Afterbuzz TV And Mandy Moore Review The DWTS19 Semi-Finals
Below is the new Afterbuzz TV show. This time Mandy Moore joins the gang to review the Dancing With The Stars Semi-Finals. First up, Mandy clears up how she’s not just helping one couple for the Finale, but, she’s been helping all of the couples all season with her advice since she is the “Performance Producer” for the show (Hmmm….say what you will, but, I still don’t think it’s right that she’s helping to choreograph one couple’s dance for the Finale).
I also loved what the panel said on Allison Holker at the end and how she is an “animal”. I agree with Jake when he said people like Allison, Witney, and Derek, etc. are and have helped to shape the show into more than just “ballroom” dancing. I hope Allison gets another shot at being a pro too.
Lot’s of content to think about again below with their opinions. Let us know what you think….
So i watched it earlier today
Mandy definitely is on val and janel boat
When she said the AT deserve 10 i was like okay she is biased
She didnt deny choregraphing for val she just said she is giving idea to everyone im sorry but suggesting something to someone who may or not take it and choregraph someone freestyle is not the same thing i still think is not fair but it just prove to people who consider val as the next derek how wrong they are the man cant even choregraph a freestyle by himself
Overall i liked the show i love jake and agreed with most of his comments
If they want Vajanel to have the MB so bad, why even bother with the finale. Just have them show up at the end and receive their $6 trophy.
Derek and Mark have been choreographing freestyles long before Mandy got involved with the show. I don’t think they need her. I felt it was her way of not revealing the extent of her involvement in Janel’s freestyle
Mandy had a carefully crafted response. Kristyn spoke to her about it before the show so she had time to come up with that. You’re completely right, Vogue! If a pro needs that much help choreographing the freestyle, they shouldn’t be on the show. If they win the MBT, Mandy better be helping them lift it up! (If that FS is amazing, wonder if Mandy will include it in her package for an Emmy nomination! Wouldn’t that be a kick in the ass!) So Mandy, I don’t buy it!
I seriously doubt she’s helping Derek with anything! Certainly not with the choreography! Plus, I’m sick of the comments that it’s a certain pro’s time. It’s not about the pro’s time, but the celebrity’s only chance to win. Also, I was hoping someone would point out that Vajanel had Paso & AT which really is like doing the same dance twice. The other couples had 2 different “moods” with their dances. Bethany had the fun Samba and then, the delicate romantic contemporary. Sadie had QS & AT. Alfonso had AT & Contemporary. Wonder what Shirley’s critique of Vajanel’s AT would be? Was it an intimate AT with kicks & flicks or just sloppy lifts?
Sorry for the rant; but I really need to completely stop listening to this garbage. ABTV used to be good but the bias shows more and more each week. Time to change the hosts there! I’m really tired of Suri’s “I know something you don’t know” comments. If you can’t reveal something, stop trying to sound important that “you’re in the know”.
Okay also they were a website who reported that alfonso was faking the injury now im pretty sure the backstage source came from the fam camp
Not only the first thing mandy said was that she thought he may faking it but when she saw his face she thought it was real
And maks posted on instagram to vote for val and janel but he mentionned for the couple who took the REAL road or something like that
If i am right im not even that suprised that the familia will have to resort with such tactics
I think Derek is very tight with Mandy, but I also think that he already has ideas in mind and doesn’t usually ask for assistance unless he’s blocked.
And yes, Derek and Mark have won 5 and 2 times respectively and have crafted some amazing dances all on their own – they don’t need Mandy. Apparently, Val isn’t that secure. Or creative.
1. I am not a big Mandy More Fan, I haven’t like most of opening numbers this season. However she seems to be up Val/Jane’s a**!
2. I still believe Alfonso will win, she appeals to the fan base that tends to vote more. Going by FB, it seems him and Sadie are the most liked!
3. I hope we have some good freestyles this season that are more fun than compared to previous years. Is it me or is anyone else tired of the contemporary-ish freestyles?
If the freestyle is amazing and Mandy had a significant role in it (even 25%) she is absolutely in her rights to submit it for an Emmy WITH Val. Val can’t submit on his own, without her, without committing fraud. The show would likely submit for them, if they consider it worthy. It would also be a separate nomination from stuff that he choreographed alone (if there is anything). Example, Derek was nominated with Allison the year he won. That same year he was also nominated solo for three dances. It’s either solo, or different choreography teams.
But I don’t think anything from this season – by anyone – is really worthy of a nomination.
Well, if you can’t win on dancing or merit, then do what you have to do to take out the competition.
Something tells me that it just KILLS them than infidels like Derek and Mark have multiple trophies. Hell, PETA and KARINA have tropies. As does one of the judges. 🙂 It must be painful to be Val right now. 🙂
This season has been an absolute mess with all the manipulation going on bts . I honestly feel like Bethany can’t win every week no matter what she does the comments made by Lacey on the all access show , Afterbuzz tv , facebook and abc chats on her dances are always approached in a negative way and made to look like they just weren’t good enough and maybe it’s because everyone expects more from Derek but it’s unfair towards Bethany ( and maybe this can stop the whole Derek always gets partners that can dance or are good talk ) The vibe I got from Mandy is that she didn’t like Bethany and Derek’s contemporary and I’ll be the first to admit Bethany isn’t the best dancer but gosh give the girl some credit for going out there and giving it her all plus doing it without dropping the frame . I almost feel like if Val and Janel had done the exact same dance everyone would have been talking about how much they love it .
It just really upsets me to see someone who has really been working hard , improving each week and stepping out of her comfort zone have her journey be surrounded by so much unnecessary negativity .
She also didn’t need a showmance or overscoring to get to the finale. So there you go.
During one of the post show interviews (I think with Tony) Val started slinging all the buzzword comments he could think of — “just enjoying the journey,” etc. — with a barely disguised smirk on his face. The advice his brother gave him essentially boils down to pandering. The irony of debasing the very victory they so maniacally seek is apparently lost on the Chmercockies.
Also, while he may well have some insecurity about choreographing a freestyle, he clearly doesn’t feel the same way about his violin “playing.” I’ve heard him “play” the violin on dwts twice, and I thought after the first debacle (Kelly’s freestyle) he would not go there again. But a Chmercocky ego knows no bounds, so we were all subjected again to that which gives caterwauling a bad name. It will really turn my stomach (funny, that reminds me of how I felt while he was “playing”) if he wins.
I really enjoy coming here and seeing that I’m not the only one who has not been drinking the janelskiy koolaid. I don’t get the hype especially when there have been far better dancers and performances this season. I dont get it. Only thing I can think of is the producers not wanting to lose the C-bros fans, but even some of their fans have been turned off by this season and maks’ facade from the last one. I’m dying for this season to be over. I’m rooting for Alfonso to pull through. But sometimes I wish they would just give Val the dam trophy so the fam can shut up go make a stupid t-shirt with the 3 trophies and sell the overpriced shirt to their naive fans and go away. Sorry for the rant. 🙂
Wonder what Mandy Moore thought about Kellie’s Contemporary Freestyle-lol I thought Bethany did an amazing job with that routine and this season. Improving week to week. “That is what the show is about, right?”
Honestly, why are they using her so much anyway. They have plenty of “ballroom” pros who could choreograph amazing routines. Personally, I’m NOT a fan of her work.
I truly miss dwts of of old-lol I’m starting to sound like Len..
What’s with the hate? Think all four of the finalists are great. Of the 2 teenagers (never heard of either of them before this season), hands down, I would pick Sadie – she’s probably the most bubbly and entertaining. Also think Alfonso is great. Mark & Whitney have done an amazing job as pros – and I’m not really fans of either of them. Would probably put Janel’s dancing over Bethany, and Derek’s choreo over Val’s…but there haven’t been any standout performances to me overall this season – just good entertainment.
I think half of the negative remarks made about Derek & Bethany are more to do with issues to do with Derek (personal issues or jealousy, but from his actual friends and colleagues, mainly just having such high expectations of him- so if he doesn’t do his absolute best choreographic work every single dance or bring out the best in the celeb in each dance, it isn’t quite good enough). Others don’t get that harsh of treatment. It sucks to be put at such a high standard sometimes but it is also a compliment.
Jake and Suri seem to really be in Bethany’s corner so that is nice to see. And some of Jake’s expressions throughout this episode were priceless! I can’t remember why he made certain faces but I do remember that when he did in reaction to a comment, I agreed!
mariam- are we really surprised that Maks is writing rude stuff that belittles the other couples on his twitter/instagram? He always does. Here is the quote: “Always 100%! Always working… All about the end result! Show the lil one some love and vote for the taking-the-hard-but-real-path couple on #DWTS Please & Thank you”
The agenda for him this season is Val to win so it won’t stop. Again, his ‘all about the end result’ quote shows he really has never gotten it, the show should be all about the whole journey of the season with his partners. But we’ve heard before from him that he didn’t enjoy many of his journeys with his other celebs that weren’t Meryl. 🙁
I said in another post, the only good thing about Val (and oh yes Janel, but its not really about her to them is it?) winning would be the whole fam would have won once and we can STOP hearing about it.
I honestly don’t like forming opinions about people I don’t know, but Maks puts so much crap out there on social media and in interviews that it is hard not to form an opinion you think is real! Ugh
I don’t doubt that Mandy is there for whomever needs help but the information that was leaked specifically said that she was choreographing one couple’s freestyle. It’s really pointless for her to play word games since it will be plain as the nose on her face if she choreographs for Val. It would also put into context her preference for Vajanel. I don’t think she can equal either Mark’s, Witneys or Derek’s ability so if she helps any of them I would presume it to be more for the camera staging she discussed last night.
It was ok. The reviews on Beth and Derek weren’t too bad. We all have different taste and I personally thought that their contemporary dance was the best dance of the night and the one that I have watched over and over again (at least 25 times). It had plenty of emotion in it and between the two of them and just flowed beautifully and told a beautiful story. I have also watched the samba over and over just because it was so playful. Mandy should critique her own opening numbers and bumpers since they have not been all that great this season, just bumping and grinding for the girls. As I have said, both Alfonso and Janel could just show up on the dance floor and stand there and get 10’s. To me the only two that have had to prove themselves are Bethany and Sadie, the two youngest and the two non-dancers and I think they have both done a fantastic job.
Epmusic
I thought that maks winning with all the help he got would have made him more humble
But i guess i was wrong he still think it’s his win
I don’t agree with the fact that if they all have that MB the will shut up i think they will keep braging about it for a long time plus val doesn’t deserve to win with janel maybe with someone else but definitely not janel
For anyone who think the finale isn’t fixed, think again. When did Val and Mandy planned to choreograph their FS? Even before the semifinals. How would they know Vajanel will be in the finale if the show is based on judges score and viewers votes? Val will never replaced Derek. He’s too whiny and insecure, he can’t even choreograph his own FS. I can’t believe this show bow so low to the c-bros.
It feels to me a little like Mandy feels slighted that she hasn’t won an Emmy. Derek won last year, NappyTabs this year, yet “she’s the one who is here week in and week out doing all of the creating.” Val wanting her to choreograph is both the acknowledgement she craves (albeit from a questionable source) plus a little bit of sticking it in someone’s eye. She and the Chmers may have bonded over feeling marginalized. Again, this is just what it feels like to me.
Suri and I are on the same page with Janel. I 100% agree with what she said about not really “getting” Janel. I’m just not interested in her. She’s a great performer, but I’d much rather watch Alfonso, Sadie or Beth. I see different sides of those three every dance they do. When Janel comes out, I just see Janel. She isn’t a bad performer, I just don’t find her as interesting as the other three.
I’m dying to know who the guest is going to be next week! I guess time will tell… (:
Janel is always “on” it seems, which is a quality that I have never liked in people – except when they are funny, which she isn’t. For me, it causes their energy to propel outward, pushing others away when it’s SUPPOSED to grant them more attention. Maybe I am overthinking why she doesn’t appeal to me, and why I don’t enjoy her dancing as much as I should.
I agree with your comment #Figamentation about Janel always being “on”. I feel that the Paso that Derek/Beth did was better and had more passion/intrigue/intensity than the one that Val/Janel did. As I have said before, I always feel like Val’s choreography is so fast paced that Janel is always trying to keep up.
@Thiana – A lot of the couples are already mentally planning their freestyles LONG before they actually make the finale – hell, Brandy & Maks had already started choreographing theirs in season 11, and got booted out in the semifinals. I don’t think you can fairly infer that the finale is “fixed” just based on the fact that Val had planned on collaborating with Mandy Moore on he & Janel’s freestyle – I’m sure the collaboration was conditional upon them actually making the finale.
And just food for thought – Maks also utilized Mandy Moore to choreograph his freestyle with Erin, which is considered by many to be one of the weaker freestyles we’ve seen on the show. Mandy Moore choreography does not guarantee an MBT.
@moravamc – I think your use of the word “hate” is an exaggeration. I suggest you learn the difference between “hate” and “disagreement” before posting something like that again.
I apologize for using the word “hate”…but there is a lot of negativity and name calling to one couple in particular. It always tends to make me cringe when one couple is singled out over the others…it strikes me as bullying as opposed to disagreement. I don’t think that Janel will win, but I do think that all of the couples in the finals deserve to be there. I can’t imagine the pressure for all eight of these individuals knowing that they have worked their butts off, and it will all come down to one dance…because no matter how good you are going into the finals, or how much momentum you have…it all comes down to that one last dance. What a mind game!
@moravamc – Once again, I think you’re misappropriating a term – “bullying” would be people tweeting Janel & Val directly and repeatedly, insulting them and making threats. All the people here are doing is offering their opinions on their dancing and what they do or do not like about it (and Janel and Val are not being forced to read it) – and as far as I’ve seen, no one has called anyone any names. And while you might feel as though they’re being “singled out” – so what? I feel as though they’re being given unfair advantages that the other couples aren’t – am I somehow in the wrong for feeling that way and expressing that I don’t like it? As much as some might like the idea that “we’re all winners” and we should have all these warm fuzzies about ALL of the couples – we’re human. We have opinions. We like some things and we dislike others. It’s a bit naive to expect everyone to feel 100% positive about all of the couples, don’t you think? And this is why I roll my eyes at the term “hate” – it’s hyperbole. Just because we don’t have only nice things to say about certain couples does not equate “hate”. We have no obligation to bite our tongues in order to make people feel better – this is a BLOG. It’s a work of opinion. Just like your opinion is that everyone should only say positive things about the couples. Do you feel as though your opinion somehow carries more weight because you throw around the term “bullying”?
I understand your opinion…and that it is your blog, and that you have control over it. I appreciate the information and the updates that you provide regarding the show “DWTS”. I don’t appreciate belittling comments and attacks against anyone whose opinion is different than your own. Maybe I am extremely naïve in wanting civility across the board. You have a right to post what you want; so do I. Neither of us have to agree. Thank you for your work and efforts in posting updates regarding the show.
He REALLY thinks that Val and Janel were real after all that showmance stuff?? And he should never use the word “real” to begin with. He doesn’t know the meaning of the word.
And this man can’t understand why he gets blow back on his many comments?? He’s misunderstood? Gee, can’t figure out why…
If you are choreographing someone’s dance(s), then of course you’re going to prefer that person and pimp that person. It’s YOUR WORK. 🙂
Thiana, I think you’re underestimating Val’s arrogance. 🙂
Yes – kinda like Val and Maks fans did on EVERY SINGLE instagram Amy and Derek posted last season. Plus all over facebook, twitter…the list goes on. You want to see bullying, go and look at what your friends put on Amy’s instagram last season.
@moravamc – I fail to see how I’ve belittled or attacked you, moravamc. As I recall, it was you who accused the people who post here of being “hateful” or “bullying” – which is what I don’t appreciate. I’m sitting here very civilly trying to explain how that’s not really the case, and defending them from YOUR accusations. Apparently now defending onseself and or your friends is now considered “belittling” or “attacking”. But whatever – clearly you’re not backing down, and I’m not going to roll over and say “Oops, my bad, sorry for hurting people’s feelings by not pretending like I love everyone, I’m such a big meanie!” I don’t care whether you love or hate Janel – what I do care about is you lobbing accusations at other posters or somehow implying that they’re somehow wrong. I’m done now – this is clearly going nowhere.
I have enjoyed DWTS since the beginning and love to watch the growth of the celebrities. I am getting tired of the producers trying to influence the publics votes. My way of not participating is to never vote for the one they are pushing no matter what. Recently two of the celebrities have complained about what is presented to the public for their journey. So DWTS needs to stop denying they have a hand in who gets to the finals. I love all of the pros some more than others because of what they bring to the table. Not the campaigning that is very evident from the family, the dividing into groups reminds me of high school, I wish they would grow up and try and give us their best. Sorry so long but one last thing the negative remarks toward Derek because he has won more trophies than the other is getting real old. Vote for your favorite and enjoy the show.
First-I don’t care WHO they are-the minute anyone utters the words– its another pros turn to get an MBT, all your credibility, experience and supposed expertise becomes completely null and void. Any one associated with DWTS or asked to speak about it as some kind of expert who doesn’t understand that the show is about the “star” and the star winning a cheap MBT, the once and only shot they will ever get, and NOT the pro and can’t see through their own jealousy and biases and know it is that stars ONE and ONLY chance to win should never be listened to by anyone. So”TFWhat”if a pro repeats!! it is a DIFFERENT star each time and only means that pro knows how to study the person, pick out their strengths and chore routines to fit them that are entertaining and make them liked by viewers. These losers and whiners ought to be incredibly grateful to have and EMMY-winning, respected pro on this show that apparently people love and love to watch. You will notice that ALL the complaining, shade, back-biting comes from other pros or others associated with the show somewhere and not from the “stars”. Hey guys !!dancers, talking heads, announcers and all the rest-would you rather be working and on a show with 14.5 million viewers for 20 wk a year with a Derek Hough “pushing” you by his talent to do your best work or would you rather be schlepping to auditions and getting rejected every day to be dancing in the background of some music video?
I’m going to be crying my eyes out when Derek Hough leaves this show because I look forward to seeing his beautiful work 20 wks a year but I am also going to be laughing my ass off thinking about all the people who didn’t appreciate what he brings to this show and appreciate him while he was there, looking for a job because I’m betting a third? half? the people watching now will stop watching because of lack of quality or entertainment value
If everyone wants pro to have “turns” at winning, at the beginning of each season they should just announce that to the audience along with explaining to them that no matter how uninspired that person is, how badly they train their star to dance or how incredible someone else might turn out to be….just FORGET it…because it’s fill-in-the-blanks “turn to win !! Rant over.
I am extremely grateful for this blog and all of the fabulous info and commentary it provides on dwts. I only started following this season and I rush to read it after every show. I am a huge Alfonso and Whitney fan and I am hoping that he is well enough to kill it next week and win the mirrorball. If not, I will be rooting for Sadie and Mark as his choreography and her growth have been amazing and as I do agree that they have been underscored. I have never commented on any blog before, but I felt compelled to after I read the responses to Moravamc. I say that because I too was taken aback by the meanspiritedness of this particular comment thread. In particular, I was surprised by the accusation/assumption that Ms. Moore was lying and/or obviscating and that one of the DWTS pros, or their associates, was spreading rumors that Alfonso was faking his injury. Those are serious allegations made, in my opinion, perhaps too lightly. If that is what bothered Moravamc, I can understand as it also bothered me. I apologize if I have broken any blog rules.
sorry ..meant to say Choreo (not chore)
Thanks Courtney. I’m just too upset about all the manipulation. I overanalyzed the whole Vajanel/ Mandy Moore plan. I’m also tired about people saying “Val has never won” soooooo… neither does Whitney. And anyone notice Alfonso, Sadie and Bethany seemed very friendly on and off the studio? I just love their jam session. You can tell they are down to earth and friendly people. Unlike other couple who might think they are exclusive, even though they are NOT.
Here is a little tidbit that I found interesting concerning Mandy Moore and the Chmercocky brothers. Mandy was at the Chmercocky residence in LA a week or 2 ago. It was after a show on Monday night. There is a pic on Mak’s instagram dated 11/4 that shows Mandy with Peta, Sharna, Janel, and some other guy who I don’t know. Wonder if any other dance pros get house calls from Mandy Moore? Complete BS strikes once again. She is biased towards the Chmercocky’s 150%.
I didn’t made any allegations i said if you can check it back if you like
I just found quite weird that just before the show a website had “informations” about alfonso faking a injury by a source and the first thing that mandy said when she critique alfonso routine was talking about faking
I think we all know she is close to maks and val
Then maks talking about real made me question it because nowhere i saw someone question alfonso injury i find it odd
I maybe totally wrong and it could be someone else but i still believe it was someone from the show because they said he was dancing before the show even began
I also have to mention my comment was adressed to jean
And for mandy lying i don’t think someone said she lied i Personally think she chose her word carefully and she didn’t deny it
@ raine mayer +1 I couldn’t agree more.
Marian – I deeply appreciate the response and the clarification. You are right that lying was the wrong word to use and I should have just said obviscating. I apologize. I am used to everyone having very strong opinions because they are passionate about the show and it would be boring if it was all fairies and rainbows. I think that we are all here because we love DWTS. This is just the first time where I thought that the thread became a bit too meanspirited. At least that was my impression and that was really the only point I was trying to make. I guess it is a fine line to walk. I can’t wait to see the finals and to read the post-show comments. I don’t know about everyone else, but I always go through a period of withdrawals when the season ends. Maybe I will review the comments from previous seasons.
Well, Jean, the Alfonso is lying accusation came from Afterbuzz, not anyone here, so go complain to them. As for Mandy? We know that she is choreographing a pro’s freestyle dance, and since she was over at Val’s house a weekend to two ago we’re pretty sure we know which pro. So, no, it s not an unreasonable accusation when someone says she’s obfuscating. Not at all. In fact, she HAS to, if she wants to continue working on the show.
As for being surprised or shocked about what is being said? Explain to me why we should change for you. This is a blog. That means it’s chock full of OPINIONS. And complaining about other people’s opinions won’t get you far around here.
Oops. I meant Mariam. Not a tech wizard here.
What is so special about a house call from Mandy? She’s not the one with an Emmy, after all. Just sayin’ – some of the pros don’t NEED house calls.
The fine line you are walking is discussing how people are talking and what they are saying. That will get you deleted. I suggest you suck it up or go elsewhere. But do not try to shame other poster for their comments because you think they are too mean.
#41, I agree. I was surprised (nearly to the point of being shocked) when Mandy Moore suggested that Alfonso was faking his injury, and then to say she saw his face and decided perhaps he wasn’t. That is so disingenuous. And, not professional. Just my opinion. I also agree with rain mayer’s comments… completely.
Another bias that hit me hard in the AfterBuzz show, was Kristin saying that Bethany and Janel are both non-dancers. Of course, we all know of Janel’s dance history, and so does Kristin, so why would so say such a non-truth. Best to say nothing at all, than to purposefully speak a non-truth. Sigh. Tired of the silly manipulations.
I have never been a fan of the numbers Mandy Moore choreographs for the show, so if she is in fact doing Val’s choreo for the FS, I doubt I’m going to like it. So perhaps it will be a blessing in disguise.
And finally. The “lecture” about how DWTS is not BALLROOM DWTS, was more than irritating. Of course, it was originally BALLROOM. we all know that. Most of us (I think) prefer the ballroom aspect and wish the Contemporary and Jazz would go away. The freestyle is where they can do the contemporary or hip-hop or jazz…whatever. Again, only my opinion. Not intending to step on toes, here.
In short, this After-Buzz was the least honest one I’ve seen in a while.
What part of “don’t talk about other posters opinions” do you NOT get, Jake?
Believe it or not, we actually know a good bit about what goes on on this show – we see all the media, we see all kinds of stuff others miss and we analyze all kinds of data. If you don’t like it, get the f@#k out. Clear enough?
When I first started watching ABTV everytime i would get really mad at Suri or Jake bc they didn’t like Beth (which i know it’s silly but i love her for years haha) but now I like that they are finally seeing what all of her viewers see in her.
Now about Mandy, i really felt like she really doesn’t like D and B, like many of you have said i don’t think it’s fair that bc a pro has won before they can’t win again, and it really shows that she’s on team Vajanel. But to be honest prior to DWTS I really liked Janel, i think she’s a great actress. What made me dislike her is not entirely her relationship with Val, but herself. Ever since the halloween show when Sasha was pranking them her reaction during the interviews felt so fake to me, too over the top.
I would be happy with anyone winning but them, i think the C-bros are too full of themselves and I think Alfonso, Sadie or Bethany are more deserving of the MBT, they made it to the finals fair and square, they didn’t need fake romances, just their talent.
PS: what do you guys think should be Derek and Bethany’s judges choice? Which dance would you like for them to dance again? I’m thinking the foxtrot, now that her ankle is healed and think she can nail it, but i don’t know, i love all of her performances!
Heidi – I never asked anyone to change and I don’t view what I tried to say as a complaint about peoples’ opinions. I admitted that I didn’t word it well and I apologized. I love the blog. I was just trying to express my own thoughts. My point was that I understood why Moravamc might have initially kidded (I think) about “the hate” as things seemed to get particularly ugly before that post. I agree that hate was not the right word to use (not that I have any morale high ground on word choice clearly), but I read that initial post as playful vice accusatory. Therefore, I didn’t understand why the initial response to it was so vitriolic. I guess I thought this was all supposed to be in good fun and that we were all welcome to express our own thoughts and opinions. Since this is the first blog that I have followed with any regularity perhaps I just don’t understand the rules. I will, therefore, go back to observing vice participating. Irrespective of the above, I deeply appreciate the work you all do to keep the blog so chalkfull of fabulous content and I cant wait to hear everyones thoughts on the finals.
I am not a Mandy Moore fan either. I will no longer be a DWTS fan if they are allowing this much interference with the Pros and their Celebs. Once a show, any show, starts caving in to the demands (real and supposed) of particular participants then their credibility goes south in a big hurry. DWTS’ credibility has always been in question when it comes to the judges and their ridiculous scoring. Rob Wade, the BBC and ABC need to do a close-quarters check of this little program and figure out what they want it to be. Is this Dancing with the Stars or is this So You Think You Can Dance with a Pro—with the able assistance of a ‘creative director’ whose name has been mentioned way too much this season. Looks like she may get a bonus every time Tom mentions her name! ha ha
Regarding my opinion of Mandy as a whole. I’m going to try very hard NOT to believe she has become a fam syncophant. What I really wonder about her is the fact she would hitch her dimly shining star and pseudo-credibility to the Maks/Val crowd. If she believes that is the path to an Emmy, she will be sorely disappointed. Her character is very much in question regarding Alfonso faking an injury. I guess that doctor’s visit was faked just like the moon-landing; Elvis’ death; and fill in your own favorite “conspiracy” story.
I think I’m done. I think DWTS is done. They may get one more season out of it. Under the current styling of the show, the judges comments that don’t match their scores, and what now appears to be the interference of Mandy Moore I would be shocked to see them pull off 2 more seasons. You can full some of the people some of the time, but after awhile the viewing demo that truly supports this show, will find better things to do and watch at 7pm on Monday nights like watching the grass grow in the spring or the leaves change colors in the fall.
Whilst I dislike the fact that Val (or any pro) is getting help for his freestyle, Mark is also getting help for his freestyle from Misha Gabriel, so why aren’t we getting fired up about that?
I guess it’s because they’re being more open about it? (posting on Instagram and what not)
I have to agree with Jean. I ,too, was taken aback by the hostile response towards moravamc. I regarded her “What’s with all the hate” comment as tongue-in-cheek, kind of like….hey…all four finalists are great, why complain about any of them? As Heidi has stated above, a blog is full of differing opinions, so it strikes me as odd that moravamc is being criticized for exactly that, expressing her own opinion, which I repeat, I viewed merely as a playful remark on her behalf, so I can see why she was probably a bit shocked for getting the response that she got.
Maybe because if Mark is getting choreo help from Mischa he’ll thank him accordingly? Speaking of Mark, for all the talk about how it’s ‘Val’s turn’ and that he’s paid his dues: Mark last won before Val even joined the show. Since then he’s had Bristol Palin. Twice. I don’t subscribe to the kindergarten kickball MVP mentality but if the Chmerk fans want to talk about paying dues…
Yeah, I don’t expect Val to openly admit in getting help from Mandy Moore in his freestyle, much like Peta didn’t for either of her freestyles.
I am disliking the C-bros more and more each show. Seem entitled and smug both of them. Meryl and Charlie were at Ritz Carlton in Georgia last night and one of the couple who sat with them at dinner asked them about DWTS and Charlie mentioned Derek helping them a lot with their Olympic routine and called him a “genius” choreographer. Also said that it was harder for guys because they had to learn the dance, remember it and LEAD which the girls don’t have to do but they do not
emphasize it on the show. No mention of Maks at all. Seemed a great fan of Derek.
I like Val and how he puts a lot of content in his routines (not that the others don’t of course) but i honestly don’t believe that anyone deserves to win if they can’t even choreograph a freestyle by themselves. Okay maybe Mandy Moore is giving advice to other couples which they may or may not take, but going to someone’s house is obviously giving more than just advice. You give advice at rehearsals not at a house call. I may be wrong.
I get that it’s not the pro’s win, it’s the star’s win, but I feel like for Val it’s being emphasised and played off as his win. With Whitney I don’t really get that vibe and it feels a lot like a joint partnership, instead of just trying to “get her first win”; as if it’s for Alfonso.
I think Mandy Moore said that comment about initially thinking that Alfonso’s injury was fake to create doubt about him. Being a part of the show, I don’t think she should be saying those things. Alfonso doesn’t seem like the type of person to me that would resort to faking an injury to gain sympathy votes and get ahead. He’s come this far based on his talent and I think it must have pained him not to perform to his full ability on Monday night.
Also, how is it fair that Mandy Moore is helping choreograph Janel and Val’s freestyle? I like Val’s choreography, but his freestyles have been very lackluster. If he can’t choreograph a winning freestyle on his own for Janel, they don’t deserve to win in my opinion.
Stephanie i agree especially if you are a part of the show dont make these type of comments
Im pretty sure she is part of val and maks circle so im not that suprised
Regarding the freestyle i watch erin and maks freestyle back and it was not good so i don’t know what val was thinking anyway we will have one comtemporary and one jazz tap i am sure mark will go for something upbeat
And im really exited about what derek will come up with i don’t think it will be something lyrical because they just done it
I think it will be a great finale
Personally I find Mandy Moore’s choreography derivative and somewhat pedestrian. It doesn’t stink on ice yet neither does it excite. The only dance of hers I’ve ever watched more than once was the Boogie Shoes dance on SYTYCD for Billy and Lauren.
If she’s going to do Val’s FS for him or even collaborate with him on it, then I damn well want to see it in the pre-performance package. Let the voters see that the pro went to an outside choreographer for the most important dance of the season.
I didn’t know about Moore being the dance guru or whatever her title is. If she’s there to advise ALL the pros on choreo and staging then how is it fair that she choreographs only one of the pros Freestyle? It brings up issues of objectivity.
@Susan – Regardless of whether moravamc’s comment was “tongue in cheek” or not, it was still a comment about other posters, which is exactly what we forbid around here – had she just said “I love all the finalists and think they all deserve to be there”, I wouldn’t have given it a second thought. But instead, she decided to throw in a subtle instance of what I like to call “comment shaming”, which I’m seeing more and more of an I’m not liking it – people throwing in a “what’s with the hate?” or “I think you might be overreacting” or “Why is everyone being so mean?” is basically devaluing someone else’s opinion. The rule has always been “talk about what you think about the show, not what you think about what other people think of the show.” And if you think my response to her was hostile, you must have some pretty thin skin as well. And to be clear: this conversation is OVER. No more talking about how “hostile” I am, how you “shocked” and “taken aback” you are about how I responded, or how you think we shouldn’t be “complaining” about anyone. You wanna continue to talk about it? Use the “contact us” button and I might indulge you. Next person to chime in here with their opinion on the matter gets blocked permanently…not even joking.
I am just saying Mark, Derek and Julianne have equally as many mirrorballs as the rest of the pros together. That says something about how talented the three of them are, AND both Mark and Derek have been EMMY nominated and Derek has even won one, So I mean everybody is allowed to have their own opinion, but it’s never a specific somebodys turn to get the trophy or medal in any other competition ..
@Charlotte- I think the reason for not getting fired up about Mark is exactly what you stated. The fact that he’s openly posting about it vs. hiding it is the difference for me.
I personally don’t mind if anybody gets help on their freestyle. I just want them to be open about it. What I like from everyone on the show is honestly. It’s a creative choice that any pro is open to make so I don’t fault Val for actually using Mandy, but fault him for hiding it.
I also think that Marks decision to use Misha makes more sense creatively than Vals would be to use Mandy. Mark has done a lot of work with Misha recently (Work with his music, The grammys halftime show pepsi commercial, and I think other projects as well) and although Marks specialty is ballroom and Mishas is hip hop, they both have similar styles. In comparison, I get the impression that Val would be working with Mandy just to get a leg up on the competition. But hey…to each their own I guess. I don’t think getting outside choreographers has helped many in the past so who knows how it will go now.
Is Misha choreographing their dance or is he dancing with them?
Besides that – Mark has credibility on this show. He’s won twice, and has delivered great choreo off and on over the years, especially with Sadie. Most importantly, he’s not bragging all over social media and his family aren’t making snide comments about the other contestants…all in a quest to win. So there you go. We know mark and Derek can deliver, on their own, great freestyles. Can Val? And you know, people probably would not care if not for his braggadocio and Maks’ shade tossing.
And I have to ask…what were Val fans saying when Derek got the assistance of that dude who helped with Ambers freestyle, eh? Is this like the hypocrisy with the chair?
(Note: I used to be “Susan” but just as in grammar school there are way too many with that name, so I’ve become “Suzy”)
What struck me was that Kristen said she had mentioned it to Moore before the show, and then asked her about her choreoing for “one team.” So Moore had time to figure out her response, which was sooooooooo transparent. She was completely disingenuous in her answer; I don’t believe what she said for a second. I agree with Susan2 that we should see her “advising” Val in the package, but I’m not holding my breath. I’m beginning to understand that the truest picture we’ve gotten of the Chmercockies was them with Pharrell hats on their privates.
@Heidi- I think he’s helping choreograph? I don’t think we’ll know for sure until Monday, but Mishas instagram made it seem like he was choreographing.
But I also agree on all accounts. The past is definitely a good indicator as well.
I would love to see Bethany and Sadie as the top two. Since they have never danced but have shown so much progress with dancing, it would be awesome to see them get this recognition. To me, this show is about celebrities who are non-dancers becoming dancers. I love watching professionals but wish DWTS would not bring them on to compete with those who are not trained in dance. For me, it takes away some of the excitement.
@della….I also would like to see Bethany and Sadie as the two finalists. They have had a great journey and for me, that’s the number one reason I have always loved to watch the show. Both of them have improved week after week. I have never felt that is all about the Pro winning that plastic ball trophy. I also think that when someone as talented as Derek leaves the show, the other Pros won’t have that competition level to compete with which also gives them an incentive to grow more in their professional dancing field. Just like Tony said when he partnered with Derek in Bethany’s Trio Dance. He said it was a privilege to work with Derek.
@ raine mayer +1 my toughs too !!
#36 Raine mayer: My thoughts exactly, well-stated!
I think my problem with Vajanel using Mandy comes from 2 main reasons.
1. They’re not being upfront about it
2. Mandy is an employee of the show.
In other cases, I don’t have issues if people are getting help from other show pros. The pros are there as teachers & choreographers, so collaborating can sometimes be good for everyone as it gives the pros a chance to continue to be creative. I also consider them to all be on the same level, like going to a coworker for help on a project vs. running to a manager. For Mandy to call herself a “Movement Director” and how she “basically works right under the director” and essentially placing herself in a position of “authority” (I use that term loosely) on the show is for me where the gray area comes in.
Eh, let him use Mandy Moore for all I care – in my opinion, she’s pretty good sometimes, but I think highly overrated others – and some of my least favorite pro dances on the show have been choreographed by her. It seems that Val and Janel went for the lovey contemporary route, which is a style that he probably wants as much help with as possible.
It’d be great if they mention it on the show, but not every pro that’s gotten outside help has it noted in their package – sometimes maybe for storyboarding, sometimes I just think time constraints. Of course, if they don’t mention it – it does come across as another way that the producers have propped this couple – but if they do – I wonder if it’ll be their way of dropping them a bit, as well.
Val really had an opportunity to shine on his own merit this season and he blew it. Instead of displaying his own talents Val chose to go the other route and follow in his brothers footsteps. The showmance angle (puke), the arrogant behavior, lackluster performances, and most of all DESPERATION in everything he does. It’s actually quite sad.
Couldn’t agree more, Sandy!
For a good contrast between Derek and Val, consider that Derek’s biggest concern is not repeating himself while Val’s biggest concern is recreating what his brother did.
I think that any authority Mandy might have is going to heavily depend on who you are on the show. Like Lindsay versus Derek, for example. I doubt VERY much that Mandy is in a position to tell Derek what to do and how to do it (although he would probably let her), but she certainly would be over some of the other, more newbie types.
IF Val is using Mandy much more heavily than anyone else (and she certainly denies it pretty strongly) and he doesn’t own it – well, he’s the one that has to live with it. Personally, Mandy is very hit and miss with me, so I don’t know it will actually help them. It certainly did nothing for Maks and Erin. And really, while she did some great openers last season, there has been way too much bump and grind with the ladies this season. Tremendous overkill. It got to the point that I would do anything to see a male pro doing some actual dancing, as opposed to something verging on a strip tease.
ETA: Has anyone credible actually SEEN the photo of Mandy at Val’s house with Janel et al?? Because the person who was talking about it originally was exposed as a bit of a liar this past weekend. Just sayin’.
Yeah, Sandy – and I was afraid that would happen. He has/had so much potential too.
I have seen the picture Heidi it was like two days before dwtsgossip got the info out
Anyway i don’t think it matters if the freestyle is gorgeous well val cant take credit if it’s okay well it would have been what he choregraphed anyway
I saw the picture too & it’s still up on Maks’s instagram. It’s got Mandy, Serge, Sharna, Peta & Janel in it. It was posted Nov. 4.
Should be interesting to see their rehearsal footage!