Louis Van Amstel’s Predictions for Dancing With The Stars Season 13
Louis gave his predictions for Season 13 for who he thinks will win on Hollywood Uncensored. He doesn’t hold anything back….and he sounds a little sore about not being included on the show this year. Grrr to what he says on Derek!! He has just hit a low in my opinion.
Heidi’s Note: Somebody’s jealous and it shows – not sure we should give him a forum for this behavior. Geez, Louis, maybe the reason you’re not on the show is behavior like this?? Perhaps if you emulated Derek instead of complaining about him, you would be more popular and people like Ricki would ask for YOU and not him. It’s no wonder you’re currently unemployed. Perhaps when Derek and Maks leave to take advantage of other opportunities you’ll be allowed back on the show. Then again, maybe no one will want to work with you.
Special thanks to PureDWTS reader Sally (@sally_braden at twitter) for this interview!xxx
Adding: Below is Louis defending Chaz…
Louis’s comment about Derek was spot-on – he DOES tend to get the more competent contestants, season after season. I, for one, am sorry we won’t see Louis this season; I like him. After last season, I’d much rather do without Mark.
Whats up with everyone picking on Derek! He doesn’t pick his partners. This is really pissing me off! Shame on Lous! Who says that Ricki is a dancer! He should show is distaste to the producers not the dancers!
I hope Ricki goes far she has the best choreographer, who never says an unkind word about anyone! The more people make distasteful comments the more it will go against them, thats my prediction!
I agree, he’s right about Derek, and I didn’t think he sounded jealous in a bad way, kind of joking around. Jennifer Gray should never have been on the show to begin with.
I agree, Anne. I’m not “picking on” Derek, and I’m not saying that he chooses his partners (and neither did Louis). I’m simply acknowledging the truth of Louis’s statement that Derek tends to get good partners.
We all have our preferences among the pros on the show. Some of us don’t care for Derek. Just vote for your favorites, that’s the way to show your support.
No, I don’t think Louis sounds jealous or anything – I think he’s just telling it like it is. But, really, I don’t think Ricki has as much dance training as like Jennifer or Nicole, but I can also see where Louis is coming from.
He’s jealous like everyone else! Give me a break she danced with Patrick Swayze 25 years ago, so she’s a professional dancer! Come on guys get over it! She one fair and square!
LIke I said he doesn’t pick his partners, Ricki lake was in hairspray when she was 18 years old. Hope Solo is a professional athelete, so I guess she is a ringer also, what about Kristi Yamagucchi, Apollo Ono! Don’t even go there!
yeah, girls, I know you’re all love when it comes to Derek, but I have to agree with Louis… from Derek’s 3 most recent partners, the only reason Joanna didn’t make it into the finals IMO was because of her kind of low popularity. Then we had Nicole (and I’m gonna stop there), and then Jennifer, that was unbeatable when compared to the other contestants… even if Louis was being all bitter about not being on the show, he wasn’t exactly wrong…
however, what’s funny about it all is that I don’t personally think Ricki will be the winner this time.. if some of the other contestants don’t mess it up, we’re going to have a surprise this season
I agree that Ricki doesn’t have “dance experience” in the way they’re implying in the video. I think she’s pretty much starting from square one like everyone else.
All the contestants have different strengths. Actors are used to the performance aspect. Athletes have strength and stamina, and are used to training. I really don’t see any “ringers” this season.
Lucas:
Lets just see them dance first, is that fair? No one performed yet! Well do really think Chaz Bono has a chance? and I give him credit for even doing this. Everyone is bashing him for nothing! This is how the world is right now, everyone is bashing just about everybody!
Derek does wonders with his partners, you know that! The producers are the one’s to be blamed, I for one would like to see him with an athlete for once, but who am I?
Louis is Louis, you either like him or hate him. But giving him the benefit of the doubt, Maybe he meant Dereks last two partners were dancers in a movie…. 🙂
I too am not sure Ricki will be the winner this year, but we will have to wait and see. I think we will find there is a hidden gem among this cast that will take the MBT.
No one is questioning Derek’s competence as a dancer or choreographer. It was simply pointed out that he has a history of getting good partners.
Sandy:
No one knows for sure about anyone! LIke I said, let’s watch them dance first, everyone is a little stiff for about the first few weeks and pretty nervous!
I do like Louis, and I do think he should have been back. To say no one fits his personality! Please. We all don’t really know Tristian and Val. But I hope Val isn’t arrogant, like at times Maks can be. Last season I really enjoyed Maks more than any other season.
Does anyone know anything about the new stage, set, yet?
What I think is really telling about Louis’ comments is how he mentions Carson as a potential winner. I love Carson, but I don’t really think he’s going to win. Louis is biased in who he wants to promote and in who he wants to “demote” – no objectivity happen there at all! 🙂
Margaret
I’m not here to offend anyone. I’m just expressing my own opinion, just like you did. I agree with you, Derek can do wonders with his partners AND I think he is probably the best creative choreographer. His way of blending innovation/technique/entertainment is what makes him the unbeatable 3-times champion of the show. However, if you see who his partners were, it makes me wonder what would happen if, for example, he had got Nancy, and Tristan got Ricki.
Let me make it clear: I LIKE Derek’s work, but I want to see him getting the same ‘profile’ of dancers that pro’s like Tony are used to get. When that happens, and if he makes a big impression on a season, I’ll keep my mouth shut.
Lucas:
I agree with you! But like I said the producers do the matching! I would love to see him with an athelete or someone like Elizabeth or Kristin. I just don’t understand why they do this. Maybe they like the way he works with an actress, reality star. Who knows!
I’ll watch anyway, how about you? This is gonna be a very controversial season!
THANK YOU for the shoutout, @Vogue!!! I managed to get lucky and see an interview before you did… 😉 😉
@Kimber: I respectfully disagree. You said “I’m simply acknowledging the truth of Louis’s statement that Derek tends to get good partners.” That’s not what Louis said. He said “Derek gets the dancers“. And at least to me, it DID sound like sour grapes. Derek has won DWTS 3 times. Louis? Zero. Louis has gotten to the finals maybe once (with Kelly O.)???
This is just one gal’s opinion, but when Louis basically said “What, they couldn’t find someone to match my personality?” I was thinking – “Yeah, they are fresh out of celebrities willing to put up with a prick…”
Louis said nothing but the truth. Great that he has the courage to say what is really going on in DWTS. I’m a fan of this guy.
Sally said:
>>>@Kimber: I respectfully disagree. You said “I’m simply acknowledging the truth of Louis’s statement that Derek tends to get good partners.” That’s not what Louis said. He said “Derek gets the dancers“.<<<
Thank you, Sally, for the respectful part. I only watched the video once, and I concede that I might have misquoted Louis. I appreciate the correction.
There might be some truth in what he says, but like it’s been said before, some celebs ask for certain partners. This season Ricki asked for him. But I really didn’t care for his attitude about why he isn’t on this season. He sounded way to whiny and petulant. Suck it up, dude! And complaining about your employer in a public forum… I’m not sure that’s the way to go. I just lost a lot of respect for him. Ugh…
IMO Louis has a point. Derek gets the good partners in terms of fitness & dance ability. He hasn’t been challenged the way say Tony has. I’m not disputing Derek’s talant with choreography etc. because he is. I’d have much more respect for him if he had a more challenged partner.
While Louis publicly “complaining” is neither smart nor commendable I can see where he’s coming from. We see the same people winning and it’s old. It’s not old news in other parts of this fandom that if your last name is Hough or Ballas on this show, you’re golden. Sure the producers do picking the pairings but I believe the stars have to give their top 3 choices. So there is some wiggle room.
Love Louis. And I’m definitely going to miss seeing him dance this season.
Agree with him on Derek too, he’s long overdue for a partner like Nancy Grace.
YW Sally and yes you did! Thanks again!! 😉
As for Louis, his partners were just as good as Derek’s. I thought Kendra was equally as good as any and all of the partners Derek had. But, she didn’t have the likability factor. She was also made to do things that were impossible for her to do in the beginning…mentally and physically. Louis was so excited about having her, he pushed her too hard and before she was ready. If Derek would have pushed Jennifer like Louis pushed Kenda in the beginning, Jennifer wouldn’t have been able to handle it.
The facts are, Derek is an awesome teacher. He knows what and how much to do to make his partners do well. Louis may be a great teacher too…that we saw with what he did with Kelly.
Anyway, I think Louis sounds like a poor sport. He should have never ripped on Derek like that. Do you see Derek throwing any of the pros uder the bus like that? That is something he would never do. Louis sounds jealous and he should have took the high road and kept quiet. Keep in mind, I have liked Louis in the past. But, after hearing him in this video (and what we saw of his ego in the beginning last season), I would say his time on DWTS is over now and maybe and rightfully so?!
Regardless of whether or not it was the “truth”, Louis came across as bitter and rather unprofessional to me. Maybe some of you didn’t see it because you were too busy agreeing with him, but really – what business does Louis even have being publicly “pissed off” about the partners Derek gets assigned? I sure as hell wouldn’t get caught on national tv questioning the decisions of my bosses. Now my house? That’s another story. 🙂 Honestly, it just kinda reflects badly upon Louis – badmouthing his coworkers, and by extension, his employer. Notice who’s on the show this season and who isn’t 😉
People also tend to conveniently forget that 3 of Derek’s partners have specifically requested him (Nicole, Jennifer, and now Ricki), and I get the feeling it may have been a selling point of them doing the show in the first place – they’ve been trying to get Ricki for several seasons now. Do you really think they’d deny her request for Derek? Sometimes I wonder what people expect him to do – politely decline??? “Gee, Jennifer, I’d love to be your partner, but it’s Louis’ turn to have the ‘dancer’ this season. Sorry!” And let’s not forget that just because someone has a background in dance, it does not necessarily guarantee a win – Erin Andrews, Mel B, Chelsea Kane, Debi Mazar, Monique Coleman, Sabrina Bryan, Stacy Keibler, Melissa Rycroft, Marissa Jaret Winokur, Lance Bass, Cody Linley, Lil Kim, Aaron Carter, Mya, & Brandy are all celebs with varying degrees of dance experience that have done the show. All are also non-winners 🙂 Will dance experience help? Maybe. But you also have to have good choreography, a big stage presence, and a likeable personality to win. Maybe Louis should heed that last one a bit more…
Derek doesn’t choose his partners but he and Maks are the most popular pros. Producers will always give them either the potential good dancers or good looking.. Derek getting Ricki Lake – I don’t think she’s a contender. I see her finishing 4th.
Louis should be ashamed of himself, even if he was joking. This just brings unnecessary and unwarranted negative comments towards Ricki & Derek from Louis’ fans or just plain haters. Plus this is not true.
So she did some line dancing in Hairspray and that was over 20 years ago.Wow, amazing.I bet “all” the women, with the exception of Nancy, has danced to some sort of choreography. Heck Hope was telling Access Hollywood how limber she is, plus she’s a “young” athlete! The problem here is that Ricki is paired with a “WINNER”!-LOL
He’s an amazing choreographer, teacher and performer who knows how to make his partners look good. He’s hated not because of the partners he’s given but because he simply WINS with them!
Just because one has rhythm or can move does not make you a ringer and it definitely doesn’t mean you will do well as a ballroom dancer. I can do the Electric slide, would I be considered a ringer?-LOL
Ricki is very competitive, seems to respect her partner and is a hard worker which could equate to some great performances, at least I hope so.
Go Ricki & Derek!
I have to laugh too that Louis and the reporters think Ricki can dance just based on one tiny scene in a movie. Hey, I could do those same moves and way more and that doesn’t mean I would have been a good dancer. Those moves could have been any of us at our high school homecoming….even someone who couldn’t dance.
Let’s look at it another way. This show has had quite a run with professionals that are obviously talented, driven, competitive persons. For the most part, unless I am missing something, the pros have stayed mutually supportive and acted well through all the seasons. Mark or Tony, Louis may get a little snarky at times, but nothing major. I give the pros props. They are all interesting and decent folks.
I don’t care for what the judges have evolved into. The judges on the short run of Paula Abdul’s show were much better. They were judging and instructing, not trying to be over the top entertainers? Tom and the pros are what keep this show going strong.
All I’m saying is that I CAN’T WAIT for Heidi’s blog that’s coming about ringers/good partners when it comes to the male pros. She usually backs stuff up with actual EVIDENCE rather than just opinion. Louis is a jealous asshole. Like Ricki said, when she did Hairspray, she was 18 yo, over 200 lbs and FAKING IT. Does that equate to having dance experience. In fact… I was part of a high school homecoming skit my sophomore year in high school and we had to be trained in the dances from Grease. I haven’t danced choreography ever since then.. does that meant that I have dance experience????
I don’t think Louis was being bitchy. I think he was serious but also not attacking Derek on any kind of personal level. Derek has gotten a lot of very good partners; that’s just the truth.
Nicole, of course, was an abomination, but so it goes.
Louis is prickly and not always very nice but he’s brilliant. Technically speaking, he’s the most skilled male on that show.
I think Ricki is going to surprise just about everyone! I have a feeling she is going to be electric with Derek!
A lot of people are stating that Derek is due for his ‘Nancy Grace’…. Has Maks or Mark ever gotten their ‘Nancy Grace’ and if people say that Kirstie Alley counts, that woman has been able to move well since day 1. People seem to forget Lil Kim and Joanna Krupa, not to mention Shannon was not even a good dancer.
Denise Richards and Debi Mazar. Just sayin’. 🙂
Elmari:
Joanna couldn’t even walk properly remember? Derek had to show her how to!
I don’t think Louis was dissing Derek. I think he just said exactly what the other pros think. Derek does always get someone with ‘some’ dance knowledge. Wonder how that happens every season he’s on. I can’t wait until Louie is back on. He’s a great dancer.
Whoa, talk about overreaction. Are people always this uptight here? Louis is allowed an opinion. IMO, Derek is great, Louis is great. It’s just a show.
No wonder a lot of other people have left this site because of the fanatical Derek maintainers/moderators. I’m outta this nuthouse!
Evaine- But Denise and Debi were both beautiful and young actresses that before their actual first dance were thought to be able to do well. A “Nancy Grace” to me sounds like someone that people expect to go home in the first few weeks. Like the token “dud” of the season or something like that. Sorry to be talking like that about Nancy. I don’t like her in general (bc of her day job), but she has been appealing to me in her interviews for DWTS so far.
JMS,
All the pros, yeah right!-LOL
He’s NEVER had a contestant his age or in his decade for that matter. Yeah, I can see why they are all upset!
Okay, I’m trying to be very subjective here and look at things from the producer’s POV. Derek is a draw (as is Maks and Mark). They want to keep him around for as long as possible – especially if this season is to be his last as many think it may be. So yeah, they’re going to lean his way when handing out partners instead of Louis’ way. Face it, more people want to see Derek’s face instead of Louis’.
Now, as far as Ricki asking for him… HELL, he’s a THREE TIME CHAMP!! If she wants to win and has the right height and the leverage, then of course she’s going to ask for him! She wasn’t born yesterday!
As for Ricki’s ‘experience’… she really doesn’t have any more than any of the other ladies have… well, maybe a little more than Hope. *LOL* What she does have is name recognition and unless she’s a total bomb on the dancefloor should do really, really well.
I understand all the frustration the Derek fans feel upon hearing this shit again and again, I really do! It’s equally as frustrating for a non-Derek fan to have to listen to it all over and over again.
@Elmari – So by that definition of a Nancy Grace type, then Derek has had none, right? I can’t think of one of his partners that was dismissed before we saw them dance… but then I have an iffy memory. 🙂
Evaine- Based on how I defined a “Nancy Grace”, it would only be Lil Kim. I remember us D fans being so upset when it was announced that she was his partner. She just got out of prison, she has always been controversial (in a bad way), on paper she seemed like the complete opposite of Derek, and she’s like a foot shorter than him. We thought they might be the first or second to be eliminated. I was ready for him to be eliminated. Concerning Joanna, Derek said that he was scared that they would be eliminated the first week.
all i want to say is you can blame whoever you want to, but derek works hard with each and every one of his partners, he makes the best of them, he succeeds in letting them shine, he comes up with great choreography, he uses their naturals abilities, hides the defects and he knows how to play the game. He is very professional, he learnt (the hard way) to keep this opinions to himself and he tries to remain objective throughout the competision. In my opinion, that is the recipe for his succes.
Wow Jen, funny how people are so quick to tell US we’re “overreacting” the minute we start defending our opinion. Guess you’re allowed yours, but we’re not allowed ours? Bye bye now.
“Louis is prickly and not always very nice but he’s brilliant. Technically speaking, he’s the most skilled male on that show.” – Steve
Errrr…after that wacky Viennese waltz & samba he choreographed for Margaret, I’ve gotta disagree. 🙁
Just about the time I start to like Louis again he opens his mouth and inserts his foot… Honestly though, I think it would kind of hurt to sit out and then have two younger very handsome new male pros hit the dancefloor. BUT, his remarks about Derek were uncalled for and very unprofessional. Maybe he already knows hes not coming back as a pro and does not care.
oh…yes. and i forgot to mention that in season 10 and 11 the stars ASKED specifically for Derek Hough – Nicole wanted Derek as her partner after seeing his Futuristic Paso with Joanna. When you want to be sure that you win a competition you want to get the best dancer and choreographer there is. case closed.
Sorry, but what Louis actually said “Derek always gets the dancers” is just patently false – anyone who claims otherwise is either stupid or hasn’t been watching the show very long. Period.
By my calculations, Maks has had more “ringers” than Derek has, as has Mark. These things are easy to verify if one looks with any degree of objectivity. And yes, I say that as a Derek fan. “Winning” does NOT mean you always started with ringers. Again, people, engage your brains.
Derek has never had a partner younger than 30, he’s had multiple partners more than 10 years his senior. He’s on partner number 2 that is over 40. Jennifer was 50 with screws in her neck. Because Derek WINS with these people doesn’t mean they are automatically young and able. Where people come up with this bull mystifies me. Mark has had TWO Olympians, a Cheetah girl and a couple girls in their early 20s. Maks is on his fourth partner in a row that stands a damn good chance of winning because of either popularity or ability.
Sorry, but Louis and people who think like he does just strike me as not very bright or of having a different agenda.
Actually, Kimber, you ARE questioning his competence when you say all his partners have been good. The implication is he didn’t have to do any work to get they where they were, when he worked every bit as hard as the other pros. Bullshit. I think this is all sour grapes because Derek has found a way to win where Maks (with Mel B, Brandy, Willa Ford, Kirstie and Erin) could not. Hell, Mark has had three ringers and has won twice – not quite sure why he is spared, EXCEPT for perhaps fans see Derek as the more talented and therefore a threat.
From what I’ve read, Debi Mazar had as much dance experience as Jennifer and wasn’t as old.
Jen, don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.
By the way, our numbers are up. 🙂
Yes, but Jennifer Grey is a much bigger name, a bigger memory trigger than Debi Mazar. Jen’s ‘ringer’ status – and I use the word ’cause that’s what everyone one here seems to use – was herself. America’s sweetheart. Star power. NOTHING to do with dancing ability or prior experience.
Wow it’s gotten quite heated and rude here…..
Princess Heidi- Do you honestly think Maks & Hope have a chance at winning? She doesn’t have a large enough fanbase compared to others & I think she’s facing an uphill battle. Of course I hope I’m wrong because I’d love to see someone new win, especially Maks. I honestly think Kirstie was his best chances at winning.
Evaine, Joanna Krupa was dismissed as an early exit by nearly everyone before the season started, as was lil’ Kim. There was much rejoicing by Maks fans saying FINALLY, Derek has gotten a dud!!! Only to turn around and call them ringers after Derek managed to turn them into dancers. It was initially amusing, but now it’s just STUPID.
Debi Mazar had previous dance experience of some kind?
Yep. You’re right.
Ah, but Evaine – to use some of the people posting here “Derek always gets the dancers”. In my upcoming series on ringers, that is why I made Jennifer a ringer and not Debi. But facts is facts. Louis has gotten them wrong, as have several other people.
As for the person complaining about Tony’s partners??? Melissa. Audrina. Stacey Kiebler. You complain because they give him a Kate Gosselin?? Fine. But do not claim he’s never gotten anyone good, because that is false.
Allie – of course Hope has a chance! As much as Ricki does, for sure. She’s young and she’s an athlete – two things that Ricki is not.
Facts are facts, most definitely. But let’s remember that Derek is not the only one in the history of DWTS to have turned a sow’s ear into a silk purse. And that a DWTS champion is made on more than just dancing ability. That’s all I ask. 🙂
She does, Linde, but I didn’t categorize her that way, mainly because I felt that age and style offset any potential benefits.
That’s what people like Louis seem to miss – it’s not just ONE thing that has allowed Derek to win while he and others have not. Natural ability, personality/likability, previous experience, fanbase, age, choreography, COMPETITION and so on are all factors. If all it was about was dancing then Mel B, Mya, Sabrina and others who are extremely similar to Nicole would have won. Evan and Erin were also “ringers” – but Nicole was just BETTER ringer, and therefore got better scores which allowed her to win. Mel B was a better dancer than Helio, but people just LOVED Helio, so he won. Chelsea Kane was a much better dancer than Kirstie was – and maybe Hines – but people just loved Hines and Kirstie.
Any time you have a team or someone that is really talented in sports, singing, dancing, etc.. and they are consistant at winning and being successful (they have that special magical “X factor”), there are people out there that can’t and won’t accept it out of jeolousy or whatever. It’s really sad. Fine…you aren’t a fan and you can’t see it, but, that doesn’t mean you are right about them not having a God given, natural talent and gift.
Evaine, what do you think I’m saying?? The argument here is “Derek always gets dancers”. That is NOT true. Additional arguments throw in are “Tony never gets anyone good” – also not true. It’s also true that Maks and Mark HAVE gotten ringers.
Heidi said:
>>>Actually, Kimber, you ARE questioning his competence when you say all his partners have been good. The implication is he didn’t have to do any work to get they where they were, when he worked every bit as hard as the other pros. Bullshit.<<<
What? Saying that Derek has gotten good partners doesn't say anything about Derek's competence. It says that Derek has gotten good partners. Geesh. I'm not making an "implication that he didn't have to do any work." I don't even know where that statement is coming from. He's a great dancer. He's a great choreographer. He works hard. And, he's gotten some great partners. I have not said anything disrespectful against Derek, so please don't put "implications" in my mouth.
I didn't know this page was intended as a Derek fan site. That's not what I was looking for. Cheers, everyone, carry on.
Really – and I’m paraphrasing something someone else posted ….if anyone has a persuasive argument for not ever getting a good partner, that’s Johanthan Roberts. Marie Osmond was his best partner …think on that a minute LOL. Yes, they did make it to 3rd, but that has been his most capable partner EVER. I can see why he’s taking a hiatus (it really is just a hiatus, right?)
Not saying otherwise, Heidi! You know that. Derek does not always get dancers – that’s Louis shooting his mouth off before he has a chance to think and realise what an ass he sounds like. Tony has had some good partners and yes, Maks and Mark have had what everyone terms ringers. As have Lacey and Kym. 🙂 We’re in season 13 but I seriously think that people only remember the last 4 or 5 max.
Kimber, where do you see all the posts on Derek here if this is a Derek only fan site? *sigh*
You left out the word “always” this time, Kimber – that’s where the issue is. Sure Derek has gotten some good partners, but with the exception of Jonathan, they ALL have.
My cat has better long term memory than some DWTS fans, just sayin’.
By the way, slinging out “Boo hoo this is a Derek fan site” and then leaving?? Not impressive, but very childish and ineffective as a threat. If you’re allowed to express your opinion, so am I – these are not difficult concepts. If you’re going to dish it, you have to be able to take it. If you can’t, you leave. Obviously.
When the cast was announced, before the pairings were known, Maks himself said whoever got Lil Kim was going to have a real challenge. (This was the time the cast was announced the last day of the DWTS tour, so there were interviews and comments by the pros.) How was Joanna Krupa a better partner than Denise Richards (or Shannon for that matter)? They were so alike, neither natural movers, young, fit, beautiful, but Joanna was nowhere near as well known and those that did know her HATED her. Maks fans were besides themselves with worry that she was going to be his partner.
Everyone knows I’m a Derek fan:) But I am not blinded by it.
Someone else said it earlier- the producers know Derek, Maks, Mark and Cheryl seem to have the most fans. So, between them all (not just Derek) they tend to get partners that are ‘ringers’ or are at least more popular. Can you imagine a season where these 4 pros were the first 4 eliminated? What a bore the second half would be!
To me, the only ‘ringers’ Derek has had are Nicole and Jennifer. I don’t think anyone knew that Brooke would be that good or Joanna either. And who would have thought a Derek/Lil Kim partnership would work and Lil Kim would become likeable and be a good ballroom dancer? I think Derek is very good at bringing out the best in his partners where many of the other pros don’t always get how to do that.
Mark & Maks have had just as many ringers. Maks just tends to either have an attitude problem one season or an issue really making the most of the partner he is given in another. Mark is great with a talented partner but when he gets one with lesser skills, he doesn’t know how to best make up for it.
People seem to forget that Derek was quite underrated during his first few seasons, and that a lot of his partners were expected to go home the first week.
They also seem to forget that it takes VOTES to win. I hate the ringer argument because if so many people were bothered by contestants with previous experience, most people who have made it past the half way mark would not have.
Mmm-mmm-mmm. That’s all I have to say while shaking my head.
@Heidi – You will have to check out Louis Van Amstels twitter, he is discussing this topic. Someone has called him out on this interview, specifically about Derek.
Oh I saw it. I told people to stop tweeting him, until he called it a “fact” again. What an idiot. :::rolls eyes::: Then a couple Maks fans tweet me to object to my opinion. Then someone asks ME to stop arguing. Hello?? Maks fans don’t need to be tweeting me shit just to argue with me and then ask me to stop. The name of the Twitter is PureDEREKHOUGH, fer cryin’ out loud.
Jen, you said you were leaving. Keep up with that tone and you won’t have a choice.
I agree for Louis to call Riki and ” dancer ” is rather hillarious. She is an entertainer who did a little dancing in a movie over 20 years. Ill bet Chynna, Elisabetta, and maybe even David Arquette have had as much experience as she has. Whats really funny is that the video they showed of her dancing looked kinda like Kate Gosselin’s Jive. 🙂 Also I dont know what kinda stamina Ricki has either. Ringer? No way. Derek is an excellent teacher though as are all the pros for the most part, it’s cool how fun he makes it though.
Derek hasn’t had all dancers, but two of his wins are with ringers. Ringers typically didn’t win in past seasons, but coincidentally the voting system started getting changed when Derek got them. Remember that ridiculous point spread Nicole had on Evan? It wasn’t left for voters to decide the outcome on that one, Evan may have won otherwise.
And Mark’s only 2 wins were with ringers. One of Cheryl’s wins was with a ringer. Kym has two wins, one with a ringer. Cheryl has two wins, one with a ringer. Julianne? One ringer out of two wins. So what?? That is not the point under discussion. Pros that haven’t won, such as Maks and Tony, have also had ringers.
The voting system has always been exactly the same, it has not changed. The only thing they changed AFTER Bristol, was to require that email addresses get verified. But the voting itself and the scoring is no different. They are scored per the judges opinions.
As for Nicole’s point spread?? It seemed pretty valid to me. Of course if it hadn’t been that wide, Evan could have won, but that’s how the show works. Evan and Anna chose a quickstep that wasn’t that exciting compared to Nicole’s Jive. Plus, they argued over the freestyle and it ended up being not that great. Why would Evan have similar scores (ie, throwing it to the voters) if his dancing wasn’t as good – which it wasn’t. The judges have always had a say – and they don’t always throw it to the voters.
@ Courtney
I said “technically” Louis is the best male on the show. I’m often not a fan of his choreography.
However, if you watch him in the pro ensemble dances his timing, precision, angles, and finish are head and shoulders above any other male pro dancer on the show. (I am a competitive ballroom dancer and sometime-judge, so I feel I can ‘speak on this’.)
Remember that he used to coach several of the other pros that are currently on DWTS.
The technical talent gap is much closer with the women, although of course Karina’s technique has always ruled that particular roost. However, you can put Julianne, Kym, and *maybe* Chelsie at least in her sphere.
With the men, technique-wise, you have Louis, then a step down to Derek, Mark, and Maks, and then a big step down to the others. You can scream at me about Mazo but I think he’s overrated. I’ll need to take another look at Val, he might actually be better than his brother and the Ballas boys.
My bad, I shouldn’t have said the voting system changed, I meant the judges scoring system changed. They started doing a ranking system in scores in finals with 1st 2nd and 3rd getting a designated amount of points, and no two dances could get the same score.
Lots of past seasons the judges did throw it to the voters. Except when a certain someone was in the finals.
It’s a puzzle to me why anyone would care if the celeb had some dance experience, so long as they’re not a trained ballroom dancer – now, that would be an unfair advantage.
Derek and his partners have given us some very memorable dances that we wouldn’t have if not for his instruction and the innate terpsichorean he brought out in each of them, even the least naturally talented ones. (Imagine not having those favorites to watch and re-watch on video!) To a woman, they spoke of wanting to “do justice to his choreography” and to “make him proud” of them. He’s gifted in the way he builds relationships that translate to the dance floor. I don’t see how anyone could fault him for that.
Sorry, JT, but I’ve recently rewatched several seasons, and the only time they’ve NOT ranked the contestants is when it was too close to call. If they throw it to the voters it’s because they can’t decide. It’s in your mind that they are favoring Derek – what exactly do they get out of doing that?? I suppose it never occurred to you that when they rank them it’s warranted?? If there is a gripe to be made about the judges it’s that they often don’t rank them when they should. Bristol Palin, for one, got horribly inflated scores compared to Jennifer and Kyle – but I suppose you think they should have just scored all three of them he same even though Jennifer and Kyle were leagues ahead of Bristol??
Ranking the contestants is their JOB – throwing it to the viewers when one dancer is better than the others is a cop out.
Wow, majorly heated up in here. I’ll just respectfully put my opinion in:
I do not think Derek has always had good partners. Those of you who know me on twitter know I’m a serious Derek fan, but that does not totally blind me. I get that some people just get upset and frustrated that their favorite pro doesn’t have as strong a track record. Let’s just take a look at Derek’s partners in depth.
Jennie G-There is no way on this Earth Jennie could be considered a dancer/ringer. Was she a great dancer? Yes of course, but Derek had a huge part in that. Jennie had major stage fright, she FELL week 2, and had confidence issues. In the end, Jennie turned out to be an amazing dancer because Derek worked with her.
Shanon E-Oh lord, I am a Derek fan, but Shannon was not a very good dancer. I did not even vote for them to be honest. Can anyone look at Shannon’s dances and say Derek “got a dancer”? If you still can…go to the doctor.
Brooke B-Derek’s first win. Brooke had NO experience. Brooke did, however, have a lot of natural ability. In reality though, there was virtually no competition that season, Brooke smashed the competition. Had Brooke been on a season later, she wouldn’t have made the Finals, maybe not even the semis.
Lil Kim-She did do a little dancing in her videos, but she has no experience to cry about, EVERY singer/rapper has dance experience, even though it’s not a lot. She was an ex-convict and she didn’t have a lot of good history before that. Does that scream “dancer” or “automatic win” to anyone??
Joanna Krupa-Yes, she did ballet when she was 9, but seriously tons of women have. And trust me, she would not remember and ballet steps if she went 21 years without dancing.
Nicole S-The only “ringer” that Derek has really had. She’s really the only one I give to people who argue Derek gets dancers. However, let’s not forget, Nicole was not a pro, whereas we’ve had Mya (who TAUGHT dance) and Sabrina who is, indeed a PRO hip hop dancer.
Jennifer G-She is arguable, but barely even that. People, she hadn’t danced once after the movie. And she had screws in her neck. Jennifer did have some serious natrual talent, but she also had handicaps that really knocks her out of “ringer” status.
Ricki-Can’t say a lot because they haven’t danced yet, but I don’t count her as a ringer either. I put her in the same caterogry as Jennifer. She danced in a movie, BUT she is over 40, which isn’t exactly prime age, and she’s not quite as “in shape” as Derek’s past partners.
I think it’s totally fine to have an opinion, but it’s like Heidi is saying, saying that Derek has “always gotten dancers” is false by logic, opinion can’t change it. All of Derek’s partners have been good dancers, I will give them that, but let’s not forget, they need to have someone TEACH them. And ALL of Derek’s partners have said nothing but great things about his teaching ability. So, saying “I think all of Derek’s partners have been good dancers,” could be true in a way, but saying “he has always gotten dancers” is 100% false and can be proven false.
There’s my two cents 🙂 (Sorry it was so long)
The other pro winners have had ringers, but also paid their dues in other seasons. Mark had a partner with very severe stage fright and was first out. Kym has been first out. Cheryl had Tom Delay. Julianne had Adam Carolla. If another Kate Gosselin type gets cast, she will never go to Derek. Never ever.
Heidi, when I mean ranking system I’m talking about the system they put in place where 1st place gets 30 points, 2nd gets 28, 3rd gets 26 or whatever it was. A predetermined points ranking, that the judges couldn’t deviate from.
No I don’t think Jennifer should have gotten the same scores as Bristol. I think Derek should have not gotten Jennifer after having gotten Nicole the season before.
Derek has paid his dues – he’s just better at it. You forget all his partners that didn’t make it to the finals. Convenient. Remember how everyone hated Joanna?? Remember that Lil’ Kim was fresh out of PRISON?? No? Of course not. I was reading message boards then and Maks and Tony fans were overjoyed that Derek had finally gotten a dud. Ooops. 🙂
If they won’t give Derek the Kate Gosslin’s of the world (as if there is more than one), what do you think that means, eh?? Think about it. A – he’s too popular and they don’t want him to leave too soon. B – Nicole, Jennifer and Ricki all REQUESTED HIM and they wanted those people on the show badly enough to give into their requests. C – you are experiencing revisionist history. D – all of the above.
And what makes you so sure that Ricki is going to be all that?? I’m not convinced.
Er, sweetie, that was ONE season where they did it that way. The next season they mixed it up and last season they had the 15 point winner take all Cha cha. Derek wasn’t even ON last season – that benefited MARK. Kinda negates your argument that Derek gets preferential treatment. Not to mention that people I talk to on the show say that these things are laid out before the season started. As much as it pains me, that winner take all Cha Cha was not stuck in last minute to help Mark. It was still stupid though.
Again, if Jennifer requests Derek as a partner (which she DID) you expect the producers to say no and risk her not being on the show. Be realistic.
You go Will! Great post!
I can’t understand the logic of people who think it’s okay to hate on Derek because he supposedly gets “ringers’. Nicole, Jen, and Ricki asked for him, correct? Well, TPTB want big name celebs, right? So do they tell the big celebs, “No, you can’t dance with Derek, he needs to lose for a while.” LOL I’m sure certain celebs only did the show because of who their partner was (some request Maks, Mark, Cheryl, Kym).
Wonder if Louis’ attitude is why Derek tweeted a few days ago about missing London and his TRUE friends…hmm?
I’ll only say this:
He’s too popular? He left and the season’s ratings were still goooooood
If you want to seer how bias they r toward Derek look no further that the team dance last season.
They didn’t have Derek and they scored them the same.
I don’t like Louis whining, but he did say the truth
I will go on the record and say that Derek is just a good teacher/coach. I also think his earlier seasons, he didn’t fair as well, an example would be the Shannon Elizabeth debacle. I remember a lot of people weren’t happy with him and Shannon because he called out people after they were upset with their critique. Then they got eliminated the following week. However, he just seems like a really good teacher. Alec and Edyta both said that Lil Kim and Joanna weren’t expected to last long on the show during a Q & A at the studio, they just get lucky with their partners and some are just surprises. Especially with Joanna because I don’t think a lot of people liked her after she was on that ABC show that paired a celebrity with an athlete.
Another thing, they all have gotten ringers/good partners at one point. (minus jonathan poor guy, although Giselle was probably the closest but she was pretty unknown.) Tony has had many ringers and then gets a lot of clunkers, but he’s had many that people don’t acknowledge. (Stacy, Melissa, Audrina)
Maks has had many ringers but just can’t seem to win (Mel B, Willa, Erin, Misty, Hope, etc.) Maks typically gets either a ringer or a well known celebrity that was just recently in the news. In fact he got two athletes right out of their shining moment (misty right after her olympic win, and hope after the world cup)
Of course my little Anna never complains about her partners 🙂 and she’s probably the the short end of the stick out of all the female pros. Her only ringer was Evan. (although I adored her with Kurt, Jerry, and Albert)
It’s pissing me off that you are talking like that to a guy(DEREK) who’s only fault is been an incredible teacher to each and every single one of the celebrities he ever had and to make fantastic choreography for all of us to appreciate and love.
And for the last time Shannon a ringer?! Jennie a ringer?! Lil’ Kim a ringer?! Joanna a ringer?! Let me LAUGH!! The only ringer that Derek ever had is Nicole and that is just because she is famous, young, etc.
Do you call a fifty year old woman with 4 surgeries a ringer???????
Do you call a model/host who not a lot of people knew before DWTS and never had dance training a ringer?
I think that almost all professional dancers have/had a ringer sometimes, so why do you don’t pick on them as well! Its seems so UNFAIR just to pick on him.
It didn’t occur to you that maybe Maks hasnt won because people dont like the couple or choreography?
And i think that Louis is just jealous of him, the guy(Derek) takes your breath away everytime he dances and choreographs.
Just leave the hate aside an look at him! And when you done you can come and tell me that his not a fucking good teacher or choreographer with bases!
Appreciate Derek and don’t hate/dislike him!!!
GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!! GO RICKI AND DEREK!!!!
Wow, Maddy… you are really grasping at straws there to try to prove whatever point you are trying to make. Obviously you have it in your head that you need to find fault with Derek’s success on the show. So you’re saying that they always score Derek’s team dances higher because they judges just like him better rather than by actual dance performance, teamwork, and choreography? If you want to talk about REAL bias, you don’t have to look any further than the WINNER TAKES ALL dance that ensured Chelsea and Mark a nice little cushion which ended up in the elimination of Ralph Macchio. That was straight up in your face preferential treatment by the producers/judges.
Seasons 10 and 11 DWTS was considered the number one show on television. Season 12 it went down to number two….. just saying. 😉
I dont get all the louis haters, I Love Derek he is my favourite but if i had to have one of da pros as a partner i wud want Louis. I cant imagine having to put up with Derek or Maks for 3/4 months, it wud be exhausting. Louis does call it like it is and he is very supportive of his partners, i think hes more real than alot on the show. Kelly and Louis still my fav couple, luk at what he did for her
Lenny, you go right ahead and take Louis because as you can see there are many others who would take Derek instead.
I don’t know if there are actual Louis haters, but it’s more like what they hate what Louis said because it completely undermines/disregards/discredits everything Derek goes through and does for his partners each season. When pros like Louis say stuff like that, then it gives Derek haters ammunition to complain about him. They think its easy for Derek because he’s given partners that are “capable”, “good”, “had previous dance experience”, “the ringer”… But I think it’s actually quite hard for Derek because there are expectations of him and/or his partner.
Hasn’t anyone noticed how thin he gets towards the end of the seasons? He loses a lot of weight because he’s dancing too much and not eating enough. Brooke wrote in her book how stressed out Derek was in the 2nd half of the season trying to create choreography to keep up their momentum. He has also said that consistently coming up with great choreography for Nicole was incredibly challenging for him because people expected her to be good. I remember in an interview, Maks and Erin were shocked at how many hours Derek and Nicole were rehearsing each day. He’s a perfectionist and it seems that he makes his partners want to be perfect for him. What some people are not acknowledging is that now there seems to be expectations of Derek to be great and takes his partners far and he works his ass off to meet those expectations and exceed them. So when people like Louis discredit all his hard work, sweat, and long hours and imply that he “always” does well/win because he “always gets dancers” … it’s insulting to Derek and that’s why his fans defend him so strongly.
If you don’t like Derek.. Fine. But don’t take away the FACT that he puts in A LOT of hard work into making his partners into great dancers.
So Louis expressed his opinion and how he felt.Big deal
That’s not allowed without people getting all worked up in a frothy lather?
I will miss him this season
Well said Elmaril.
He’s set to a different standard. People want to say favoritism, not true because he exceeds expectations, no matter who he’s paired with!
I am so glad Derek is back this season. His choreography is mind-blowing, memorable and so exquisite. Heck, I hope he gets an opportunity to showcase some of the new skills he obtained from his film in a result show performance this season-I know it would be something special!-Excited just thinking about it!-whoop, whoop!
I love him & what he brings to the show! He just keeps getting better and better!
Go Derek & Ricki!!!!
Great googlymoogly..what a flap…LOL, leave Louis alone, he only stated his opinion which is allowed. I love his dancing, and will miss him this season…a lot more than I missed Derek, last season. I make no secret of the fact that I’m a Maksim fan. He’s why I started watching DWTS. I think he appeals to an older group, and for the most part, older watchers don’t spend hours voting in blocks. We just enjoy the scenery while it’s there.
I don’t think teaching, or dancing ,or choreography wins the mirrorball. It’s the fanbase of both the celebs and the pros. And those who are fanatical enough to spend hours voting. We all have our opinion about who’s the best at what. We haven’t seen the first dance yet, so maybe we should wait til then to form our opinions. Just saying.
You are actually on to something, Steve, in terms of Anna – by my reckoning, she’s not fared as well in partners as the men as a whole have.
Maddy, no, it’s not “the truth” and this is where this argument continues. People throw words around like “truth” and “fact” and they obviously don’t understand the meaning of those words.
np – when you use the word “fact” you are saying it is no longer opinion. THAT is where Louis got himself in trouble on twitter. You don’t get to call something a “fact” when it is REALLY an opinion. And an incorrect opinion at that.
Auntie Bellum – you can have Louis. I think he’s a whiny, petulant BRAT and it’s no wonder he’s not on the show with how he behaves. Also the reason why he’s clearly least popular of the pros. As for who’s going to be good and who isn’t – I think you’re commenting on the wrong post because this discussion isn’t really about that – it’s about Derek supposedly getting all the dancers. Also, I believe you are wrong about who wins the show, but as a Maks fan I would expect that rationalization since Maks has never won – but come close. No one pro fan group can win the MBT for them. 23 million people watch the show and, say, 2 million of those people vote for the show – or 10 percent. People who actually spend a large amount of time voting for a given pro probably number less than a 1000 for all pros combined. Let’s say of that group, Derek has 300 fans who are serious voters and they somehow manage to get in 300 votes each. That is 90k votes up against 100 million, which assumes that the 2 million voters voted 5 times each (aka casual voter). A drop in the pond – clearly since Derek has only won 3 out of 7 times. Of course, Maks never winning? Hines had better scores and was just as likeable. Mel b likely had better scores but Helio was more likable. Brandy?? Not really very likeable at all, but somewhat. The list goes on….so you’re right when it comes down to the celeb/pro pairing, but to claim that it’s all rabid fan base is way off. If it were true, Maks would have won because he has as many crazy assed fans as anyone else. Particularly after Kirstie – so perhaps those rabid voters will get him over the top with Hope.
Totally agree with what Emari said in #90! <3 it!
Meggie:
Ditto!
I just listened to Louis in the Hollywood Access clip. He tells people to stop “labelling” re: Carson, Chaz, Nancy, etc. and to wait until they dance. What a hypocrite! He’s labelled Ricki a ‘dancer” already! Louis, practise what you preach! Stop “labelling”! Wait until they dance! LOL
I will take Louis in a heartbeat, Derek is a genius no question and love him to death,missed him last season, not da same without him. tho when he was with Nicole, actually one season i didnt go for him and his partner, she was too ott for me. Poor Evan.They are both fantastic at what they do, i love how real Louis is, i respect that more than anything
Yeah they suddenly changed the judges scoring one season, the season when Derek has the ringer and is up against an Olympian, and every other season when an Olympian is in the finals they have always won. Well not that season with that scoring system.
Winner Take all was a rig for Mark’s partner but that doesn’t negate my argument. I never said Mark isn’t given favoritism by the show just that he’s also paid his dues some seasons.
I never considered Joanna or Lil Kim duds in terms of ability. Lil Kim has musicality and was in Lady Marmalade, Joanna had 5 years of ballet training. Joanna wasn’t liked at all on that summer show but I don’t think that many DWTS general viewers ever watched that show anyway. There was tons of fodder on that season that would obviously go first – Ashley who’d spent time in a wheelchair and didn’t think he’d walk again, Macy Gray, Tom Delay, Kathy Ireland. The Mambo marathon gave a huge point cushion that season too. Who won the marathon that season? Maybe was the best dancer but she wasn’t given the win on that.
Him not being given the Kate Gosselin’s because “he’s too popular and they don’t want him to leave too soon” proves my point. He’s given preferential treatment by the show. Other’s aren’t, like Tony. Tony got a ringer his first season, and then only other time he got one was by luck, it was not the original partner they assigned him to.
@lenny – To each his/her own. You say you would “take Louis in a heartbeat”, and I respect that. If I were a celebrity (IN MY DREAMS!!!), and ready to go on DWTS, I’d take Derek in a heartbeat. Heck, I’d take my lame Uncle Larry (who’s never danced a step in his life) before I’d take Louis – he’s just too argumentative, and tends to stick his foot in his mouth. He doesn’t seem to get that there’s a non-dancing component to winning DWTS; that people can (and do) get behind a couple because they’re likable. If “Couple A” dances “pretty darn good”, but is likable, and “Couple B” has GREAT finish, angle, and steps, but are perceived to be snarling, sniveling divas, then “Couple A” is going to win the popular vote. This is obviously just my opinion, but I Don’t think Louis gets that.
I see that Louis is still an ass. He never does well because he doesn’t know what works for TV and he has a bad attitude. I’ve see plenty of that attitude exhibited in PAP vids to know that I’d never vote for him even if he was with my favorite celeb in the world.
As for those that request Derek, Florence Henderson also wanted to dance with Derek. I wonder why she didn’t get him?
Of the other pros that have won the show twice, how many of them have been given a ringer after they got their 2nd win?
JT, you didn’t consider Brandy the “ringer” in season 11? I think that was the season that many people thought that Maks would finally win. Brandy was in her early 30s, was an extremely popular recording artist, beautiful, had dance experience (even ballroom dances if you watch her TV movie version of Cinderella). Compare that to Jen Grey who was 50 yo, had numerous health risks, hadn’t danced in over 20 years, and has been out of the spotlight for 10 years. I would not have called Jennifer the “ringer” in a season that had Brandy. But if you insist on calling Jennifer that, Brandy would have definitely been considered that too. Just like Evan and Nicole the season before. There were more than one “ringer” in several seasons.
As for why Florence didn’t get Derek, I guess the producers wanted Jennifer Grey more and Florence compromised.
I really liked when Louis called Kendra out on her attitude, telling her he was dissapointed in her. It wasnt on when he works his butt off to teach her a routine in a few days and she behaved liked that. Of all the pros Louis seems to be most in contact with his ex partners, says alot
Sally, I fucking love Derek Hough too!
If you call Brandy a ringer from her role in Cinderella then Ricki is a ringer by the same standard.
Brandy had musicality but not the likeability factor. Yes I would still consider her a great partner for Maks, same as Lil Kim for Derek. Not a winning partner but a great one that wouldn’t get him booted early. Jennifer Grey was the most demographic friendly of the bunch, and she STUDIED dance at The Dalton School. As soon as I heard Grey was cast, I knew she’d be a shoo in for the finals, even before hearing that her partner was Derek. She was one of my favorites that season and I rooted for her along with Kyle, but I still think Derek got favoritism when getting her as a partner.
@JT – Why didn’t Florence Henderson get Derek? Simple: not many individuals want to see a 70-something getting sexual with someone young enough to be her grandson. It was bad enough seeing her love up on Corky. *shudder* There seems to be a market for that type of thing in the fetish adult film market, but on DWTS? Fuggedaboutit.
Bottom line: regardless of anyone’s opinion of Derek, life’s not fair, DWTS is not fair, and neither one ever will be. To those who are casting the show, it’s all about ratings – and if that means putting a fan favorite with a high-profile celeb who requests them several times in a row, so be it. Not Derek’s fault, and not any sort of excuse for trying to claim he’s not as talented as he appears. Everyone’s had at least one good partner (often more); everyone’s had at least one not-so-good partner. It’s all in how you spin the situation. IMO, a truly good pro can take a bad partner, a bad song choice, and a bad dance and somehow fashion it into something halfway entertaining. Likewise, a less talented pro can often take a talented dancer and somehow make them crash & burn. It takes more than a partner with dance background to secure a MBT – it’s a complex formula of skill, stage presence, creativity, and likeability. So you might poo-poo D’s skills as a pro – fine. But can you really deny that there was more to the equation than just a skilled partner when it came to him securing 3 MBT’s?
Mrs. Brady aka Florence requested Corky NOT Derek. So she got who she wanted.
Brandy is more of a “ringer” than Ricki. Physically Brandy is younger and as a musician, understands beats, counts. But that is not the point. Brandy has more in her resume to make a person consider her a ringer over Ricki. Hairspray the movie, the original, has no where near the dancing the musical had. So if Marissa is not being counted as a ringer than Ricki should not either IMO. Not to mention Ricki is older and not as fit.
As for Jennifer, yes she was more demo friendly but I am tired of people acting as though she is the first of that type the show ever casted. Kirstie was demo friendly too. That is why Kristi Yamaguchi and Donny are the biggest ringers IMO the show ever had given there demo fans and their backgrounds. Keep in mind Kristi was also a pairs skater so she also knew how to handle partner work. Again, even if Jennifer studying dance is that important, it was DECADES ago. Not to mention, Jennifer never made a career as a dancer. it is like calling someone a ringer for a math competition because you took advanced placement mathematics in high school. Like twenty years later and you never looked at a math problem since then.
I have no idea why people throw Jennifer and Nicole out and forget Mya. Mya is a dancer. She also choreographed and taught dance. Mya ends all who else was a ringer. Mya, the biggest ringer dancer, was not paired with Derek. Kristi who was the biggest female ringer given skills and fan base was not his partner. Jennifer had injuries.
Even if a person thinks Jennifer was a ringer or favorite, how is she being Derek’s partner favoritism? Do we have a memo where the producers said specifically she had to go to Derek even Jennifer asked for someone else? I am confused. Did Derek request her? Jennifer asked for him. Would we be having this discussion if Jennifer came out more like Susan Lucci? Susan also had a very demo friendly fan base too. It seems like Derek is slammed for things he cannot control.
We do not even know if Ricki can dance. I doubt she will be a frontrunner. I think Kristin might dance better given her age and her partner, Mark has been to the finals two seasons in a row. Granted luck with Bristol and WTF cha cha for Chelsea. But where is the outcry for him getting Kristin after getting Chelsea? Another young, fit dancer. Isn’t that what Derek got in his first few years before Jennifer and people cried ringer? Except Mark’s partners are all younger than Jennie through Nicole? Also closer to Mark in age. Where is the outcry he got Kristin but the newbie Tristan got stuck with Nancy Grace despite their partners being similar in height? Tristan IMO is far better looking and would make a hotter couple with Kristin than Mark.
Derek is not alone in getting partners over time. Some pros had better partners than him and did not win. That is luck and how a competition goes. But to call out Derek and single him out as though he is the only one seems not fair. Then for Louis to call his opinion as fact? That is what people take issue with.
Louis is entitled to his opinion. No one said he could not. The same way we have a right to respond to it and he cannot now tell us to stop just because he does not like it. I don’t always agree with him but I am not telling him to stop it.
Again more myths and conspiracies, JT – you can say it as many times as you like, it won’t become true. They change the scoring in the finale EVERY SEASON. Every single one. Not just when Derek’s there – all the time, including Winner take all. Joanna is on record saying she had to quit dance at age 11 – I suppose you are calling her a liar?? Because if you count that, then nearly every female celeb to be on the show is a ringer.
Lady Marmalade?? Did you ever SEE that?? There was no real dancing in that. If you call Lil’ Kim a ringer, you have to call Brandy one as well. I called NEITHER a ringer in my analysis. And you do realize, don’t you, that there is a whole lot of turf between ringer and dud?? The original argument is “Derek always gets a dancer” – that is a lie created by jealous people.
As for Tony and Mark – boo hoo. If Mark has paid his dues after having Sabrina, Kristie, Shawn, Chelsea and now Kristen (that would be 5 of 9 partners, by the way), then I wish Derek had it so easy. Tony?? I doubt very much that Audrina, Stacey and Melissa (who was filling in for the very capabel Nancy) was just “luck”.
The rest of your arguments are just silly conspiracy theories. Anyone who says that a woman fresh out of prision, two models, one fifty year old with screws in her neck and two actresses is preferential treatment and not just business as usual for ALL the pros is just jealous that his favorite doesn’t have the same good record with those types.
JT, Mark has Sabrina, then Kristie and then Shawn – no, not right in a row, but now you’re just being pathetic. It won’t work – the only way you can win this is like Louis, by twisting what actually happened.
As for Florence – Never heard that before. I’ll need a source. If someone else more current and more popular asks for Derek – someone he will look good with, what would you do?? Cater to Florence?
Derek is popular for a reason. Louis is not for another reason. Get over it. It still doesn’t mean they give him “dancers” every time.
So you thought she was a shoe in even though she had JUST had neck surgery and had pins in her neck and a very limited range of movement?? And THAT was favoritism shown to Derek?? Derek had to rise to the occassions presented and did some great work because of it – but that’s called being a great choreographer. Jennifer would NOT have won with anyone else.
There is no hope for you. Give it up and move along.
Unfortunately, while I love to watch Louis dance, there are times where his personality leaves a lot to be desired. As others have said, Derek and his partners didn’t have anything given to them on a silver platter. Their success wasn’t a forgone conclusion. They earned whatever success they achieved and it seems petty to me when that can’t be acknowledged. If Ricki does well at all, I’m sure some people will act as if it was always inevitable while completely discounting the hard work that they both put in.
Wow, Melissa – I’m going to let you take over this discussion as you just dissected it far better than I did.
Although I have asked countless times where the outcry is for Mark – he gets off because he had one older partner?? And no, you don’t get to use hindsight on Kim K because she should have been very good on paper – the same exact paper they use to give Derek his partners. For that matter, let’s take a look at Maks partners the last four seasons. Hope, Kirstie, Brandy, Erin. Prior to that he had Debi Mazar who had dance experience when she was young, Denise Richards who should have been good, as she was on paper (unless of course you think the producers are psychic), Mel B (RINGER), Lalia Ali who was young and fit, Willa Ford (ringer).
So after all that why is it Derek that takes the heat?? He was taking shit even before he won the 2nd and 3rd time – more shit than Mark was and he had won twice already. So, my simple conclusion based on those findings is that people can SEE that Derek is a great choreographer and that he’s very popular and they are threatened by it. I can’t really see any other explanation.
And frankly, when you look at who the female pros have had for partners up against Maks, Mark and Derek – well, it just goes to show you that the women on this show (and Derek) have a lot more class. You don’t hear bitching and moaning out of them.
Tony getting Melissa as a partner WAS luck. That wasn’t his original partner.
Tony typically gets the older women, and since he played the role of Patrick in the Dirty Dancing dance they’ve done on the show I thought they might pair them, but nope. Guess I shouldn’t have been surprised.
@Melissa No one is forgetting about Mya the ringer. But she was up against Donny that you said is one of the biggest ringers in the history of the show.
It’s funny to hear arguments to support Derek when one says Brandy was the ringer of season 11, and another saying Brandy was not a ringer and therefore Lil Kim wasn’t.
I haven’t been arguing Derek always gets a dancer, just that he always gets a great partner and never a TRUE dud.
All the other pros have had a dud that gets them knocked out early. No I don’t believe that Derek would succeed where all these other pros.. one after the other.. failed. Some get a partner that is just unteachable, and no I don’t think it’s all because they just can’t cut it and if it had been Derek, he’d have turned them into a dancer because he is just that great and they all just suck at it. Derek just doesn’t get those kinds of duds and never will. If he COULD turn a Kate Gosselin or Macy Gray or Wendy Williams type into a dancer, then they would give him those types of duds but they don’t.
As for the Florence wanting Derek, I remember reading an interview where she said it. Also Derek himself said it. Here’s the source for that http://www.tmz.com/2007/11/27/mrs-brady-to-dance-with-the-stars/
No, you guys all made good points. I just get bothered by Louis and others who present opinion as fact and then get upset when called out on it.
Heidi, I agree with you why he is picked on is that he is a threat. Picking on those on top.
I agree the females pros have been more classy about it. I keep going back to Alec saying in the end Derek can make anyone look good.
As for where is Derek’s Kate, I say the same or Mark or Alec or Maks. Only one who can complain is Jonathan.
Who gets a ringer this season is not going to bother me in the least. I used to let it, not any more!!
I plan to just sit back and enjoy the show, hopefully I will find a couple that will become my favorite and that they do well. And that will be who I am rooting for!! 🙂
JT, that interview was years ago. Florence said before season 11 she wanted Corky. Opinions can change.
I disagree he did not have an obvious early exit. Brooke, Joanna, Lil Kim. Besides early exit is subjective. If Chynna leaves early, is she a dud? I do not think so. Kim was a foot shorter, rapper known for raunchy lyrics and videos and prison. Sure if Kim was with anyone else, called a dud.
As for Jennifer and Tony, seems more your assumptions he would get Jennifer. Besides Tony seemed happy to have Audrin. Not like he got a dud. Wait, Tony the usual Derek type and now that is not good? Again, Jennifer asked for Derek. How is that favoritism? As Courtney said, ratings and if a celeb wants a pro, then fine.
I think Derek should not be singled out since other pros also get mostly good partners.
Yeah I considered Jennifer Grey a shoe in for finals, just like I considered Kirstie Alley a shoe in for finals even though she was 60 and overweight, and just like I consider Ricki a shoe in. They are all so demo friendly and well known by the audience that watches this show.
Just as you think no one else could have won with Jennifer besides Derek, I think no one could have made Kate Gosselin a good dancer. Derek will never get someone like her as a partner so he won’t have to worry about that though.
I think hindsight is 20/20. Ricki is not sure thing now and even if she is good, not going on say ringer.
I never said Jennifer would have won only with Derek. I just think Jennifer winning in who she is a bit much. Considering her injuries and that dome did find her annoying on that season. Which Kristi never had.
Yes, Kate will stink because of her attitude but again, why the ire on Derek. He had no say on that or getting Jennifer. But again, I am waiting for other pros like Mark and Maks to also get Kate. If a Tony fan, the producers wanted Erin to have Tony that season. But she wanted Maks. Also the producer said it is not just about dancing. They felt Tony got publicity paired with Kate so they do not see it as a dud. That is how they see it.
It seems like many see Ricki as a dud or ringer on twitter.no in between on her. I will wait and in the end, I think a male celeb is winning anyway.
Sometimes a pro gets a celeb that many think might be an early out and then they surprise everyone. Kyle was unknown, overweight and came out of nowhere and came in 2nd with Lacey. Gilles was unknown with no fanbase and no dance experience and nearly won the whole thing with Cheryl. The show might have paired them with the pro not with the expectation that they would make it so far, but then when they do go far, they are considered a success for the pro, and then the pro is back paying their dues. Cheryl got Tom Delay the next season. Lacey got pigeontoed Catherwood and was out first. Kym had trainwreck Hasselhoff was out first the next season she was on.
I agree with what Courtney said about “life’s not fair, DWTS is not fair, and neither one ever will be”
Some pros get far more duds than others, and it will always be that way. I’m accepted that Tony will get a dud more often that a good partner.
Some will always be shown more favoritism like Derek, Mark, Maks. Yes Maks has had a strong of good partners in a row lately. He has had the experience of being an early out too before though. I don’t expect with Derek things to be fair to the point that Derek gets just as many duds as some others have gotten. I know he’s one of the best choreographers and yeah I love watching him. I would like to see him get a true dud just ONE season though. Just one and that is it. But it won’t happen.
@Melissa, I know you didn’t say Jennifer could only win with Derek, I was responding to Heidi’s post on that.
I didn’t assume Tony would get Jennifer, just that I thought they’d be a natural pairing. When it comes to assuming who he’ll get I usually assume Tony will get the duds. lol
I don’t have ire towards Derek, I like him, and I know it isn’t his fault he gets the good partners he does. I’m just pointing out what I see as favoritism towards him by the show, and I’m not saying others don’t also get favoritism but I see him as getting more than anyone else. Once someone has two wins I think they are due a true dud. That is just my opinion, obviously the show doesn’t feel the same way.
For the record, I like both Ricki and Derek and will root for them to do well. And I think they will and will get to the finals. If they win, I won’t throw a fit and be angry. But it doesn’t change my feelings that I do think Derek has a very favored status with the show.
As for Derek always getting a great partner – hindsight it 20/20. He MADE them good. And yes, I do believe that if Joanna had been with Tony she would have been gone sooner. Same for Lil’ Kim.
Florence – Courtney already handled that one. No point in discussing it further.
You still haven’t explained why you’re not harping on Maks and Mark’s parters – they’ve actually had more partners better on paper than Derek’s, to anyone not biased against Derek.
As you will see in my post that will be up in a couple hours, you are trying to over simplify something that is very complicated. No, I didn’t label Brandy a ringer – but she was good on paper and she ended up being a good dancer. Which is more than can be said for Joanna, Jennie and Shannon….and maybe even Lil’ Kim. They were NOT great on paper, but they ended up being somewhat decent dancers, with the exception of Shannon. I also don’t think Joanna was that good, but Derek was very good at camouflaging her weaknesses.
There is a difference between experience and ability – pull out websters if you need to. It’s quite easy to look back and say, “Oh, so and so was a good dancer”. That does NOT make them a ringer and it does not mean that anyone knew going in that they would be good. So, while most of us look at the situation and say, “wow, Derek did a good job with her” You prefer to say, “Oh, they just give him all good partners.” How? How do they know that Joanna’s going to be good and Denise Richards is going to suck?? How do they know that Jennie Garth is going to do okay and Shannen Doherty will be out in the first week? Answer is – THEY DON’T.
I have said Maks and Mark get favoritism by the show, and Winner Take All especially was to benefit Mark and his partner.
You haven’t said if you think Derek could have made Kate Gosselin a great dancer.
Geez, JT, you really just don’t understand the difference between knowing someone is good in advance and hind sight do you?? It’s a simple concept. Fact is, MANY, MANY people thought that Derek HAD gotten his dud when he got Lil’ Kim and then Joanna. This was all over the ABC message boards. There was much rejoicing by the fans of other pros (which was odd, considering that Derek had only won once at that point and had not made the finals – but that just shows you how threatened people are by him) – and Derek’s own fans were pretty sure that he would be an early exit both times. His Dud. Derek’s DAD said that Derek told him that he was going home week 1 with Joanna because she could not even WALK. Lil’ Kim was just out of PRISON and a foot shorter than him. Maks said that who ever got her would have trouble with her.
You just have to accept that you are mixing hind sight and someone who’s good on paper BEFORE the show. And you have to accept that the producers have tried to give him someone that would be an early exit (there is only ONE Kate Gosselin) but that ended up not being the case. The saying “Hindsight is 20/20” is a truism for a reason.
And I am done with this discussion – it’s very tiresome. I will laugh my ass off at you if Derek and Ricki end up leaving early though.
Kate Gosselin is your issue out of all of this. I’m sorry, but that’s just ridiculous. ONLY ONE pro had a Kate Gosselin – Tony. Tony also had other dancers who were quite good. So, why are you not harping on Maks and Mark, eh?? They’ve never had a Kate Gosselin. Why is it all about Derek, still? Well, I know why, but you will never admit it.
I don’t know if anyone could have made Kate Gosselin a dancer. Now are you going to admit that Derek doesn’t get “favoritism” – of course not, because you refuse to think of any of this logically.
I thought Joanna was going to be good because of her ballet training. And I don’t mean that everyone that’s a good partner is a ringer. That season my preseason predictions of who would be out first was Ashley and Macy and turned out to be right
Season 10, I actually first predicted that Shannon Doherty WOULD be out first because there was so little buzz about her and she had horrible stage fright. Now when I saw her dance I thought she was decent so second guessed that and thought she’d stay, but my original pre season thoughts turned out to be right.
Prior seasons I never overly thought about these things but Lil Kim wasn’t on my radar as someone that would be an early out. I saw some excitement and support for her on the boards so I thought she did have a fanbase, and also musicality.
If I could get this sense of who would stay or go before seasons started, I’m thinking surely the show itself has an inkling. There are always nice surprises each season but I don’t think anyone thought Kate Gosselin would be one of them.
This season I think Rob Kardashian will be a dud on the dancefloor, and Chynna will be in danger of being an early boot. Ricki and JR will get to finals. We’ll see how these preseason predictions turn out, I will eat my words if I’m wrong. lol
What’s up with all the Derek hate?!?!
Why do you get so personal with your arguments, calling my reasonings silly, saying I need to give it up and move on, I refuse to think logically etc.
Oh ok I should have looked at what the messageboards had to say about Lil Kim that season to know she was a dud, because I wasn’t logical enough to have my own opinion that she was not.
Kate Gosselin is the biggest example and that’s why I used her but there are others. Macy Grey, Susan Lucci, Kathy Ireland, Margarot Cho, Wendy Williams etc are all ones I never expected to be good. Mark was out first the season Kate was on so he got his early out. Maybe Maks hasn’t gotten a Kate before because he hasn’t won yet and they don’t want him leaving before he does. If he wins 3 times and then doesn’t get a dud like her I’ll call favoritism for him too.
Just a little clarification… Kate Gosselin wasn’t exactly an early out during season 10. She was eliminated 4th and the week she was eliminated she actually did a decent dance.
Also, people seem to have forgotten that Mark got a serious injury that first week in season 10 and wouldn’t have been able to continue competing anyways. Shannon would have had to dance with a new pro partner.
I still do not agree that Derek has gotten favortism by the producers because he has gotten 3 models and before him models NEVER went far in the competition. But I do agree that he is one of the most popular pros on the show. People still have to vote for him and his partner to move on in the competition. If ya’ll wanna blame anybody in this ridiculous argument, blame the frickin’ viewing audience that keep the couples on that they want to see. And I do think a majority of them are not on these DWTS blogs and twitter arguing… “Oh Derek always gets dancers”.
I also don’t believe Joanna could not even walk in week 1. I was following Derek and Joanna on twitter at the time and I remember Derek being happy at Joanna’s progress to the point that they had even started working on their week THREE dance before the season even started. If he thought she’d be out so quick I don’t think he’d have been thinking that far ahead with the dances.
Mark got an early out but Shannen was not a dud. She had stage fright like Jennie but actually a bigger name. She was 90210 and star of Charmed. Asking out of curiosity, is it that Derek has no had an early out? Or a dud because there is only one Macy or Kate. The rest even Kathy Ireland to typical model types.
Joanna and ballet means nothing. She did it years ago and also her training was like what a lot of kids do. There are fewer stars who had no dance training even as kids. Joanna to me was not good. Derek made her look good, the paso was memorable. Also that season had salsa and lambada and one thing she could do was shake it.
Gosselin wasn’t an the earliest out, but a total dud in terms of ability, and very difficult to work with with the personality she had. That’s why I say a dud that none of the pros could have made a great dancer.
JT, I do not remember Derek and those dances. But I do remmber they were working on cha cha and then the show gave them salsa. Also the year the danced like two dances in week one and all couples learn the first few dances early.
I agree blame viewers who vote the celebs. I did when Bristol stayed, lol. That and judges not scoring her fairly. Len gorilla dance!?!
Shannen was going still dance with Mark but rehearse with his dad. I say she lucked out. Mark did not make her look good and Corky is creepy.
The cream always rises. And it will again. Derek Hough = cream.
There is nothing so predictable as the fact that some people live to take pot shots at those who are so obviously the “cream of the crop.” Derek Hough = cream of the crop.
Deal with it, people. And shut the front door.
I didn’t get to read the other comments yet, so forgive me if I am repeating what someone else has already said.
I can see how Louis’ comments can come off as sounding like sour grapes; however, to be fair, he could easily have been paired up with Ricki Lake or Nancy Grace this season. For some reason though, the producers did not want him on this season and I can understand why that might be frustrating to him and his fans.
It’s the combination of those, he’s never had an early exit, never had a true dud, never had a partner that was pretty much unteachable like others have had. Some think that he’s never been through those things because he is just so good at teaching his partners (as opposed to the other pros who I guess aren’t) that anyone they give him he just turns around and makes lemons out of lemonade each and every time, something no one else on the show has ever been able to do. Karina just isn’t good enough I guess because she couldn’t make The Woz look good, Jonathon couldn’t do it with multiple partners, Maks couldn’t do it with Denise, Dmitry couldn’t do it with Holly, Kym couldn’t do it with The Hoff, Lacey couldn’t do it with Catherwood, Chelsie couldn’t do it with Michael Bolton, Louis couldn’t do it with Cho, Cheryl couldn’t do it with Delay, Edyta couldn’t do it with Ashley, Tony – ’nuff said. Mark was given a real teaching challenge with Bristol but did make finals on her (and her mom’s) fanbase. But he also had an early out with Shannon, not a dud dancer but an early out. Derek hasn’t had either.
Joanna seemed pretty athletic from that Superstars show, what I saw of it anyway. It’s not like she was some fragile model. And if you look at the dances she had and the way that season was formatted it’s really not surprising she lasted awhile. Not everyone got the Lambada and I don’t think it was coincidental that she got that and not the Two Step. She originally wasn’t going to have the Salsa the first week either but they changed it.
Joanna came off uncoordinated to me on Superstars.
Besides Macy and Kate, the female celebs were teachable.
I think total dud for Derek like a conspiracy theory is used to explain when things do not go your faces way sometimes. Shannon to me was no different than Holly. Stiff, no cardio. Derek was able to mask it and she had was stiff. She lasted on votes and a season with not much competition. Using your criteria, actually only Jonathan and Tony once experienced that.
Back Louis and comments, the issue is that he said it was fact when it is not. Calling Joanna a dancer insults those who dance. He was vocal against Nicole but said nothing about Mya despite her strong dance background. Probably since his pupil Dmitry had her. So what if Mya competed against Donny. If Nicole was up against Donny, she would have lost too. It is luck, timing and factors we cannot control. See how we differ on who will good going in. So Lpuis to answer as if is fact results in disagreement with Louis.
No model has been fragile IMO. All stiff which joanna was…stiff. They had cha cha first, then salsa as I mentioned already. Lambada? Well they were a young hot couple, of course tptb like that. But also compared to Mya who was the biggest dance ringer also had that dance . Not any advantage.
Agree to disagree. Seems like you see Joanna as good and stuck with that, while to me she never was but benefitted from choreo. Maks did the same for her one week.
Derek is awesome. I sent out an email with a pic of Derek shirtless. Everyone who responded but one person thought he wasn’t cute. One had the right mind and said he was smokin hot, and is gonna watch this season just to see Derek.
Sweetheart, continually posting this little missive about Derek all over the site is just making you look ridiculous. I suggest you stop it or I will assume you are trolling. While you’re at it, look up “anecdotal” in the dictionary.
1. I am NOT a rabid Derek fan
2. I pretty much like all the pros, including Louis (although I’ll be glad when he gets past this manifestation of himself) and Lacey (for just being a little way out there sometimes and yet always managing somehow to pleasantly surprise me)
3. Any argument about ringer status must include components of chaos theory – one Celeb’s unexpected snooty attitude could throw the whole computation out the window.
4. Derek is a great dancer – which all of them are to one degree or another. They are all, after all, Pros.
5. What sets Derek apart from the other teachers is that he seems to be able to QUICKLY assess his partner’s strengths and weaknesses (physical and mental) and teach to those strengths while at the same time choreograph to minimize the weaknesses. One thing that stands out from S11 (but I don’t have a photographic memory, so I’ll have to paraphrase) was when they had the mics on before the dance to allow us to hear their “personal” conversation just before stepping onto the stage, he says to Jennifer (something like) “you are a strong beautiful woman, believe that!” Not “just like we rehearsed it” not “let’s kill it.” It’s telling, IMO
Derek also understands ALL the components of this competition. He had that one “breakdown” so to speak, back in S6, but ever since then he’s been very PC – he knows how to play this game, and how to win it. Louis, for example, should take heed.
6. Hindsight is indeed 20/20. Remember before the premier of S11 everyone had David Hasselhoff pegged for 2nd? Who had Emmet Smith pegged for the win before hand – he beat out Mario Lopez/Karina ! Who knew Debi Mazar would be stiff as a board ? there are probably a hundred examples (including S13, there have been a total of 150 couples)
7. Many examples of people we thought would be great, and were great, but didn’t win. That’s just how DWTS rolls, with it’s many freakin’ variables!
8. In other words, in order to play favoritism, you have to be able to predict ahead of time ….way ahead of time, who’s going to do well and who’s not. And I don’t think TPTB can do that any better than we can.
9. Other Pros have made lemons out of lemonade … Chelsie took Ty Murray to 4th place. Karina took Mark Dacvascos to fifth place. Yes, they had help from us, the voting audience, but that’s all part of it too, remember?
10. Perhaps Derek has not had an early out because of HIS fans? MMM? perhaps the DH fans vote like mad because they like seeing him dance, no matter who is partner is?
It will be fun to see how our predictions hold up at 10:01PM on Monday 09/19 😉 I printed mine out, in case I have to eat any words I’ll at least know what the are and can plan my menu accordingly LOL
I agree that Derek tends to get the competent ancers. I know and understand that he doesn’t pick them but he has gotten good dancer for a number of seasons now. His last three partners were JoAnna Krupa, Nicole Scherzinger, and Jennifer Grey. Really?? I would love for the producers to give him more of a challenge, like Wendy Williams. But the girls love him, he is a VERY good choreographer, and people tune in just to watch him. It makes sense that he gets the good ones, but still, I do believe it is a bit unfair.
And Maks has gotten Hope, Kirstie, Brandy and Erin – actually a better set than Derek with a younger average age or extreme popularity. Mark?? Has made the finale the last two seasons with partners his age or younger and got another young one this season against Derek’s 42 year old. Mark’s also had 2 very popular olympians and a dancer.
You wanna talk unfair, best include Maks and Mark or YOU’RE not being fair. Period.
[…] their names are only one letter apart…Why is Louis/Louise Van Amstel not on season 13?Because he’s pocket-sized and they couldn’t get Thumbelina or Thelma to sign on this season. Are Derek Hough & […]
i don’t understand why you people are so nasty about Louis. He does mountains of charity work every year (without seeking publicity) and he is a world champion several times over. You forget Derek is on the show because Louis put him in the first tour. he also put Julianne Hough on the show. If he were jealous and didn’t admire the other dancers he wouldn’t have brought them to Season 1 in the first place. Chill Out
Uh, no, Louis didn’t choose dancers for the tour. At least not according to Derek. Much more likely that Shirley/Corky or Bruno put his name forward, since Derek was working for Bruno in the UK before doing DWTS.
Also, Julianne didn’t join the show until season FOUR, Derek season 5 – they were not on the show in Season 1. Louis is just another one of the pros on the show and who happened to choreograph the tour.
Louis does great work, good for him. But that does not make him immune from criticism when he expresses something as fact when it is just his opinion. If he presented his point as just that, fine. I took issue with him calling it fact and his double standard.