DWTS Season 18, Week 3 – Let’s Recap Tonight’s Show! (Spoilers)
Geez. George Pennachio says there is a surprise in the first half hour.
Like we need more surprises. :::sigh:::
I know! Let’s drink every time there is a camera screw up. Wait…I don’t have enough booze….
Great opening dance by James. He got a tiny bit off time in a couple spots….but this guy is a contender, for reals.
ETA: So Billy Dee is out due to injury. No more elimination or not?? I suspect not since they aren’t doing that stupid elmin stuff before each dance, thank god.
Great dance by Nene. And line of the night goes to Derek Hough: “This lil’ munchkin is ready for you!!” Right to Nene. 🙂
ETA2: Forgot to add to my last update that they made it pretty clear that the switch is for one week then they go back to their original partners. It sounds like no more voting – I’m afraid to hope for that to be true.
Liked Danica and Val’s dance very much, but she struck me as a bit melodramatic and not quite real in her package. I’m afraid that’s just her.
ETA3: Beautiful dance by Meryl and Maks but that was in NO WAY a foxtrot…yet no one said a word about it. Bet they would have if Meryl was dancing with Derek. Interesting how now the couples are definitely going back to each other after next week AND they get 10s on a non-foxtrot. I wonder if someone had a fit? 🙂 Besides most of the fans, I mean. I doubt they listen to us, so what happened? Not that I’m complaining about that part – I’m glad.
I’m guessing Billy Dee is going to drop out.
BILLY ISN’T DANCING!
Agreed! The camera work is horrible…not sure if I have enough booze in the house to cover that one, either.
If Billy Dee drops out, does that mean another pair won’t be eliminated?
Really, really liked James’ Jive. Awesome start to the show.
Wondering what’s wrong with Billy 🙁
13 minutes and still getting busy signal voting to amy and derek.
Have to admit, the Billy and Emma tribute made me tear up a bit. I know that it’s for the best, but it’s sad to see them go.
He needed to go, but that it always sad to me when someone has to drop out for health reasons.
So sad that Emma is gone, she is such a delight. Billy Dee, you should be proud that you went out there and tried this. Take care.
Liked the jive except for Peta’s white leggings up against his blue pants. Kind of trashy. Len noticed NeNe’s lack of professional footwear.
Very sad about Billy. I wonder if, had he not been injured and forced to withdraw, he would have been eliminated tonight?
I like NeNe and she seems like she really wants to do her best every week, I just don’t think Tony can bring that out of her.. Their dance was ok.
Really enjoyed James and Peta’s jive. I have to say that he has been the biggest surprise for me…and I am enjoying how he comes back each week and shows us something new and a greater skill level.
I thought NeNe did a great job! And while I’m not usually a big fan of Tony’s choreo, I thought their dance told NeNe’s story well. She has also been a bit of a surprise for me.
I am enjoying Robin Roberts…she is totally approaching it from a “fan of the show” perspective and that is fun!
I am not a fan of Nene due to her criminal background. I really wonder what sort of screening process they do on these people before they sign them?
I didn’t think Cody’s dance was anything special and I don’t understand all the gushing he’s getting. By the end of the night, I find his dances forgettable.
Cody’s dance was great but it wasn’t surprising in the sense that it was right up his alley and it wasn’t anything he wasn’t used to. I liked it though!
Wow Danica really surprised me tonight. Great performance!
i didn’t quite appreciate danica’s dance as much. don’t know if it’s just me but it was alot of arm flailing?? 🙁
Danica is certainly showing her lack of dancing skills tonight! Pretty amazing lifts etc.
@V, I agree. I wasn’t that impressed.
And I’m beginning to think there won’t be an elimination tonight. Tom hasn’t brought it up at all and by now, there’s usually some mention of it.
Was Cody’s dance supposed to be a jive? If so, I didn’t see any of the steps they normally want in that dance.
Danica was alright, kind of middle of the road for me.
#Cindy, I doubt there will be an elimination with Billy bowing out. But hey, I’ve been wrong before.
I have to say, I didn’t watch Ne Ne or Danica dance. I liked James’ jive though. So far, I haven’t seen much that’s investing me in this season, and I think the switch up is just going to further that feeling.
Love love love, Robin Roberts. I am finding I really can’t stand Erin. Who knew I’d be longing for Brookbot?! Or Carson, even better!
Melissa-it was a jazz.
What song did Drew & Cheryl dance to?
Thanks Jocelyn, guess they get a little more leeway with jazz.
Ok, not a huge Maks fan, but that was beautiful.
surprisingly enough, meryl and maks were beautiful
That dance was beautiful.
Your welcome Melissa and I agree with you on that. I think they should save jazz and contemporary for the finale.They’re both too objective. What I think looked beautiful could have looked terrible to another person. Just my thoughts.
Erin went too far with that question. How could she ask Meryl that? I can’t believe I’m saying this but thank you Maks for saving her. She’s too tabloid-y. And then addressing the Richard Sherman thing? Please fire her, like now. I don’t want to see her back after commercial break. Amateur.
Nice dance by Meryl, but it did not look like the usual foxtrots, so how did it warrant the tens??
Because she wasn’t dancing with Derek. 🙂
Crystal-what did Erin ask? (I’m not watching the show because I’m on west coast.
Carson would be a FABulous replacement for Erin. They already have enough cleavage with the dancers. Can’t believe I’m actually missing Brookbot, myself.
Please tell me that I’m not the only one who cried at Amy and Derek’s dance. It just ripped my heart out.
Oh my. That was a special dance and I’m glad it was shared with all of us. So beautiful.
@Crystal, you weren’t the only one.
And now I can’t stop crying. Amy/Derek. Wow. Just wow.
@Crystal, not at all. I’m still trying really hard not to cry my face off. Can’t believe that not one ten.
@Jocelyn – Erin was addressing how when Meryl and Charlie first started skating together, Meryl was too shy to look Charlie in the eye and so their coach put a sticker on Charlie’s head so Meryl would be forced to look at him. There’s this moment in their (Meryl and Maks) dance where they stare at each other (you’ll know when you see it) and Erin asked what Meryl was staring at since there wasn’t a sticker on Maks’s forehead. It was this awkward moment for 10 seconds until Maks came in and saved her from answering.
We had friends over for dinner. The guys even wanted to watch Amy dance. There’s not a dry eye in the house, regardless of gender! As one of the men said, “Creating life is one thing, giving life is another.” Cell phones are hot tonight!
That was a moment Maks had no choreo for. Again, beautiful dance – not a Foxtrot. Can’t believe that Amy and Derek were 3 points lower.
Oh thanks Crystal and I feel embarrassed for Meryl. What a cringeworthy question. How could she think that was a good question to ask?
Wow…that elicited an UGLY cry from me! Beautiful! Loved the lines and shapes that they created…and totally see why they needed her new feet to achieve those…just so very pretty!
The marks don’t even matter – that was a dance that spoke what was in her heart so eloquently…but I can’t help but ask why there wasn’t a 10 among them?!?!? Really? *sigh*
I have to go wash my mascara off of my chin!
Erin tweeted about the music that Maks and Meryl danced to John Legend saying he should check out the version or something. Really impartial on her part!
It was an awkward question for Erin to ask her, but it was obviously set up by the producers since they had the clip ready to roll. I am not an Erin fan at all, but do not think that one was her idea.
Melissa-Oh so I should be asking what’s wrong with the producers lol. I can’t believe they had a clip.
Can’t believe Charlie and Amy didn’t get at least 1 10. She for the sheer trancendance of the dance, and he for the showmanship!
I’ll let Courtney tell you her reaction to that moment of Meryl and Maks on twitter. 🙂
Why does Charlie keep talking about Tanith? Before the Olympics he was very hush-hush about his relationship with her. But now that he’s on DWTS she’s all he’s been talking about. Are TPTB telling him to talk about her? It’s just getting a little bit annoying right now. I mean we all know he and Meryl aren’t dating. They don’t need to keep on reminding us every week. And the fact that Charlie didn’t even include Meryl in his dedication is kind of making me side-eye him, even though I still love him and think the jive was good.
#31 No truer words ever spoken, Heidi.
Just saw Amy & Derek dance. I broke down in tears. Dear god, how does she even balance on those “swim feet”, never mind give such an emotional performance to Derek’s perfect choreography? And Derek’s emotional support and care just shows again what a huge giving heart he has. These two are a beacon of light and hope.
OMGAUNTBECKY!!!!!!!!!!aoieufovauwe09ub03uoiaejtga (I am freaking OUT.)
I actually really liked Meryl’s dance. The song for a foxtrot? Heck no. I wouldn’t say it deserved 10s though, as much as I liked it..
I also really liked Charlie’s Jive. Really fun and entertaining.
Amy made me tear up as I expected. Gotta say though, and it may just be me, but she didnt really do much and I think Derek did most of it. Not that Im complaining because it was still beauriful and, imo, miles better than Danica’s in terms of emotion.
Ok…I just heard Tom say “Our Creative Director, Derek Hough!” I am probably just late to the party – but that is super cool!
Much better show than last week
I must say Robin was the BEST judge they had, love her !
Lizzie (#49) – I thought it was weird too that Charlie didn’t mention Meryl…I had a little side-ways look, eyebrow raised moment myself.
I did really enjoy their dance though…just fun and festive.
So sad about Billy Dee and Emma but I’m glad he left on his own terms and listened to his doctors.
Can I just say how beautiful Derek and Amy’s dance was? I was honestly crying through the entire thing (from her package until the commercial) and it takes a lot for me to get emotional.
Honestly, She is so inspiring and her family seem like such great people. What Derek said was right, about she’s giving back to her parents by just being alive and living to her fullest potentials.
I don’t care if celebs have great technique or almost perfect scores, this dance to me was my favourite dance of the season and one of my favourite dances throughout the entire series of DWTS. It was just so emotional, raw, and perfect.
Derek is such a beautiful human being and their partnership is perfection. He was getting emotional during the dance as well and it just made me feel the authenticity between them. I don’t care if Derek has won 5 mirror ball trophies because what he does on the dance floor and the choreography he creates for his partners is beautiful and they’ll be getting my votes for the rest of the season.
I said I wasn’t really watching this season, but in between commercials, I caught Amy and Derek’s dance. I was getting teary before they even took the floor. That dance made me get up and vote for them. Can’t believe they didn’t get one 10 for that.
“Why does Charlie keep talking about Tanith?…Are TPTB telling him to talk about her?”
It’s to show he’s not free to showmance with Sharna and reiterate that Meryl is not with he and therefore free to showmance with Maks (doubt there will be any closeups of her boyfriend in the audience).
You are super late to the party, Jann. 🙂 And with his comments, Tom has All Derek fans hoping for Misty Copeland and Derek dancing next week. Damn him. 🙂 I can’t believe we’d be so lucky as to see the choreo he’s done for her.
Lizzie (#49), I’m sure Charlie had no intention of slighting Meryl by not mentioning her in his “dedication”. Meryl didn’t sacrifice anymore for him than he sacrificed for her in order to achieve their shared goal. However, I’m sure his parents and Tanith, have made many sacrifices for them.
As for talking about Tanith now, maybe he finally feels free to do so. Olympic athletes do everything they can to minimize distractions in order to achieve their goal. Charlie and Meryl set their goal after Vancouver — namely, Gold in Sochi. Having to field specific questions from reporters about Tanith, a well-known, world-class ice dancer herelf, could be a lost more distracting (for both Charlie and Meryl) than dealing with the generic “are you two dating” question they’ve been getting for years.
My brother texted me that he cried during Amy’s dance. When you think about what she’s been through and what she’s done, it’s amazing and inspirational. Robin was right – the message that she is sending to all the people who have lost limbs through illness or war and get depressed…they look at what Amy and Derek did tonight and might realize they can do it too.
Amy’s dance wasn’t about scores. It transcended scores imo. It was beautiful and showed her spirit and her love. You could see how emotional she was. Derek looked so moved too. Really impressive.
PH…and here I was thinking I had read EVERY SINGLE WORD that you have posted on PureDerekHough…now I simply have to go re-read everything…because who knows what other juicy morsels I’ve missed. LOL
And YES PLEASE…it would be so cool to see Derek and Misty dance next week!
I agree with Lurker (#47) – very surprised none of the judges could find their 10 paddle for either Amy or Charlie.
PH – is that a hint that Amy and Charlie are killing it with viewer votes. Surely Amy is just raking in the votes like crazy (how could she not be?) I’m not as convinced about Charlie. Could TPTB be trying to give him a story arc to show “improvement”, or are they kind of doing a Corbin on him, (“you’re great but because of that we think you need to be even better”)?
I did like Meryl’s dance tonight because her technique was great and I just love that song but.. does anyone think that Maks’ choreography isn’t up to par in comparison to Sharna and Derek’s and could do better?
I get that Maks REALLY wants to win this season because he has a great contender but, do you guys think him and Meryl could beat Sharna and Charlie or Amy and Derek?
#62 Judy – agree totally. Amy & Derek’s dance was so much more than scores. Phenomenal, so glad they got through it. I think it was tough on both of them.
She is so inspirational as is Derek – what a perfect pair.
I so hope that Derek dances with Misty next week-another awesome pairing.
Hope there’s lots of votes to keep Amy safe for next week and through the “switch” week.
Now that I’ve had a chance to think about it, I’m kind of glad the judges didn’t give Amy 10s because the Chmercockys and their mindless minions would find a way to say those were “pity 10s” — and even taking into account the source, that would really tick me off.
I can’t wait to see Amy and Derek’s dance (west coast…waiting….) – have been inspired just to hear her story, and now and more complete version – and what sounds like an amazing dance.
the best part about Derek is I don’t think he cares if he wins – he just wants to bring out the best in his partners and if that gets the votes/scores (and it usually does) it all works out. the ‘c’ brothers need to remember IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT THE STAR not the Pro.
Tonight was great. Amy and Derek made me cry. She is so inspiring. A great reminder that the only limits in life are the ones we put on ourselves. If we want to we can accomplish anything.
Meryl’s dance was beautiful. And I loved Charlie. I’m sure he and Meryl talked and they didn’t want to have the same story about competing together so he probably let her have their story and he dedicated it to his family and girlfriend.
After Derek’s comment to NeNe I really hope they are matched. They could put on a really fun routine. Now that we know it’s for sure only one week I’m looking forward to the switch up.
Amy and Derek made me cry, I blubbed through it , It made me despise all my moments when I moan about something small , it was beautifully executed and the fact that Derek was near to tears too…I also like maks and meryl , maks isn’t the best choreographer though and I hope they don’t come unstuck with dances like jazz and contemporary later on .I also think James is improving and I like him he’s genuine and not full of himself. Drew also made me tear up , hes getting better too. Charlie was good but he seems to be better with the emotional dances than the fun ones altho saying that he made me smile with that jive unless it was the song :)The rest were just ok.
Does anyone know the name of the song and artist that Drew Carey danced to?
Alice, it’s “Fade Into You” by Sam Palladio! I love that song!
What a stellar night of dancing. I’m freaking out!! Amy and Derek were my faves tonight with Charlie and Sharna in second.
I thought Cody was underscored and Meryl overscored.
You know, it’s weird. I love watching Meryl and Maks dance in the moment (I like seeing Nice Maks, but I still feel weird about this partnership for some reason) and then I forget about them when Charlie or Amy appears.
On the other side, the Meryl/Maks dynamic is really odd. Especially because all this time, I thought she just had a huge unrequited crush on him and now it turns out she has a boyfriend who has never been mentioned.
“#31 No truer words ever spoken, Heidi.
Just saw Amy & Derek dance. I broke down in tears. Dear god, how does she even balance on those “swim feet”, never mind give such an emotional performance to Derek’s perfect choreography? And Derek’s emotional support and care just shows again what a huge giving heart he has. These two are a beacon of light and hope.”
Well-said. This is what a dancing show should be about: self-expression, respect, communication through movement; discovery; celebration.
Re: Maks and Meryl, I always thought Maks doing the ‘walking’ and stopping choreography was because of sub-par partners, but as Meryl is so good, I guess that is just his style.
And was that a rumba? I thought pro’s got called out for being that much out of hold…
But pretty…
I think that Meryl got 10’s so she could pass Charlie on the leader board and that could be their story next week. “Will Charlie retake the top of the leaderboard?!?!?!” And they just couldn’t let Amy get in the way of that.
Meryl’s dance WAS beautiful – but if anyone else had done it, Derek in particular, Len would have docked them two points or more. I think Maks is inspired – but he STILL puts too much walking/running (and faux kissing) in his dances. More than any other pro, including Tony, IMO. Everyone has those moments in their dances…his just feel like they last FOREVER.
LOL, SueB….that was supposed to be a Foxtrot.
I was actually confused as to why they used used a “foxtrot” to that song. Courtney was saying earlier that that song in particular is hard to dance too but I feel like it would be better suited as a contemporary or V.Waltz?
I mean it was beautiful but as a Foxtrot? Meh.
Loved Maks and Meryl, their dance was just beautiful and full of passion.
So nice of Charlie to only remember his parents and girlfriend all these years. I guess Meryl was just his partner.
Derek is wonderful, but I do not want to see him win another Tropy, sorry Amy.
I’m glad I wasn’t the only one who noticed that wasn’t a foxtrot. Looked like a combo waltz/slow quickstep with some contemporary thrown in. I still LOVED Meryl and Maks’ dance though and did think it deserved the high scores. They have been underscored thus far so I’m ok with the high scores this week. 🙂
I was EXTREMELY disappointed in Charlie for not mentioning Meryl in the package. He said the first thing he told Meryl when they finished their free dance in Sochi was that he loved her. So why not include her tonight. I posted before the season started that Tanith could be his downfall on DWTS. The constant mentions are almost as annoying as Candace and the repeated wardrobe comments. Charlie didn’t start mentioning Tanith until DWTS started. I wonder if the increased time spent between him and Meryl post-Gold medal caused issues for him and Tanith and she asked him for the public attention now. It comes across a bit like overcompensating to me. He doesn’t even respond to Meryl on social media right now, only Tanith.
Some of the outfits were either hideous or downright distracting tonight. I’m looking at you Peta, Witney and Erin. Who knew Cheryl could be the most modestly dressed woman of the night?
Also loved Val playing with Danica’s son while she was getting her scores. Too cute!
Just finished watching Amy and Derek dance – cried throughout – that was so beautiful. I can’t believe there were no 10’s there.
I like Meryl & Max but for me, I just don’t feel the emotion.
Getting ready to watch Charlie now.
Does anyone know the song that played after the commercial break when Danika and Val got their scores? words were “mirror mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? I don’t want to fuss or fight, i just wanna dance tonight.” and then the beat dropped. I’ve been looking for it all night and can’t find it!
No one came close to Amy and Derek. Robin had to have been thinking, “and they told me to only give them a 9?” Ridiculous.
I liked Charlie and James very much too. My three favorites this season.
Meryl & Maks’ dance was beautiful. I agree with you on that, Heather. Their dance made me smile. But to get those very high scores for a Foxtrot that was not really a Foxtrot is what bugs me. Charlie got hosed by Len for breaking hold in his Tango. Why not dock Meryl (and Maks) some points for not dancing the dance that was assigned her? Why make Meryl/Maks an exception, or any other pair for that matter? And should I really be asking this question when we all know that inconsistent judging seems to be a consistent thing in this show? Hehe.
My sister was saying the judges were surprised by Maks’ halfway competent choreography, whereas they just automatically expect it from Derek.
Amy and Charlie were definitely underscored, while Meryl was overscored.
Prediction for top 4: James, Amy, Meryl, and Charlie
That’s just the thing, nobleze – if it had been Derek, they would have been docked. And if it had been Derek, Maks fans would be bitching up a storm right now. The hypocrisy surrounding this show is annoying as hell.
Oh, Ananya – I hadn’t thought of it that way. Very good point.
Sorry Chops, I thought we were supposed to be voting FOR the Celeb and not AGAINST a Pro? Amy danced a wonderful dance tonight! They were completely underscored and Maks/Meryl totally overscored. Had Derek choreographed that dance with Meryl, Len would’ve given it a 7 without a doubt!
Maks is nowhere near the same category as Derek. Never will be. I’m with PH, tired of the hypocrisy!
Just out of curiosity, who is Meryl’s bf?
I bet you are right about the story PH and that is why those 10’s were given. Don’t get me wrong. I like Meryl, have to say Maks bugs me, but that dance wasn’t any better than those who got 36. I also don’t like how the judges are clumping the scores together. It is just weird. I do think that Derek and Amy are pulling in all kinds of votes and that the judges think so and are trying to “even” the playing field. Even people who don’t usually watch the show thought the voting was weird. And can I say what is the point of having guest judges if they are just going to vote the same as the other judges. I had hoped Robin Roberts would have done that. So if I understand what we were told. Tomorrow the stars will be told with whom they will dance and all will be revealed to us next week.
I know this is a pro Derek site, but you must be fair. Amy didn’t have the best dance tonight and I am sad typing this because her story is so compelling and she has overcome so much. The dance had more lifts instead of leg movement, which is understandable. Frankly, I thought Amy’s other dance legs gave her more movement than these new ones she was given. Their swing was really good last week. Derek is brilliant, but he can be off his game, he’s human and this is a challenge. People may not have like Meryl and Max, but they were very entertaining along with Val, Peta and Charlie.
Oh my, this is not a pro-Derek site. No one said Meryl and Maks dance was not good. In fact, people were very impressed by it. To say Amy didn’t have the best dance is clearly your opinion and that is your right. However, other people think differently. This site and the mods are MORE than fair. Some of us on this site have followed this show for years. We see patterns, understand to some extent how the “game” is played by the pro’s as well as TPTB. I know you have a right to your opinion but to say this is a pro Derek site or infer that the mods allow that to occur is just outrageous. I apologize to the mods if I overstepped my boundaries.
@V: I believe she was dating her coach’s son but there is also a rumor that they recently broke up. Another rumor or perhaps well kept secret floating around in skating circles is that Charlie and Tanith are already engaged and have been for a while now. I also overheard Charlie’s mom on the Concourse at Nationals in Boston in January talking about him getting married. She was standing less than 10 ft away from me while I was on line with other fans to meet Meryl and Charlie.
That dance Meryl and Max did was certainly no Foxtrot…Contemporary has a lot more room for interpretation. Foxtrot has steps/moves that are supposed to be incorporated into the routine which their routine wasn’t so to give it 3 10’s was certainly generous.
Lots of us here are tired of Derek being nitpicked for things that other Pros are continually allowed to get away with, like tonight. Or last year with Tony’s choreography with Leah Remini. It gets old. Yet, he still wins and manages to showcase his partner to the best of their ability. Now he’s given a partner with no legs and STILL manages to hit it out of the ballpark. Lets see what a different Pro can do. I’d LOVE to see Maks partner up with Amy for a week 😉
When Maks or Val or Tony or any other Pro can win the show 5 times plus an Emmy? Nobody has BASHED the other Pros here, I didn’t. I’m not up anybody’s butt nor are the Mods. We know talent when we see it! Just annoyed with the hypocritical judging on the show and the ‘game’ being played by TPTB. Takes the fun out of it.
Maks was HANDED a ringer on a silver platter, fresh off an Olympic Gold Medal.
I think Maks is overdue for a win, will he get it, I don’t know. He has to earn it like anybody else even with Meryl as a partner. Peta right now might be the surprise, her partner is really talented. I am enjoying their dances as well.
Kelly you may not have mocked other pros, but some have on this site. Derek is brilliant, but he can’t win all the time.
Val was given a ringer in Zendaya and again this season with DanicaNotaDancer His choreography in that Freestyle with Zendaya is what lost them the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 16 last year. Derek can not only dance, and choreography but can act and sing as well.
If you recall, Derek took 2nd with Shawn but that was ALL STAR season. I voted for Evan Lysacek during season 10 and no argument from me with Nicole being a ringer. Every pro deserves one now and again 😉 that was 8 seasons ago. Seems that the producers want Maks or Val to get a Mirrorball in the worst way. Derek will be doing things after he’s through with Dancing with the Stars. After tonights show, he went to the US premiere of his new movie. Maybe you heard about it?
Chops I’d venture a guess that if you were to ask Derek he would tell you he already won this season. You have the brilliant part right though.
Hi, Clare! No one’s saying here that Val doesn’t have talent. He is very talented and that shows especially when he dances with another pro. But when you look at the stats, Val has had more ringers in the few seasons he has been on the show than other pros, including Derek. He has had 3 ringers in row now. Derek was not handed Nicole; she requested him, as did some of his other partners (Jennifer Grey comes to mind). As for Shawn, well, I think she was not the only ringer during All-Stars because all of the celebs in that season were doing the show for the 2nd time. They were all ringers, perhaps at different levels, but ringers nonetheless.
When you go back to past seasons, Derek and his partners got hosed for things that other pros and their partners also do but do not get called out. That is what many here are complaining about. This early in the season, there are already a lot of inconsistencies. Candace was told to wear ballroom heels for her Rumba, but how come Nene was allowed to be barefoot for hers? This is just one example. This show is riddled with that for a long time now. All one has to do is go back to videos of past seasons, be open and you will be clarified.
Just watching the news – George Pennachio announced that there is no elimination next week so that’s good. Hopefully, no more tweeting and everyone goes back to their original partner after next week.
I feel like you are a troll and really not worth responding to. You did give me a laugh however when you said that Maks has only had 2 ringers…you might want to rewatch those seasons. You know what really makes Derek a winner over Val and Maks. Show me one time where Derek has been anything but cordial and kind about them and I’ll show you 10 times where they rolled their eyes, made a remark like the one on Mak’s twitter today etc. that show THEIR true colors. Derek just co-starred in a dance movie that premiered today…now what movie was Maks or Val in…oh right NONE. Don’t come here and pick a fight YOU can’t win. The truth always wins out and the truth is Maks and Val are their own worst enemies.
Alvin, no one said anything bad about Sharna. Infact it’s been said that Charlie will benefit from her choreography. People praise Emma all the time here. ALSO I know I was ok with Maks till he made that comment over the weekend.
If Elizabeth Berkley is NOT a ringer, that how can people consider Jennifer Grey to be one?
Ananya, what I meant was how Sharna or Emma could do amazing choreography when their partners were not great in past seasons. I just think it is not quite right to say “Other pros need to up their games.”
I’ll just have to keep saying this until I am blue in the face. The best way to support your favorite pro is by voting for their partner. Putin and Hitler could have a love child named Damien and he could be Emma’s partner and I would still Riot for him. Why? Because I want Emma to succeed.
This is not a kiss Derek’s ass site but I’m tired and don’t feel like debating that with anybody. You can have your own opinion, just watch how you call the ladies that work their booties off on here out because they are MY FRIENDS and I consider one of them a little sister.
That being said. I’m proud of Billy Dee. Disappointed, yes. I wanted Emma to go far. I wanted to see her dance with Drew for the switch-up. I wonder who would have been eliminated because if it had been Billy Dee they could have just done the eliminated route instead of volunteering to withdraw. Then again he may not have pulled in the votes and they let him bow out gracefully. We will never know for sure. I’m a bit peeved Billy left before the dancing non-dancer. Witney still needs to get more pro experience I think she’s awesome but she seems to get impatient at times, it may be just me though. In a way I’m glad Billy left before the switch because I do not think any of the other pros would have been the same way with him as Emma.
And I’m starting to ramble and babble but I want to stay up to riot for Emma to switch. Will they let her? Nah. But I do it on principle because withdrawing for health is different than being eliminated.
I know who I will be voting for now. I just won’t say so on Twitter unless I am on my personal account.
I love it when people try to justify the ringers the C bros had. If Elizabeth wasn’t a ringer just bc she hasn’t danced in 20 years than Jennifer Gray who was 50, only danced in one movie and had tones of medical problems can’t possible be considered a ringer…ohh wait she can just bc she had Derek. If Keli wasn’t a ringer bc she had 0 technique than Brooke wasn’t either. I believe all the pros had their chance but not all can capitalize on it, Maks, Tony and Val for example can’t seal the deal when it comes to the freestyle.
Also, I believe Val is 10 times the dancer and choreographer Maks is but he is not as versatile as Derek, even he admits latin is his strong suit. Also Val may have more throphies than Derek but that may have something to do with the fact that Derek isn’t competing professionally anymore. That’s what happens when you have too many talents, you try new things. As far as this being a pro Derek site, it is possible, why not?! I admire Derek and I like coming to this site bc people here state their opinion without being mean or hurful and I’m sure many Derek fans feel the same. Sure people will dissagree and we can’t all like the same things but Pure is a wonderful alternative to the vicious abc or TWoP boards.
Interesting that in virtually every fan forum people have questioned the Maks/Meryl partnership and wondered whether Maks’ choreo was up to the task. Now the judges have gone to town with the praise specifically on that. Did someone have a tanty?? I didn’t think the choreo was that great to be honest. There was more than a little bit of “mucking around” and I still felt the height difference was very obvious in hold, in that Maks’ knee bend seemed exaggerated and there were still a couple of “flingy” moments when he appeared to overpower teeny Meryl.. I know people didn’t want Mark to get Meryl as it would have been his fourth Olympian but watching that foxtrot I couldn’t help thinking that either Mark or Sasha would have just looked so much better/smoother with her.
Oh and a technique question for Courtney if she reads this: I seem to remember Shirley Ballas coaching Kirstie Alley in the jive a few seasons back and teaching her to lean forward. This week Carrie Ann made the comment to Candace that she needed to have her shoulders back. Is this the second time in two weeks that Carrie Ann has given incorrect jive corrections?
I think Meryl is a beautiful dancer and I really loved that dance up until the middle where Maks choreograped 13 seconds of nothing. They were just standing looking at eachother.
Amy’s dance was emotional, but I must say wasn’t one of my favorite of hers.
Liked Charlie Jive but that intro was way too long. I was surprised to realize that I enjoyed James’s jive the most although that song was awful. Man, I’m in a negative mode today :)))
I’m from Europe and I don’t know if I missed something but wasn’t the vote for the switch thing suppose to be over last night? Why didn’t they anounce the new teams?
Amy and Derek tonight… Wow. I expected before the show that I’m going to get tears in my eyes. But I was actually bawling my eyes out! Wow. Just wow. And so beautiful. I’m still speechless.
I agree that Maks and Meryl were great live but on youtube the dance deflates a bit imo. Was that hard choreography though? It looked effortless but was it hard?
I see all the pro-Chmerkovskiy Derek complainers wait till us meanie mods go to bed before coming out to antagonize our regulars…wow, how clever of you 🙂 Clare, Alvin, & chops, all three of you are now on comment moderation for choosing to make your discussion about the other posters here, rather than the show itself. Clare, I have half a mind to just block you permanently, as we’ve warned you about this before. Keep it about your own opinions about the show (and leave the opinions of other posters out of it) or you won’t be posting here anymore. No one is forcing you to be here – might want to head over to TWoP, they’re pretty Chmerkovskiy-friendly and anti-Derek. Just get your fill in cause they’re shutting down at the end of May. 😉
Amy and Derek just left me speechless.. There is really nothing else left to say.
Really Tony shirtless? Desperate much? Gross!
I can see that Meryl and Maks will be the judges sweethearts this season. Really 10’s already?
Can I just say that I love Drew Carey!!
Billy Dee.. Bless his heart.
Just some general impressions about the show.
I suppose tonight is as close as we are going to get to stairway entrances.
I still don’t like the idea of non-dancers being judges but Robin is so classy and fit in so nicely that I’ll give it a pass this time. I’ll take her over CAI.
Erin bugs me slightly less each week. That’s not a high standard. I won’t blame her for the awkward Meryl moment. Obviously that was the show’s idea since they had the video tape ready to go. They are really desperate for a showmance.
I’m sick of teeny boppers in the balconies and now we are getting them on stage at the end of the show.
I guess I can give up my hope of the “shirtless guy” phase of the show being over.
It was pretty obvious tonight that all the stars hate the switch up. Nice that they spent several minutes explaining it tonight and not last week when voting started.
It looks like the show saw all the complaints about the camera work last week. They decided to actually show us something below the knees this week and cut out most of the jerky camera movements. I’m sure they thought were cutting edge and gave the show a “behind the curtain” feel.
About the yesterday show in general: I am so tired of Erin and her stupid/awkward questions… The guest judge was superb, guest judging is an important supplement to the static trefoil. I am so sorry about Emma leaving, her attitude is great, and she is the sweetest- wish for her a capable partner (and for Peta an old stiff one!!)
Just a few comments on some of the dancing pairs:
Meryl and Maks: Beautiful! A few boring parts. Maks is arrogant and I think his behaviour can prevent them from winning.
Candace and Mark: Some missteps, mostly well done. They need to step it up. Mark seems more calm this season and more focused on adjusting to his partner than he has been lately.
James and Peta: loved his story about the bullying – and their dance, not the music so much.
Derek and Amy: emotional and heart-wrenching dance. Hard to tell how difficult it was (cannot be easy to judge her, I understand the 9s). They are still not moving much around, and she is totally dependent on great coreography. She looked great though!
Loved the show last night.
Meryl/Max’s dance was beautiful and it was nice to see the nice Max back.
Amy/Derek – There aren’t enough words to describe the both of them. Amy for her incredible inspiration and Derek because of all his amazing talents. I don’t see anyone, but Derek being able to do what he does and create what he did.
Charlie/Sharna – loved their jive and at that point in the show after crying my eyes out it was fun, upbeat and just a joy to watch.
Val/Danica – really surprised me as I really thought it was beautiful.
James/Peta – I really enjoyed his jive and I think he will be a contender for sure unless Peta messes up.
Candace/Mark – I enjoyed the jive, but not as much as Charlie and James.
Cody/Whitney – He seems like a really nice kid and for me Jazz can be so different. I liked it, but wasn’t as wowed by it as the judges were.
Drew/Cheryl – It was a nice waltz. While it may not have been perfect I did enjoy it.
Nene/Tony – She surprises me as I didn’t think I would like her at all. This Nene has been enjoyable and she seems to really just be happy and grateful for this experience.
Billy/Emma – I will miss Emma and feel bad that Billy’s health problems wouldn’t allow him to go any further. I would have thought that his doctor’s would or should have known how hard this would be for him. At least his fans were able to see him for a couple of weeks.
I loved Robin as a judge and all that she had to say. It was nice to see that she wasn’t afraid to give higher marks then Len at times. Seems like the other guest judges we have had do mark the same except for one time when Max gave Corbin a higher score if I’m remembering correctly.
I agree Ananya (#87). Three 10’s for a non-foxtrot. Guess they want to make sure Meryl doesn’t get a higher score with her switch partner than she did with Maks. After last night there’s no doubt it my mind that TPTB are trying to make sure Maks is given the MBT.
To my surprise, I really enjoyed Peta and James Jive. And Amy, oh my how she touches my heart. Not their best but I still loved it. Sad, the judges could even give her one 10. Meryl performance was beautiful but not memorable, not a foxtrot and not worthy of three 10’s. OTOH) I felt Charlie was under scored.
All right, here are my random comments. There are a few non-sequiturs, but it’s generally accurate. I thought it was a really good show, and it was pretty meaningful in many ways. Even the upbeat dances had a great story!
“I have to ask…” AUGH! That is my drinking (water/grape juice) game!
Robin is so so eloquent and it’s great! I really loved hearing her comments all night. When I started watching the show, though, I said that she would probably just copy the score of the highest-scoring judge on the panel, and I was right.
James/Peta: good dance. I liked all of the jumps. And his airtime on huge judges table was super cool!
Some quotes from the switch-up package:
“At least the stuff we can air” from Tom…LOLZ
“But on week 5, we are all gonna go back to the original partners.” YES!
Drew and Derek… LOLZ. They legit should be paired together.
“This will either be really exciting or a huge disaster…either way, it’ll be entertaining.” – bingo!!! That could not have described it better
Poor Billy Dee. It is so sad that we don’t get to see him dance! He is really special, and Emma is just amazing. But Billy’s grandkids are so cute!
I spot a Janelle Arthur in the audience! Just saying.
I’m still basically ignoring NeNe. She just annoys me. And the fact that they made such a stink about Candace’s shoes last week, and the she wears those… Has she even worn real ballroom shoes at all this season? Oh, and random fans by the bed. Side note: Remarried for the second time…that is just redundant and it annoys me.
Most memorable year week must be hard for younger contestants. I mean, Cody is what, two? JK, I am younger than him. Anyways, I thought that they would do well in this dance, especially because Witney has much experience in other styles thanks to So You Think, and also because she has simply trained in those styles. I think Witney still needs some more time to get used to being a pro. Nothing will ever be perfect the first time, but she does have potential. Side note: legit, Witney’s happy squeal has not changed since Season 9 of So You Think.
Danica’s little boy melted my heart! He is just so cute. And she seems to unconditionally love him. I noticed her spotting very well at one point. I still don’t like her, and she is a bit too hyper for me, but still. Not horrible.
How old is Drew to have Connor? If he is eight, how old is Drew? I thought this was one of the most meaningful dances this time around. and Connor hitting on Cheryl was adorable. Not bad all around!. Drew really does have a natural grace.
Was Meryl’s song more of a waltz? It seemed a bit weird. And just the random appearance of Lindsay sterling. Like, hello! I’m here! I think that Maks’s choreo is getting better, and that might be why the scores were so high. But it wasn’t really a foxtrot. Another thing: Maks seems very alpha male to me, and that seems to me to be why he is so protective of Meryl.
Side note: while talking about Mixology, Tom says, “Wednesday at (whatever time) on this network or why would I mention it?” TOM IS AMAZING!
I spot a Kym Johnson!
OMG AMY. She is just amazing. Just what she can do is spectacular and so meaningful. I am so impressed with her. It motivates me to do more with my life. But it must be painful to walk in those legs. I mean, she is essentially walking en pointe, which is so difficult to do! I just… I think there should have been at least one 10.
Is Erin doing better, as a host, or is it just me? She isn’t doing that well either way, but she seemed to be mellower this time around.
Boy, following Amy must have been hard to do. Charlie did well, IMO. He really has a good stage presence. I can understand why his story and dance wasn’t identical to Meryl’s – two different people can view the same situation differently. I also think that TPTB wouldn’t have allowed them to do the same thing. Just saying. He definitely had a good and energetic dance, and I liked how he moved through the studio. At the risk of ire from other people, I don’t think that he deserved 10s. It was good, but maybe not a 10.
Random thought: Waiting for scores don’t scare Meryl and Charlie as much because of their profession. Does that make sense to anyone else? Is that maybe a generalization? I mean, it’s still stressful, but they might be more used to it.
What Candace did with the stage is an example of what a smaller band brings – that was a lot of room, and it wasn’t even on the floor! I really liked how fun her dance was, and the energy that she brings to the ballroom. Well done! And great use of her body as a guitar.
Jesus Chops, do a little basic math. How many seasons has Derek been on? Now subtract from that number the number of MBTs he actually has (5, in case you forgot). You will note that the resulting number is a good bit larger than 0, meaning that there have been many seasons he has not won. So, OBVIOUSLY, he hasn’t won all the time – he hasn’t even won HALF the time. You tired of people “bashing other pros” or praising Derek? Tough shit. I’m tired of hyperbolic bullshit from non-Derek fans. Amy “didn’t move around the floor much.” SHE HAS NO LEGS! And yet her dance was, IMO, every bit as good as Meryl’s.
I can see I was right to start updating my ringer post. Val is easily the most blessed pro on the show when it comes to ratio of ringers to non-ringers. Anyone claiming otherwise needs to stop talking about a Derek bias. LOL.
You’ll note, Danna, that probably 90% of Maks’ dances have a huge chunk of either walking or running or nothing at all. I had high hopes until about midway through his dance last night that he had broken that annoying habit. But no.
Several things came to mind after last night’s show—the first is why do they have a 4th judge again? because they don’t really judge IMO, just copy what the others do. It has to do with the math right and how much tptb can tinker with who stays and goes?
And then, the silence is beyond deafening on the Maks FT that wasn’t, the creepy posing,and the miraculous instant replay for Erin to be able to ask her awkward, leading (you guys really are a thing right? RIGHT!!! ??questions) the fakeness is soo obvious. Do you think the audience is buying any of it? Poor Meryl! I agree Maks is trying (well, most of the time) to be ?nicer? and I admit that after a couple of seasons of his and Val’s crap I have a real problem with both of them but I am saying this out of just observation and would love to know if others see it. To me M and M just look and “feel” like a total mis-match, STILL, to where everything just seems “off”and forced. I just squirm watching their packages, interviews etc. Meryl is the ultimate Olympian professional in how she acts and answers questions amd stuff but I feel it’s as constrained and PC as usual. I just look at her and do not believe she is really having fun or is at ease. And I could be way off but I wouldn’t be surprised to see her eliminated before semifinals just because yes, HER dancing is great but Maks choreo is just average and I just feel nothing nor remember anything about their dances(except the awkward moments)
I also think Charlie isn’t matched as well as he could be. I think he’s really entertaining tho, and as usual, I don’t get WHAT tptb are doing with the scoring and the high praise of sloppy dances and talking down of good ones, but I’m sure they have a method to their madness as usual. But I sense a “strained” vibe with Charlie, at times and just feel he might have been better with Cheryl or Emma.
I think I might be liking James more and more and if Peta can concentrate he might be pleasant to watch for awhile. Cody and Whitney, meh, not sure whose fault it is but I can’t stnd him, don’t think there’s much real potential except for a crapload of teens voting for him. I didn’t buy one minute of Danika’s “stuff”and her kid looked petrified, shame on her for hauling him into it. I like Drew, his attitude, little guy was cute but not necessary and I like him and Cheryl tog so far. Candace just bores me ?? i don’t even remember Ne-Ne cause Tony needs to keep his shirt on !! And what was all the choreo praise about for him, Whitney, well, almost everyone, except Derek?? I don’t remember anything except Most of Drews dance,some of James and Amy.
And about Amy—I just can’t believe how well she can dance. So far at least no-one can level an accusation that she’s not dancing and you could make that argument about BDW’s one and only dance. Twitterverse was on fire again about her and there really aren’t words enough for what she and Derek have done so far. I just keep thinking, look down and imagine you have no feet or ankles, and then think about what she’s done.
The most enjoyable dances for me last night were Candace, James and Charlie. I liked Charlie even though he is with Sharna. Even though I think the switch up is dumb, I look forward to seeing what he does with another pro. The middle of the road was Drew, Danica and Cody. The ones I am tired of are first, NeNe. Send her packing please! And I have found Amy over rated. I have left Meryl for last because she is another that I want to see with someone else. I think she is talented, but Maks’ choreography has done her no favors.
PH, I am aware that Amy has no legs, which obviously was the reason why she participated in the Paralympics… The problem is when she in this coaituation must be compared to those who have legs. You cannot judge the dances differently, can you? What about the old Billy Dee and his stiff hips? He has had surgery, but he was also compared to Meryl, Charlie and the others before he left. He couldn’t be judged differently – he seemed to be nice and inspirational, too, as do Amy, and he probably managed more than old guys normally is able to do.
My point is: Amy is brilliant, and I love watching her together with Derek and his coreography. My point is that she is totally dependent on him although I hope Mark (suppose he will be her intermediate partner) can handle her with the assistance of Derek. IMO Meryl is amazing in spite of Maks, Amy is amazing because of Derek, and that’s part of the difference. With that said I completely agree with those saying that the judges are expecting more when it comes to Derek.
Sorry: coaituation=situation/competition
Ringers, zingers – really who cares!! I thought that Charlie was underscored, I loved his dance, he had so much energy. I also loved Danica and Meryl. Call me crazy but please Tony keep your shirt on, seriously I don’t really like to see anyone without a shirt especially if they are scrawny. I admire Amy and what she is doing but I could not even muster a single tear last night and I think the time will come when the judges really have to judge her on her dancing, I really think that is what she wants.
Last night was such a great show! My husband actually stayed the whole time to watch! The only one I didn’t particularly care for was Nene’s, but I think I just get a little icked out whenever they bring out the bed for performances… It’s going to be hard now that Billy Dee is gone and they start eliminating the more able-bodied dancers–I’ve already gotten kind of attached to all the dancers! What a great lineup this year 🙂
I am always so amazed by people’s comments and how things could be viewed so differently. The bottom line is however that everyone has a right to their opinion, but just because someone says it doesn’t make it true. Amy is unbelievable. Don’t believe me or anyone else on this site. Just read the papers, the blogs, and listen to people who don’t necessarily make their voices heard here or any other site. People are enthralled with her and what she is doing. It is simply a fact.
Candace has been criticized for for talking too much about her religion. I therefore was glad that Candace didn’t mention her faith this week even if it means the world to her. We know even though she doesn’t tell us all the time. I enjoyed that she dedicated her dance and the memorable year to Full house. Amy doesn’t have her legs, which of course is an enduring big challenge in her life, and it also will be the big challenge during this competition. We have heard her life story more than once, and it is inspirational and heart-wrenching and all that kind of stuff. Imo it is time for Amy,Derek, the judges and the producers to move beyond her legs. She cannot be judged by being inspirational and amazing but by her dancing.
Amy’s story and journey is inspirational & her video package made me tear up, especially the part where she was dancing with her dad… but her dance reminded me too much of Kellie & Derek’s freestyle & that’s all that I could think about 🙁
Bull, Astrid. They judge the couples at different standards ALL THE TIME. If you don’t see that, we’re not watching the same show. IMO, it’s rather narrow minded to make some critique about not using a lot of the floor, when the rest of the things about the dance were amazing, particularly considering that she has no feet. It strikes me as a bizarre need to find SOME fault for the sake of finding fault. Instead of trying to find fault, how about looking at the overall accomplishments they have made – or are you going to tell me that that’s no different from everyone else.
Now, if we get to the Jive and she can’t do the kicks and flicks, she’ll have to be scored lower – you have to do the technique. But not moving around the floor is a bullshit critique, given the circumstances. Especially since Candace and Mark and Charlie and Sharna BOTH limited themselves to dancing on the raised part of the stage. Where is that critique for them, eh? Seems to me that yet again, EVEN with someone with no feet, Derek is held to a completely different standard than everyone else. And it’s WAY higher.
Word, Lynne.
If you seriously think she isn’t being judged on her dancing…well, I can’t take you seriously at all.
Move beyond her legs?? How old are you, 13? I ask because you seem to have little to NO sense of what it means to people across this country to see Amy dance and everything that goes into it. Do you have any idea how many people lost limbs in various wars and what it could mean to them to see what she’s doing? How many people get so depressed because of life altering injuries like hers?
Then you equate it to Candace talking about her religion? Are you on CRACK? Go away. You’ve had your say, it’s time to move on. If you don’t, I will block you. You are disgusting me with your callous disregard.
If I were Derek, I would want to be judged at a higher standard. It pushes you to do better. It’s why I want to be in higher classes, because it pushes me to my limits mentally. For someone like Derek, who can be pushed to that limit, it is beneficial for him to be pushed to that limit. Unfortunately, it causes his partners to be scored lower, IMO, because he is held to such a high standards. I mean, if Mark, even, had been the pro on that contemporary with Amy, there would have been at least one 10.
Unless you have lived with a chronic illness that has damaged your insides so much it leaves you in pain pretty much 24/7 or if you have had a life altering injury such as Amy I don’t want to hear it.
Amy has no friggin’ LEGS. She can’t feel those prosthetics touch the floor. So, go sit on your feet let them fall asleep then get your butt up and dance around and see how good you do.
Amy on the other hand. NAILED IT.
When something is there ALL THE TIME and you are dealing with it every minute of every friggin’ day, you just don’t move past it. Because Amy can’t. She wants to, trust me she would love to but it is there every single moment and she has to deal with it. The way she has is pretty fracking awesome.
Until you move a mile in another persons body back the frack off.
The hardest thing you can ever do is try something you know you could easily fail at. I’d take inspirational over a perfect 10 every single time because she does, she inspires me. That dance last night INSPIRED ME.
But that’s just my opinion.
Regarding the remark “she”(Amy) is TOTALLY dependent on “him”(Derek)–I believe it was Amy’s legs/feet (albeit prosthetic) on the floor when she was doing fans chacha runs and alemanas and the travelling steps, swingouts, kicks in Swingdance and well, you get the point. If Amy were totally dependent on anyone they would be CARRYING her through the dances. Now she is dependent on someone smart enough to come up with choreography that are steps she can do—but then all the pros should be tailoring choreo to match their stars abilities.
I’ll just say this – @Astrid (#131): I completely, totally, disagree with you.
#131 and #126 and others critiquing Amy and Derek. Did you consider the whole dance,music, movements and most importantly the story. This was a contemporary dance and slow music (tempo) as well as a tender emotion. The choreo was supposed to be more gentle and not flailing like some contemporary dances are. If Derek used some similar steps that he has done with Kellie so what. Did you even think how much more difficult it is for Amy to do them with only half of her legs. Wouldn’t she have to use even more muscles and the rest of her body to accomplish those moves! And then WOW Amy did them with great perfection. Could you hold your legs in that graceful position while being swung around 5-6 times? Last but not least Derek was supposed to be supporting her; that was the interpretation of Amy’s dad! God I hate it when people don’t see the whole picture! Sorry I finally had to comment.
If Meryl or Charlie danced like BDW they would have gotten 1’s. And they should have gotten 1’s or kicked off the show. They do not judge everyone the same and it’s complete bullshit for the judges to suggest that they have to. Carrie Ann has said repeatedly that they judge according to individual potential to a large extent.
I can hardly stand to read some of the nasty comments I’ve read here and there about Amy. Thankfully they’re rare. I know I may understand more about the specifics and huge scope of her physical challenges than some, but one must completely lack any kind of imagination or any kind of empathy to not see at least some of it. And then to see how amazing it is that she’s taken on this challenge along with the others she’s taken on…
#Princess Heidi (123) I know what you mean and let’s not forget ab his signature move of…”let me put some saliva on my eyebrows” ..why would a woman find that sexy is beyond me …he hasn’t done it yet this season, I wonder why :)))
Regarding PH’s Spoiler intro top of this page (being west coast I read it before seeing the show) and specifically this line:
” And line of the night goes to Derek Hough: “This lil’ munchkin is ready for you!!” Right to NeNe. ”
When I first read this, I thought she was revealing that Derek-NeNe pairing would be announced or at least loudly hinted at during the Monday show … even though twitter vote was still going on. But when I saw the show, there was no announcement, so I was puzzled until Kristyn Burrt’s tweet last night about pairings not being as expected. I started to ponder …. what does K mean by that remark? Did she miss the spoiler about NeNe? I was so confused. What is a scenario that fits here?
So what IS expected, according to vote results – I read several different tallies – and rules published by ABC?
First, according to ABC, we look for celeb with highest # of total votes, adding all her pairings – I’m only concerned with females here – and that is Meryl. So she gets paired first, and with the first “available” male pro who has highest vote with her. That would be Derek – of course, he’s available, because he hasn’t already gone to another celeb. But wait, what if he’s not “available” for another reason?
Light dawned: Derek had already been announced as new Creative Director for Macy’s Stars of Dance and that they would be dancing on April 7th. What we didn’t know for sure back then was when the switched pairs would dance. As it turns out, Derek has Macy’s to do this week. He can’t be traipsing around Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando and back Sunday night with Meryl this week. Meryl has to do several performances of Stars on Ice, and beyond her own ice dances, has to learn 3 new group numbers with the rest of the skating cast … oh yeah, and appear at the White House this week.
Both Meryl and Charlie will have severely limited rehearsal time this week to devote to getting used to their new DWTS pro and learning a new dance. They’re both great, and will probably do just fine, and yes, Evan L did the same thing with Anna seasons ago. But at least he had Anna all the way and didn’t have to get used to a new pro during opening week of the tour. I’m thinking whatever pros get switched with Meryl and Charlie are going to have to be always available to fit their rehearsal time in, whenever their celebs can be free for a few minutes.
In this scenario and in this reading of what ABC means by “available” (so they get to cover their butts) Derek will be the “munchkin” ready for NeNe, and Val will be the one waiting till Meryl has time for him. Why? Val is the highest “available” vote getter with Meryl.
The celeb with 2nd highest votes with all pros is Danica, and she will be paired with Maks who has most votes with her. Next highest Celeb is NeNe (Amy on some tallies) and she gets Derek, because Maks has gone to Danica and isn’t available. That leaves Amy with Mark and Candace with Tony because Val and Derek above him have already been taken.
This scenario fits very well, in my reading. It explains Derek’s playful remark to NeNe during Monday show. It makes sense that the show would want to give Derek the opportunity to do well in his Macy’s debut and be available for press coverage of his movie premier, rather than send him to Florida and Washington. This scenario may also explain Kristyn’s surprise in her tweet last night … since she may be one of those who interpreted the twitter vote results as giving NeNe, not Danica, the second highest total number of female celeb votes with all the guys.
But that’s not my reading, because when I learned to program computers back in the day, I learned about running searches for strings with spaces in them – you have to put the strings in quotes. ABC announced they would count votes with spaces, not just votes with no spaces and the DWTS hashtag.
Some tallies use the quotes, and some don’t. When you check for vote totals using quotes, depending on the quality of the sites and how you enter the data and use the tools, you do indeed get Danica as the second highest female pro. And that’s why Danica gets Maks and NeNe gets our munchkin, who doesn’t have to waste his time traveling all week and has more time for dance, as well as some time to enjoy and promote his premiere, instead of waiting in an airport.
That’s my theory and I’m sticking to it, till next Monday or till I learn something different. It shouldn’t take this many words to get a scenario that fits … but that’s what Conrad does to me.
Faby, I said the same thing on another thread, that Meryl and Derek’s schedules don’t match up. But I like your logic, and it’s much better explained than mine.
There’s only a little hole. What does this do for the other side – for James, Drew, Cody, and Charlie? This scenario that you described only worked for the girls, which is what I said as well on the other thread.
PH, this is basically a better wording of what I was trying to say.
Aviva, I was thrilled to see your post which I had just finished reading and had admired your logic 🙂
I haven’t even thought about the male celebs or checked their data – my head is already exploding and I’m supposed to be working.
Actually, Faby, three out of four people doing tallies had Nene as the next highest vote getter and she had the highest vote total with MAKS on all three – no matter how you count the votes. The fourth had Nene as second highest getting Maks on two of the counting combinations. There’s really no excuse for giving Derek to Nene, if that’s what they actually did. Because if he didn’t go to Meryl and Val did, Nene is next and goes to Maks, Amy had moved up to third by the time votes were counted and that meant she got Mark. Danica was fourth and would have gotten Derek, leaving Candace with Tony.
There is really NO excuse for Nene to dance with Derek other than some weird desire the producers have to try to embarrass their celebrities (and, consequently make it so no one wants to come on the show) and make them uncomfortable. Nene is on the record not wanting to dance with Derek and I don’t blame her. She looked very tall and big (and according to Afterbuzz she is an athletic woman) next to Tony – Derek WILL look like a munchkin next to her because TONY does. I get why she wouldn’t want that – which is exactly why they’ll do it. Derek won’t care – he loves every challenge and said a long time ago that he loves women taller than him (like Shannon in heels). But why do they have this need to try to humiliate their stars?? It’s quite distasteful.
That said, I would be interested in this pairing because it leaves the Derek haters NO WHERE to go. Of course, they’ve had no where to go for a long time if you’re a rational person. 🙂
Ohh, but the haters will always have a place to go :)) Also, I’m sure any success that Derek has with Nene will be thanks to the prior “amazing” teachings of Tony :)) just wait and see, they might be haters but they are never out of excuses or complaints.