this competition – as if this is all she has going on right now and if she doesn’t win, she’ll be devastated.” Interesting. I wish she would understand that doing well on the show and establishing charisma will be great for her career. It doesn’t matter as much who comes in one or two.
Am missing tomorrow’s results, going the SYTYCD Tour in Sac Town (Sacramento).
I’m sad and happy about this. Happy, ’cause I get to see my Dominic! <3 Sad, because I really wanted to see Jeanine Mason perform with MArk Ballas. Will anyone tell me what happens tomorrow (when tomorrow comes)?
I think Maks’ behavior may hurt him and Brandy. That coupled with about her attitude–there is just something about her that doesn’t sit well with me. I’m a fan of her music and used to watch Moesha all the time but something about seeing her in this environment turns me off. I would not be upset to see them go but agree it’s probably not likely.
I thought Kurt and Anna’s cha cha cha was awesome and I think they were underscored. Great choreography too. Yes I want more Anna too:)
I was actually worried about Bristol and Mark doing lifts and thought for sure the A-Tango would be it for them. But what an amazing job on the choreography and I thought Bristol performed well. I was not as crazy about her second dance but hey she was moving the upper body very well.
Kyle and Lacey–I was not wowed by the first dance or Lacey’s dress
but wow the jive was incredible! I hope they get the encore.
Jennifer and Derek’s dances were great. But again, I’m tired of the packages focusing on her ailments. It was great to see her dad though but it still focused on her ailments. I want to see more about her life and career in the packages.
I have no clue who is going home but it’s sure fun to write about it!!!
Yeah, I think after the first dance Brandy and Jennifer were tied for first. But after the insta-dance?? Jennifer blew Brandy out of the water. Not that I blame Brandy. Maks has GOT to learn to keep his mouth shut before it negatively impacts his partner and START dancing. I’ve been liking Maks all season and I was yelling STFU!!!! Damn, they can’t afford that type of behavior!!! Did he not see Sarah Palin AND cute babies in Bristol’s package??? That dance took forever to start too – CAI was, for a change, absolutely right and I was glad Len backed her up. All the other couples started dancing right away, but Maks – as is his habit – spent way too much time screwing around. At the end too, when they ran around the dance floor clapping. Thing is – she had Cha Cha before – it shouldn’t have been a challenge.
Bruce – you are absolutely right. If you make it to the final you should call it mission accomplished and a job well done. She does seem a tad desperate.
I have to say this was the best night for actual “dancing” on this show this year! I loved the whole night. The celebrities made the best of the instance dance and even rose to the occasion as well (well, with an exception to one of them…more on that in a sec.)
My faves in order;
1. Brandy and Maks – what a hot night for them. Both dances were absolutely superb imo. The choreography was out of this world. A ’10″ for both dances. I don’t know what Carrie Anne was going on about with the second dance. I thought it totally worked. I loved Brandy’s neck in the first dance too. I was literally stunned by her neck and arms and what she did. Outstanding night.
2. Jennifer and Derek – I thought she seemed slightly detached in a few spots in their first dance. But, oh honey, were they ever n-sync and spot on for the second dance. Ssssss Way cool. In fact, I think their second dance and Brandy and Maks’ first dance tonight were my absolute faves of the season thus far. There is always a dance or two that stops your heart beating every season and these two dances were that for me tonight. I’d give Jennifer and Derek’s first dance a 9 and their second dance a 10.
3. Kyle and Lacey – Wow, week after week these two make a statement. Kyle is not interested in going home anytime soon. He was quick footed tonight, into both characters, totally having fun, entertaining, and powerful. 9′s for both dances.
4. Kurt and Anna – I loved their rehearsal package. His kids are just so cute. I’m worried his dances might be a little forgettable. But, they were still good. I’d give him an 8 for the first dance and a 7 for the second dance.
5. Bristol and Mark – Ok, I’m trying to be nice. But, this is hard. She has to go. She wasn’t in it again tonight and was miles away again in many places. She lacked energy in her legs and there’s a weakness and slugishness. She doesn’t act like she wants to be there. She must go home. I’d give her a 5 for both dances at the most.
Ok, I can’t wait to read the rest of your reviews and thoughts. Great review Courtney. I can see why you tied your first two.
I thought Bristol’s first dance was her best dance all season. She does much better when she is “glued” to Mark. When she has to dance on her own, she just stops and waits for him to take her into the next step. She needs help with transitioning and the judges don’t seem to know how to explain this to her.
Kyle was just adorable and his hard work really, really shows. He has been impressive not only in learning difficult dance steps, but he has had the most positive attitude of all of the contestants. No whining, no crying, no “acting out”, etc. He’s the youngest and seemingly the most mature about the entire situation.
Brandy and Jennifer are obviously the best dancers; however, with Jennifer’s injuries, she should have never signed a DWTS contract. About Brandy….enough whining. About Kurt…..he seems to be a very nice guy, but I don’t know if he’s particularly enjoying the process. He’s a football player who has actually done very well considering his lack of dancing skills, but he seems rather tired of the whole rehearsal gig.
In all honesty, and some folks may think I’m crazy, I would like to see Kyle win this contest. I know he won’t win, but based on dance improvement, entertainment quality, positive attitude, fun spirit, and willingness to listen to the judges and make changes, Kyle actually deserves to win. He has actually made this season a LOT more fun because of his laughter and his incredibly fun nature. He is what the show is about – fun and ENTERTAINMENT.
These other divas, celebrities and consummate whiners are just exhausting. And, bless poor Bristol’s heart, someone please send “Her Royal Homesickness” back to Alaska. If I were a 20 year old unwed mother of a beautiful baby with NO college education, I would consider myself extremely blessed to make “in the neighborhood” of $125,000 – $175,000 on this show. How many unwed, uneducated moms can make this kind of money…….DANCING…..with no experience in the field of dance????? I know this is not easy on her, but this young lady should consider herself very fortunate to be making this kind of money to help raise her precious son. Okay……I’ve got it off of my chest, but celebrities can be like “fingernails on a chalkboard”. I imagine Mark Ballas will be glad when this is over.
Wow, tonight was a great show. Finally it looks like the end of the season and there was a lot of quality dancing. And the instant dance thing was actually really good!
I was gladly proven wrong last week but I am worried again that Kyle will go this week. And he SO doesn’t deserve it. I loved both his dances and he has improved technically. Lacey also choreographs like no one else and whether you like her personality or not, I enjoy the different style she brings to the dances.
Jennifer and Derek were back on great form once again! That quickstep was elegant and fun and the rumba was sensual and beautiful. A rumba scoring a 30 is special and rare indeed. I enjoy seeing that they are having a good time and enjoying themselves and keeping it as light as they can considering her physical issues.
Kurt is just of course, not at the same level as some of the others but he and Anna are appealing together and he did well tonight. He did much better than I expected in the instant dance.
Bristol did perform better tonight. I actually liked their Argentine tango more than a lot of her other dances. The samba was a bit rough but to give the arguably worst dancer and worst performer the one of the harder more extroverted dances was a big hurdle for them to overcome. I do hope either her or Kurt and Anna go tomorrow though.
Oh man. And here we go. Maks Maks Maks. That was just the most ridiculous thing I have ever seen. The judges are there for a purpose and they get their 20 seconds to state their opinion. Sure, its not always a good one, but it’s their job and they have a right to state it. Let alone the fact that Carrie Ann had a LEGIT point this time. Before the whole Maks hissy fit, during the performance, I was saying, what is all the messing around at the beginning AGAIN? AND at the end??? I know you were leaving room for interpretation of the whatever song you might have gotten and whatever length but none of the other couples padded it THAT much. And you have arguably the best dancer, so you shouldn’t need to. And I don’t mind the pros sticking up for themselves and their partners a little, but that much and in that way was just unprofessional and uncalled for. Just because you work hard doesn’t mean you deserve praise all the time. Everyone is working hard. And to continue your rant after the scores? And bring all the other pros into your statement? Geez..proud much? You would think he would learn to take a little criticism after 10 seasons, but he hasn’t and he proves it in almost every interview as well. Ridiculous. And anyway, Carrie Ann didn’t say you don’t work hard, she just didn’t care for your choreography and frankly, neither do I often, so just get over it and worry about the viewer votes. I truly think he sabotages his chances at winning with his mouth and his choreography choices, though I wouldn’t be surprised if he personally blames never winning on the judges or the other pros.
And then, what I don’t care for about Brandy & Maks as a couple is they seem to take the show and the end goal so seriously and are so overly intense, where all the other couples do seem to be, for the most part, just trying to enjoy it all and have a good time while doing the best they can (Yes! I agree Courtney, Brandy acts so……desperate to win). It’s too bad because, even if I don’t care for a couple, I do recognize great dancing, and the waltz was wonderful, one of my favorite dances of the season by them, I really enjoyed it and they deserved those scores. And then ruin that momentum with a lackluster cha cha and that fit? Ugh…..
But anyway……besides that, I thought it was a very enjoyable show, the one with the most quality dances so far this season!
I don’t dislike Bristol at all, but she sure seems to get breaks from the judges. Kurt (or the others for that matter) would have been slaughtered for forgetting steps and being off-time. Wonder what it is that gets Bristol a pass on those things. Was her overall technique or performance that much better than Kurt’s to make up for those things?
Oh and one more thing. I couldn’t believe the judges gave Bristol an “8″ for that first dance. Please!! What are they on?
Bristol did nothing better than Kurt and she’s not as likable. Time for Bristol to go – not that I really believe she will. But this is madness.
Well, Vogue, you liked Maks and Brandy’s insta-dance. Just sayin’.
Almost forgot. I have to fill in for Courtney next week. I’ll be needing alcoholic beverages. I like expensive dark Beer and expensive champagne. Hint Hint.
LOL Ok, fair enough.
I think it’s ridiculous that Mark Ballas is almost having to beg Bristol to hold on for three more weeks. Good Grief – did someone not show her the contract?
Again, I just love Kyle and his incredibly mature attitude. Plus, his dancing has really improved! I’m honestly casting my vote for Kyle. Tonight’s dances were the best of all season, and everyone did very well, considering the insta-dance, but the diva whining needs to stop. Next time, the celebrities need to have someone read the DWTS contract to them so they will better understand the seriousness and physical requirements of the commitment.
Crack, Heidi. They are on CRACK.
First of all: AWESOME RANKINGS COURTNEY! Hava a blast and in Arizona and say high to Kurt and family fo me.
Ounce again I will try to rank! And I give Vogue ” everybody but esspecialy her ‘ free reign to tare me apart because i could see her Bristol bias back again this weel. You know she rocked that A.Tango! Lol Have at it Vogue I can take it! LOL! 
Jennifer and Derek: These two really did well tonight! The Quickstep was really good but thx to the pakage ” Which, Heidi you SO nailed how the packeges would be! ” the intire time i was worried shed hurt herself and I could sometimes see she was in pain but she prevailed. The Rumba was AWESOME, That should some it up. The Verdict: I really think so but gosh who the heck really knows. Anymore.
Brandy and Maks: I was really feeling it after there Waltz but after Maks and CAI fight ” For ounce im team CAI ” I almost gave this spot to Kyle and Lacey. The Waltz was great! I loved it except as Courtney said the intire time she seemed kinda someone had just pored a bucket of cold water over her head or like she sat on a nail. Like ” OMG, MY HANDS HERE, MY HEADS HERE??!! OR IS IT???? DO WE START NOW!! I must win!!!!! ” like I sometimes i really wonder if she gonna break into Mama Palin’s gun case and murder the other four in their sleep if she had to to win this thing. CHILL!! The Cha Cha = Wheres tha dang Cha Cha anyway????? Not sa great! Overscored….The Verdict: Again. Should be in the final, could be in the bottom two. This season you just never know…
Kyle and Lacey: So these two really stepped it up this week! His V.Waltz was miles ahead of his Waltz and his Jive was soooo fun!! These two were certainly memorable and they danced first which is never a bad thing either. The Verdict: I think safe, but ionno folks.
Bristol and Mark: Daaannnnnggggg, Shes was HOT tonight. That A.Tango was amazing! 2nd best of the season ” Next to Jen and Dereks “. Her technique was really good. Her intensity was sooooo much better. Most of the time. Shes just needs to carry that through the dance more and a lil more power and shed be great! Now im still confused on whose fault the misteps in the Samba weres, and I could see she was struggleing a lil more in this put she really brought the spirit of Samba to this dance and ALOT of people struggle with that and I thought they really got it. The Verdict: I think/hope safe but no one is safe….
Kurt and Anna: Good Ole KurtAnna! I love these two! Man hahaha. Noooooow, I thought the Waltz was pretty good, its was super classay and his technique aint perfect at all, but he always delivers, it was good!
Now his Cha Cha Cha I thought was a good two points overscored, It was fun but it just seemed hectic! I DIDNT think the musicality was all that good, Technique was Ehhh and it just wasnt that good to me. Hes got the drunk uncle thats always in the center of the dance floor at Cousin’s Susie weddin down tho! 
The Verdict: Probably the most likely culprits. But again, Who knows?
Thought guys???
Crack is whack, Lola.
I don’t mind Maks’ rants. They keep things interesting. I understand they turn people off, but it can also motivate people to vote. I just wish the fight didn’t magnify the negatives of the performance, especially since Bruno said he loved it and it was still miles ahead of Bristol doing the Ballas Shimmy and Point (which the show generously called a Samba).
I thought Brandy’s waltz was so dramatic is was king of awkward for me to watch, I actually laughed afterwards at the faces she was making because it just looked for actress-ey and unsincere. I dunno, it just didn’t appeal to me. I really like Maks, but really haven’t liked his partners lately. Gotta agree that Brandy’s desperation is really weird.
Jennifer was awesome as always, voting for her all night long.
That was supposed to say “…waltz was so dramatic it was kind of awkward for me to watch”
You guys are great. I love Review night.
Zack….I know. I’m hiding under the table. I knew I’d be in trouble. Great review …well, except for the Bristol part. lol.
xxx
And Courtney, we will miss you and have the best time in Arizona. I loved how you described Anna and Kurt. I hope it’s not them to go yet.
Brandy’s waltz was just too much. It was so dramatic and Brandy’s dancing is not that great. I am not drinking the Brandy kool aid because any other season, she would not be in the top 2 while I think Jennifer would still be a contender. Jennifer is fifty, with aches and pain and still better than Brandy. Jennifer’s rumba blew both Brandy’s dances out of the water. Jennifer’s complaints are injuries I can understand. But Brandy’s behavior is just a turn off. Maks was incredibly arrogant tonight. But he probably thinks he was in the wrong. I have to check out Lacey’s reaction now!
I was pleasantly surprised by most of the Insta-Dances. I think Jennifer, Kyle, and Kurt were great in that you’d never guess those were instant dances by just watching the dance. I know Kurt’s technique is not great but I think those three and their pros really stepped up to the challenge of the insta-dance. Bristol did better than I thought she would but I still don’t think she earned the scores she was given. Brandy and Maks were the most disappointing, the quality of her dancing was great but there wasn’t enough of it! Like everyone else, it almost pains me to agree with CAI, but she’s right this time. Maks, enough with wasting time walking around at the beginning and end of your dances! And did anyone else notice that most of their main run was almost identical to their solo in last weeks team cha-cha?
If any of the top three go home it will be a travesty, I swear. I’m sorry, but to me Kurt and Bristol have overstayed their welcome. Loved Kyles jive, Brandys Waltz and actually Jennifers Quickstep. Something about it I enjoyed. And how can Mark not know Mas Que Nada??? I’ve been playing that song since I was 10 and I’m surprised that he hasn’t danced to it before; it’s quite a popular Latin piece. Watevs though, a good night overall. And i still miss my darling Audrina
((
I liked Jennifer and Derek the best tonight. Followed by Lacey and Kyle, and on the fence about Brandy and Maks. I like Kurt and hope he continues in the competition, even if he is not up to par in technique. He just lights up the room and him and Anna just look like they’re doing their best and at this point know they won’t win over the judges, but if they can win over the viewers, than they’re fine. Bristol I thought showed a softer side to her with her rehearsal package and I do feel for her. She’s probably the worst of the bunch, but I do admire her for doing the show and doing a lot of things she’s not used to and uncomfortable with.
On a side note, it looks like Shannen Doherty’s father had passed away today and would like to extend my condolences to her family. I knew she did DWTS for her father and only for him and while her stint was short-lived, I think she did him proud. I’m glad she got the opportunity to do it for her dad before he passed and he looked so proud after her first dance, nothing can take that away from her.
I LOVED MAKS’ rant! He was right. I think the nit picking by CA is obviously personal at this point against Maks. Their first dance was a 30. Jennifer’s rumba was better but based on her Ballet, I predicted she would get a 30. Carrie Ann said what others were thinking. The week she gave Jennifer a 6 was uncalled for! I do wish Jennifer would stop the whining about the knee. The doctor in the dance studio was Too MUCH!
Sorry, I meant to say that Maks was saying what everyone is thinking. From the reaction on Twitter, I would say 90% are with Maks on this one!
Magnolia, I completely agreed with you about Kyle. He has the right attitude and work ethic, he is fabulous to watch with Lacey, and he just might be peaking at the right time! Maks and Jennifer BOTH need to STFU… it’s not about your problems, it’s about the PERFORMANCE that America sees! Brandy is for me the one to beat, but she CAN be beaten. It will be Brandy, Jennifer, and Kyle in the finals… then watch out, it’s anyone’s game.
I loved Kyle’s jive so much! Next to Lacey, his lack of sharpness was pretty glaring, but the energy and entertainment value were perfect! I liked the Viennese Waltz a lot too, except for Lacey’s dress.
Totally agree with Len on the rumba, so full of contrasts, just wow. Yay for 30!!!
I thought they would've gotten 9s based on the cha cha cha's comments.
Jennifer and Derek greaaaattt quickstep! Delighted to see Derek channeling Fred Astaire! <3 Amazing goofiness
Brandy's waltz was too dramatic for me, sorry. And while watching, I did feel that they took too long to get started, but it was kinda ok, until the end where there were more fluff. What bothered me so much was how many moves were recycled from her previous dances AND sooo little cha cha cha. I understand recycling moves is a good strategy but it came to the point where I don't feel there was enough new material, or cha cha cha material.
Loved Kurt's packages and Anna's super positive attitude
Bristol, please be the next one leaving. I love the others. She did well tonight though. A. Tango lacked strong feet but the steps were good. Samba was too little content but I enjoyed seeing her looking like super happy while dancing.
Great recap as usual…. and as usual I pretty much agree.
EXCEPT, I’m going out on a limb and saying I think Jennifer is going home. I think Bristol, Kurt and Kyle have VERY active internet voting fanbases and have worked to activate them. (actually, Brandy, too) Haven’t seen that from Jennifer. And I didn’t see it from Rick, either – which is why I think he was eliminated.
I’m really bothered that voting blocks seem to have taken over… or maybe not. Maybe I’m wrong. Or crazy.
I do believe Bristol deserves to go home based on dancing, although I have enjoyed her in the past and really did think she did a great first dance (for her). But, Kurt would be my second choice, because I found his first dance so stiff.
Re the Carrie Ann / Maks rumble… I agreed with her completely. Not only the beginning, but the end of the dance had no cha cha. I also agreed with her about Brandy’s neck at the beginning. *shrug*
A huge fan of DWTS wants to know why Lacey insist on looking the worst possible when rehearsing. She seems to wear the most unflattering thin she can find for this.
She has a nice body and can look great in costumes but even then, some of them suck and make her look overly “hippy” and plainly fat, even though she is not. I think she has some sort of a complex to overcome. She has done an amazing job with Kyle. Her talent is apparent.
I just hate seeing her try so hard to look her worst.
I don’t know what’s wrong with the judges. It’s as if they have a blind eye to how bad Bristol Palin is. She’s a total clutz with zero musicality and zero charisma. Usually, as we get closer to the Finals, they put their foot down and low-ball the scores of the inferior dancers, in order to send a message to the public that what we’re seeing is just not good enough. For some reason, they keep giving her a pass, leaving it in the hands of her Tea Party ballot box stuffing followers.
I actually saw a poll tonight that had Brandy leading in the “who should be the next to leave” category. What kind of bizarro world are we living in?
There are none so blind as those who refuse to see.
Oh, and forgot to give kudos to Courtney. This is my first time to this site and that was an awesome review. Great job!
Joe Mag – Yes, it’s all upside down and backwards this year. I doubt Bristol will go home with the Tea Party organized for her (and some others who vote purely for non-dancers). Could Jennifer or Brandy go home instead? I think so… with most likely being Jennifer.
I’ve seen a bunch of people campaigning against votes for Jennifer because of Joel Grey. Since Joel is her father, she must be a pro, so they say, so vote for Bristol or Brandy.
We’ll see what happens.
Ten points separate Bristol from Jennifer/Brandy, so I don’t know if we are going to get another shocking elimination this week. But who knows. . . this season has been whack with the eliminations. Also, IMO, it’s irrelevant if people think that Jen is a “pro” because of DD and her dad. Nicole Scherzinger, Donny Osmond, Mya, Evan, Lance, (and others) have all had dance or some sort of choreography experience with their careers and all of these stars had no problem getting into the finals. I would like to see great dancing in the finals and I know Jennifer and Brandy will be able to give that to me.
This is the first time I can’t remember Bristol. Good or bad. Something is telling me that Kyle may be out tomorrow, even with his scores. I think Kurt and Bristol have enough fan base to keep them in. Now, at this point, I’m worried for Brannifer. With these past three eliminations, I don’t know. I have a feeling one of them is at risk, more likely Brandy because people aren’t warming up to her (Did anyone notice the silent applause?) and Maks may have cost them votes. I don’t know people, I don’t think Brandy is out, nor Jennifer, but truly, NO ONE except Bristol is safe.
Thanks for equaling Brandy and Jennifer A few things I have to say, I think that waltz is one of the best dances ever, the emotion is key to that dance, I love it. The choreography, Maks has really stepped it up this season. Amazing!!!! Also, how much has Brandy improved from week 1? The Judges never say anything about. She has improved so much.
And with Brandy and Maks’ starting time for the cha cha, they missed a few bars so what, notice LACEY did not start the dance straight away and she did not get called for it. Carrie Ann is complexity hypocritical. Also for Carrie Ann to compare Brandy’s dancing to Kurt, Kurt did not dance as well as Brandy. A little bit more quantity over Brandy’s quality. And why did she give them a 9 for their waltz over some little neck thing? The way that Carrie Ann gave her criticism sounded rude, not constructive. Her little comment at the end sounded bitchy. Team BRANDMC are getting more votes through than ever tonight after what happened.
I am sorry, but jennifer and derek were awesome. Talk about whining, Brandy is the queen. She is so desperate to win, thats all we here about. She is only going to hurt herself if she continues this! And Maks didn’t help the matter.
Jennifer and Derek are very much like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers! If anyone had the injuries she has there would be some drama about them too. Remember its a reality show. Go Jennifer and Derek!
Yeah, so Mark had never heard “Mas Que Nada” before? I find that very hard to believe. That had to be some silly idea of looking helpless for the cameras.
I actually thought they would score Jennifer’s Rumba lower because of the lack of hip action, but I suppose they’re taking age and injuries into account even though they shouldn’t.
Kyle was Most Improved for me tonight, his footwork in the VW was lightyears beyond anything he’s deone before.
I’m on Carrie-Ann’s side vs. Maks. Yes, all the couples took a few bars to start, but they were exceptionally slow. And Maks even revealed the reason in the package: he had only choreographed a minute of dancing, they HAD to stall for time. Some bad choices there, Maks.
It’s a toss-up for who’s worst: Bristol still has sluggish legs and feet, Kurt still has a hunched back and weak arms (I don’t believe he’s actually leading anything). The order in which they go home doesn’t matter to me, as long as they’re the next 2.
I went and watched the video again of Brandy and Mak’s 2nd performance. You guys are right. There was a waiting period in the beginning. I can’t give them a 10 for their second performance like I originally thought which means I’m with Courtney. Jen and Brandy tied lastnight. Wow, this competition is stiff. I just hope it’s Bristol to go tonight. Whatever happens, please don’t let it be Jennifer, Brandy, or Kyle.
Thank you Courtney! I love your power rankings! Zack, you crack me up!
John I agree with everything you said. Who’s going home? I think it will be Kyle, to be honest, because of his smaller fan base, but Heidi’s Dancing by the Numbers will shed some light on that. I actually hope it’s Kurt. As much as I love Anna, Kurt’s dances all look the same to me. I just don’t think he’s improved very much since the beginning, and he’s not a contender anyway or shouldn’t be. I think Bristol should get the 4th spot just for the amount of progress she’s made over the season; then next week she should go home. An unpopular opinion here, I know, but it’s mine. 
It wasn’t just the walking around the stage and wasting time in Brandy’s cha cha. Maks does this a lot. It is also all shimmies and clapping in the middle of the routine. It looked like they were just making things up along the way. Jennifer didn’t decide to bring a doctor in for drama. It hurt and it was painful. It is what happens! I give more credit for Jennifer who pulls off all these amazing dances.
Just for the record, not everyone thought instant dance was destined to be a nightmare. The majority was bitching though, that’s for sure. I don’t see that many “it wasn’t a nightmare in the end” posts as I would expect. At this point in the competition I don’t really care who is the best dancer anymore. Both Jennifer and Brandy annoy me with their attitudes. I’m rooting for everybody but these two.
Yep, Maks hangs with real classy people too!! His best Bud Dennis spreading Jennifer crap across the net. Guess he’s afraid Brandy can’t win it on ability.
To make matters worse, he includes Derek’s twitter name in one of his tweets saying Jennifer is lying about being hurt. And to think I was being so supportive of Brandy. He showed me. I was going to vote for Brandy if Jen went out – guess I’m switching over to Kyle.
Christy, Nicole was heavily campaigned against too and we know what happened there. The internet faction is small but very vocal. What really matters is what the people at home are doing. Brandy or Jennifer could go home, of course – but I think Brandy would go before Jennifer. Dirty Dancing, ya’ll.
If anyone has an attitude its Brandy. Can’t stand to hear how desperate she is to win! This is turning off everyone! Jennifer is a perfect lady and a better dancer.
Go Kyle! Go Kurt!
Its ok, Vogue! Your welcome to tare me up!! LOL!
Content Sasa and Margaret, content. Don’t just yell cheers at each other.
Last night rocked! Jen and Derek were amazing and i was so glad to see her get a perfect score. Brandy’s walts deserved a perfect score too but her cha cha wasn’t nothing spectacular. Kyle was good but he didn’t deserve 10s for that jive at all. I actually thought bristol was way better than kurt in the first round but kurt was better in the second round. Probably Bistol or Kurt going home. Hopefully Bristol though since i want to see anna, derek, and maks in the finals again. The instant dance idea was great. they should keep it next season.
Idk Nathan. I dont even think Bristol is safe yet…
And Brandy crying and freaking out every week is annoying me as well but the girl can dance. Didn’t Nicole have a couple of meltdowns last season too? I’m starting to think that the pop stars feel more pressure than others on the show.
I feel bad for Anna.
Oh please, Heidi! After 10 million posts of basically the same content made here in the last week or two (“oh, the show is (insert negative here)” with the variation of “Derek is (insert positive here)”) you call me out for one post of cheering on Kyle and Kurt?!
Ok so I am somewhat going to disagree with everyone. Should Bristol go home – YES, will she – NO. I actually think it will be Kyle or Brandy. Why you ask…
*It was Mark that went off time first, thus sympathy votes “pro girl her pro messed up” (gag) I caught it live and then re-watched twice to be sure.
*I figure the NFL vote will carry Kurt one more week.
*Brandy’s desperation & Maks’ attitude may have turned enough people off of them
*Kyle’s jive was over scored – I re-watched it and his technique was not very good, flicks were not sharp at all, very floppy like a fish out of water.
I find I’m not really rooting for anyone this season, hopefully next will be better. Less gimicky (although then can keep the insta-dance)
Yep, I sure do. You need more than a “Go Kyle, Go Kurt!” I’ve never done that for Jennifer and Derek. You can tout their positives all you want, but you need more than just repeating those four words over and over again. And it was TWO posts.
Why, Jay?
How was my FIRST post lacking in content?
And the big difference between you and me is that you actually write for this site, so saying just “Go Derek” would not really get you many comments, while I am just an occasional commenter and thus feel free to just cheer on in one post if I feel like it. If it bothers you, I won’t do it. Simple as that. You’re the boss.
sasa, here’s how it looks to me. You come in telling everyone they were too negative. Then you say that you’ll root for anyone but Brandy and Jennifer. That’s all fine and dandy. I don’t care who you root for. But THEN you come back AGAIN with a cheerleading post – after Margaret expressed that she liked Jennifer and Derek, who I ALSO called out (it’s not all about you, sweetie). That sequence of events looks to me like you’re trying to start something. I heard you the FIRST time when you said anyone but Brandy and Jennifer – I don’t want this to turn into a back and forth between you and Margaret to see who can yell the loudest. I will NOT have another Andie here, you follow?? You bitch about Jennifer and Brandy all you want (pot, meet Kettle) – but don’t try to start some back and forth crap without providing some actual discussion.
ETA: Going back and looking, I see that one of Margaret’s comments was on another post, but my comment still applies.
A great show indeed and very good dances. Before the show, I thought the instant dance would be easier for the couples who had cha cha cha or jive than for the ones who had rumba or samba so I’m glad Jennifer & Derek nailed it.
1st Jennifer & Derek, I liked their quickstep even if Derek frightened me with breaking the hold, it was very classical and classy and I loved the rumba, it was amazing especially without having the music.
2nd Brandy & Maks their waltz was gorgeous but the cha cha cha was bad, a lazy work indeed. As someone before me already said, Maks said in the package that he did only 1-minute choreography but even this minute was not that good, I had the feeling that the choreography was really out the music and they were the couple who gave me this feeling.
3rd Kyle & Lacey, I didn’t enjoyed their waltz that much the the jive was really great.
4th Kurt & Anna, I didn’t enjoyed their waltz that much neither but I thought Kurt did really improve in latin dances, his cha cha was good for someone lacking musicality and I’m pretty sure that I have seen his hips moving for once.
5th Bristol & Mark. I liked their argentine tango a lot, OK it has nothing to do with Jennifer and Derek’s one, but I liked to see more steps and less lifts. Tango suits her and she was well dressed for once. I think it’s her best dance. But the samba was a mess, which was expected, she’s not a good dancer with no musicality, how could she possibly have handled such a challenge?
Well, I’m thinking that she can’t catch a break on the scoring – relative to other couples. To be honest, I watched the show this morning. Perhaps I missed something by fast forwarding through.
Which reminds me! I’m in a venue last night in a midwestern state in a small city (I’m there visiting and, of course, making assumptions). There’s a table of 60ish women next to me. They sit down and are funny and lively (Monday night out?). So one mentions that she’s missing DWTS and they all laugh. She asks, “What, did the whole state of Alaska vote for that girl?” More laughing. “Why is Bristol there and they sent home that nice, cute 6’7″ basketball player?” More laughing. It would be an understatement to say the table looked one way but talked another.
Thanks everyone for the well wishes on my vacay…this is the first vacay I’ve taken since 2007, so I’m definitely pumped! I’ll let you know if I have any Team Kurtanna sightings…I’ll be in Scottsdale, and from what I hear that’s where Kurt’s house is
I watched the show a second time last night due to insomnia, and I gotta say – looking back, Brandy’s waltz was not as good as I originally thought. I actually had to chuckle a few times at the faces she was making – that waltz was really melodramatic, hehe. She also seems to still be getting a bit wobbly on her turns, much like her Viennese waltz the first week. Also noticed wonky arms again on her New Yorkers in her cha-cha, which is something I kinda hoped Maks would have corrected by now. As for the Maks vs. Carrie Ann debate – yeah, Carrie Ann was right, but she got pretty nasty by the end of it. Ooh wee…uncomfortable to watch. And yah, watch the faces of everyone in the celebraquarium when Maks talks about Carrie Ann coming to watch one of their rehearsals…Lacey goes completely slack-jawed, and everyone else just looks terribly uncomfortable.
Heidi, I just checked out Dennis’ twitter page and I can’t believe all the negative tweets about Jennifer not being hurt there. Maks must be really desperate to allow his friend to put that much nonsense out there. Not a class act, either one of them!
Great banter everyone! I’m in complete agreement with everything Magnolia posted. I’m praying that Brandy will go home, she is ENTIRELY too desperate and it’s a turn-off and Maks behavior last night was despicable! My gosh, this is SO NOT about him!!! This is your “job” buddy. And don’t speak for the other pro’s (one of the highlights of the show for me, since they all got VERY uncomfortable, like they all would have liked to have run out of the aquarium top speed if they could have!). He is paid a very generous amount of money to teach someone to dance and to be “their” support through this process and he’s honestly not helping Brandy at all and in my opinion, she needs ALL the help she can get, since her personality is not all that winning! As far as I’m concerned, I’d rather have Damian or Dmitry back in Mak’s place, as his thinking this show is about him is wrong and he has obviously missed the premise of why he has this job! Ok, so I’m a little heated this morning, sorry…
My hope is that Kyle takes the trophy, I think he has made this season worth watching and he’s tried so hard. Great post Courtney!!! Fun, fun, fun!
Heidi, sweetie, I didn’t even see Margaret’s post before posting my second. The second one was an afterthought because in the first one I said I’m rooting for everyone but J&B, and I wanted to correct myself because that’s not true. And of course I’m going to defend myself, not someone else who is posting on the internet blog and whom I am not familiar with (sorry Margaret, nothing against you at all, I just don’t remember your posts).
sasa, you’ve lost me. Or should I say, I lost you. You don’t know what I’m talking about, obviously. If you’re going to apologize in the future, you should try a different tact.
After reading all these, I have to put in a comment about Jennifer and her injuries. I don’t think she is whining, like so many people assume. She is citing them to Derek, usually her knees, as reason to stop and take a break. She is trying to whisper, but of course the mic is picking it up. It seems to me that she is really trying NOT to whine. However, in rehearsals, she can’t keep up with Derek. Derek needs another 20 years on him to understand what she is going through.
Lacey – she needs to stop wearing poofy hip skirts. They make her look fat with short legs.
Kurt and Bristol both appear to be tired and wishing their part in the competition were over.
I guess this means I hope that the finals are Jen, Brandy and Kyle.
David, you’re right of course – a 25 year old will never understand what it is to be 50. Hell, a 25 year old thinks 35 is old (it’s not)!
And you’re spoiling the Cheesecake awards before we’ve even gotten started.
I was very disappointed in Maks and Brandy’s cha cha. It was not choreographed well. But was that a good song for a cha cha? It started off so slow in the beginning – I’m not a dancer, but for those out there who are – would they have been able to cha cha and make it look decent right from the beginning of the music as CAI wanted?
And once again, Bristol was overscored. Whoever said on here previously that they expected Mark to have her shimmy on the instant dance was right on! That was 90% of it. I thought the beginning of the A Tango was great though. She got less sharp as the dance went on.
Love, love, love Kyle! His instant dance was wonderful. So fun.
Loved Kurt and Anna, too. He just just kills me with his kids. The dances were good, and I think he improves week to week, but it is baby steps.
And loved Jenn and Derek – although Jennifer seemed hesitant in some parts, probably from pain or anticipated pain. Poor Jennifer. I am beginning to wonder if she will not make it to the final because of injury and if Brandy will not make it to the final because of Maks exploding and taking her down. What if the final was Bristol, Kurt, and Kyle?
That would be different.
“Well, I’m thinking that she [Anna] can’t catch a break on the scoring – relative to other couples. ”
Jay, I couldn’t figure out what was bothering me and I think that’s it. Kurt/Anna are rarely given any slack and have gotten some pretty harsh critiques compared to other couples. Like Kurt’s paso vs. Bristol’s jive (both scores and comments). Oh well – the judges will do what they do – all we can do is complain!
I seems to me that Kurt and Anna do a very good job of scripting the video intro for each week, and have done so since the beginning. Why Brandy and Max seem oblivious to it, I don’t know. Jen and Derek tried a bit this week, I think, with her dad’s visit, and I suspect that Steve-O’s visit to Kyle and Lacey was purely in the same vein. Perhaps they are learning. Bristol and Mark need to get in on it, too.
LOL so I’m reading some of these nasty comments that Maks’ supposed BFF Dennis is retweeting about Jennifer, and I have to laugh. The way one of our commentors explained it, this dude’s business is peddling porn & tea for a living. Well from what I can see, he also fancies himself an orthopedist, ballroom judge, and psychologist, because from what he’s retweeting, he seems to believe that Jennifer is faking her injury for votes and that Brandy is miles ahead of Jennifer in terms of skill and cannot fathom how Jennifer is doing as well as Brandy. What a class act.
Oh so he’s the seller of the tea that Maks is always peddling in his tweets!! One good turn deserves another , if you get my drift!
Man, 35 years old is old. Although, it’s getting younger every day.
David, maybe Maks and Brandy will script a visit from Carrie Ann!! lol
John, oh please!!!
Hi all! I’m new to commenting here………..though I read all of them everyday! I just have to say that WHY would Jennifer pretend to be hurt to get votes? She is hugely popular (according to many sites I have watched and read) and you can tell just by how the audience reacts to her dances. But more than that….I think Derek is the most popular pro on the show with Cheryl being close. As a fan of his, I know that each week whatever challenge they face, whether it be a different dance floor, Jennifer’s pain or an instant dance etc., he will make her shine because he is just so good at teaching. He seems to really care about his partners.
Now about Maks….I was so embarrassed for Brandy that I had to look away! That was so unproffessional.
I would love to see Jennifer, Brandy and Kyle in the finals but with this crazy season I don’t even want to try to guess!
Thanks to Heidi and the others for this site! It adds another level to watching the show and I love it!
I thought that Jennifer’s instant dance was overscored. Too much posing, and it seems like Derek threw in some filler. Not that I necessarily blame him because it seemed like Jennifer was on the verge of injuring herself permanently, so as others have speculated it’s possible that Derek changed up the choreo at the last minute. But that shouldn’t have merited a 30.
I’m largely apathetic to this season because I find both of the frontrunner couples – Jennifer/Derek, Brandy/Maks – unlikeable for different reasons. That’s the first time this has happened. Last season, I liked Evan/Anna and Erin/Maks. Season 9, I liked Donny/Kym and Mya/Dmitry. Season 8, I liked all three finalists. Season 7, I liked Brooke/Derek and Warren/Kym. Season 6, I liked all three. Etc. This season I find both Brandy and Jennifer insufferable. Boo!
ITA with Voguerista
Also, Brandy does NOT cry every week – that would be Jen. Oh, & BTW, Mark Ballas totally supported Maks’ comments to CA.
Brandy and Maks – what a hot night for them. Both dances were absolutely superb imo. The choreography was out of this world. A ’10″ for both dances. I don’t know what Carrie Anne was going on about with the second dance. I thought it totally worked. I loved Brandy’s neck in the first dance too. I was literally stunned by her neck and arms and what she did. Outstanding night.
I thought Brandy overacted in the waltz. She made the oddest faces during it. Took away from the neck and arms for me. Do I think she is a good dancer? Yes. Do I think she out danced Jennifer last night? Definitely not, especially in the instant dance. Jennifer was amazing and Brandy was – mehh. Then Maks makes things worse with his rant. And Mark probably agreed with Maks because he and Bristol are not really feeling the love from Carrie Ann either.
Pat, where are you seeing that Mark Ballas “totally support Maks’ comments about Carrie Ann”? I don’t see anything on his Twitter. Sources, please.
And while I’m not about to turn this post into the “Who Cries More? Jen or Brandy?” debate, I have to point out that Brandy gets choked up after almost every dance, either when getting her critiques or scores. Jen may cry every week – but man, sure seems like Brandy does too.
Yeah, they BOTH cry a lot.
I said in my earlier post that I dislike them both for different reasons, but after thinking about it I don’t think that’s the case. They’re both overly sensitive and prone to crying and drama. They both strike me as being very high-maintenance. They’re both paired up with partners I don’t like. They are both taking this competition way too seriously. So for me, Brandy vs. Jennifer is a case of ‘six of one, half a dozen of the other.’ Two sides of the same coin.
OK, I really hope Bristol or Kurt (love him!) goes home this week, because I think they are the weakest dancers. However, I thought Bristol was much improved this week. The A Tango was actually fun to watch, and she put some enthusiasm in both her dances that I haven’t seen from her all season.
I wish the producers would stop harping on Jennifer’s injuries. I appreciate how incredibly hard this is with her physical ailments, but as I think someone has said before, I enjoy watching she and Derek less after one of those packages because I feel like I’m holding my breath hoping she doesn’t get hurt. That being said, their dances were beautiful, especially the rhumba.
If Maks doesn’t chill out, he may get a ‘cool down’ sit-out next season. I know he is popular (and SO nice to look at), but he really needs to calm down. Major FUMBLE on his part not choreographing more than a minute worth of dance–it showed, big time.
Just my 2 cents…
Totally agree with Me. Well said.
Coutrney – here is the link
http://www.theinsider.com/news/3376792_Bristol_Palin_on_Sarah_Palin_s_Alaska
Wendy – YES to your comment about Jennifer’s rehearsal edits! TPTB aren’t doing her any favors by constantly playing up the “can she go on in the face of injury?” angle.
It just feels like a lot of manipulation to me. I’m not talking about the injuries themselves – I definitely don’t agree with the people insinuating that Jennifer is faking it, come on, she’s 50 and has screws in her neck, I’m gonna guess that her pain is real – but the way it’s all spliced together by TPTB. If the injury is really as bad as TPTB are making it out to be, then it’s stupid for Jennifer to continue and risk permanent damage for a silly mirrorball trophy. If it’s not that bad, then that’s just disgusting and stupid on TPTB’s part to make us think it is. Either way, it’s stupid.
But of course that’s not Jennifer’s fault. Even though I don’t like her, I feel bad for her in this respect because it’s certainly not her fault as to how TPTB choose to edit her rehearsal packages. I don’t know if they’re trying to make us feel sorry for her or what. I’m sure that Jennifer doesn’t spend the ENTIRETY of rehearsal complaining about her injuries, why can’t the producers show us some of that instead of the same old song and dance?
Heidi, I still don’t understand where the problem is. Or was. Or whatever. As I tried to explain I added my second post (without seeing anyone else s) because in the first one I said I was rooting for everyone but Brandy and Jennifer. Then I realized I told a lie because I didn’t exclude Bristol from my rooting list as I should have. Therefor: go Kyle and Kurt. That’s it! How can that be a problem and lead to: “I heard you the FIRST time when you said anyone but Brandy and Jennifer – I don’t want this to turn into a back and forth between you and Margaret to see who can yell the loudest. I will NOT have another Andie here, you follow?? You bitch about Jennifer and Brandy all you want..”
It wasn’t about Margaret, it wasn’t about you, it wasn’t about Derek or Jen or Maks or Brandy, it was just about who I liked. I don’t know why it’s not coming through. And yes, I get tired of the negative writing about the show (except when I believe it to be justified, but assuming in advance about some change without seeing it is not justified to me) but just because when it starts then it pours and kinda swallows all else.
I think Jennifer and Brandy are both great dancers but it’s not fun for me to look at them. Don’t shoot me, that’s just how I feel.
Oh and I wasn’t trying to apologize as you mentioned. I don’t think I have anything to apologize for. My second post wasn’t a writing masterpiece, but it was ONE post, one SHORT OPINION, to add light to the previous post.
@ me – A lot of people have had injuries. Kelly Osbourne was constantly icing her foot and she’s decades younger than Jennifer. Nancy O’Dell coudn’t even compete with her injuries and she wasn’t 50. So the injuries themselves don’t bother me and are to be expected. I just don’t like how that’s all the judges are focusing on with Jennifer. She even whispered to Derek in rehearsal about her knee because she probably suspected they’d captitalize it in the package and sure enough, they did. It’s just a shame they use something that MIGHT turn off potential voters and make SOME people uncomfortable to watch Jennifer. It doesn’t bother me, however. I wasn’t a Jennifer fan prior to this – I’ve never seen Dirty Dancing – but I’ve become a fan of hers through this competition. She and Derek are a dream to watch together and they always bring something different to their performances. She’d be great to watch if she were 20, 30, or whatever. She’s just a natural performer and hard worker.
Whoops! Didn’t mean “that’s all the judges are focusing on” – I meant that’s all the PRODUCERS are focusing on.
Ok Pat, you are right – Mark agreed with Maks. Does that make Maks any more correct? I sure don’t think so. Not sure what Mark was seeing, but I don’t think Maks was professional about it at all – he continued to harp on the issue long after Carrie Ann had made her comments, and he did so at the expense of his partner, Brooke, the judges, and the other pros, who seemed to be mortified to be witnessing the ordeal. A more professional way of dealing with it would have been to a) make one comment, and then let it go; or b) say nothing at all. I agree with Heidi – there are advantages to being PC on this show.
And it’s beyond me why they seem to think “We work so hard, the judges don’t know what it’s like, blah blah blah” is a valid argument for wasting time on the dance floor. There were 3 other pros out there last night that are in the exact same boat as Mark & Maks that managed to choreograph routines that weren’t at least 1/3 fluff and “mucking about”. And the judges have made it abundantly clear that they don’t like it when time is wasted out on the floor – at this point, if any pro can’t heed that, they have no leg to stand on when they’re called out for it.
Maks overreacted big time, he was totally childish. But Carrie Ann wasn’t the most sensible too. Instant dance means you have to start dancing instantly? That’s just silly. Their music had a slow intro and EVERY pro has a dance here and there where he or she stalls for a while. Sometimes they get called on it, sometimes they don’t. Maks tends to do it more than average, or he is not as strong choreographically to hide it better.
Ok, let me start, but I should warn you that I’m not in a good mood. First of all I’m getting crazy with all this time difference. As if it’s not enough the whole crazy time zone thing, Brazil is in daylight saving and I think you guys are in Standard time (I don’t know if that’s you call it). Great, if I was lost before, imagine how am I now. Second, I’m tired with all these gimmicks things in the show. Enough people. When it’s no longer about dancing and it become all about getting the media attention? Once again ENOUGH! Third, because of the time difference when the show aired for you, it’s already dawn for me, so I went sleep too late and guess what, I had insomnia. Good, very good. (To complete (and now I think it’s a good thing) the movie “twilight saga: break Down” (I confess this is my guilty pleasure, haha) is being filmed in Brazil, specifically in Rio de Janeiro where I live, so I have a bunch of media stuff to read. Hahaha. Ok, before you wanna kill me, let me put my power ranking.
1.Jennifer and Derek: these two are always amazing. They did a beautiful and clean quickstep. It may not have been the most creative choreography from Derek, but it was great anyway. I think their 9s were well deserved, maybe they could give then one 10, but it still. In the instant dance they simply kill it! Their rumba was fantastic, beautiful, with a high level of difficulty and extremely well executed. Finally the first perfect score of the season. I love it.
2.Kyle and Lacey: ok, most of you is probably want to kill me now, but I have my reasons to put them in this position. I thought their waltz amazingly beautiful. Kyle executed it really well. It was a clean dance with no mistakes, good posture and great improvement from Kyle. It’s really cool how he improves every week. I have to admit that I liked this Lacey’s choreography. It seems she tried to put as many steps as it’s possible (what remember me that Derek almost always do that, and do it very well) and don’t waste any time of the dance. But I have to say that: What the hell was Lacey’s dress? What she was thinking? Girl you have no sense of style. That dress was HORRIBLE and it made her look fat (sorry). Without taking into account that the dress got all the attention of the dance. I didn’t Know if I should laugh, if should cry or if I should pay attention in the dance. Can someone please tell her that she is not all that??? Ok, I’ll stop talk about her costume. As for their instant dance it was phenomenal, kyle rocked in the jive. It was perfect. As much as I like Derek and Jennifer and want them in the top, I should say that a think Kyle and Lacey deserves a perfect score as well.
3.Brandy and Maks: Where should I start? Please God, help me. Ok, the waltz was beautiful, clean and full of emotion. Brandy improved a lot and didn’t committed big mistakes. But for me Brandy still has something missing in her dance (I don’t know exactly what it is), it doesn’t seems come natural from her. Although their waltz was good, I think they were a little bit overscored. I really don’t think their waltz better than kyle’s waltz, so they should have give to her the same score they gave to Kyle. As for their instant dance, I thought they went really well. It was a great cha cha cha. But I have to say some things: first, I cannot agree more to Courtney, if you guys complain about Jennifer’s drama, what do you have to say about Brandy? She is the drama queen, and I’ve been saying that since week one. I can’t stand her with her desperate faces. It seems totally fake. She should know that she can do it without this. The second thing I wanna say is does anyone ever realized that Maks always makes a “stop” in his choreographies? As if there wasn’t a way to change from one step to another and then he just pauses it and goes to another step (I don’t know if I made myself understand, my English is not that good. It’s making me get more frustrated). I really don’t like it, it seems so wrong. And the third thing is: SHUT UP Maks, please. I cannot put up with you anymore. Actually, nobody can. You’ve been complaining to much and you are always saying bad things. It’s time for you to grow up.
4.Kurt an Anna: I liked their waltz. It’s amazing how much kurt improves every week. He is so sweet. I like to see them dancing. His dance was clean, he made no mistakes. It was a good choreography. It was a very pleasant waltz. What the hell the judges want more??? As for their instant dance, I think they managed it very well in the circumstances. And their song didn’t helped at all their cha cha cha. But he did the whole dance and he didn’t forget any steps. Come on judges, how could he received 1 point less than Bristol? I’m tired of this incoherence.
5.Bristol and Mark: first I have to ask you if the pros could choose their songs this week. Because it really seems to be Mark’s style to choose “Buttons” for an Argentine tango. Really guy??? It doesn’t match. But anyway, Bristol wasn’t that bad, actually the choreography was good and she managed it well. But her legs weren’t right, her steps always seems to be unfinished. As for the instant dance, it wasn’t that bad, if she didn’t forget her steps. But I thought it could be worse. I confess that I was surprised when I caught myself thinking it was a good samba. Besides that, I think it’s time for her to go and I also think that there is a small chance that happens, specially if people remember all the stuff she said in the confessionals last week. She wants to go home, so please let’s make it happen.
I think it’s enough. I’ve talked too much today. Sorry for the outflow and all the stuff that I said.
Kisses from Brazil.
PS: Don’t hate me! hahahaha
Heidi is Maks’ friend not allowed to have his own opinion?
And I have never seen Brandy cry when she was at the Judges desk.
Karla, an opinion is one thing. Spreading out and out lies is another!
I don’t think he’s spreading lies, just speculation. Baseless speculation, IMO, but speculation nevertheless. How many of us can say that we’ve never speculated as to whether a celeb or pro was putting on a front or faking something for the cameras?
Still think he should shut his trap though. Having an opinion is one thing, but the way he worded himself is unnecessarily rude and derisive. There’s a way to make your point without sounding like a complete ass. If I were Maks, I’d tell Dennis to be quiet because I don’t think it’d reflect well on me.
This is one of those times, we will agree to disagree. Kyle took the same 4 counts to begin dancing and they raved about it.
My inner rebel cheered Maks on, BUT I will say I do see that some people who are not Maks fans for whatever reason, could have ammunition to use against him, and I hope he didn’t shoot himself & Brandy in the foot. In one of his interviews after the show, he did apologize to Brandy for his “moment of angry weakness.”
I think people either tend to love Maks or not like him at all. I love him and will always support him no matter who he dances with. JMO.
Is that the same guy that said something about Maks&Erin last year which got controversial? I think it was something along the lines that those two were in no way having a relationship, while they were still playing coy about it. Then a lot of heads who were convinced something was going on exploded at the same time. If it’s the same guy, I remember he was described as very strange even then. He seems to not know how to keep the trap shut, much like his friend Maks. And Me is right, it is speculation.
Karla, everyone’s entitled to their opinion – doesn’t mean we have to like it. How do you think it reflects on Maks that his best friend is tweeting such hateful comments about another competitor? And worse yet – taunting them directly? I don’t see Mark tweeting nonsense about Brandy. It’s just a classless move.
And FYI…
4:00: Brandy gets choked up at judges’ table
5:27: Brandy gets choked up at judges’ table
5:12 Brandy gets choked up at judges’ table
4:41 & 5:01: Brandy gets choked up at judges’ table
4:55: Brandy gets choked up at judges’ table
Pat, I would so love Maks if he still was a rebel, but not so much without a cause. I like it when he speaks openly about things he managed to think through, but when it comes to the moment and especially if he is feeling in any way attacked then it just goes in a completely different direction. Everybody says he is so confident, but that is not a behavior of a confident man.
Another take on Maks’ comments last night for those interested. I understand your various opinions and you are entitled to them, but it doesn’t change mine. I just hope my favorite Russian doesn’t hurt Brandy’s chances in the end. That’s all.
http://www.tvsquad.com/2010/11/09/on-the-dwts-scene-why-maks-chmerkovskiy-confronted-carrie-ann/
@ Pat – Regarding the article you posted, now Maks is just being silly and obtuse. How can he say that his decisions have nothing to do with Brandy? Of COURSE they have everything to do with Brandy. They’re a team, aren’t they? His choreography reflects on HER. His teaching reflects on HER. If he screws up, SHE pays the price.
Maks has no problem accepting compliments about his choreography, but when the shoe is on the other foot, suddenly he doesn’t want to hear it because the show isn’t about him? Whatever.
BTW Heidi, I wanted to let you know my Dad voted 20 times lastnight(on 3 different phones and on-line) and the majority of his votes when to Jennifer and Derek….and a few to Kurt and Anna. LOLLLL
Boy, you guys have been busy while I’ve been away.
Sasa – fine, we’ll move on from here, but I have to tell you, if you have problems with how we talk about the show, we’re too negative or whatever – that’s just not a productive comment or a good direction to take a conversation in. Anytime you start commenting on how other people talk about the show like they are in the wrong to be negative or positive or WHATEVER, you’re going to get people’s backs up. Don’t tell other people how to talk or how to think – that’s a rule on lots of message boards for a reason. We all have a right to think the show has gone to shit and say so if we want to and as long as we’re not spamming or just saying “it sucks” with no substantive discussion. Comments about other people (and you see this happen to Maks all the time) and what they do and what they say will almost NEVER end well. Word to the wise. If you want to participate, it’s best not to critique how other people talk about the show – unless you’re a moderator dealing with contrary people, of course. As soon as you say something like “I just want to say I wasn’t negative like YOU guys were, yadda, yadda, yadda” you’re going to piss someone off. Can you not hear the implied “neener neener neener” in that word selection?? In this case, it was me and it looked to me like you were trying to start a fight. All because of the words you chose. I don’t care who you support – but I do care how you voice that opinion.
As for Maks – I haven’t read all the comments yet about what his bestest bud said, but it was a shitty, classless thing to do. My mom had a saying that is pretty true: “You are who you run with.” Period.
Okay, first time submitting a post regarding DWTS. I’m not an avid follower, but have been watching this year for some bizarre reason. I DO love ballroom dancing, began taking ballroom dance lessons several years ago in my early 40s (so, yes, that puts me close to JG’s age). I am in no way an expert, but have some knowledge about ballroom dance, how it’s learned, technique, etc. I rate JG and Brandy as the most talented dancers, JG, Brandy, and Kyle as the most talented performers (not necessarily in order). But they are not my favorites. What is fun in watching DWTS for me is to see those without previous dancing experience learn, get out of their comfort zone, improve…more so, to see those without previous acting/performance experience get out there. Personally, I would like to see Bristol completely come out and really start dancing as it appears she has the ability to do so and win it. She has natural grace, works hard, gets the technique though doesn’t follow through consistently in execution, is beginning to connect her facial expressions to her dancing (based on my own experiences and watching other people progress from nothing in my own dance world, I can tell you she has natural talent for dance. You don’t have to believe me
)…and I like her so much. Perhaps I like her so much because I can relate, as I never had a dance lesson until a few years ago, and I’m basically about real people, don’t care for faked emotion. I was nervous for Bristol last night, but was very impressed with her dancing. The samba is one tough dance, and I thought she kept the rhythm quite well, considering. The A Tango suited her. And, she’s finally starting to show emotion that makes sense in her dancing.
Additional thoughts of mine (without ranking in any particular order, because each of the contestants
brings something good to the floor):
1) JG: Extraordinary talent. Her previous dance experience serves her well. Though sympathetic to her age (I really can be) and to her injuries, I think they are being way over-played. Her statement last night that she had never planned/thought of quitting was telling…especially
after seeing the practice clips (she really believes she can whisper something and not have it heard?) and the visit from her dad, to supposedly convince her to stay in the competition. And, I don’t buy that someone her age hadn’t heard the Foreigner song she danced the Rumba to, unless she completely didn’t listen to music in the early 80s….Without a doubt, she danced extremely well last night. (Though it’s seems convenient to fall during rehearsal, but execute both dances with relative perfection during competition…) She just leaves me cold. And, again, my preference is to see those without previous dance experience. I don’t care how many years ago it was that she danced…there’s that thing called muscle memory that sticks with you. I began to be really turned off when she performed the teacher-student ‘story’ dance…does she know that women teachers have gone to jail for this? I found it tacky, not entertaining.
2) Brandy – another talented performer/dancer. I don’t really know what her prior dance experience is, but I suspect she’s had some, even if it wasn’t ballroom dancing. Flexibility and balance are learned in any dance, and can be easily carried over to another type of dance (speaking from experience: the best performers in my small dance world are those who had ballet or some other type of dance lessons when they were younger, and those who were gymnasts or ice-skaters. The earlier they learned it, the better off they are). Brandy, too, leaves me cold. Everything appears so contrived. I thought her waltz WAS incredible last night (would have been better without the crying), but I thought her cha-cha awkward and lacking originality. Perhaps because I recognized what I would consider some pretty basic steps for someone who could/should/has done more. Way over-scored.
3) Kyle – even though he’s obviously an experienced and very talented performer, I have loved watching him dance, and improve. If my favorite gets voted off or doesn’t continue to break out of her comfort zone, Kyle would be the contestant I want to see win.
4) Kurt – I love this guy. Another non-performer (not to discount entirely playing football in front of millions of viewers, but it’s a different kind of performance), non-dancer, he is dancing his absolute best, working hard, enjoying himself,
and has become a performer in his own right. He’s worked hard enough to get the basics of dance down and keep the rhythm, though he doesn’t have the same natural grace as Bristol. (Kurt is my second favorite.)
I don’t know who will go home tonight. I think it will be another ‘surprise’ (not a surprise anymore, actually), mostly because I think that those who watch the show to see precise, well-acted out dancing are splitting their votes between Jennifer and Brandy. There are many of us who watch it for a different reason, and who relate to Kurt and Bristol. If I had to guess, I’d guess Kyle will go home, not because of skill, but because of the voting base.
Who will win it overall? If he stays, I think Kyle will, again because of the split voting between Brandy and JG.
Last thought: the fact that JG drew a rumba (wasn’t that her trademark dance in Dirty Dancing?), that Brandy drew a Cha-Cha (the team dance the previous week), and that Bristol drew the Samba seemed completely and unfairly rigged..along with Brandy receiving the 29 for that Cha-Cha.
Yeah, John, I can hear you creaking all the way over here, you’re so old.
Tea and Porn. What an interesting, interesting life style Maks’ bud has.
Yeah, Meggie, Mark has been doing his own whining about the judges, so he would be inclined to agree with Maks. Hell, Derek probably agrees but is just wise enough not to say so in public – at least not directly. With Maks, the problem has never been his actual opinion, but how he chooses to voice it.
Crying every week? Everyone cried last week – Brandy, Jennifer and Bristol. Who the hell cares if they all cry?? The finger pointing about crying and complaining that someone cries too much is just silly, IMO. And the double standard that always seems to exist for Derek’s partners is always annoying. But who the hell cares if they cry? Unless of course you’re looking for a reason to complain about someone and you can’t pick on their dancing.
In my notes that I take for cheesecake awards during the show I have a comment regarding Brandy’s waltz that reads something like “OH the melodrama!!” It was a beautiful dance, but I don’t think it was supposed to make me giggle quite as much as it did.
I just want to say – I adore No Doubt and that song makes me think of the TV show Alias. So there.
Heidi, I understand that I annoy with my comments about the negativity around the show. I kind of choose to say it even if I know it sounds annoying. Some people start to be protective about their favorites, I started being protective about the show concept. Because I really like it. This is the only show on TV (Croatian, or any) that I follow live, even if it’s in the middle of the night for me and even if I’m not a TV person at all. OK, I don’t see it live all the time, but 100% more then any other show. And I will point out if it starts to go down the drain, but that just hasn’t happened yet, so why anticipate it? Also, if you look on the abc boards, one of the first things you notice is how everyone is eager to trash the show. I will tell you that that is a famously Croatian way of dealing with things- just talk smack about everything so you’ll appear “above” it. For all those reasons stated I choose to be annoying and point out when a concept, like instant dance, went really well despite everyone being all drama about it.
Wasn’t the signature dance in “Dirty Dancing” the mambo, not the rumba?
Karla, of course Maks’ friend is entitled to his opinion – but this is verging slander AND he’s Maks’ bestest bud. Maks, who is employed by DWTS – remember him? So, not only is he lacking class and slandering someone, but it makes one wonder if he’s representing Maks’ opinion – the employee of the show. The show that pays him a very nice chunk of change to teach people to dance. If you can’t see where the problems are in this situation, then you must not have a good job which requires that you present yourself professionally at all times. Although, clearly Maks’ has problems with this as well.
Maks has to work with all the people on this show – is it really a great idea to have a best friend who is basically calling Jennifer, Derek, the producers, et al liars?? Or would you be fine if between this guy and Maks’ own behavior that he is left out next season?? Just how far do you think the producers will let him go before they cut him loose? Sure, that little blow up with Carrie Ann is good for ratings. For now. But when do the diminished returns start? And how do you think Derek – supposedly one of Maks good friends – feels about being directly attacked by Maks friends and called a liar?? Very nice. I’m sure it makes working together delightful.
Vogue, give your dad a big sloppy kiss from me.
Sasa, I love the original concept of the show and I actually thought the insta-dance turned out okay. It’s not just the ONE gimmick though, that’s at issue here – it’s that they took what I thought was a great show and started tinkering with it unnecessarily. We’ve had FIVE gimmick nights and not all of them turned out as well as the insta-dance. Wasn’t it just two weeks ago that was an absolute train wreck?? Why can’t the focus be on DANCING?? In the insta-dance and on accoustic night it managed to be more about the dancing. But the rest of the time?? Not so much. I guess that it’s much more obvious to me because I try to write about the show – and there are times that the dancing has gotten lost in the crap.
The ABC boards? That place will make anyone depressed. I haven’t gone there in 3 or 4 seasons – too many trolls and just plain nasty people.
“The finger pointing about crying and complaining that someone cries too much is just silly, IMO. ”
I disagree. Some people do cry too much. There’s nothing wrong with being sensitive, but there is such a thing as being OVERLY sensitive. And I’m saying this as a reformed crybaby myself – I used to cry at the drop of a hat, if someone so much as looked at me crossly or raised his or her voice to me. Now that I think about it, it’s a wonder that I had any friends growing up, considering my penchant for crying. LOL. I’m just glad that I outgrew it. Jennifer at 50 and Brandy at ??? (dunno her age) remind me of how I was at 10, and that’s…not good. Grown women should not remind me of my childhood years.
Both Brandy and Jennifer need to cut the tears, IMO.
If the judges had given Bristol the scores she deserved, then she’d be going home tonight.
But because they’re softies (or something), she’s likely going to stick around to the semifinals.
Someone who is as poor of a dancer/performer/etc as Bristol should NOT be in the semifinals.
Courtney: Who do you think is going home?
Just to show what a hoax learntodance.com is, thwy still have Rick and Cheryl as leading in votes for that week. Idiots.
# Princess Heidi I actually agree about the gimmicks. I don’t like them either, and I never go to the ABC boards because of the hatefulness. I am one who feels you can disagree without being disagreeable. In the end, it’s just each of our opinions, and we all bring a different perspective to the table. I don’t feel the need to try to force people to my way of thinking.
LOL Heidi, ok…I sure will.
And I have to disagree with those picking on Jennifer or Brandy if they cry. If the tears were just put on or fake, I might have a problem. But, they are not. Some people are “criers”. Plus, these celebrirites are giving it their 100% all. They are putting everything they are into these dances. They don’t get the normal sleep they usually do doing this show either. I know I’d cry too if I were them.
“But, they are not. Some people are “criers”. ”
Yeah, and those people are annoying.
Just because someone’s personality isn’t fake doesn’t mean that it’s any less irritating. It’s just irritating for a different reason. I don’t think that Maks’ abrasive personality is a put-on, either, but I still want to slap him!
And yeah, if I were on the show I might be reduced to tears too. But that’s why I’m not on the show! Well, that and a total lack of fame or talent, of course.
I think if celebs sign up to be on the show, then they should be willing to suck it up. If they cry, they cry, but I’m not going to feel sorry for them.
Brandy is a diva and she experiences everything so much more deeply then others (in her mind) which I find annoying. But her rehearsal packages are not like that at all, they are pretty neutral in my mind (with an occasional outburst). Which brings me to a big question mark as far as Jennifer goes. Her rehearsals are full of pains, crying, bruises, doctors.. She could have figured out that they are going to use those parts in packages in the first weeks. So did she, and then chose to do it anyway making it nearly impossible for the viewers to catch other parts of her personality (why on earth would she do that). Did she not figure it out? I find that impossible to believe. Derek told her. Or is it the third option, that she just can’t help herself and is a crier and a complainer. They could have made up code words when she needs to stop if she’s in too much pain. Or she could just calmly say: I need a break. That would not make very interesting TV and probably wouldn’t make it into the package. This is what has me talking about her crybaby status more then Brandy’s. I just can’t understand why she would do it in controlled circumstances (rehearsals). I get it when you’re emotional and in the moment and can’t help yourself. It can also be annoying but at least I get it. The packages I don’t get.
Although I like Jennifer & Derek and Maks & Brandy and Kurt & Anna, I have to agree with those that say that Kyle has been the best part of this season for me. As goofy as he is, it is obvious he has a great work ethic, entertains, and has shown tremendous maturity in how he handles the criticism and appropriate enthusiasm when he is praised. It will be a shame if he goes home tonight, I do hope he makes the finals.
I have to agree with Carrie Ann about the beginning of the Maks/Brandy dance. I was so surprised to see them just wandering around – plus the dance itself wasn’t all that great. I think Maks just dropped the ball on the choreography. Maybe the next time they do an instant dance he will be better prepared, but honestly I think it was overscored. Their waltz was pretty good though, and while her facial expressions bother me a bit, I see that she’s trying.
Just wanted to add about the packages. Everybody could also go the Kurt&Anna route and come up with some silly banter, teasing each other in front of the cameras. If you make something fun and funny, probably there’s a good chance the producers are gonna use it instead of just some random footage.
One more comment. A couple of my co-workers are avid DWTS fans, and several of them think all of this drama is from the producers’ edits. They feel they are taking random comments and meltdowns and presenting them out of context….which could be true.
I just know that last season was so much fun to watch (not just because of Maks & Erin) and this season is stressful. We joke that we will all need a 12-step program after this season, cuz we are all turning into alcoholics! LMBO!
Jennifer doesn’t strike me as being the teasing/snarky type, though.
I just wish Derek could be paired with someone cool and level-headed again. Maybe that would make me like him again, because I really enjoyed his partnership with Lil Kim. I think he’s giving Jonathan a run for his money in terms of dealing with headcases. At least Derek gets headcases with talent, though, haha.
Oh yeah, Lil’ Kim was by far my favorite Derek partner! She was great, had so much personality it showed through Derek’s technical routines which is not easy.
Okay, sasa, you and I will just have to keep dreaming, because TPTB somehow seem determined to constantly pair Derek up with emotional basketcases. I bet they wanted Lil Kim to be crazy too (based on her rep) and were probably sorely disappointed when she ended up being such a breath of fresh air. They were probably hoping for some fireworks with Joanna too.
Anyway, Derek is a crazy talented choreographer/dancer, I just want him to get someone who is completely drama-free so that he can concentrate on creating kick-ass routines without having to coddle his partner’s insecurities and neuroses.
Heidi are you crunching numbers or is it too late for that? I know you have a life too!
Jennifer IS the teasing type, but I’m sure the producers find her injuries to be more compelling. I don’t understand people attacking Jennifer for crying/complaining. She’s in pain people! And rehearsals may be a “controlled” environment, but they’re hours of every day. How do you suggest she “hide” her pain/injuries from the producers? The stars have no control over their packages, and it doesn’t seem realistic to me to ask them to spend most of their energy censoring themselves and their emotions and thinking above all about how they might appear if that one moment ends up on air. If that’s all you were focused on, I don’t think you’d get any work or learning done.
The reason Kurt and Anna get fun packages is because Kurt neither cries nor argues with Anna. The only negative footage I’ve seen of Kurt is him looking frustrated at himself, looking awkward with his dancing, and/or making fun of himself. There is no major drama between them and so the producers go the fun route it seems.
Maybe your right Buttercup. I guess it’s one of those never ending mysteries to me. What part is the producers doing, what part isn’t. I still think it wouldn’t be quite so demanding just to tweak the attitude a little and be a bit more calm about pains. But OK, I guess if she is giving it her absolute 100% then there’s no room even for little tweaking. I dunno. I just wish it were different or to know what exactly is the cause of it being like it is.
I just can’t have that much sympathy for Jennifer when she voluntarily chose to go on the show, despite having had recent surgery. So I’ll treat her the way I would treat anyone who is crying week in and week out, and that’s to say “ENOUGH.” No double standard here, because I feel the same way about Brandy.
I mean, really, if you (general you) don’t have a problem with Brandy or Jennifer’s tears, then of course that’s your prerogative. But I don’t see how it’s silly for some of us to be annoyed with the tears and drama. And it’s not like Jennifer is being unfairly made to look that way. By all accounts, she really IS like that. Patrick Swazye said as much in his autobiography; he’d talk about how frustrating it could be to work past her tears and drama. I’m not saying that that makes her a bad person; of course it doesn’t! It’s just not a pleasant type of personality to watch on TV as far as I’m concerned, and it makes me not root for her. Obviously YMMV.
I bet if the cameras were not in the rehearsals all the time, we wouldn’t even know Jennifer has new injuries. She certainly doesn’t mention them on Mondays when she is being interviewed, unless Brooke asks her about them. I get the feeling she hates to complain to tell you the truth. But like Buttercup says she is in pain and she’s practising 8 hours a day. You’ve got to give in to the pain eventually. Of course she can get through 2 minutes or so of dancing on Monday nights.
Yea I really love those Dancing by the Numbers posts!
Interesting that Patrick wrote that about her in his autobiography. Of course, she has been through a lot since then – a tragic auto accident for example. With age one mellows and becomes less dramatic I think. She keeps talking about being a good role model for her daughter and that’s one reason why I think it’s the producers who are making it all about the tears/whining. I’ll stick with thinking that she would rather not complain to be a good role model for Stella.
Me, really? You aren’t voting for certain people just because they cry or they have a personality you don’t like? As for me, I try and base my opinions on just the “dances” themselves. I don’t vote on whether they cry or not…or for whatever likable or unlikable personalitities they may have. All I care about is what they do on the dancefloor. Also, you make it sound like Patrick Swayze had huge issues with Jennifer when that couldn’t be further from the truth. The two were very close despite any negative sides to themselves which we all have. Anyway, you vote the way you like. But, I’m going to keep basing my votes on the dances only.
Heidi, are you doing the numbers posts? I know you have a life tho so i totally understand!!
One other point – yes she voluntarily chose to go on the show. But no matter how many times you may hear people say it, and even if they warn you ahead of time, you really have no idea going in how much work/stress is required and what it will do to your body.
I think that the people complaining about the criers should be put in that situation – they probably wouldn’t last a day.
Don’t judge until you’ve walked in someone else’s shoes and all that.
@Voguerista – Sure, why not? DWTS has NEVER been a legit dancing competition, no matter what the judges might insist. The personality IS part of the package; otherwise, why show us rehearsal packages at all? So yes, I do base my votes partially on the celeb’s personality. Tom and Brooke have always said for us to vote for our favorites, so that’s what I do. I vote for who makes me happy, and I’m not happy watching someone cry all the time. I don’t see that as being any stranger than, say, people voting based solely on who the pro is, which plenty of people do. Just look at Derek’s fans, or Mark’s fans, or Maks’.
And I didn’t say that Patrick Swayze had huge problems with Jennifer, sorry if it seemed like I was implying that. But he did make a point of mentioning it regardless, so I don’t think it’s out of line to assume that the rehearsal packages accurately reflect Jennifer’s high-drama personality.
@Heidi – Actually, I already addressed that point. I said that sure, I’d probably break down in tears, but that’s why I would never agree to go on a show like DWTS in the first place. I don’t think people should go on unless they can hack it. It’s similar to how I feel about celebrities. I have no patience for people who court fame and then bitch about the paps (except in extreme circumstances, like if they’re being stalked). Don’t stay in the kitchen if you can’t stand the heat.
@Buttercup – True, you do make a good point there. I have heard some of the celebs say that DWTS was a lot harder than they had ever imagined. Still…considering Jennifer’s penchant for crying…well, she should have known this would come up, I think. LOL.
It’s funny, because I was telling my friends the other day, “DUDE, WE SHOULD TOTALLY GO ON THE AMAZING RACE!!!” Except when I calmed down and thought it through, I had enough self-awareness to realize that I would not be able to adapt well to all the cameras following me around everywhere. See, I know that I’m not cut out for a famous life, haha.
(And sorry for the consecutive posts…if I could edit my previous posts, I would, but I don’t know how.)
I think Derek gets the emotional ones (and this goes all the way back to Jennie) because of how he handles them. So, what comes first, the chicken or the egg? The choreography or the temperament?
Meggie, numbers coming right up. It’s been quite a day in real life.
Yeah, buttercup, anyone who watches all the media can see easily that Jennifer is a cut up, fun woman to hang with – and she seems to enjoy Derek a good bit, and he her. She has a sense of humor rather similar to mine, kinda ironic, it seems like. She’s not as prone to sarcasm as I am, but she’s got it.
She actually tries very hard to divert Brooke from talking about her injuries – not like that’s a stretch. 
As for Patrick, Jennifer herself said that he used to get very annoyed with her for her constant giggling – that scene where he runs his fingers down her rib cage and she cracks up is apparently what really happened, as were some other similar scenes. Everyone has issues with people they work with – oh to be in the perfect workplace where none of my coworkers annoy me. Such a place doesn’t exist.
Well, me, when you get to be able to tell the future such that you REALLY know what’s going to be extraordinarily difficult before doing it, by all means let me know. I’d pay good money for that knowledge in advance.
I agree Heidi. Walk in their shoes and then we’ll talk. I agree with Buttercup too. The “pressure” has to be intense…and it would be for anyone. I’d actually find something more wrong if someone “didn’t” cry on this show versus them crying, Me. But, that’s just my opinion.
Thx Heidi! And thx for taking time outta your day to do that.
!
LOL, oh come on Heidi. I’m just saying that, considering Jennifer’s own tendency to be dramatic and teary, she should have had enough self-awareness to realize that perhaps a venue like DWTS would not be the best way to go. I don’t think that that’s some highly unrealistic standard on my part. Other celebs have turned down the show before, saying that they knew they wouldn’t be able to deal. I personally know that I can be overly sensitive to criticism – like I said, reformed crybaby here – so there’s no way in hell I’d go on a show like DWTS or American Idol. Just. No way. In hell. And if I somehow experience temporary insanity and go on a competitive reality show anyway, and if I then started complaining, I think my friends and family would be perfectly correct to say, “Well, what did you THINK was going to happen?” Because it’s really something I should have seen in advance.
Okay me – let’s say for a minute that Jennifer COULD have realized she’d end up crying at some point during DWTS. Why does that mean she shouldn’t have done the show? It seems to me the reasons she’s doing it are to face her fears and to be a good example for her daughter, NOT to show America that she’s stoic. Neither of those reasons are canceled out by her crying. Everyone has their own reasons for doing the show, everyone has their own personality. You can vote against her for being “weak” if you want but I think it’s pretty clear she’s not crying to win sympathy, as evidenced by the fact that she never wants to discuss her pain or injuries when given the chance – i.e. with Brooke. Brandy seems to cry on the live show because she’s so invested emotionally in the competition for whatever reason – it may turn you off that she cares so much about a dance competition, but to each their own.
You are SO projecting, Me. You have placed all YOUR reluctance to be vulnerable in public on to Jennifer. NO ONE is that perfect – not even you. There is no way in hell that you or Jennifer or I or anyone else says to themselves, “You know what? I don’t like being judged, so I’m just not going to do ANYTHING that will result in me being judged” or “I don’t like it when I get dramatic and teary, so I’ll never do anything that causes that” – what the hell kind of life is that to have?
Then if you do think “Hey, I know I”m sensitive, but I’m going to do this and be tough and never complain.” You come on, me – you do have extremely unrealistic standards not only for Jennifer, but for yourself. Not only do you NOT do what you are sensitive to, but you are harsh on people who ARE willing to put themselves entirely out there. That is an extreme standard in my book, I think maybe you just don’t realize it. You are saying that if someone knows they are dramatic and teary they should NOT put themselves in a situation that will result in them being dramatic and teary (“considering Jennifer’s own tendency to be dramatic and teary, she should have had enough self-awareness to realize that perhaps a venue like DWTS would not be the best way to go”) – that assumes that they don’t WANT to put themselves out there at all. You’re assuming that Jennifer cares that she gets dramatic and teary and that it’s shown on TV. On the contrary, she seems like she’s decided that she’s going to power through and what happens happens. She’s said more than once that showing the drama is what the show is about. It’s YOU who cares about yourself or her being seen as dramatic and teary. What Jen is doing takes far more courage than your way of doing it – which is to do nothing at all.
Well, buttercup, you managed to say that better than me but with fewer words. Ah, one of my failings.
I think we all have our reasons for liking who we like and voting the way we vote (My favorites usually being the ones with the best combo of 1. quality dancing, 2. quality choreography and 3. pleasant personalities). That’s the point of the show, to vote for your favorite, for whatever reason. These people are human beings, they have a right to be as emotional or emotionless as they want and we have a right to like that or not like that.
@ me: You might have noticed already by my posts that I don’t care for Maks or usually for Maks and his celeb partner as a couple due to, in my opinion, a lack of #2 and #3 of the list of what I like above. You mentioned somewhere above something that I completely agree with- In his interviews he tries to claim that Brandy shouldn’t be penalized for a judge not liking his choices. But….hello…..you are a team. Your decisions influence the dances and therefore the scores. The COUPLE is judged and the COUPLE wins DWTS, not just the celeb. I don’t understand where he thinks his argument is valid after 10 seasons.
As for Derek, I think he has gotten some emotional people but I do think he and Nicole had a bit more fun and even more of a playful connection, as you could see by all their packages and on the show. Comparing to Jennifer and Derek I mean. And I do like J&D, I’m just saying I think there was less drama in the actual partnership last season. I think it was more lighthearted for Derek than this one. But, it makes sense that this one would be more serious and different- Jennifer could, by age, be his mother, so the connection there isn’t the same as a partner your own age. And she has a lot of physical issues, which Derek has to take seriously and work around, where Nicole had none of that.
I really liked him with Lil’ Kim too, they should have gone much further that season. I actually have liked all his partnerships but Lil’ Kim, Nicole, and in their lighter moments, Jennifer, are my favorites.
Oh, and of course Maks had to try to throw the other couples under the bus again (when he just used them to help defend his hissy fit during the show….geez….) by saying all of their instant routines were put together like his….sorry, again, have to disagree, yours definitely had the most down time overall and the up time was dull. Poor Brandy.
That and saying Brandy isn’t getting enough credit from the judges….ok, who has been at the top of the leader board the past few weeks and near it for most of the season? You guys. I don’t know what else he wants….oh, that’s right, absolutely nothing but praise from the judges and absolutely no even constructive criticism because….he and Brandy work hard. And apparently no one else does?
I know…I seemingly love to harp on Maks- he just makes it so easy. I find his comments to be either totally rude or out in left field. But of course, anyone who loves Maks, and who can defend his every move- that is your perfectly fine opinion and right
I love reading from others about why they vote for whomever. Am I the only one who just votes for my favorite pro, regardless of partner? First Kym (didn’t help) then Cheryl, now Anna. No Edyta – aaarrrgggghhhh.
I love Brooke’s look tonight. Super outfit.
I agree with you EP, if Maks continues his arrogance its going to cost Brandy, believe me. He thinks he’s the only one that works hard, give me a break!
If you really watch Brandy dance, there is just something lacking, it just in my opinion come natural to her, its like she’s forcing it. Jennifer seems to have a natural inner ability to dance. That’s where the difference is. If Bristol doesn’t go next week, this show will lose its credibility!
I am sorry I meant doesn’t come natural to her (brandy).
I can’t believe that Bristol Palin is still there. Has anyone noticed that she plays the “Mom card” every week. Either her Mom is at the show, sitting right next to the judges, or she whines that she misses her family and they fly to Alaska for a visit. And it’s always the same thing – Sarah says, “I can’t believe how you can move like that” while trying lamely to do a shimmy.
At the beginning of the season, I was kind of rooting for Bristol, hoping she would blossom on the show. I hoped that this experience would help her step out of the shadow of her parents and become her own person (similar to the way we saw Kelly Osborne turn into a Lady before our eyes).
Now, it just looks like she’s always crying and running to Mommy to help her get votes. It’s getting really old.
Well, I would prefer that to hearing Brandy and Maks bickering all the time. I don’t feel like Bristol whines to her mom at all. She is just showing her what she is learning. More than likely it’s the producers who suggested that Mama Palin be in their package – not Bristol.
MAN THIS IS HARD TO COMPREHEND B’CAUSE AT THIS POINT OR AT THIS STAGE OF THE COMPETITION, THE JUDGES HAVE TO TAKE CONTROL OF THE COMPETITION. THE COMPETITION IS BASED ON DANCING, KNOWLEDGE OF MOVES AND MUSICS, LEARN AND COMPET HARD EVERY NIGHT.IT IS NOT ABOUT POPULARITY, DEAR.AT THIS STAGE THE JUDGES HAVE TO OWN THE SHOW AND NOT THE VOTERS.THE SHOW CONSIST ON TALENT, HARD WORK NOT POPULARITY(B’CAUSE MOM GRIZZLY OR POP SIX PAC)
BEST ON TALENT BRISTOL PALIN, SHE IS OUT, LONG TIME AGO OUT. SHE DOESN’T HAVE IT. FIRST OF ALL SHE IS NOT A STAR. WHAT WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE, ARE NOT? THIS IS DANCING W/THE STAR, NOT DANCING W/THE SON OR DAUGHTER OF ( MOM GRIZZLY OR POP SIX PAC). SO NEXT TIME IT’LL BE THE CLINTON, THE BUSH’S, THE MCCAIN’S, THE KERRY’S… AND WHATEVER. SO YOU JUDGE WHEN THE COMPETITION GET HOT PLEASE TAKE CONTROL, B’CAUSE YOU KNOW THE ESSENCE OF THE SHOW. NOT TEA PARTY DUDE
THINK, THANKS
I can’t think that this is a boost to Bristol’s self-esteem. I think it might do the opposite. Getting propped up by her mother’s fans when she knows she’s not good must be a weird place to be.
Maggie are you sober or drunk, don’t you understand that she (Bristol ) doesn’t belong to that groups of talented performant.
Sylvain kay 80 if your question is to me, my response is that of course I realize that Bristol is no where the dancer that Jennifer and Brandy are. My comment was to Joe Mag’s post re: Bristol playing the “Mom card” every week in the packages. I didn’t say anything about her dancing, just her package. FYI – stone sober!
@Sylvain Kay80 – That comment was insulting. I have half a mind to delete it right now. Since Meggie seems ok with it, I’m going to let it slide, but be warned – slinging insults like that will not be tolerated in the future.
Thank you, Courtney, for your comment. I was surprised when I first read the post, as its tone was so unlike that of most people on this site. I trust sylvain kay 80 will rethink her wording from now on.
Meggie – You may be right. It’s probably the producers who want as much Sarah Palin air time as they can get and not Bristol. At times, I feel bad for the kid, as if she got roped into doing this and doesn’t really want to be there. It might also explain why the judges have been bending over backwards for her. I don’t know what kind of staff meetings the producers have with the judges but this is so unlike any other season I’ve ever seen that it makes me wonder if there’s a conspiracy afoot.
I am paraphrasing here but, I have recollections of numerous occasions where the judges have emphatically said to other contestants – Come on, this is the semi-finals! You’ve gotta step it up! You’ve gottta Wow us! You’ve gotta touch us! (Often, I hear Carrie Ann’s voice, sometimes Bruno’s, yelling these things).
BTW, I wasn’t addressing the whole whining, crying thread by the Brannifer and the Pros but, for the record, I totally agree that’s it’s getting really annoying.
Ultimately, I want to see a mix of quality ballroom dancing and some fun entertainment. The behind-the-scenes segments are a window into the personalities of the contestants that allow us to make a personal connection to them. We vote because they are good dancers AND because we like them. All the whining and crying is not endearing any of them to me.
I’m a musician and, believe me, I’ve known my share of drama-queens and, frankly, I’m kind of sick of it. I watch this show to get away from that, much the way, I imagine, people used to love to see Fred Astaire movies during the Great Depression. I don’t want angst and anger. I don’t want Politics or controversy.
I just want to watch some nice dancing.
Joe Mag, I totally agree with you. Well said!
Courtney, I saw your comment on a previous Power Rankings post from season 9 (don’t blame me, I was really bored, okay?) and I saw that you mentioned the SYTYCD routine from season 3 to “You Can’t Stop the Beat”. Just seeing you mention Dominic made my day, for some reason.
Although since you mentioned what happened in that particular dance, that kinda ruined it. 
Either way, thank you. Don’t know why I’m writing this, but even any mention of Dom ANYWHERE makes my day. <3
Sorry. I have a bit of a fangirl crush.