DWTS All Stars, The FINALE – Who’s Dancing What…and When?
Okay, let’s see if I understand this correctly: there is either a “dance your favorite” or “judges choice” (and judging by Shawn’s choice I’m going to go with favorite) and a freestyle (supersized, whatever the hell that means) on Monday night. Then on Tuesday they do an instant dance of a style (and song) to be picked on Monday night.
Looks to me like Derek and Shawn are playing this the same way they have played all season – risky. Good for them. Go big or go home. It will be hard for the other two couples to be remembered after seeing that Quickstep again. Melissa’s choice is also somewhat risky, considering I don’t think she’s really fixed the issues that she’s always had – her legs. We’ll see how the judges score – both couples are putting them to the test, IMO.
That said – the choices of all three couples could also be called not really risky, just from a previous scores stand point. All three couples have had at least two dances that were scored lower than the ones they chose to re-do. Their previous scores are shown, below, in parenthesis. Looking at it that way, only Shawn’s choice seems gutsy, seeing as how I doubt Derek’s changing the choreo. I think Mark played it this way one season as well and didn’t get docked the second time around. We’ll see. I expect that Melissa and Kelly are going purely for the perfect 30 (which they will likely get) and Derek/Shawn’s strategy seems to be the same as it’s always been: go for the audience.
Another point…I don’t really believe in coincidences. All three couples chose to do a week 3 dance?? REALLY?? That’s about as coincidental as all three couples choosing AT in Nicole’s season. I wonder…
Good luck to all the couples!!
ETA: The order listed below for Shawn and Melissa is from DWTSGossip on Twitter, NOT our source. Val tweeted that he and Kelly were going first. This order is for Monday night ONLY – most likely. In the past, the Tuesday dance has either been drawn out of a mirrorball OR is just reverse order from Monday night.
ETA2: New interview with Shawn which has this interesting little spoiler in it – don’t think I knew this for sure but had heard it might be the case. From the Des Moines Register:
Q: Let’s talk about your dances this week.
We have six numbers this week. Our freestyle is going to be really exciting, with a lot of cool aspects. I wish I could talk about it, but it has to be a surprise. We’ll also be doing a repeat dance of our favorite dance this season, and I can’t say what that one is, either.
Plus, we’ll be doing a group number with everybody from the season. On Tuesday, we are doing an “instant dance,” which means we’ll draw either samba, cha-cha or jive and have 20 minutes to prepare it. I’m really nervous for that.
ETA3: Someone is dancing to “I’ve had the time of my life.” I tend to think Derek and Shawn, but we’re not positive. 
ETA4: Carnival de Paris is another song – could be Melissa with the aerial dancers and all.
Kelly/Val
Favorite Dance: Iconic Paso (27)
Freestyle
Instant Dance: ??
Dancing 1st and 4th
Voting #: 1-800-868-3411
Melissa/Tony
Favorite Dance: Iconic Samba (27)
Freestyle
Instant Dance: ??
Dancing 2nd and 5th
Voting #: 1-800-868-3406
Shawn/Derek
Favorite Dance: Iconic Quickstep (26.5)
Freestyle
Instant Dance: ??
Dancing 3rd and 6th
Voting #: 1-800-868-3402
xxx
Woohoo! Loved that Quickstep!!
I don’t believe in coincidences either, just like Nicole’s season too.
Now that you mention, Mark and Chelsie got a perfect score for that HP v.waltz in the finale, and Len didn’t really like the first time around, they went from a 26 to 30. I hope that since this is the finale they will give Shawn and Derek at least 9,5 each, I think Bruno can give a 10.
Melissa will have to improve a lot in that samba to even get close to a 30 in that samba IMO, the judges of course won’r care and will give her a 30 anyway even if she doesn’t deserve, they did for weeks, why they wouldn’t do in the finale. Kelly paso has way more potencial then Melissa’s, because she actually did good and the choreo was great, she just need to get that dance clean .
Are you thinking that the judges will rank the favorite dance then, or…?
Can’t wait for Monday. I remember Melissa and Shawn’s dance but Kelly is just a blur to me. Also love watching the freestyles – they always entertain.
I haven’t heard too much about eliminated contestant rehearsing. I’ve heard Drew, Helio and Pam have been in a studio rehearsing but that is it. I guess not much of a surprise since 4 contestants were eliminated within the last 2 weeks. Wonder if Bristol will be staying in Alaska, that would be fine by me.
They ALL chose their week 3 dance??? Odd LOL. Least it’s not all the same dance like in season 10. I do think all 3 made good picks. Shawn & Derek’s Quickstep was a major crowd pleaser and it was pretty darn brilliant. The judges also seem to be a bit more lenient later on, as someone said with Chelsea’s VW she did again in the finale of season 12. Hopefully they do the same here.
Kelly & Val made a good choice as well. Second only to their rumba, their paso was their best dance IMO. I think if Kelly can get herself grounded and a bit more solid without getting a bit off balance like last time, I think she can get (and deserve) a 30. However, I think the judges may possibly give her the 30 whether she fixes the problem or not.
Melissa & Tony’s is a pretty decent choice I’d say too. Most of Melissa’s best dances have been ballroom, which probably aren’t the best choice for really making that final push for votes. I did really like their samba, but Melissa needs to dance with far more conviction this time around. No more softy, cautious dancing.
I’m very interested to see how these “super size” freestyles turn out. I think they should at most bring 2 pros, maybe 3 if you want to be gutsy. Bring in too many, then it turns attention away from the celebrity. I’m not quite sure what Derek or Tony will do. Something tells me Val will bring in all of his friends…which may or may not be the best idea.
I’m surprises they picked the quickstep, only due to the fall at the end and their injuries. Excited about it though. Gotta vote vote vote!
No, Tony, when I say “rank” I didn’t mean officially – as in Tom says before they dance that one will get a 10..etc. I mean sometimes the judges tend to score the person they think should win the highest, second place ends with a second place score and so on. Sometimes they have done that, other times they throw it to the viewers and give them all about the same score. Have to wait and see. .
Tom said on the result show that it would be their favourite dance.
I guess the “supersized” is just a reference to them being able to use extra dancers in the routine (and maybe it’s a bit longer than the usual freestyle?)
BTW: did I hear Tom right on the result show? Do they also get their dancestyle for the instant dance on tuesday night? Or is it just the music like in the other seasons?
Oh, PH, okay. I was just wondering what you were thinking when you said everyone picking a dance from the same week was as coincidental as the triple AT round from Season 10. They ranked that dance, as I’m sure you already know, so I just thought I’d ask.
I hated the whole one paddle/score per couple deal in the favorite dance from Season 11. One of their worst ideas ever, I thought.
I think it’s the actual style as well, Gitte, which will make it a good bit harder than usual.
Naomi, it’s more likely that they didn’t want to pick a dance that got a 30. You can’t improve on a perfect dance, PLUS that quickstep is arguable the most exciting dance in addition to being called the dance of all 15 seasons by all three judges.
I think Kelly and Melissa’s fan votes have been underestimated up til now. When they both beat out Emmitt for positions the final, it was an eye opener. I feel like the three left have a fairly level fanbase situation, and the judges points could actually factor more into this finale than they have in the past.
Shawn and Derek’s quickstep could potentially give them the edge with on-the-fence voters who are looking at WOW factor. Their repeat routine is definitely the most memorable of the three. And honestly, i do not see Val or Tony as even in the same ballpark as Derek as far as creative/freestyle choreography. I’m hoping for entertainments sake they all pull out something spectacular. But no matter how they rank everyone is going to be motivated to vote their fingers off. The real winner determiner could be that instant dance.
I know none of the contestants have done an instant dance. As for the pros, I know Derek has done a few, and Val has never been around long enough, but has Tony ever been around for an instant dance? I can’t remember. The instant dances could be very interesting.
So excited for Monday, and Tuesday.
That’s also true PH! And I loved their quickstep! Let’s just hope the judges are not too harsh with their scores because they will break the rules ofcourse. It’s the final and the best couple has to win! Go team Shawnough!
The first instant dance challenge was in season 11 I think so neither Tony or Val have done it before.
Derek has done an instant dance twice (with Jennifer and with Ricki)
I don’t agree in terms of Emmitt, Mimi – Courtney and had been thinking for a couple weeks that he wouldn’t make the finale. Actually, we had been thinking all season that he wouldn’t make the finale.
It’s interesting that Shawn and Derek chose their quickstep, because Shawn’s performance wasn’t at fault (in terms of their lower scores), but the judges saying they broke the rules. Are they likely to up their scores? Hard to say. Obviously, with this choice, Shawn and Derek aren’t going for the perfect 30. I still would have liked to see them dance the fusion together – Shawn dancing with Mark just isn’t the same. But the quickstep is easily their most memorable dance.
I found something and I SO agree with that person
People are saying, Melissa and Tony deserve it more because they haven’t won before. But this is an All-Star season. NO ONE has won that before!
In terms of voting,
I use tweetdeck, where you can do multiple searches side by side, and the results have been interesting-the nerd in me just loves to do my own testing…lol
Now i know twitter isnt everything, but searching any couples name with the keyword att (which provides a nice random sample size of people who actually voted andchose to voice their voting choice), and the results have been accurate all season.
what it has been showing:
- shawn has been the number one vote (tweet) getter every mon/tue
- shawn and kelly have both handedly been beating the competition ( like 100 tweets to 10 for the next closest contestant excluding kirstie) week after week
- Melissa votes (tweets) surprisingly jumped exponentially last week ( still being beaten by shawn and kelly but now closer to 100 to 70)
- you could see early on that apolo, gilles, emmitt were getting beaten sufficiently by shawn and kelly for the last several weeks and this week by melissa
now of course their are a lot of things to take into account like maybe a contestants who large majority of fanbase may not use twitter, or voters who dont voice their votes on twitter (i for one dont), yada yada etc…but it has provided some interesting results
To be honest, I think it was wrong that they chose for celebrities who haven’t won before. Because now you see a lot of people who are voting for Melissa and Tony because they are the only couple who haven’t won before. But that’s not where this season is about, it’s about who’s the best dancer! So it was better to make a season with only winners, or a season with people who almost won.
But that’s just my opinion
All great choices. Melissa chose a memorable dances, Shawn chose an ambitious one that was excellent but if her freestyle is really energetic as well, she is probably going to be exhausted. Kelly chose her best dance in my opinion.
Hope there’s not another Hough win…surprise surprise…*yawn*
As far as fanbases go, the key is simply to vote. Apparently, one Kelly/Val fan stayed up all night and voted 595 times for Kelly and Val (granted, she had 7 votes per line and account, but still). That’s dedication right there. Kelly and Val have some passionate fans and could easily outvote a small group of average viewers who vote for their favorite dance, but aren’t inclined to call in from several different lines or create several accounts. And since I know a lot of people here agree that, despite her improvement from her season, Kelly still isn’t up to par with Melissa and Shawn, I urge you: VOTE.
595 votes? ROFLMAO! that’s nothing.
I know social media isn’t an indicator since most fans watching/voting aren’t using them but if you look at the official dwts Instagram and Facebook- Shawn and Derek are leading the pack by ALOT. On Instagram their pics are liked by 500-600 people more than Melissa an Kelly. Same for the Facebook page- Shawn is getting a ton of comments…but if you want them to win you got to vote! Interestingly tho I wonder if TPTB pay attention to the social media networks for some insight:)
Joey – agree , doesn’t indicate anything, but it doesn’t hurt either. Youtube the same thing, apart from Pamela in week 1 and team GS (people love trein wrecks), every week their dances are the most watched, the gap is huge between the view on her dances and Melissa’s and Kelly’s.
Instagram and YouTube views doesnt necessarily correlate to the person voting, but like I said that twitter search does…and
Shawn was still leading there.
Yeah that’s nothing…those hardcore soap fans did that number while the show was still on.
It’s still a big number for one person in one week. And let’s say Kelly has 50 of those kinds of fans (she probably has a lot more). That’s almost 30,000 votes right there.
The point is, people need to vote. ESPECIALLY if we’re only given 3 votes per number/account.
Also do not forget just the casual viewer. Melissa seemed to get a lot of votes from a lift filled dance. Sure the same with her freestyle.
Kelly has a strong hard core fan base but how big? But devoted so just vote on Monday. Especially Shawn fans. Some assume she will win but there is no guarantee. I expect tptb to lay it on thick Melissa has not won,
all the comments are so interesting. The social media interesting but I’m guessing the average viewer isn’t on twitter etc.
I also like the comment about this being the first MBT for an AllStar season so who cares if someone has won before. This will be a first.
I’m voting Shawn & Derek as I have found them to be the most entertaining, innovative, funloving team.
I LOVE that picture of Val and Kelly its so dramatic and wow. I really hope Tony & Melissa really bring it Monday night.I would be happy with any of the three women winning but I really want to see Tony win it for the first time esp. with it being an all-stars season.
Ashley – not personal, but every time I see a comment like ” I really want to see Tony win it for the first time ” I have to roll my eyes, it is almost a instinct now.
I’m wondering about those pictures Chelsie and Karina have tweeted tonight. Are they rehearsing for an opening number or are they part of Shawn and Derek’s freestyle?
If it’s for an opening number it’s strange that Shawn is the only celebrity in the pictures – but on the other hand 6 extra dancers(Karina, Chelsie, Anna, Kym, Louis and someone named Armen Way) for the freestyle seems a little much…
Guessing opening number. Lacey tweeted about choreo it and you can feet of others in the background. Probably break from dancing.
I think the dances were going to be favorite and then producers picked for them. Henry B leaked in After Buzz that Derek and Shawn were working in the Tango. Other years when D discusses what dance to chose for the finals, they have always discarded good dances that got the encore as people saw it twice already. The only thing that will help I’d if judged day lifts are allowed and then they can break hold. I lived the dance and with scores tight, dont think they can afford to go a dance they won’t get s 30 as freestyles are almost always given 30, so trailing Melissa after Monday night using a good place to be. I still wonder how the tribal samba didn’t have enough Samba without knocking Tony and Melissa’s AT fir being all lifts and not having enough AT. such s double standard. smells like more manipulation to bolster Melissa and as much as I loved that dance I think the risk is foolish but feel TPTB chose the coincidental week 3 dance. I’m going to vote like crazy.
Do you think Derek & Shawn are using some/all of the Fierce Five? Derek just tweeted that he’s working with some exceptional young ladies tonight and McKayla, Jordyn, and Aly all have tweeted about being in LA today. That could be an interesting strategy.
Steph – I was just thinking about that too, that would be genius. I’m pretty sure a lot of people will say is not fair and all that crap but like Brooke said, they can do whatever they want in the freestyle this time, even put other people.
Yeah, not inclined to listen to newbie blowhards.
@steph
it would be very smart of derek indeed
The thing is, Sara, that you don’t know how many of those people Kelly has…and you have no idea how many of those people Melissa and Shawn have.
Instead of going around and around and around on this topic, why don’t you make more accounts to vote with??
In recent seasons there have been a lot of freestyles that did NOT get a perfect 30, so I would not count on that if I were you.
I guessed on twitter that he might use the fierce five. No idea if he would, but Shawn did mention that they got some of their ideas approved by the producers.
I hope Shawn and Derek will dance last, since Melissa and Kelly were last in this past two weeks. I just realize that the past 6 champions of the show all danced last in the finale, Shawn was actually the last champion that didn’t dance last. Funny coincidence.
Heide is right about the freestyle and the 30, 11 out of 14 champions got 30 on their freestyle ( apart from Emmit 29, Helio,29, Nicole, 27,because of that lift of course). But aside of the champions only a few couples got 30 on the freestyle: Joey and Kym, I think MArio and Karina, Chelsea and Mark, Rob and Cheryl and Katharine and Mark. (I think I didn’t miss anyone)
@laila, I agree that just on fairness that Shawn should go last on Monday.
Tough to keep things under wraps with twitter but would be cool! Use what u got. If true. I do not want to assume that to not be disappointed, lol. Reading between Melissa’s tweets, if it is expecting the unexpected, maybe she will also have someone appear or something for her freestyle.
I am sure Derek will be sure to showcase Shawn with tons of dancing to remind people she is the best dancer too. I think Shawn can do a terrific insta dance. Seems like she has a great memory and picks up choreography quickly.
Curious what the dance style will be. If it is an insta ballroom dance, I call foul as Melissa does better in ballroom. Maybe an insta rumba. Melissa has not done a rumba.
Melissa – Funny that Melissa didn’t dance rumba, I remember not liking her rumba in season 8, and she actually said in a interview in the beginning of the season that rumba was the one dance that she was not looking for doing again. I Think it would be more than fair for her to get rumba in the finale. But I have a feeling that they will only do Latin, I guessing cha cha, samba and jive.
Sorry Heidi. I’ve made 33 accounts as of now. I was just urging others to do the same.
laila said: Ashley – not personal, but every time I see a comment like ” I really want to see Tony win it for the first time ” I have to roll my eyes, it is almost a instinct now.
Same for me. Whenever I see that anywhere, I just groan and roll my eyes. That’s just a ridiculous reason to vote for someone. And since a lot of people are saying that, maybe it will happen. I don’t know. I think the producers are thinking the same thing because Melissa has been propped the last couple of weeks. I just know it makes me want to vote even harder for Shawn and Derek.
Fancy – I bet Tony will make sure to remind us that he never won on monday.
I was talking to everyone with my second comment, Sara.
Awesome write up as always guys
WOW if he’s really gonna use the fierce 5, it will definitely be sth that has never be seen on the show! excited to see what derek and shawn will do!!!
Did I miss something? What is the Fierce 5?
I do apologize if I have missed this entirely.
Good Luck Shawn and Melissa.
Anyone see the pic Shawn posted on Twitter with her and the US gymnastic team? The tweet implied something like “Final, here we come”..Could it be they are using them in their dance?
Having the Fierce 5 is awesome! THeir freestyle hopefully is the showstopper!
OK I am sorry I didn’t read back comments before I posted that. I now see you all have been expecting that. McKayla isn’t in the pic though but Gabby is. I’m not sure if I like this idea, or dislike it, or if I love it? I feel it could either backfire or be the best thing we ever seen on DWTS. Don’t get mad at me because I didn’t read back comments before I posted. It’s been a long weekend….lol
Sandy the fierce five/fab 5 is the US girls gymnastics team- they won gold in London this summer at the Olympics. I think it’s a fabulous idea and being that they just got to LA I think they are only going to be slightly incorporated into the routine but they will be there:) or who knows maybe they will just be sitting in the audience?!
McKayla is supposedly there this morning, according to Shawn’s tweets.
Knowing Derek, they will be limited to either opening the dance or closing it – particularly since they don’t appear to have been there all week, only starting yesterday.
Well now… the overly sensitive branch of fans of Val and Tony are about to blow a gasket over these “Fab Five” speculations. Now it’s a “dance” contest… they did not say this when Kirstie was out there, they liked the entertainment/comedy. This final should be one of the most interesting of the last few seasons.
Thanks! Sounds Awesome! Somewhat risky, Don’t want Len to blow a gasket either.
im sure Len will love it as will every single other person in the country. How can u dislike the fierce five? Im a kelly & val fan, and im looking forward to watching shawns freestyle, I just freakin adore them. They will probably join in the end, do something fierce, and help bring in the popular vote.
I trust Derek. I’m sure he’ll use the Fierce Five to maximum effect without distracting from Shawn. That said I hope he includes a ton of pure dance content for Shawn. If Len blows a gasket that could work to Shawn’s advantage. Nothing like outrage to motivate people to vote
Gee, I never would have predicted that the other pro’s fans would blow gaskets.
Where were they when Val was dancing in his speedos for votes, eh?? A gimmick is a gimmick is a gimmick – most are legal.
Sandy, I don’t think Len can legitimately blow a gasket – it’s “supersized freestyle” and the words “other people” and “other dancers” and “production number” were used in relation to it. And it’s the finale. Len doesn’t usually blow gaskets at the finale and especially not on someone he’s okay with winning.
At least Val knows they aren’t the “best” dancers as he said on his twitter but I am curious as to what they are doing…it sounds very maks/Erin contemporary-esque but I doubt that since they did that one week and are they really going to dance that after Allison and Derek’s dance last week? But one thing is for sure they are going to dance like they are dying for each other and will be smothered in passion- barf.
Fancy – I bet Tony will make sure to remind us that he never won on monday.
I’m sure we’ll hear it throughout the whole show Monday night.
Val also claims they were the most “honest” and “vulnerable”. I’m thinking he needs a Websters dictionary. That showmance chemistry hasn’t been honest since week 2 or 3.
Honestly, In my opinion, Shawn has this in the bag, the other two women will just be filler for the show.
Of course, Tony will remind us of that fact. Why wouldn’t he?
Shawn is the complete package and that should give her the win, but I don’t think she has this in the bag. The general viewing audience doesn’t impress me as being particularly discerning. They seem very easily swayed by emotional lures like sympathy and fauxmance. So I’ll be doing my part for Shawn and Derek and hoping for the best.
im very interested in what kelly & val are going to do, they definitely are going the emotional route, but i dont think smoldering as joey says
val did mention vulnerable and how overwhelming this journey has been for them both…so it should be interesting to see how that translates on the dance floor
My only problem with Shawn is that she tends to mumble (of course I am basing that opinion on my *Middleaged ears*), I had the same problem with Willy last season. So to say Shawn is the complete package is difficult for me, since I can’t understand most of what she is saying.
But I stand by my opinion, Shawn has this season in the bag, and pretty much always has.
I agree with heidi that the fierce 5 will probably only be in the begging or the end, nothing too big, especially since they were not there all week. To be honest I have no idea what Derek has prepare , but I’m so excited, they so deserve this.
Val “honest”comment had my eyes rolling for a good time, really.
Fancy – he will put some tears too. I’m so annoyed how many people are buying in this “never won”crap, so freaking lame.
I’m reading more and more comments from people who are voting for Melissa and Tony because they haven’t won before. I really don’t understand that!
But come on Shawn and Derek fans, we have to beat that group of people!
There’s only one couple who deserves the win!
Go team Shawnough!
Yes, Sandy #69, Shawn really does mumble; she seems to open her mouth minimally when she talks. In some of her interviews she looks as if she were training to be a ventriloquist when she answers questions. I’m sorry you miss hearing her. I didn’t think much about her personality the first time she was on, but this season I’m enchanted – she’s delightful.
People vote for whoever they want and for whatever reason. Whether or not because someone hasn’t won yet. or because the fierce 5 made a cameo in their freestyle. It is what it is. VOTE!!!
#67 Cidra, that didn’t help Erin and Maks in Season 10. And they had both things going for them with Erin just coming off the whole stalking incident.
You know, I’ve been a fan of Kelly & Val, but I think Shawn deserves to win. Unless Kelly does something amazing, I’ll be switching my votes to Shawn tomorrow night.
@Faby – Well the group of ladies that I venture out with once a week, also feel the same way, somewhat of a disconnect with Shawn, and part of winning is feeling a connection with the viewers.
@Cidra – I hate the fake showmance angle. Yuck-O! Well it didn’t work last season for Maria and Derek and it won’t work this season with Val and Morticia, her heart belongs to Gomez.
Yes Shawn isn’t talking very easy, but I have no problem to understand her. And this show is about her dancing and she’s doing great!
I’m really looking forward to Shawn and Derek’s freestyle, especially if it has a Fierce Five cameo appearance. I think it will blow the roof off. Also looking forward to seeing what Melissa and Tony have up their sleeves – given what they both said in post-show interviews, they realize that season 8′s freestyle was rather lackluster and want to put something better together, and I think Melissa’s input may help Tony’s choreo – or maybe not the choreo so much as the production.
Shawn has gotten better about the talking. She is reserved but that comes from her training and I don’t think she likes talking about herself. Both Shawn and Derek look to each other before talking, so I think it is more a case that they don’t like tooting their own horn.
I am wondering if Derek will use the free style to show Shawn’s journey. I can see him using the Fierce 5 to show week 1( retired gymnist) and then showing through dance the Shawn that we see now as a woman. The quikstep would make sense as getting the gymnastics out of the way and using the free style to show her journey. If he does something like that, it will be mind blowing because she has blossomed into this mature woman. Just a thought.
Well, speaking doesn’t really count as part of the package in a DANCING reality show, Sandy. LOL
Guys – lay off the campaigning, please. Take it to twitter. I’m getting tired of the hand wringing. Make more accounts if you’re that worried.
Derek and Maria didn’t have a “fake showmance” Sandy – not anything like Val and kelly and to even mention them in the same sentence is rather…well, ICK. Maria made mention of her boyfriend all the time but the producers always edited him out. She had Derek AND her boyfriend on Extra together and he was always sitting in the front row and got plenty of camera time. When asked if they were dating, they always said NO. Val and Kelly can’t say the same thing.
That’s kinda what I was visualizing too, Colleen – show her moving from one world to the next.
Oh my goodness, Val taking inspiration from Maks/Erin’s freestyle? Wasn’t that the one with the bed? I guess they could take the showmance into overdrive with that type of dance.
They better not dock people for extra stuff – not fair to promote and push supersize but not let the dancers actually do it that way.
As always thanks for keeping us informed – and entertained with the comments
Ph, I am really thinking this might be what he is doing and he would use the fab 5 at the beginning. I have a feeling there will be less gymnastics in that freestyle than people think. I can really see him really using the sensual with her. Their dynamics have changed even, you can see it in interviews. If he does what we are thinking, there won’t be a dry eye in America Monday. I can really see him taking this route to complete the journey.
val and kelly have said they arent dating and what they have is a friendship is plenty of times too…also, kelly’s boyfriend is also always sitting in the front row and panned to after all of her performances
We will PH
And that would be great Colleen!
@Sandy, I see your point and I think it’s huge; connecting with the viewers is crucial for winning. And as Jennifer says, “People vote for whoever they want and for whatever reason.” If people don’t connect with a celeb, they’ll likely support one they do connect with – whether it’s because they enjoy their performances, like their looks, think they’re “deserving”, just love their personality, whatever.
I think it would help the show a lot if the judges were teaching the audience and the contestants their criteria for the dances and were consistent in applying them throughout the season. That would leave it to the rest of us to be as subjective as we we want to be in our voting, as the show exhorts us to do. (i.e. “vote for your faves”) But it would be a lot fairer to the pros and celebs, and we’d learn much more about what constitutes good dancing and feel a lot less compelled to make up for the production’s manipulations. I’m with the group that enjoyed the show much more when they just played it straight.
@Sueb – Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! When did Val say that? Did he see Erin and Maks’s freestyle? It was awful… really awful.
@Princess Heidi #82 – While I fully agree that Maria handled her situation MUCH better, in my opinion it was still a showmance. I say that once you start kissing during your routine, it is a showmance.
Well, I think Shawn and Derek will be documenting Shawn’s journey from Olympics to the Dancing Queen! First, we have the Fierce Five in the ballroom. NOW, the Back To The Future Delorean was spotted outside the DWTS studio!
http://instagr.am/p/SbOnExnVP-/
Go Shawnough! An Epic Freestyle!
Well @Sandy it’s a good thing we are voting on what they do, not what they say, just like we should be voting on how they actually do, not who we want to win, and just like we should be voting on how they actually dance not on some showmance gimmick. I think Shawn has been trained to show no emotion, take criticism with a straight face…think about being on the beam or the uneven parallel bars and the stakes…one chance is all you have…you would have to have nerves of steel…and all the sudden having to show emotion…that would be tough. She is only 20 years old. One thing I can say about Shawn, Melissa, Tony and Derek is they don’t demean others or make excuses for themselves based on other people. I’m sick of the drama of Cherm brothers.
They’re saying that NOW, yo – but for several weeks whenever they were asked they would not really answer and/or imply they were sleeping together. Not to mention they get in about 2 kisses per show to Derek and Maria’s three for the entire season and only in connection with an actual dance.
I’ll give them credit for perhaps realizing they had gone to far recently.
No, actually, Lindsey, a showmance is a romance that happens just during a show – I think the interpretation is pretty literal. Hence the words *fake* showmance is not redundant – they were/are pretending they have a real romance when, in fact, they don’t.
The difference being that Derek and Maria were not only much more playful and jokey about it, but they never actually implied they were sleeping together. On the contrary. The difference between kissing during a routine and what Val and Kelly are doing is that the routine is still the PERFORMANCE. Oh, wait, Kelly and Val are performing too – just ALL the time.
I REALLY don’t think that the Delorean has anything to do with Derek and Shawn. What makes you think it wouldn’t have something to do with one of the other couples??
might have been an earlier occasion, but off the top of my head, i remember them straight up saying it in a week 6 interview, and considering the showmance/relationship questions took off after their week 4 contemporary….two weeks aint bad.
on another note,
this is the first time i have loved all three finalists, so im looking forward to all of the freestyles, and hope they all bring something extremely different and entertaining
@Princess Heidi – Yes, during the show it seemed that Maria and Derek were pretending to have a relationship. I knew that Maria had a boyfriend because I had watched Extra way before Maria was on Dwts. However, I don’t think the average viewer goes through and watches the interviews and throughout the show said viewers were encouraged to believe that the two of them were in a relationship. I’m sure there are people, such as yourself, who saw nothing wrong with Maria and Derek. There were also people, such as myself, who said “Stop kissing and dance your samba.”
^^^ Clarification – the dance in which they kissed was the salsa.
I don’t really care for Kelly. Not a soap opera fan. Don’t watch GH. When I did watch a soap it was Days of our Lives. I think Apolo and Karina would’ve pulled off a much better Freestyle than Kelly and Val will and I HOPE they don’t remake Maks and Erin’s freestyle! Yuck!
I say it’s Shawn’s to lose. I’m off to make more voting email accounts!
Again thanks to PH, Courtney(hope you’re feeling better love) and Vogue and the rest of the Pure DWTS gang for their hard work this season!
I would love the journey plot for D. He could start with tear away Olympic sweats. I wonder what the music is and styles of dance he will use. If he could incorporate a signature move from their memorable dances it would be like a trip down memory lane while keeping with one style if dance. Signature moves like the freeze in Mambo, the dual in air splits for quickstep, the country forward kick and side twist (hard to explain but camera focused on it in country number), the catch from rumba, the end pose from tango or rhe cool twirling spin, the beginning stomping walk or pelvic thrusts from samba, the handstand on his knee at end if Bhangra, the reaching spin at end of Viennese waltz. With Ricki’s freestyle he was criticized for flow between the 2 styles he was chose. With Nicole he fused many styles. I can see him letting ths music influence the style but pulling all these moves in. ‘Maybe her costume gets smaller and sexier as the go. Whoever said that , PH and others about the journey, it would be do fitting and highlight all thrift memorable performances. If they allow lifts and tricks in all dances due to All Stars and finals, it would make it easier for them to give them a higher score for quickstep. I’m very curious about instant dance and if they pick out it iut of a hat, if competitors or judges pick. Derek has done well with instant dances and Shawn being a quick study should help. They like to show frazzled tempers in packages, for D and Shawn if will be D being hard on himself, knowing that I hope he restrains his angst. We’ll get some swearing and temper from Val and if they show if frustration from Tony coming off the meds and back, the lifts and stress in previous seasons really shows on Tony in the final. While they are playing the never win card heavily I hope they show that too. Melissa like Shawn has been positive and we likely don’t get the requisite drama out of them. Going to be a tough battle. One thing I noticed is Tom has always had a soft spot for Derek and Julianne. Knowing the tough Bhangra week, Tom gave D the nicest hug after and I normally see him hug the contestants usually. Not the pros as much and he hugged Shawn too. He tweeted something about William Shatner recently and referred to the brilliant Bhangra. If course he lived and was glowing about the contemporary dance. Admits a all the pimping for Tony and Melissa even though Tom is good friends with Melissa I think his comments will try to be helpful to D if he can. He can probably see how other pros turn on D in finals not wanting him to win again. I hope Tom helps without appearing biased but Tom is the master at innuendo.
To YOU, Lindsey – and countless other little shippers all over the net. Including those who ship even Derek and Shawn. Yes – Derek AND SHAWN. Ummm no. That does not mean that Derek and Shawn are promoting a showmance. It means people are stupid. I think you also missed the part where Maria said that she mentioned her boyfriend during rehearsals all the time and the producers edited that part out. That’s pretty key to the difference, in my book. One of many differences.
Plus, you’re mixing the issues up. There are two: 1) How the dancers actually ACT, and; 2) What people actually THINK. LOTS of people believed Derek and Maria were sleeping together, regardless of what they did (and didn’t do) and what Maria said and how often. MANY people also believe that Derek and *Shawn* are dating. Go figure. There is no controlling what people want to think. You can only control what you do and don’t do. I think Derek and Maria incorporating a couple kisses during a *performance* but acting pretty goofy and like bffs the rest of the time is hugely different than Kelly and Val continually slobbering over each other in the celebraquarium, in the confessional and everywhere else. Derek also said in nearly every interview after the second kiss that it was a joke playing off the fuss people made the first time.
The part that really pushed Kelly and Val over the top was the week they did contemporary and they spent the entire night gazing into each others eyes. Compare that to Maria and Derek’s goofing around – well, there is no comparison at all. I think it’s a very false equivalency.
Just a thought, if any other couple came out thursday or next week and said they were dating, I think most people would applaud as long as they had no other involvements(like marriage). That shows professionalism and respect for each other and the show. What Val and Kelly has done is over the top and really not professional at all. It is hard to believe with them what is true and what is false. I think it is false because they go out of their way to promote it.
Jordyn Wieber just tweeted a picture of the fierce 5 with Shawn and Derek. “So excited to be a part of Shawn and Derek’s free style tomorrow night! Don’t forget to watch!” It already has a ton of comments from her fans asking what station and what time the show is on. This is probably the most genius idea Derek and Shawn have had this season. Beyond excited for this freestyle!
And it’s confirmed: the Fab5 are part of Shawn and Derek’s Freestyle. Tweet from Jordyn Wieber: “So excited to be a part of Shawn and Derek’s free style tomorrow night! Don’t forget to watch!”
And this picture: http://instagram.com/p/Sd-hi4vVvo/
@Princess Heidi – Fine. The PRODUCERS made Maria and Derek look like they were playing up a showmance. Had the salsa never happened, I’d agree that they were innocent. Obviously, what Kelly and Val are doing is worse, but I never debated that.
@Princess Heidi – I just wanted to mention that I do appreciate a good argument when I see one. Your second paragraph was filled with good ones.
Kelly is an actress what did y’all expect? lol Try watching GH sometimes…
I don’t know about anybody else, but I would enjoy seeing Val actually attempt to do a dance and keep his shirt on. I don’t understand how they made it this far. I believe, like others, it’s Shawn’s to lose but I would be just as happy to have Melissa win. Watching Shawn/Derek and Melissa/Tony this season has been a pleasure. No drama, no back stabbing, just a lot of fun and good dancing.
And thank you Courtney, Princess Heidi and Vogue for all of your work this season. I love reading everything and being a part of this community!
Okay, so Shawn and Derek have the Fierce 5 in their routine, I know that some fans of Val and Tony are calling this an unfair advantage. How do we know that Tony and Val don’t have big surprises of their own in store for tomorrow???
I’m just going to watch tomorrow. I’m sure it will be an interesting night. I have been spot on so far after every dance performed. Melissa will have to do something impressive for me to vote for her. I still don’t get the hypo over a former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. Shawn will use her talents in gymnastics that’s a given. I would’ve been shocked if she didn’t use it. Kelly is the underdog in all this with no previous training in dance, gymnastics or anything. She’ll be the most vulnerable and raw. So it will be interesting to see what Val comes up with it. So we’ll see how it all comes to an end.
If they call that unfair, they are wrong!
Last week they told us that the couples can bring other people in their routine.
I like the Fierce 5
Don’t be surprised if Melissa brings in the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders…
Showmances in general are just annoying, but Kelly and Val took to another level, but it worked for them. A lot of people just love shipping couples, personally I hate, but some people just go crazy about that, they want that to happen so bad that they start seeing things, any hug or random kiss they are already in love. This people they really vote, like crazy, I just think it is lame thing to do especially on propose to get votes.
(I do ship friendships or bromances sometimes, when I find then genuine and cute, but there is limit to everything)
Sheridan – I knew people would say is unfair and all that crap, but this is no ordinary freestyle, it is supersize, they are not breaking any rules, so why not, they deserve to win, so there is nothing wrong with improving the odds just a lit bit. and like Heidi said, I doubt we will see much of them in the actual dance.
You don’t know who has what in store. You have to trust the pro. For me, I would trust Derek hands down. Whatever he has decided, will showcase Shawen. IMO, I think he has gone the route of completing the journey for Shawn and the Fierce 5 will play a small part in the finale. I really don’t think he will let anything overshadow him and particularly Shawn in this dance.
Can anyone tell me who the guy is at Jordyn Wieber’s photo?
I agree with you Colleen. And if I’m right, they only practised with them today, so I’m sure they only have a little part in Shawn and Derek’s Freestyle. But can’t wait! I think it will be great!
Oh Sheridan, quit trying to be so logical.
They need to just shut up. They cleared it with the producers and the producers set the rules (or lack thereof). There is also no telling how the judges will take it (although I don’t expect them to slam America’s golden girls
)
Julia – I’m not sure but I’m guessing it could be their coach?
Love Dereks imitation of McKayla
Woo-hoo! I can’t wait to see Shawn and Derek’s freestyle tomorrow! I’m not a fan of the freestyle round, which I find to be way over-hyped and usually underwhelming, but if anyone can produce a freestyle worth watching it’s Derek (especially when he has someone of Shawn’s caliber to work with). As for Kelly and Val, if their freestyle involves a bed, I’ll be punching the FF button. *gag*
Not sure who that other guy is.
I hope the judges finally throw out their script and give Shawn some praise tomorrow. I already figure judges will throw tens at Melissa but Carrie Ann needs to point out how much Shawn has grown. Also the Melissa pity vote for her, she never won, Tony never won will get old.p
I find it quite amusing that some of the fans complaining the most about Derek and Shawn have been blocked by Val on twitter and were blocked long before this season. Maksim has some fans that do him no favors.
LOL @ Princess Heidi!!!
Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders for Melissa and Tony, YES!
And for Kelly and Val, the cast of GH doing the Bunny Hop, or alternatively, the cast of Dr. Zhivago still extant.
I’m with Laila, showmances annoy me, and kissing during routines (which seems to be on the rise) also makes me roll my eyes. I didn’t mind Derek and Maria’s very staged kiss in their salsa because it was obvious they were poking fun at all the buzz from their rumba; but most of the smooching going on lately doesn’t seem to relate to anything, in my opinion, and is just shorthand for “this is supposed to be a romantic/sexy dance”. Dance couples don’t have to smooch to express the romance or sensuality of a dance. For example, it would have been very easy for Karina and Apolo to choreograph a lip-lock at the end of their VWaltz, but they didn’t. I thought Apolo kissing the base of her throat was much more effective and emotionally honest.
Maybe Val is going to have Kelly dancing on top of the Delorean like in the Whitesnake video and she can do the splits.
I have to say I can’t write these two off as much as I don’t care for Kelly. I hope if they don’t get a 10 or a perfect 30 Val doesn’t pitch a fit again.
Wouldn’t surprise me if the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders make some type of appearance or are mentioned because I’ve seen the DCC dance technical coach, Kitty Carter, sitting in the audience a few times now. Hmmm?
Very excited to see what Derek is going to do!
i dont mind kisses in routines as long as they are natural to the routine. thats why i thought the chin kiss in maria & dereks rumba was a nice touch but absolutely hated the salsa kiss, it didnt fit the dance at all and seemed gratuitous. thats also why i didnt mind any of kelly & val’s kisses except for the jive one, didnt care for that one at all.
Any word on the music they’re dancing to this week? I know that we won’t know the music for the instant dances until show time, and then there are repeat dances (obviously don’t need music for those)…but I’d be interested in what they’re dancing their freestyles to.
Only 24 hours to go now everyone…and COUNTING!! Yay, get the glitter ready and don’t forget to stock up on some wine coolers and beer before you come home tomorrow night!
I’m thinking the Delorean has something to do with Joey & Kym’s finale number. Joey tweeted a few days ago that if the 2 songs (2 songs?!?) got cleared, it would be a “blast from the past”, and Kym tweeted a pic where she was sitting in the Delorean, with it all lit-up….
I wrote my own notes, or article if you will, about the finale week of DWTS. Here it is.
How can it be? Dancing with the Stars is over this week. The time always speeds by like a racehorse galloping to win. Well, that is the purpose of course, for a winner of The Mirror Ball Trophy! I always cry because I will miss it so much. But then this is me who sits in airplanes when I am about to leave vacation behind and I cry! I just don’t want things that are important to me to end! Maybe I think that because of my losses.
There is an all female finals, Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough, Kelly Monaco and Val Chmerkovskiy, Tony Dovoloni and Melissa Rycroft. I really, really want either Kelly or Melissa to win. I have nothing against Shawn, she has had fantastic dances. But I would love to see Val win with Kelly, he has not won a trophy yet. But I would also love to see Tony and Melissa win their first trophies.
Two of my all time favorites have been voted off. Helio and Apolo. If I had my choice one of them would be in the finals.
In less than 24 hours the spectacular show will open with Emmy Winner Tom Bergeron saying, “This is Dancing With The Stars”! Another superb host will be saying, “This is American Idol”, in January, of course Ryan Seacrest!
So who do you want to win?
The Dancing with the Stars train will leave the ballroom floor at 11:00 Tuesday Night! Which winner will be aboard? Stay Tuned for my poem for the Finale shows! It just might include a drip or two of tears coming out of my eyes.
The train will return next March with a whole new group of passengers. With their dancing shoes spit shined and polished! My excitement will be exhibited anew! My poems will again flow out of my pen!
After all, This Is Dancing With The Stars!
Written By Lois A Troutman, November 25, 2012
THE BALLROOM IS READY, THE MIRROR BALL IN VIEW!
KELLY, SHAWN, MELISSA! ONE WILL BE CROWNED CHAMPION WHEN SEASON FIFTEEN IS THROUGH!
I have to say this about Shawn’s voice. To be honest I am very hard of hearing. I do have hearing aids in both ears but even those don’t correct it to anything close to normal. Without them I have zero hearing on the left side and only 30% on the right. With them I still have zero percent word recognition on the left (aid is to balance out what I hear on right side only). I have not understood one word Shawn has said all season. At times I can hear her voice but understand no words. I make my husband listen and then he tells me what she said.
I believe she has a high pitched voice which is very hard to hear for many people. But, this has absolutely nothing to do with Shawn as a person or as a dancer. It doesn’t matter to me if I can hear her or not because her dancing is what keeps me entertained. Her facial expressions and smiles tell the rest of the story. I have consistently given almost all my votes to her and Derek and they will get them all tomorrow nite as well. She certainly cant help the tone of her voice any more than I can help not being able to hear it. No one should ever punish her or take away votes based on her voice.
Derek is an insanely smart guy!! Using the fierce 5 in their routine has two benefits – 1) they are awesome nuff’ said 2) those 5 girls have huge fanbases of their own, so once their fans see them dancing with shawn and derek, they will vote for team shawnough too!!
cathyinohio, Bravo; well said!
@Beth & ZJY: Just because one photo has tons of comments & Jordyn W. has a ton of followers doesn’t mean a ton of votes. Most of them are teens who probably never watch DWTS. So they’ll probably vote using one way of voting or maybe one or two. So it’ll be a slight help but it’s not going to be a huge difference.
I agree with what others have said up thread about DH only using the Fierce 5 (it’s not Fab) in the beginning or end but I’m interested in what he planned for them. I’m a bit unhappy they’ll be used but whatevs. I usually can’t wait for the freestyles and while I still am a bit I also don’t want to see them. It’s going to be all tricks. I miss ballroom dancing. I’m most looking forward to Val & Kelly’s freestyle and not because I’m a fan but because he’s never done a FS so I’m super curious to see what he comes up with. Only 12 more hours!!
I don’t know why but i am nervous for Shawn and Derek…something in the back of my head is saying Melissa and Tony are going to win. I look at the DWTS facebook page and that is what is giving me that vibe…they are all over them and wanting them to win. I also have a scenerio in my head that with Shawn’s season Gilles was expected to win and she did, so maybe the roles will reverse this season and she is expected to win but Melissa will….i am slightly panicked….i know vote away but venting:)
I hope either Melissa or Kelly win. But especially Melissa because she and Tony have never won before. I love Tony and would be happy for him to win his first trophy.
Congrats to all the finalist hope Tony and Melissa kick some butt tonight and ye hope theres not another Hough win im kinda geting tired of everyone kissing the guys but…Good look Tony..Val i wish u the best but ur a liltle to full of urself for me..
@#133 I’m curious what kind of freestyle Val will come up with since this is his first. I don’t really care if Val (Kelly) win or not because Val will be a part of future DWTS. This could be just his first trip to the finals.
I’m rooting for Melissa, not because Tony has never won, but because she seems nice and is the heart and soul of DWTS, much like JR and Donald were the last two seasons.
Ofcourse facebook, twitter and other sites doesn’t say anything. Most people who are watching/voting are not on those sites. But it’s true that there are a lot of people who want Melissa to win. But there are also a lot of people who want Kelly or Shawn to win.
I think the judges scores will be very close, so it’s up to us. We will decide who’s going to win. Which couple have to most fans? Which fans vote the most? That couple will win.
I hope that’s Shawn and I will do my best so that will happen
if not, i’m happy for Kelly or Melissa, but for me, Shawn and Derek are the winners 
AS usual Derek has an advantage i hope theres a upset and Melissa wins..Derek won 3 times in a row already how much more does he want..OMG how much more do you people want..For god sakes give Tony the votes..
Derek and Shawn deserve to win, they earned it! They are the best. I wouldn’t vote for someone because they never won before. Maks has been on the show forever he never won, I really don’t think his choreography is as exceptional as Derek’s. Melissa dances well but not as well as Shawn’s. Shawn’s dancing is outstanding, its not about (oh will give Derek his fourth MBT just for the hell of it!). They have been entertaining the audience since week 1 and doing it damn well too!
@Reneetamesha, it’s not about the profs, it’s about the celebrities! And Shawn deserves to win!
And why Derek has an advantage? I think Tony has an advantage because there are a lot of people who are voting for them because they are the only couple who haven’t won before. And people don’t want to see Derek win again.
So yes, I think Melissa and Tony will win. Nothing against them, but i hope that’s not going to happen
And Derek didn’t won 3 times in a row
@lois: saying that someone should win more because they have never won before is not a good enough reason. Melissa and tony haven’t won before? Whoever wins should win based on merit.
@reneetamesha: I don’t see the advantage he has. And FYI he didn’t win three times in a row, get your facts straight. And IMO Shawn and Derek deserve to win because for me they are the best couple left, his past record shouldn’t have anything to do with it. And why shouldn’t he try for another MBT, especially since he has what it takes for another win?
@allie: true that!
@reneetamesha: in fact I think tiny and Melissa has an advantage, since the producers seem hellbent on painting them as the “underdogs” (yeah right) and letting them receive more sympathy votes.
I think the producers just have to give Tony and Melissa the MBT, because people feel sorry for them
lol.
The worst part about this, is that how many people are buying in to this story, so annoying. I bet that Melissa and Tony will make sure to remind us about there underdog status, with some tears.
I wonder what happened to “doing your best” “being creative” improving” “being memorable”, this is a competition or a pity party, not sure anymore.
I personally have nothing against Melissa and Tony, but I think that if they win it will be for all the wrong reasons. Most of the comments that I read about them is “never won” “underdog”, “she is so likable” and all of that, very little about her dancing.
I will do my part and vote for the ones that deserve to win, and hope that the right thing will happen.
Could not have said it any better Laila! I will do my part and vote for who I think deserves to win, which is Shawn and Derek. I hope the right thing will happen. I agreed with the Vegas Odds on another post, but with all the talk about Melissa and Tony, it sure makes me nervous.
Reneetamesha, STFU. You have been trolling here for eons and I’m about over it. If you put this on repeat (again), I’m just going to block you.
I don’t understand the thinking for why a person who has won before can’t win again? I’ve written this before..but, I always wonder if for people who make comments and think like that were in any sports or competitions when growing up? If they were and they were exceptional at it and worked long hours, etc., how would they feel if someone said, “Sorry, you shouldn’t win since you won before?” I don’t think they’d like it. If Derek and Shawn deserve to win, so be it and I’m all for it.
Derek did NOT win three times in a row. He won season 7 and then Season’s 10 and 11 and hasn’t won in two years, TYVM Reneetamesha. And there’s a reason for that! He’s the BEST! People love Maks but he hasn’t won. Tony is a sweet man but again, he hasn’t won because he’s been given some crappy partners(Kate Gosselin anyonw)and also his choreo is old-fashioned and in my opinion, boring.
I don’t have anything against Melissa and Tony either but if she does indeed win, it is not for the right reason because there’s no way she’s a better dancer than Shawn. I see people saying that Tony and Melissa haven’t won, she’s so sweet and nice..etc. So what? It’s supposed to be a dancing contest and this is ALL STARS! Not oh, lets feel sorry for the couple who has yet to win and give them perfect scores the last two weeks of the competition.
I’m gonna do MY part to make sure that the couple I want to win and who is most deserving of winning are Shawn and Derek!
There’s a lot of support for Melissa and Tony… I’m also reading a lot of these comments: I like Shawn/Kelly more, but I vote for Melissa because she hasn’t won before. So yes, I think she get’s a lot of votes…
And I’m sure Melissa/Tony/judges remind us that they are the only couple without a title….
So I’m really not surprised if Melissa and Tony will win. And I have really nothing against Melissa, but in my opinion Shawn is the better dancer and this is a dance contest.
But ofcourse, Tony finally winning a title, that will be great story……
No, all my votes go to Shawn and Derek!
Can’t wait to see the final! I’m sure it will be great
Yeah, I know people are entitled to vote for whatever reasons they want, but I admit I don’t get the reasoning of “because they haven’t won before.”
If that is most important, they should have handed Melissa the trophy last week, when everyone left was former champions. Or not invited any former champs back, OR former pros who have won for that matter….(riiiiigiht, like they would dare to have a season without Derek, Mark AND Cheryl, some of their favorite Emmy-nod-receiving pros).
To me, it insults the pros and celebs because it is saying no matter how much effort they do put in, no matter how great their dances are, it doesn’t matter because they have won before, so it isn’t fair to let them win again…..when what isn’t fair is discounting their efforts and hard work over an entire season.
And on the side of the celebs only, Shawn, Emmitt, Joey, Apolo, Gilles, or Bristol didn’t deserve to be discounted because their pros have won before.
Thanks EP Music – so well said.
:::sigh::: You guys are killing me with the worry. It’s boring to read the same thing over and over again. IT’S A DANCE SHOW. Not world peace. Vote your fingers to the bone, ignore trolls and the person with the most votes will win. Notice I didn’t say “best dancer” because that may not be what happens. But there is only so much one can do. At the end of the day, all three ladies should be VERY happy they made it thus far in a highly competitive season where everyone was expecting the men to rule the day.
Here’s how I look at it – I will vote as hard as I can tonight but at the end of the day, most people recognize and admit that Shawn is the best dancer. She and Derek have already WON. When people look back at the All Star Season, they are going to remember all of Shawn’s great dances, that Gilles was a douche bag, Melissa is sweet and cute and that Val wore a speedo. Which celeb would you rather be?? Shawn or Melissa, I’m thinking.
All three finalists WON just by making the finale.
Shawn will be widely recognized as a great dancer and her and Derek’s dances will be most remembered from the season – easily. By everyone, whether they admit it or not. The trophy is gravy. Pretty sure that Derek accomplished what he wanted to accomplish, win or lose.
Melissa, against ALL odds, made it to the end, rejuvenated a career, and made people remember how great she is – as a dancer and as a person. Tony?? Upped his game tremendously, in terms of choreography and was recognized for it by the judges and viewers. He also showed a side of himself that is just cute as hell. Win or lose the trophy, both are still winners.
Kelly and Val – were NEVER expected to make it this far. By anyone. But they made it. They too have really already won. They defied expectations. Kelly REALLY won because she may have given a bit of new life to General Hospital. Val – didn’t win as much because he exposed a side to his personality that I’m sure most of his fans would rather have remained hidden. But still, he should be happy he made his first trip to the final.
All three should be grateful and gracious, regardless of the outcome. And let me tell you right now – I expect the same behavior from the readers of this site. Whether your favorite wins or loses, I don’t want any OTT gloating or whining. I’ve about had my fill this season. That goes for Derek/Shawn fans, Melissa/Tony fans and Kelly/Val fans – all of you.
Well said Miss….and same with kellyK and EpMusic!!
Well put PH – Thanks for bringing some sane comments into this wonderful site.
Thanks again for everything all the mods do. Love this site.
Congrats to the three finalists for making it this far and good luck to the winner. All deserving.
I also will be voting for my favorites but win or not noone is a loser.
I agree PH!! At the end of the day, I am satisfied to see a good finale and to see my favorite make it to the end so I have the pleasure of seeing them dance all season, regardless of the outcome.
PH I couldn’t agree with you more. They are all winners. I will vote my fingers off tonight but in the end the chips have to fall where they may. I know who the best dancer is and I know that DWTS isn’t always about the best. It never is when you allow fan voting. Kirstie Alley has certainly taught us that. I will do my part but I can’t control what other people do. This is anybody’s game and all we can do is vote for who we want and then accept whatever happens. We should all accept that outcome as gracious as what Apolo and Emmitt have done.
I hope all three couples dance to success tonight and have a blast at the dancefloor. Ladies: you are right, they are all winners to have made it to the final. My personal choice is Shawn, she has grown so much.
One thought about the cast: The other celebs/pros, is it common that they are “political correct” or it depends on the individual?
We don´t have to wonder about “the family” (which includes Gilles, Cheryl, Louis?) but how about the others?
Karina said nothing but Apolo said Shawn and of course also Mark!!!
Nothing important, just curious.
Anyway: wish you all a great night!!!
I’m sorry PH, I will stop worrying
lol.
And of course you’re right. It’s not the end of the world if ‘our’ favorite doesn’t win. It’s just a tv show, there are more important things in the world.
Let’s just hope it will be a great final
Since my favorites have been voted off, I’ve just been kinda reading and not commenting much. But I have to agree with PH….all 3 of the finalists have won. Just by making it this far. And they are all very good dancers. The voting public will decide who wins tonight. I wish them all luck, and look forward to seeing some of the best dancing of this season. Bring it on.
Well Melissa tweeted that they are dancing 2nd- obv running order does not matter at this point…but with Derek and Shawn dancing 1st and 2nd the past 2 weeks and Kelly/Val last week i think it is safe to say that we will have Kelly&Val, then Melissa&Tony, and then encore Derek&Shawn…vote people! Side note- have you ladies heard anything regarding music, the routines, or what is going on behind the scenes? very quiet this week! I miss it:)
yep
val just tweeted they are up first
#yo…just saw that…so there it is:) but back to my mods…any inside intel- why are you holding out on us?! LOL!!!!
Seems like Melissa tweeted to someone that they dance 2nd tonight.
I think Shawn might be closing the show.
Yes the dance order will be: Kelly, Melissa, Shawn.
Good luck ladies!
Thanks to yo for the information about tweetdeck and the percentages for the finalists. One of the most informative and interesting posts I’ve read all week regarding DWTS — and I’ve read a lot of ‘em.
Especially fascinating that Melissa and Tony’s votes jumped exponentially last week. The most reasonable guess is that Gilles and Kirstie’s fans moved en masse to Melissa and Tony, rather than splitting themselves up among the remaining semi-finalists. Why would that be?
I have two guesses: 1) the people who want this season’s winner to be a new holder of the mirror ball moved as a group from Gilles/Kirstie to Melissa.
2) The East coasters (and the people who love them) saw that Tony was helping out with Kirstie/Maks Sandy relief efforts, and jumped on his bandwagon when Kirstie left.
Tonight, the former Apolo and Emmitt voters are up for grabs. I wonder which way they will go? Will they move as a group to one couple, or will they disperse among the three remaining finalists?
If you want to do another post about tweetdeck tonight or tomorrow morning, yo, I sure would like to read it. Thanks again!
Thanks also and always to the puredwts crew. Love reading here while eagerly awaiting the show tonight!
To be perfectly honest, I have made no effort at all to find out what’s going on BTS this week because…well…I have no real need to know. Once in a while it’s nice if there is a bit of mystery.
Courtney might know but she’s been sick.
Woodrose, you’re making a guess based on NO information whatsoever. It’s just as likely that the discussion was about the caveman hustle. I hate to be nitpicky, but I’m a scientist and these sorts of comments based on no evidence at all always bother me.
lol, no problem PH
sometimes a surprise is also nice 
Melissa replied to someone on twitter that she’s dancing second.
I honestly hope that Melissa and Tony win but I agree that all three are winners this season. On a side note, are there any hints about songs for freestyles yet?
No we just have to wait vin
@ woodrose
Melissa & tony’s jump was the most surprising to me also. I mean ive been looking at it for 6 or 7 weeks and every other week she was right along with all the other contestants save kirstie that were getting absolutely blown away by shawn & kelly, and then all of a sudden last week she was hanging on.
we can only speculate why, but it was interesting to see
Because its the final and there are only 3 left, im sure all of these women are going to get tons of votes…and combining that with the general audience that usually doesnt care to vote actually voting in the finale, it’s going to be a lot tougher to gauge.
I will definitely look though
Even scientists make guesses sometimes, Princess Heidi. Especially when discussing a cheesy TV show and not a serious topic. As long as they are clearly labeled as guesses, no harm, no foul. Speaking as an engineer myself.
It’s just a fun TV show, twitter is not real data, but can make for fun speculations.
Thanks to yo for the reply, will be looking for your future posts too.
Heh – yeah, they make guesses based on actual data. Here you have none. And engineers aren’t scientists – since I work with a bunch of them, I feel I can say that.
Not in the least bit surprised at how this running order (probably) shook out. I’ve been playing a guessing hame as to how the running order would work out, and this is the one I came up a couple of days ago. It just seems to make the most sense.
So as I was coming home from work I saw the order updated. It got me wondering – I remember last week, they switched the order at the very last minute and we couldn’t figure out why. They switched Shawn and Kelly to put Kelly at the end.
Curious how manipulating TPTB are and why if they are. Would they purposely switch Shawn to earlier last week, knowing how many votes she gets each week, and therefore expect her to make the finals so they could make her last tonight? Would it make sense to have the most popular last on one of the “biggest” shows of the season to maintain ratings?
I know it has absolutely NO bearing on anything and there’s NO real way to know the answer. I’m more just curious than anything else. I’ve been a reality tv fan for awhile and once I realized production often manipulates things behind the scenes more than I thought, it made me fascinated about what we don’t see. Why tv show producers choose to do what they do, in the order they do it, etc.
Sorry – my mathematical brain always wants to know the answers even if there are none
Excited for tonight!
Rachel, we speculated that she was last because of the water thing and the big lit up circle, both being hard to set up. Made the most sense. And sometimes the simplest explanation is the most logical. See Occam’s Razor.
looks like Val’s breaking out the violin in his freestyle…
HEY!! That’s totally not fair. :::snort:::
Seriously, good for Val as long as he still finds a way to showcase KELLY and not himself.
lol true
and melissa & tony doing some aerial work according to @dancingabc
should make for an all around interesting final
Ah, PH, that makes sense. Must have missed that speculation. Often this season, trying to figure out how/what producers are thinking is like trying to reason out the thought process of a toddler. It just won’t make a whole lot of sense.
@Woodrose
I think Shawn receives most of the votes from Apolo fans. There is the Olympic connection, the similarity in their dancing styles (i.e., athletic), and the fact that Apolo’s fans will be annoyed that a less-skilled dancer made it to the finale in his place. I think Emmitt’s votes will be split between Melissa, since she was a former Dallas Cowboy cheerleader, and Shawn, since she hails from Texas.
@IrisandLilies
Shawn is from Iowa, not Texas.
I do agree about where Apolo’s votes are possibly going, since he was flat out asked who he was supporting now that he’s out and he said Shawn. Emmitt played it more diplomatic and didn’t pick.
Shawn told this in an interview:
On Tuesday, we are doing an “instant dance,” which means we’ll draw either samba, cha-cha or jive and have 20 minutes to prepare it. I’m really nervous for that.
So the instant dance will be samba, cha-cha or jive
@ IrisandLilies: I’m pretty sure Shawn is from West Des Moines, Iowa.
I watched an interview w/ Apolo and Karina (thanks for the link, puredwts) and Apolo said he is supporting his fellow Olympian Shawn, while Karina supports Tony because he deserves to win one. I agree with you that it kind of makes sense for Apolo’s voters to support Shawn.
And, there is one more possibility, as farfetched as it might seem: people might vote based on the dances they like the best tonight! It was kind of dumb of me not to mention that possibility in my earlier post, lol. Melissa and Tony danced a very charming and fun caveman hustle last week — maybe that got them a ton of votes and fans.
What, is Val going Little House on the Prairie and he’ll be Pa playing the fiddle while ma (Kelly) and the kids dance around?
6 numbers?!?!?! HOLY HELL! What in the crap are TPTB trying to do, KILL those poor people? That’s just….. insane. I mean, like, CAI insane. Bruno insane. CAI and Bruno insane….. Jaysus…
Someone told me the Fab Five from the Olympics are going to be part of Shawn’s freestyle. Kinda awesome but kinda unfair since they have huge fanbases themselves. Very smart move overall.
I am excited to hear Val is playing his violin in their performance somehow. He’s wicked good on it.
That’s not unfair Vin, that’s smart
the other couple could also bring in some popular people.
However, that those girls are part of the Freestyle, doesn’t mean all their fans are voting for Shawn and Derek
I think Derek choreographed a bit of each of the instant dances, Sally and that’s where Shawn is getting 6. It’s really only 4.
I dunno, Vin – when Derek tells me to do something, I don’t do it just cuz he told me.
Vin, I’m pretty sure the rule was they could bring in anyone they wanted for the freestyles. I’m a great believer in the quote “If the opportunity is there, take it”
My friend said he saw it on wetpaint.com so they usually are right but I’m hoping they got it wrong and the fab 5 are just in the audience.
Glad that it’s just 4, PH! I can see Derek doing that – buffing up bits of the 3 possible instant dances… but still, that kind of pressure is ridiculous, on all of the ladies… JMO, but DWTS keeps getting a little more bat-shit-cray-cray, each season.
Vin – it is confirm that they are going to be in the freestyle, they all tweeted, Shawn just tweeted a picture, they are all in a similar costume, they are in.
he just sent me this too. https://twitter.com/DWTSGossip/status/272724905802485760
I’d much rather have Val play the violin then do the cheesy/soap/bad-acting schtick that he and Kelly have been doing all season. He plays beautifully and is much more watchable when he’s just, normal. I can’t wait to see everyone tonight!
What a treat it’ll be to watch Shawn this evening. Congrats to whoever wins. You beat out Gilles!
@woodrose, I would not call that caveman dance charming. They are lucky that went first and people only remembers their AT.
Melissa is having aerial dancers. That should also be good. But most excited about the fab five and Shawn’s freestyle. If Carrie Ann better not nitpick tonight.
I’m in the ‘no matter who wins, they’re all winners in their own right’ and no one moreso than Shawn and Derek. Their dances were the most memorable and I watch them all frequently on YouTube! I think it’s BRILLIANT for Shawn to get the FIERCE 5 in their freestyle! Good job Derek!!! The man is a genius!
No matter who wins, I’m just glad it is almost over. This season seems more drama filled than others for some reason. Either that or I’m just noticing it more.
And I’m all for Val playing the violin. He’s wicked good at it. Just as long as he has clothes on and he’s not trying to distract us from seeing what Kelly can and can’t do.
It is called Dancing with The Stars after all and not Dancing While Val Struts.
Melissa is having aerial dancers? Well, we know people are going to go overboard over her freestyle because of the aerial dancers.
Whatever. I’m just going to be ready to vote for Shawn and Derek and if they lose because people are buying into the Melissa and Tony nonsense, this season will feel like a waste to me.
I think it might Melissa and Tony doing their freestyle to “Time of My Life” because they posted a picture over the weekend that looked like a lift similar to the “infamous” lift.
Seeing as Shawn is bringing in “america’s sweethearts” the fierce five. Which includes Gabrielle Douglas and the infamous “not impressed” McKayla Maroney, they have loyal loyal fans and twitter followers. I give the voters edge to Shawn!
I think Melissa is doing time of my life, she tweeted a picture on saturday that looked a lot like the LIFT from the movie. And Tony danced that song twice already.
Nah, Cher – take it from me, they’re all absurdly drama filled. There’s always one celeb that has fans that make us nuts with the cray cray. And that’s just part of it.
From here on out I’m deleting anyone who refuses to use freakin’ punctuation.
Just kidding. Maybe.
You could be right – but Tony’s already danced to that song SO many times. Plus…isn’t it a tad slow for a freestyle??
Plus, Derek has already done a song – very successfully – from DD, with Jennifer. I don’t know if he would go back to that well again.
A photo of Kelly posted by DWTS on instagram looks like she is wearing a pink dress similar to the one Jennifer Grey wore at the end of Dirty Dancing. Could be wrong though.
(I added the D to my name because there’s another Jennifer.)
I can’t wait for tonight and to see how Derek incorporates the Five into the routine. Derek’s smart and I have no doubt he will make sure that the routine still features Shawn. My voting fingers are ready!
Hey
I was wondering after the all-stars seasons, if you guys could compile a top 10 dances list or sth 
just a suggestion 
Did my voting and just turned off TV, gonna vote more too. Can’t watch if I look at Len one more minute I will punch out my screen.
Well the show is now over and all my votes went to Melissa and Tony. I loved their freestyle.
Shawn and Derek was also great, but it somewhat reminded me of their Quickstep, the quick music and the gymnastics, I don’t know, I was expecting more of an element of surprise. The headstand move was awesome though.
So, I think Shawn and Derek had the best freestyle. I like upbeat and celebratory, and what they did was really cool. However, I have to say, of the three examples of contemporary that we’ve seen on DWTS (Maks and Erin’s freestyle, Kelly and Val, and now Melissa and Tony), I think Melissa’s was by *far* the best. I didn’t cringe throughout the routine like I did with Kelly and Val’s. Was it as good as two trained contemporary dancers? No. Was pretty darn good for what it was? Yes.
:::ring, ring::::
Hello?
Hi Val, this is Kenny Ortega and I’d like my Choreography back. Thanks.
The judges are just so lame, Melissa samba was not a 30 at all, not even a regular season. Kelly makes a mistake and get two 10′s. Val coped the original choreo, and Melissa does the most boring freestyle of the night, that was not contemporary at all, no quality of movement, contemporary is more than just lifts.
And People are already saying that Shawn did a floor routine, when Melissa AGAIN had way more lifts then her.
This get Melissa and Tony the MTB is out of control, is not even funny anymore.
Did Brooke really utter the words Showmance? My mouth almost hit the floor.
“People” are stupid, laila. They get all over Derek and Shawn for breaking the rules again (although it was fine when Mark and Chelsea did it in her season), but they point out an obvious mistake in Kelly’s Paso and they give her 10′s?? Yeah, rules are rules…but come on. You don’t get two 10s on a dance with an obvious mistake and then dock 3 points for rule breakage. Ridiculous.
Val literally copied DD choreo on that dance – which Len pointed out, yet only docked half a point.
Melissa’s freestyle was lovely – but a 30?? It was kinda uneventful.
Yup Heidi, Your right, Val and Kelly weren’t docked enough and Shawn and Derek were docked too much.
Brooke was pushing the hell out of a showmance and…paging Yo…neither of them denied it. In fact, Val added to it.
Back to voting. I don’t want to see any Derek/Shawn fans here posting comments until voting closes.
PH, how funny about Kenny Ortega. I think there is a real reason that every dancer, including Jennifer Grey, shied away from the DD iconic dance. It is a memory that should be left alone. Also, in my opinion, Val just blew the reimaging…the initial pose, with the slow hand down the arm, so erotic in the original, was so rushed. To mimic a famous VP Candidate, Val, you are no Patrick or Kenny. Carrie and Bruno were so bogus not to call them on the derivative, badly copied choreography. Given the theme, Kelly is no Jennifer Grey, either. None of Baby’s shyness or wonder. Sorry, can you tell I really hated that freestyle.
Kelly and Val are perfect dancing soul mates and thus proves it!!
That was a beautemous ending for a perfect pair. I bet he proposes tomorrow night!!!!!
Your kidding right?
God, I hope that was sarcasm…
Just a thought…but could this be another one of those score manipulations by the producers? Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for it. I think Shawn and Derek were SEVERELY underscored by the judges (especially because Kelly and Val had one of the most obvious mistakes), but this scoring gets the voters scared and voting (I’m still voting
just wanted to add my two cents in) and then they do awesome tomorrow night?
Of course, there’s no guarantee of that, but still. Just a thought.
I’m taking 30 seconds away from voting to voice this:
Derek is a genius. They really did dedicate this whole season to the fans. As a fan, I was able to pick out moves from their dances throughout the season. I saw Bhangra, Mambo, and Argentine Tango and I’m sure there were more. To me, it was a way for him to show who Shawn is and at the same time show how far they’ve come and thank the fans. I think Len said it was a medley of their greatest hits. He was right. Truly awesome.
How is everyone still voting? I suppose it’s with numerous e-mails, text, twitter, etc. I was only able to get one vote through via phone all night, and it’s still busy. I only have 2 e-mail accounts.
In my opinion, if a couple needs power voting all night to win, then maybe they weren’t the most deserving of the win. (Just my opinion though).
Kelly & Val’s Freestyle – Pretty and it made me smile, but it did lack originality. I loved the aerial at the beginning though.
Melissa & Tony’s Freestyle – Very pretty, but like most of their dances this season, I forgot about it not long after it was done.
Shawn & Derek’s Freestyle – Loved it, loved it, loved it. But despite a perfect score here, they’re still at the bottom of the leaderboard because of their underscored Quickstep. I’m waiting for lines to open up here in the west coast so I can call/text my votes. I cheated and watched the dances on YouTube.
(I’ve already voted via Facebook and on-line).
You know who else says “beautemous”? Honey Boo Boo’s mom.
I rest my case.
Court (#230) Bwahahahahahaha! @Rachel – I’m with you, Derek is a choreo genius. But I am REALLY worried about that 3-point gap from top to bottom of the scoreboard. Just based on tonight’s numbers (and yes, I know there’s another dance coming), that’s about 20K votes per million… the gap MIGHT close some with tomorrow’s points, but who knows exactly how much….
Oi, back to voting.
Sure they are at the bottom of the leaderboard now, but there’s still tomorrows instant dance! And I’m betting that Derek and Shawn will do the best with that challenge. Nevertheless, I’m still voting for Derek and Shawn like crazy because after that freestyle, they so deserve to win! Never thought I’d see elements of Bhangra, Aregentine Tango, Mambo, and insanse lifts (plus the Fierce 5) all in one dance. After that dance, I can barely remember what the other two freestyles were!
And judging by Aly Raisman’s tweet, they may have the encore tomorrow? Don’t remember this ever happening in the finals, but she posted a picture saying she can’t wait to perform this dance again tomorrow night…
Yes, I just saw on twitter that Shawn, Derek and the fierce five have the encore tomorrow…:)
Honestly, all those people who’s on the “give Melissa and Tony the trophy because they’ve never won before” train aren’t right. Sure, they got 30s tonight but do I think it’s well deserved? NO! Her samba was very stiff and it felt like she was focusing solely on the moves. Her “contemporary” wasn’t really contemporary; if you want contemporary, watch SYTYCD which has properly danced contemporaries. In my opinion, it was straight out boring.
Now, Shawn and Derek, they took a risk tonight and did the quickstep (although they wanted to do the Paso/Tango fusion; the producers didn’t allow them) So much for “choosing” your favorite dance. Anyways, they came out and entertained; it wasn’t fair that this was the dance they did and it wasn’t fair that they were docked. Their freestyle, on the other hand, was AMAZING!!! They’ve been consistent this entire season; they’ve produced amazing numbers that can be considered greats; they entertained; they showed emotions; they had an amazing freestyle. All that this is left is to hand them the mirror ball.
It’s All-Stars and Shawn&Derek deserves this. This may be Derek’s last season so let’s send him out on top. This isn’t about who’s won or hasn’t won before; it’s about who has entertained, who’s taken the risks and produced the best routines week after week and it’s Shawn&Derek. Team Shawnough! Let’s send them out on top tomorrow!
Sorry for the rant, but I had to get this out.
Just reading backand some comments mentioned Derek & shawn not allowed to do their Tango/Paso/Fusion and was wondering does any know why TPTB didn’t let Shawn & Derek do this dance? Just curious as, imo, that would had made a difference in the scores.
Maybe the producers wanted to generate drama/controversy? Especially since Shawn & derek have been portrayed as the “controversial” couple throughout the show
I think if the dance order had been reversed especially for the free styles the judges votes probably would have been different. If Shawn and Derek had danced that free style first and got their 10s there is no way ( At least I don’t think there is) the others could have also gotten 10s. There was just no comparison. That move where she was standing on his shoulders and then he leaned forward was something I never seen in my life. That dance was so far above anything anyone else did, but the judges, at that point had no way to score them better for it, because they had already given perfect scores to everyone else.
Stayed up extra late to vote for Shawn and Derek. Didn’t go to bed until I got in 1000 votes for them.
I truly think Shawn deserves this. She works extra hard and is just incredible. Everybody critiques her for having too much gymnastics, but Melissa always has more lifts than her.
Crossing my fingers for her. I’m going to try to vote more from work today (pending servers). I’m slightly worried, but don’t worry, I’ll keep off the site with that!
Thanks PH, Courtney, and Vogue for all your hard work this season. I wouldn’t love the show nearly as much without this site! It’s been a hard season but we appreciate it!
1000 votes? Oh boy, I can’t imagine spending all that time voting for anyone.
Sharon, I have to wonder the same thing! Story boarding, as usual, I guess! They want some drama, so people will come back to watch on Tuesday. I will be very upset if the best dancers don’t win, especially if they were told they couldn’t do a dance which would have given them more judge’s points!
Court, hope you feel better real soon! Thanks to all the mods here. I’ve said it before, but nothing has changed – best DWTS site ever! Thank you!!!!!!
@Meggie – The best dancer doesn’t always win.
I know, Sandy, I’ve watched since Season 1.
If the best dancer doesn’t win because of fan votes, I can live with it. If the best dancer doesn’t win because TPTB have put limitations on what dances some choose, as in this instance, that pisses me off!
Well I am waiting to hold judgement until that issue is confirmed. And Maybe the same was done to the other 2 couples as well, not sure if we will ever know that.
The difference being, of course, that if the couples were all told what to dance, only Derek and Shawn were handed a dance where they broke the rules.
If Derek and Shawn REALLY chose that dance, I can live with the results, either way – but if they didn’t?? Well, Tony’s “win” won’t be all that, will it.
My sentiments exactly, PH!
Fair enough.
But if they were handed that dance, as Courtney stated in the power rankings, she wishes Derek would have tweaked it a bit to garnish a few more points. In my opinion, Derek and Shawns quickstep was without a doubt their BEST dance of the season. Actually I think even better than their freestyle. So unexpected and unique.
Ditto PH!! Like TPTB would actually ADMIT that the ‘favorite’ dances were chosen for the contestants? I highly doubt it. No, the best dancer doesn’t always win. It comes down to the fan votes. Except for when the front-runners and better dancers are set up to fail. Seems like Melissa and Tony were being shipped by the judges big time last night too…same story different week.
is tis a fixe result as for one hour they said to phone was no longer in service of 3402 so how may vote never got in? this is bad for people who try to vote since it is a fixed vote and close off so no one could get thru