Pure Dancing With The Stars: Rate Your Favorite Male Pros
Hey, thanks Everyone for your participation in the “Rate Your Favorite Female Pros” post. It appears Kym and Anna were the most popular with our readers. So now, how about the male pros? How do you rank them at this time from your favorite to least favorite?
Mine goes as follows:
Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Derek Hough: Seriously, I go back and forth on these two and can never decide who is my absolute favorite? I love them both so much. Derek is our modern day Fred Astaire. He has a fascinating Fox totem who magically connects and blends into each of his partners. His creativity, choreography, and good looks are one thing…but, then there is the “character” he gets into every time he steps out there. I so LOVE LOVE his dramatic facial expressions as well. Such a class act, humble, and can rise above most anything. He’s beyond amazing. In fact, legendary!!
Then there is Maks in all of his bad boy charm. You just can’t help to love him. Yes, he’s made some mistakes along the way, but, he is a constant learning process and always striving to be a better person. I love his mysteriousness, edginess, strength, power, and how romantic he is on the dance floor. He’s got the “X factor” in spades. It’s unexplainable, but, he leaves you always wanting more on the dance floor and in life in general.
Damian Whitewood: This guy is so sadly under-rated and forgotten about with producers when he is serious fan favorite. Look at the mark he left with just one season and how we’re still talking about it and him. He’s full of compassion like his girlfriend Peta. He soaks up the camera and stage just like her. If producers read this, PLEASE BRING ON DAMIAN THIS SEASON!!
Val Chmerkovskiy: Every time this guy has danced on the show in pro numbers, he leaves me wanting more just like his brother Maks. He’s a powerhouse out there and he plays the violin in the same way!!
Tristan MacManus And Teddy Volynets: I love these two newcomers. They are fun to watch in the troupe and always leave me wanting more as well. Both cute, refreshing, compassionate, and romantic. Teddy V’s personality is just waiting to bust out. I really hope we get to see it happen one day.
Tony Dovolani: This guy is so full of heart. I’ve always enjoyed his dancing. He gets the most awful partners though sometimes which is sad.
Alec Mazzo: I loved Alec and his dancing. Such a romantic dancer….especially with Edyta!
Jonathan Roberts: Like Tony, Jonathan is so full of heart. I always enjoyed his dancing too….especially in the pro numbers with Anna! He’s unforgettable!
Dmitry Chaplin: I haven’t always been a big fan to Dmitry, but, I really liked him last year with Petra!!
Louis Van Amstel: I like Louis and I like him on the show, but, there have been times I didn’t too. His best season has been with Kelly Osbourne. That’s when I liked Louis the most.
Corky Ballas: I favor and respect Corky as a “teacher” to some of the above pros more than anything. I’ve also enjoyed his dancing in some of the pro numbers. But, I really haven’t liked him paired with a celebrity…although sometimes it’s probably necessary with older celebrities.
Mark Ballas: What can I say? Mark has seriously gotten on my nerves these last few seasons. Although he can have heart, he also has an egotistical side that dominates his role on the show and the dance floor. He has also copied a lot of choreography from Derek for his dances and yet, tries to take the credit. Sometimes he’s too ‘in your face’ much like Lacey is. The one thing I do like though is his futuristic mind much like in a Lady Gaga kind of way. Now, if he could just learn when to bring it on and when not to is the question?
Ok, YOUR TURN!! We look forward to your replies as always! π
Mark, Mark, Mark
Maks/Tony
Derek ( I would like him a little more if he gets Snookie) :-p P.S. He dropped a few notched after CAI’s bias on twitter.
I could care less for the rest. They make no impact on their celebs, show or themselves.
So muche fever with you, uh, Vogue… hehehe =]
I’m gonna type my points later… =]
Of the regulars…
1. Maks – Well no kidding, right?
2. Mark
3. Tony
4. Derek
5. Louis
I’m very fond of Damien and I really can’t stand Dmitry. Corky is fine for what they use him for. I adore young Teddy and appreciate Tristan very, very much.
Yep Carlos. LOL Can’t wait for your post! π
Evaine, seems we very much agree on Maks, Teddy, and Tristan! hee hee
^5’s Vogue!
π
@Maddy – I dont think there anyway in h*ll that Derek will have Snookie, prepare yourself for the possiblity that Mark will have Snookie.
1. Maks – loved him the most this past season
2. Damian – I WANT Damian
3. Derek – Great to see him back
4. Louis – Great cheorgrapher
5. Tony – Poor Tony, he usually gets the stinkers.
6. Tristan – Easy on the eyes, someone to watch out for.
7. Jonathan – Kind of miss him.
Alec and Dimitry are great eye-candy, that is all.
While I do love me some Val and Teddy, I’m only going to rank the current male pros. Also, I’m not going to rank Damian and Corky since they haven’t really been around long enough for me to get to know them.
1.Maks: Like you’d expect anyone else! I love this guy! Say what you will about his “cockyness” and bad boy attitude, but the man just has something about him that really appeals to me. I really hope he gets an awesome partner this season. He’s one of the few pros that I, truthfully, believe could survive and thrive if/when the show goes off the air. He’s handsome, he’s confident, he’s sexy..he could be one hell of a leading man!
2.Tony: Tony has heart, as somebody else here said. He’s the guy that you like, but you’re not exactly sure why. I actually feel sorry for Tony sometimes since he usually gets stuck with the crappy partners, so I’m hoping that he gets somebody awesome this season too. It would be great to see him and Maks go head-to-head since they’ve been best friends for years.
3.Dmitry: Dmitry has really grown on me the past couple of seasons. It’s going to be interesting to see how he does once his personality really starts to shine. He definitely has talent as a choreographer, that’s for sure.
4.Louis: At first, Louis really annoyed me. I wasn’t exactly sure why, but I just didn’t really like him. But then came his season with Kelly, and I absolutely loved the guy. He also grew on me when he had Niecy Nash. Louis is just completely unpredictable, and that’s why I love him. You never know what he’s going to say or do next.
5.Derek: I know, shocking, right? Derek’s up here because, basically, it seems that he’s found a formula that works. Granted, he usually gets put with the best partners, so that might explain it, but the guy does well for a reason. I don’t know what it is, but he’s clearly doing something right for having won 3 times.
6.Mark: Oh Mark, Mark, Mark. You used to be so high up the ladder, but then your attitude caused you to be down here at the bottom of the totem pole. On the plus side, Mark is a talented dancer and choreographer. On the negative side, he tends to make his choreograph be all about himself. The show is not called “Dancing with Mark Ballas while he does spastic arm and leg movements” it’s called “Dancing with the Stars”, buster.
1 Derek
2 Maks
3 Dmitry
4 Louis
5 Tony
6 Mark
@Sandy – LOOOOL That’s why I downgraded him, coz I know he wont. haha!
1)Tony
2)Derek
3)Maks
4)Jonathan
5)Damien
6)Mark
7)Corky
8)Alec
9)Dmetry
10)Teddy
11)Val : (idk why but I am really not a fan of his)
12) Louis : He is my absolute least fav pro on the show. I’m still shocked they keep bringing him back.
11) Tristan
!. Maks….one of the Ukraine’s greatest gifts to the US. Have to include little bro Val in that, too. Incomparable!
2. Louis….I’ve really been impressed with his ability to teach his less than talented partners. I usually go for the big guys, but there’s just something endearing about him.
3. Tony….love his personality..he accepts the plodders with grace, and manages to make them look presentable on the dance floor…he always dances heavenly…especially when he gets a teachable partner.
The others don’t interest me. Sure they’re excellent dancers, or they wouldn’t be on the show, but just not my cup of tea. I have to commend Mark, for his efforts with Bristol Palin…That was a challenge for him I’m sure.
1. Derek
2. Derek
3. Derek
4. Derek
5. Derek
6. Maks
Past that…. there are other male dancers? π
1. Derek!
2. Maks
3. Jonathan
4. Damian – from the little we’ve seen of him, I liked what i saw.
1.- Derek Hough / Mark Ballas: These two have the most creativity in their choreographies. I always look forward for their routines.
2.- Louis Van Amstel: He’s the best when it comes to putting on a routine for pros.. He’s such an inspiraion to me.
3.-Damian Whitewood: His work with Pam was excellent. I’m looking forward to see him again in the show. PLEASE BRING HIM BACK!
4.- Dmitry Chaplin: He did amazing with Mya and Petra, and he rocks in every pro routine he dances.
5.- Toy Dovolani: Tony Rocks!, but we’ve only seen how good he is in season 2 and 8.. The rest of his partners haven’t let him show what a great dancer and teacher he is. We need BETTER PARTNERS FOR TONY!
6.- Kiki Nyemchek: IMO he’s best one in the Troupe, even though it seems that people underestimate him.
7.- Maksim Chmerkovskiy: I think he’s personality is what I don’t like about Maks, He has such a big ego, and he’s continuously thinking “I’m too sexy for my shirt”, you can see what I mean in Erin Andrew’s samba, or Kirstie Alley’s Foxtrot.That really bothers me.
8.- Jonathan Roberts: He’s such a refine dancer, but he always manages to get THE WORST partners. He’s routines aren’t always as impressive or explosive as the ones from the rest of the pros, that’s why I prefer watching him dancing in the pro numbers, specially with Anna.
9.- Alec Mazo: He’s a good dancer and goodlooking. That’s it. It seems to me that he’s kind of boring. I don’t even know why he won Season 1.. That should have been Joey and Ashly’s season!
10.- Corky Ballas: Why does he always gets “The old one”.
Derek – Who are we kidding the most imaginative, creative, genius dancer and choreographer.
Maks – Loved him the most this season.
Mark – I give him credit for being a decent choreographer and dancer. But last season he really annoyed me.
Tony – He’s a good dancer but always seems to get bad partners.
Louis – He’s a good dancer when they dance the pro dances.
Val – Was he ever an instructor? What are the chances they will get him on a regular basis?
Jonathan – Very good dancer, also enjoy when he dances with his wife Anna.
Dmitry- Not to familiar with him. How many seasons has he been on?
I’m not really familiar enough with the troupe to comment, but of the main pros:
1) Derek – for me no contest. He is innovative, engaging and really brings out the best in his partners. So glad he is going to be back.
2) Maks – he is the bad boy we love to watch.
3) Mark (IN SEASONS 5 -8) he was interesting to watch and produced some impressive routines and came across as a nice guy.
4) Tony / Louis – I quite enjoy their packages and they seem nice guys, but tend to find a lot of their routines for celebs quite forgettable. I prefer their pro routines.
5) Damien – liked what I saw of him – he did really well with Pam, but don’t really know enough to comment.
6) Dmitry – found him really dull for most of my exposure to him although last season was good for him.
7) Corky – don’t really like him much – think you can tell where Mark gets a lot of his bad habits from. Think he really thinks he’s the bees knees.
8) Mark since SEASON 9. Have found his ego has started to grow bigger and eclipse his stars in personality and in dancing. He doesn’t give the impression he really cares about them – showmances aside!
1]Derek/Mark.
2]Dmitry
3]Louis
4]Tony
5]-Teddy
6]Jonathon
7]Damian
8]Tristan
9]Val
10]Maks
11]Alec
5’s right back Evaine! π
Sarah, I see agree about Maks..he’s so sexy. I think Derek is sexy too.
Auntie, isn’t that the truth on Ukraine!
Sally, are you sure on Derek? lol
Mbar, I love Kiki too. I should have mentioned him as well.
Margaret, Val has never been an instructor….just a pro dancer sometimes on the show. I’d love to see him as an instructor and hope it’s possible some day.
When Maks is finshed dancing, I’d love to see him be a JUDGE! He’d be so good in that role and probably better than our current judges.
Loving all of your replies. Thanks Guys. Keep them coming!!xxx
TONY!! He’s such a sweetheart. So sweet and patient. He gets stuck with some “challenging” partners, but handles it well. I love watching him dance. He’s also so hot & handsome!!
Jonathan, like Tony, he seems so sweet and patient. He’s also seems to get challenging partners. I enjoy watching him dance, esp. with Anna. I really miss him.
3. Damian
4. Fabian
Liza W said it better than I could:
1) Derek β for me no contest. He is innovative, engaging and really brings out the best in his partners. So glad he is going to be back.
(and he is the reason I watch DWTS!)
2) Maks β he is the bad boy we love to watch.
I also miss Jonathan
1)Derek!!! – Yay… Derek’s back! I can’t wait to see what he comes up with this time. William Shattner is correct: Derek really IS a modern day Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire. IMO he is the best choreographer on the show and he always manages to get the best out of his celeb partners and then shows us in the pro dances that he is one of the best dancers as well. I still think the two best dances EVER on the show was his Design-a-Dance with Julianne in season 7 and the Acoustic Paso with Chelsie in season 10.
2)Maks – the sometimes bad boy of the ballroom. I almost hated him during season 10 when he danced with Erin, because he kept braking the rules and not taking responsibility for it and both of them also kept throwing their castmates under the bus – but during season 11 I warmed up to him a little again and he was great last season with Kirstey – so welcome back to the top of my list Maks!
3)Tony – Most of the time I love him, but there are times when his attitude is just too much for me. He has been a little unlucky with his partners at times – I really felt for him when he got Kate – but not to the same degree as the next person on my list.
4)Jonathan – THE most unlucky of the pros when it comes to celeb partners. But I love his attitude and he does whatever he can to make his parther as good as possible. And of course I love whenever he gets a chance to dance with Anna on the show.
5)Damian – love him – bring him back!
6)Louis – He is middle of the pack for me. He is a great choreographer, but not always memorable. He was great with Kelly though.
7)Fabian – He was amazing with Marlee back in season 6 – I would love to see him back too
8)Mark – would have been higher, but he irritated me so much last season.
9)Alec – I like him, but the only dances of his I can remember right now are some of the pro dances and his OTT VW with Toni Braxton.
10)Corky – He has a tendency to be too OTT – something Mark has picked up too regrettably.
11)Dmitry – He just isn’t memorable to me.
I LOVE Maks. I like all the rest just fine. I guess when it comes to watching dances over and over though, it’s Maks and Derek.
1- DEREK
2- DEREK
3- DEREK
4- DEREK
.
.
.
.
.
100- DEREK
Not because I love him, lets be honest, he is best choreographer than others. he is not doing shows like others, he is trying to get best of his partners. not like Mark who kissed every partner at every choreography (specially with Palin) copying others,
1. Derek/Maks – Both are just electrifying to watch with their ability, sex appeal and charisma. They are great choreographers also, though I’d give a slight edge to Derek in that respect.
2. Tristan – Another fun one to watch. He just radiates when he dances, and he just makes it look so easy. It’s nice to see someone dance who has a complete look of joyful abandon about it, and I love the little idiosycransies he has when he dances. Plus, the troupe dances that he choreographed were my favorites, and I didn’t know until later that he’d done them.
3. Tony – The man with the million dollar smile, how can you not love him? He’s also a great dancer and to me, always shines in the romantic dances. Bonus points for also seeming like just a great, genuine nice person.
4. Alec/Fabian – Sexy men who were, sadly, not with us long enough. Wish they would both come back!
5. Damian – He makes it look like so much fun, and if I had to choose, I’d probably want him as an instructor.
6. Jonathan – I miss him. But watching him and Anna dance together is unworldly.
Louis I like with some partners and not with others. He seems moody and petulant sometimes. Dmitry is just kind of there. Yeah, he’s nice to look at it, but he just doesn’t have that zing for me.
As far as the other two troupe guys… I think Kiki is immensely talented and will be phenomenal in a few years. He definitely gets your attention with his unique style, and I can’t wait to see more from him. Teddy annoys me for some reason. I think sometimes he tries too hard to be “the new Maks” when he would be so much better just being himself all the time. I think he’s great, but sometimes I find him irritating.
BTW, I love reading all the other responses. We are all definitely fierce when it comes to our faves!
1.Derek-What can I say that no one else has said? Fantastic choreographer, brilliant dancer, really nice guy, and wonderful teacher.
2.Damian-Despite only seeing him for one season, I quickly became a fan of his. He did amazing work with Pamela. His choreography is also really fun and memorable, but has plenty of basic.
3.Mark-Surprised? I am actually LOL. But Mark has always been a favorite of mine, and I haven’t given up on him yet.
4.Maks-I’ve always really liked Maks, he’s a good choreographer. He’s a fun, nice guy, but that whole bad boy thing he’s got going doesn’t do anything for me. Other than that, he’s awesome π
5.Jonathan-Really underappreciated pro right here. Jonathan’s been dealt a stink load partner-wise for the most part. Great choreographer (especially waltzes and other ballrom routines), and with Anna, it’s magical.
6.Teddy-Favorite dancer from the troupe. Lights up the stage and he’s a great dancer. Can’t wait to see him show even more personality.
7.Tony-Tony definitely has a good heart. I also admire him greatly after he dealt with the horror that was Kate with class. He can do some pretty nice choreography, but at times, it can verge on uninteresting.
8.Tristan-He’s a lot of fun to watch. He releases lots of energy and of course, he’s got lots of great dancing qualities.
9.Louis-Louis can be a bit…petty sometimes, but majority of the time he seems like a pretty nice person. He does brilliant pro dance choreography, don’t think he’s missed a beat in that department.
10.Dmitry-I’ve come to like Dmitry more since last season, but I think he’s got some growing to do.
11.Alec-He was a nice guy, very supportive of his partners, but he didn’t do a lot for me with his choreography.
12.Corky-He is a funny guy, but he hasn’t done too much either for me I’m afraid.
13.Val-He is simply here because I haven’t seen near enough of him to really say anything about him.
1. Derek- I’m in love with him. For me, he has grown each season to be the best choreographer and the most beautiful male dancer to watch on the show. I know some don’t give him enough credit, saying the show always gives him the best partners… but I think Maks and Mark have been given just as good celebs “in the beginning stages”, but Derek’s choreo and teaching style makes his partners last a lot longer.
2. Maks- He’s been entertaining me lately. Loved him with Kirstie.
3. Mark- I’ve made my fair share of negative comments abt Mark, but I used to really like him. He entertains me because he’s been a drama king the last few seasons. I like his choreo in general, but I could do w/o the spastic dancing of his.
4. Tony- I love Tony’s attitude towards some of his partners and we all know he’s had some seriously annoying partners. But his choreo is often boring to me.
5. Louis- He was so wonderful with Kelly Osbourne & Niecy Nash. But I could live without Louis.
6. Dmitry- There is really nothing wrong about Dmitry, but he is just blah for me. I neither like him nor dislike him and that’s why he is on the bottom of my list.
If I were to choose a male pro to come back that hasn’t been on in a while, it would be Fabian Sanchez. I really, really liked him when he was on Season 6 ad I thought he was very talented and so handsome.
I’d like to see Corky with a partner that is not considered the “old chick”, to really see him in a serious manner. He just seemed so silly when he was with Cloris and at times with Florence.
1. DEREK
2. TONY
3. MAKS
4. ALEC
LOL – So, CAI’s “bias” (although I don’t think that’s bias, but simple common sense) is now Derek’s fault?? It’s not like he blew her to get ahead, Maddy.
1. Derek , Derek, Derek!!
4. Maks (shocking, I know)
5. Damian
6. Tony
7. Mark
8. Louis
1. Derek
2. Derek
3. Derek
4. Derek
5. Derek
6. Maks
7. Damian
8. Mark
9 and 10. Tony and Louis
Last: Dmitry
1. DEREK- made me a fan. Creativity abounds and phenomenal dancer.
2. Maks- liked him more recently. Acting more fun-loving like Derek.
3. Damian-‘good potential. Underused.
4. Tony- what’s not to like…nice smile and like the way he dances, although not creative
5. Jonathan – love his gentleness. Romantic with Anna.
6. Mark- annoying me lately sadly. Loved him earlier. Would have put him tied for 2nd.
7. Dimitry- boring to me. Better with Petra.
8. Louis- Usually love his pro routines. Sometimes a bit over the top.
7.
Derek is my top male pro…. Don’t need to add to what others have said.
Next, probably Maks and Tony…. Tony has a sweet gentleness that shows up, he’s a very good pro with his partners, and with one exception, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him raise his voice, or become angry. Maks, on the other hand, gets angry frequently, and it’s part of his charm. They’re best friends, and they seem to be 2 halves of a coin. Total opposites, but they work well together.
I love Jonathan, and wish he was still teaching. He was another true Gentle Man. Same with Damian and Fabian…..
I used to have Louis in my top male pros, but he’s dropped in my respect. He does have his good points, and he is a FABULOUS choreographer, when he simply lets himself choreograph, and not add an agenda. My first season watching every week was season 3, with Monique, and their routines remain my favorites of his…..
I’ve never been able to get behind Dmitry, because he doesn’t seem to have a personality that resonates with me….. He was great with Petra, but I think he needs someone that can pull the personality that he might be hiding, out of him.
Mark is another who has fallen for me… And it hurts, in a way, because he was one of my favorite male choreographers. But, in the last several seasons, he’s taken a tumble. I wish we would see the Mark that started the show…
I’m new. Love this site and have been reading and watching your posts/vids going back years!
Disclaimer: I have never watched DWTS live as I haven’t watched TV at all for years. I stumbled on a YouTube a couple of months ago and was so enchanted that I have since watched many dances from many seasons, but 11 is the one I go back to over and over. My opinion of best male pro?
Derek Hough, hands down. He has grown in refinement with every season. He epitomizes the excitement of ballroom dancing, adapting to every one of his partners’ style (fun, technical, athleticism, elegance) and physical ability, and choreographing memorable dances that suited each of them perfectly.
Nicole was almost his equal in ability and I love watching them; but Jennifer, I think, inspired a maturity and sensitivity in him that transcended skill and athleticism. Watching their Waltz, in particular, is almost a religious experience. He is so *delicate* with her, so full of care and elegance, emotion and sheer grace… Of all the waltzes of both styles I’ve seen, nothing compares to it. Exquisite!
It is probably Season 11 that most sets Derek apart from the others because he grew so much from an extremely talented young man to full (gorgeous) manhood last year (imho). Of course, I completely understand why some prefer him with other partners who were better able to reflect his exuberance and/or athleticism. But I’m an older woman, and Style is always the bottom line for me.
I think Maks is charming in his rakish way, and so in-your-face manly, but a bit overly dramatic in his choreography for my taste. Sometimes, a dance should just be a dance. (i.e., Jen & D’s Waltz). DWTS does have ‘story night’ , after all. I suppose it’s his Slavic nature that wants to make every dance a fairy tale. . .
Tony is a lovely dancer who could also have done a spectacular job with someone like Jennifer. I hope he gets one, as he deserves her.
Louis was perfect with Kelly Osbourne. Watching her growth on video was utterly inspiring. I wish they had won that season. I didn’t care for Donny O.
I also don’t care for Mark. He seems angry and petulant and, perhaps, has a jealous soul. His later dances are almost painful to view. Sweet Chelsie deserved much better.
OK, I only commented on 4, but the others aren’t as much on my YT radar yet.
I’m looking forward to Season 13. I will turn on my TV for the first time in many months! π
Sherry, have you tried hulu plus?? You can watch full episodes of dwts going back to season 5.
It’s funny what you say about derek seeming to reach full-blown manhood in season 11 – I agree. I’ve been watching the seasons from 5 onward and it’s pretty striking, the difference in him. Some of his fans interpreted it as a variety of other thing, but I always maintained that he was just growing up. He’s had a lot of different experiences over the last two years, it’s to be expected.
1. Maksim- Too hot to handle. Gorgeous, guaranteed Tom butt pincher and brings the drama. Sometimes he gets a raging tude but hes still great to look at.
2. Jonathon: So why is he not allowed to be on the show anymore? Cute, sweet, calm and genuinely patient with his pros. Bring him back!
3. Tony: A nice choreographer, willing to have fun and not too bad on the eyes.
4. Dmitry: Harmless. Sure he was allegedly responsible for Mya losing with that lame freestyle, but I forgive him. He’s sweet and pleasant to watch.
Can’t stand Louis, Derek or Mark and pretty indifferent to Corky so guess that’s it!
You guys Rock! Thanks so much! Derek is definitely leading this pack as well as Maks at this time!
Heidi, I love how you put Maks at #2. It’s funny how things can change.
Sherry, welcome to PureDWTS! Pull up a chair, keep posting, and stay a while!! π
One more thing on Derek I wish I had added….I love how he comes up with these original signature moves for each of his parters. IE in naming a few: that backwards neck thing he did with Joanna, the way he made Nicole’s long hair a part of their dances, and the splits carry back deal he did with Jennifer. I wonder what the signature move(s) will be this season?
Heidi, I seriously considered subscribing to Hulu Plus but have this elderly (or is it my ancestral Scottish?) aversion to paying for something I can otherwise find for free. So I’m just plodding through CB4’s fantastic collection. For now. π Thank you for the suggestion – I’ll think about it some more, because I really would love to see the full episodes and dances in their original order.
Also, thanks for agreeing with me about Derek’s maturity…it’s more than just the hair and enhanced musculature – both of which I heartily approve! – it’s a quality that is sort of indefinable, but I know it when I see it. You’re the expert on Derek (I’m enjoying PDH, too!), so it’s nice to know I’m not imagining it because of Jennifer.
Thank you for the welcome, Vogue – love all your postings, especially on costumes! In recent late nights of reading back issues, I witnessed your move from commenter to PureDWTS Contributor and you were an instant hit! π It was an exciting time, neh?
1. Maks/Derek: Vouge, I agree with you here, I honestly can’t decide! They are both brilliant dancers and choreographers. It’s kind of like the best of both worlds, because Derek is such a sweet heart, and then you get the taste of the bad boy with Maks. Plus, they are both incredibly sexy π
2. Tony: Oh my god I love Tony!!! I remember the first time I ever watched DWTS, I was so little! It was back in season 2, when he was with Stacey Keibler, and I remember going to school the next day all bummed because she didn’t win! Haha. Tony is just such a funny guy, and I loved the dances he did with Stacey. Unfortunately, he usually gets stuck with bad partners, so he can’t unleash all the great routines we all know he is capable of putting together.
3. Val: Sexy. What can I say? He’s a Chmerkovskiy π
4.Jonathan: I don’t think this guy gets enough credit, and it makes me mad because he’s such a great guy, and a truly beautiful dancer. I mean have you seen his dances with Anna? Even if she wasn’t his wife, he could pull it off. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe that he didn’t start to ballroom dance until a late age, which really inspires me because I just started and I dream of being a ballroom dancer as well. Having said that, this man is the real deal, and I really wish they would give him a great partner so that he can show off what he can do.
Teddy/Tristan: We haven’t really seen much of the troupe, but I still find these two quite enjoyable to watch. I’m impressed! And I just love the accent Tristan π Plus, Teddy reminds me of a little baby Maks!
Dmitry: He’s alright I guess. I didn’t really like him that much until I saw him with Petra, who was so frickin’ beautiful that really no one paid any attention to him, but I did enjoy what he choreographed for her. Other than that, he’s not really that attractive, and I haven’t really paid him too much attention.
Louis: He’s alright I suppose. He’s a great dancer, don’t get me wrong, but I guess it really depends who he’s with. He hasn’t really been dealt the good hand of celebrities, so I give him sympathy for that.
Mark: Ehh. He kind of pissed me off this season. So I’m kind of turned off now. Sorry Mark, please change back to your old self. I liked him better.
Alec: I don’t even know…I just feel bad about leaving poor little Alec at the bottom.
Damian: I’m sure I’d like him if I’d seen a little more of him. Unfortunatly, the one time he was on, he didn’t get the greatest partner either.
Corky: Like I said before, just haven’t seen enough to judge.
Sherri, thanks so much and yes, definitely exciting. It’s been one fun ride and a dream come true!xxx
Sarah, glad you could understand my #1 dilemma. loll
It’s been really interesting reading everyone’s rankings. What a diverse group! For me:
1) Derek – the creativity and talent that he has is hands down the best.
2) Maks – has really impressed me in the last few seasons. It’s nice to see his lighter side.
3) Jonathan – such an elegant dancer. Would love to see what he could do with a good parnter. Someone like Joanna Krupa with talent & not a huge fan base.
4) Tony – always a joy to watch. He’s so good with his partners.
5) Mark – he’s good and I like him, but I haven’t enjoyed the majority of his routines the last 2 seasons
Those are my top 5. The rest of the male pros are good too, but these are the guys I like best. Would be interesting to see how these results differ after S13. Especially if there are new pros on board.
#1 – MAKS MAKS MAKS!!! The man of my dreams! So tall, dark, handsome and muscular—sorry I’m getting carried away but Maks can carry me away any time—oops there I go again. Loved him with Mel B and they should have won season 5.
#2 – Derek – fantastic dancer and great partner – loved him with Jennifer but wish Brandy and Maks would have finished higher—maybe even winning season 11.
#3 – Mark – fantastic dancer and so innovative and interesting choreography! He and Chelsea should have done better than 3rd—would have liked to see them win. Loved all of their dances. Mark and Sabrina should have made the finals in season 5 and come in first or second.
#4 – Tony – amazing dancer and nice guy – should have won season 2 with Stacy or season 8 with Melissa (if Gilles and Cheryl couldn’t win). Didn’t care for Shawn’s dancing and feel that she won due to all the young gymnasts voting for her. Tony and Audrina were eliminated way too early in season 11.
#5 – Jonathan – so romantic but why didn’t he catch Marie before she hit the floor so hard?
#6 – Dmitry – really enjoyed him with Petra. Should have won season 9 with Mya—Donny won because of his huge fan base.
#7 – Louis – great dancer – really enjoyed him with Kelly.
#8 – Val – would like to see him dance with a celebrity.
Forgot to say something about Derek – absolutely loved him with Brooke and Nicole. Most of their dances were so beautiful and exciting and they totally deserved to win their seasons.
1. Maks!!
1. Maks
1. Maks
1. Maks
2. Tony
3. Jonathan
4. Tristan
5. Val Chmerkovskiy
No way is Derek sexy, he looks & acts too much like a little boy. Talented though.
I agree Maks & Tony would make great judges when they are no longer dancing. DWTS must get rid of CAI & Len hopefully soon!
No doubt about it, Derek is my favorite pro on DWTS! I absolutely love him. He is the most incredibly talented choreographer, teacher and performer I’ve seen in years. I’ve been a fan of his since he hit the dance floor in S4. I know I’ve said this before but the way he dances with the ease and elegance of Fred Astaire & athleticism and quickness of Gene Kelly is mesmerizing to watch. He’s nice on the eyes as well and has matured into a very handsome man. To be honest, he’s the main reason I watch and love the show so much-my guilty pleasure!
Derek is at the top of my list, not only for his dancing and genius choreography skills, but for his charisma, fun/easy going personality and his amazing ability to bring out the best in everyone he’s paired with. He’s a born entertainer and heart & soul performer!
He is a very confident performer but is an extremely humble individual who promotes others and “NEVER” himself.-As a fan it’s endearing and kind of annoying because you want to know what he’s up to.
I’m so happy he’s returning for S13!
*Vogue, ditto, to everything you said about Derek!
I also enjoy:
Maks – who I adore as well and respect, at least most of the time-LOL
The others are no longer on the show:
Alec – underrated
Damian – charming
Jonathan-1st person to catch my eye on DWTS
Mark – talented
*Vogue, ditto to everything you said about Derek!
Brenda and Pam are you sure about your first choice? LOL to the repeat choices on the same person which seem like Derek and Maks get the most of.
Katie, I like your idea of the type of person to pair with Jonathan.
Thanks Dee and ditto to what you said on Derek too!! π
Thanks again everyone!
1. Mark-in my opinion the best pro on the show and a real sweetheart. I’ve met him three times in the last 8 months and he is always an absolute doll and incredible to watch dance!
2. Jonathan-miss him SOOO much!
3. Corky- love Corky!
Don’t really notice the others exist. Have disliked Derek for several seasons and last season Louis really annoyed me so they would have to be the absolute bottom for me.
My points:
(As I’ve done with the girls, I’m going to separate the guys from best dancer/best partner-teacher)
Best dancer:
– Derek (fearless)
– Mark (personality)
– Dmitry (he has his own style)
– Louis (great choreographer, even being gay, he’s masculine)
– Maksim (very good, but I don’t like the “look at me, I’m nasty” factor…)
– John (unbeatable on standard)
– Tony (good)
– Damian
– three guys from troupe (don’t remember by name…)
– Corky (the guy is a legend)
– Alec (he misteped a lot sometimes on pro dances)
— Partner/Teacher
– I have to say Derek too. Despite the fact that his choreographies are sometimes repetitives… check his waltzes and his sambas… a lot of sequences are quite similar…
– Mark – even with his behaviour last season with Chelsea and the previous season with Bristol, I do think he is a great pro to have as partner. When he does a great choreo, he does a great choreo. And he really was the first “rebel” from ballrrom, not lacey… remember the hip hop cha cha cha with sabrina?
– Dmitry – like his choreographies. He’s not that funny on rehearsal segment, but works well with his parners
– Louis – sometimes he was an a*s with monique, but since he had kelly, he does a good job with his partners, even when he appeals to a sentimental drama… hehe
– Jonathan – what a gentleman with his partners. I really was not very impressed with his latin choreographies, but he had his moments.
– Fabian – he did a good work with Marlee
– Tony – his dances are always “geriatric”, just with very good partners (stacy, melissa), we could see really good and exciting choreographies. I think he’s a good teacher, but “too safe” choreographer…
– Maksim – he’s a good choreographer, but I’m tired seeing some dances like “i’ve seen this step before”… sometimes one step is used on the cha cha, samba and salsa… he was rude with ALL his partners even one time… I know you girls love his badass/bad boy taste, but… I just can think “this guy can dance, but what a cocky-a*s!”
– corky – when he gets a “younger than he” parner, I’ll talk… =p
– Alec – are you kidding? He ruinned Toni Baxton and Natalie… if they get any other pro, they would last longer…
Corky and Mark both tie for the worst for never thinking about their partners. This is about the celeb and I do not care how nice they maybe, they do not consider the celeb in their choreography. Dance wise, I find Derek and Maks with the most charisma and top both Corky and Mark. Derek is the best choreographer. Jonathan does the most with the least talent.
The troupe made no impression on me so not going to rank them. Also I do not consider them a pro in the sense imhave yet to see them choreograph and teach a celeb. I understand why they were part of the list but I was surprised they were on the pro list. I barely remember their names, lol.
Louis along with Mark have annoyed me for many seasons. Too much ego with those two.
Carlos, I don’t think Derek is any more repetitive from one season to the next – any more than any other pro – but during his season with Joanna he was very repetitive. He used a lot of the same moves over and over again and I think that had to do with Joanna being somewhat limited in movement ability. That he got her as far as he did is a testament to his abilities – he really played to her strengths so that she looked quite good. But if you watch all his dances with Joanna one right after the other, it was repetitive.
Not a criticism, though – you make the most of what you’ve got and Derek is the best there is at that.
Heidi:
Since Derek has improved his tap dancing skills. What do you think the chances are that we will get to see him tap this season? Maybe on the results shows, this would be awesome!
This week we should hear more credible rumors as far as the cast!
No contest. Maks is my top 10 because:
1. All his dances have a true ballroom feel to them.
2. He is a great choreographer.
3. He always makes his partners look great on the dance floor.
4. Many of you may not agree, but to me Maks is the only one with that special something when he dances. It goes beyond the steps and choreography, he has rhythm and knows how to move to the music. He feels it. Not sure I can put it into words.
Conclusion, MAKS is the best pro.
Correction – Maks is the best pro FOR YOU. π He’s not for me.
How I rate the,:
LOVE: Derek Hough–talent & looks & personality
Like:
Maksim Chmerkovskiy–personality and talent
Tony Dovolani –personality and talent
Would like to see again:
Damian Whitewood:
Missed:
Jonathan Roberts—but mainly as a pro dancer with Anna.
Bland and/or donβt bring much to the show for me:
Dmitry Chaplin: Liked him best last season, but doesn’t have much of a TV personality
Donβt care for or didnβt bring much to the show for me:
Alec Mazzo–never seemed to want to be there.
Corky Ballas–embarrassing to watch w/celebs
Mark Ballas—ego much?
Louis Van Amstel—(see mark)
Val Chmerkovskiy –haven’t liked him on the show or in interviews I’ve seen.
Not even on my radar:Tristan MacManus And Teddy Volynets
well heidi, I think he’s just less repetitive than Maks… but this is my opinion. =]
Obviously I’m a rare poster to puredwts here. But had to add my 2cents after Heidi again puts down anyone who favors Maks. So typical of her aggravating insistence on promoting Derek and allowing no momentum for Maks. Thus, she has no credibility.
To me, Maks is the adult uber-male athlete of the two and favors classical ballroom styles. He also has the more let’s say “animal” connection to his partner & thus women in the audience. But he gets the mega-women (Laila, Kirstie, Erin) and the D listers (too many to mention) without dancing prep.
Derek is the youth, the Broadway-type choreo guy, who goes outside the ballroom standards a long ways to garner votes, and is given professional dancing ladies as partners, or little ones who move well. He irritates when he speaks his teenage mumbles, and exudes zero adult sex appeal. The boy does well, otherwise.
Clearly Derek is favored here with the major overlap with his own fansite. But Maks’ appeal is very lasting and includes much sincere admiration for his hard-working and self-made history. Derek on the other hand comes from privilege that paid for his live-in training as a youth with a pro family in England.
To many, many of us, Maks is completely: DA MAN!!! (Watch Heidi dump on this, too.) Hi Amanda!
@Jo C – Oi, vey… This is just one gal’s opinion, but your ad hominem attacks detract from your argument. OK, you’re a Maks fan. I like Maks, too – not as much as Derek, but to each her own. But why include the “no credibility” stuff? Why not just state your opinion like the rest of us, and move on?
Jo C, what are you talking about? I’m a huge Maks fan and I help with this site. Heidi has never had an issue with me and who I favor.
Sally, well said!! He’s a trouble maker.
Jo C = Joanie who is a troll from way back. She’s been trolling and hating here for a long, long time. Has never gotten a clue regarding Maks getting partners every bit as good as Derek’s or that Derek has had ONE partner, maybe two who was actually a ringer – while Maks has also had very capable partners (Mel B, Misty May, Erin, Brandy to name a few). He just can’t manage to WIN. How this becomes Derek’s fault I can’t figure out. But then, you can’t apply logic to the illogical such as Joanie. Ignore her. She has envy seething from every pore of her body. π I’ll just ban her. I’m over these stupid games – I even made Maks my #2 and it’s not enough for her. She’s a “stan” in the truest sense of the word.
And any idiot can figure out that I’m not going to let ad hominem attacks slide. Duh.
Bye bye Jo C! Fully support Heidi 100%!
One other thing. When Jo C mentioned “Broadway choreography” – well, I LIKE Broadway Choreography. That’s one of the reasons Derek is my favorite male, and Kym is my favorite female. Both of them have that Broadway flair… makes it fun for me. π So, like I said, to each their own…
Same here Sally! I love broadway. Haven’t a lot of pros danced on broadway…including MAKS! He’s also helped with many shows.
Well, it’s called adapting your choreography to the abilities of your partner, entertaining a TV audience and knowing what it takes to WIN – THAT is what Derek knows, as does Kym. How to make a routine entertaining for the general, non-ballroom audience AND the judges (most of the time). All the pros with multiple wins have that capability, although maybe not as much as Derek – Cheryl, Kym, Mark, Julianne and Derek.
1.) Shirtless Derek!!!! Do I really need to explain?
2.) Derek- almost as good as shirtless Derek, except he’s wearing a shirt
3.) Maks- Maks is a character. You never know what he will bring. I loved him with Erin, they were so cute together!
4.) Bruno!!! You gotta love Mr. Bruno ‘I’m Still Standing’ Tonoili!!!
5.) Tony! Excellent choreographer. He is a saint after having Kate Gosselin as a partner.
6.) Mark. he’s a great choreographer, and he’s knows it, and wants everyone else to know it. He had a fun personality before season 12. Then he was super cocky. I also don’t like his hair. It was perfect when he had Shawn Johnson.
7.) Jonathan- I don’t remember him too well. I remeber he terrible partners, so I can’t rate him super high. I love his dances with Anna.
8.) Damian- liked what I saw, but one season isn’t enough for me
9.) Dmitry- Hes ok. Good choreogrphy. Opens his shirt too much.
10.) Louis- I just don’t like him
11.) Alec- really don’t like him. I might like him more if he came back
I can’t rate Val and the troupe guys until I see them as a true pro.