Afterbuzz TV Reviews Dancing With The Stars Season 20 Week 7
Wow…is this ever an interesting Afterbuzz TV show! This week, Shirley and Corky Ballas are Kristyn and Suri’s guests. Let’s just say….Shirley and Corky weren’t very happy about Mark and Willow getting eliminated too early. They hint at producer manipulation ….and A LOT!! I have to say…I’ve wondered on the same things at times (IE: Sharna and Charlie, Karina and Ralph to name a few other exits that happened too early) and they have some valid points. Also, pay special attention to when they start reviewing Derek and Nastia’s dance too as they say something about Henry that is interesting to say the least. Let us know what you think of this week’s show?
awwww…dang!!! I wonder if Derek was ok with Shirley giving the down low on the Henry situation!
The only reason I think Derek might be a tad upset is because he was trying to be classy about the whole thing and say that Henry “was just very, very busy with other commitments”, so Henry didn’t
look like an egomaniac. I think Derek (and Sasha) both come out smelling like roses here, and it’s Henry that looks like an arrogant bastard. I kind of love that Shirley singlehandedly smacked down the false idol worship we’ve been seeing of Henry on AB – and it all just makes Sasha’s sudden ascent seem that much more karmically perfect 🙂
I feel like the reason Derek was in the dance was to keep HIS fans invested in Nastia. That’s not being indulgent, that’s thinking about the celebrity!
also remember if he wasn’t still working with them…he would be home sitting doing nothing…going crazy…
I loved Shirley’s complete honesty about everything on her mind. It was very refreshing to actually hear someone who seems to be around the set a lot speak so freely about it. Karma is a bitch H.
To be truthful if I wasn’t such a hard core derek fan and just a medi core fan of his and I I didn’t se whim dancing I wouldn’t vote for nastia – I just wouldn’t but since ei love derek so much I will do whatever it takes to support him even though this show is shi@ and I will stand up for him every single time when he gets bashed for being talented and lovEly man
Great episode with Corky and Shirely. I appreciated Corky’s honesty about Nastia’s and Sasha ‘s dance; and I thought I was the only one who felt that way….
I wonder if we’ll see Mark on AB again? I hope so!
I also don’t think willow and mark getting eliminated was rigged…I think alot of people who are appauled they were eliminated didn’t vote…that and I feel like she got lost in the mix too much…and its not smart to assume hunger games fans were voting for her…she didn’t carry the movie..
that being said..I liked her…didn’t vote for her..but, I do think there were other people who should have been gone before her.
Gotta love Karma Courtney!!!
I usually agree more with Shirley than Corky. There should definitely be consistency in judging. But here’s the thing, Derek barely used the troupe this season. And I felt it was necessary in the Charleston. How fun is an empty subway? Mark has used the troupe far more than Derek or Sharna. Len was wrong to bring it up in Noah’s dance.
I wouldn’t be surprised if Henry doesn’t get asked back in any form next season. Let’s be realistic here, he’s probably never going to get another shot as a pro dancer so I don’t understand why on earth he thinks that he’s above helping a professional dancer. Maybe he was supposed to be a pro this season in Derek’s absence but got pulled last minute due to Derek’s change of plan? I just don’t understand why he thought he was above helping Derek out with his celebrity. As a troupe member, he’s supposed to act as “backup” for the professional dancers anyway, I remember when he covered for Mark with Aly one week. There are plenty of other dancers who would jump at the chance at helping out a professional or being a troupe member on DWTS.
I just finished watching this After Buzz interview. Kudos to Shirley and Corky for their professional and honest opinions. They definitely know what they are talking about. The best After Buzz show ever.
I do think what Shirley had to say was extremely interesting. As was the point about Erin announcing Nastia had immunity before Mark and Willow performed. That really stuck out to me as well. Perhaps Willow and Rumer were the real bottom two. Hence the decision by the producers not to do a double elimination and then to ensure that, whatever happened, Willow and Mark did not win immunity as that would have meant Rumer being voted off. Or perhaps Willow and Riker were the bottom two and the producers dont want an all female final. We often see strange things happening somewhere in weeks five through eight as people vote to save people (Robert, for example) assuming the top scorers will be safe. This “shocking elimination” may well ensure people vote next week for who they want in the finale vice whoever they might have voted for to try to save last week – Chris/Robert. The above is merely speculation on my part, but irrespective the last two weeks have provided much food for thought.
Henry’s ego has been obvious for awhile and glad Shirley called him out. Don’t why he thinks he would have a shot if not for Derek. If they was impressed, they would not have gone after Artem and added him and Keo. Or even giving Keo a second shot. Henry, two newer pros were asked back. Sasha I get because of height. Some on other sites were taking info from the this site and spinning it of course to fit their agenda claiming Derek’s ego. Shirley said it was Henry’s ego and Sasha is a good fit. Also Nastia seems to get along well with him and his personality will be good for Nastia and Derek.
Corky saying it was indulgent is funny because Mark so often does that and makes it about himself. I mean the Mario bros freestyle was he wanted to do. So many costumes and choreo feature him. Or overpower the pro. Mark seemed to be gunning for an Emmy with this production numbers. While I felt the charleston was an accident Emmy submission because so good and choreo was good. Not just the production which is often what stands out more in Mark’s dances.
I did think that when Erin said “you’ve won immunity” that it was just a mistake on her part. Certainly there’s a possibility that it was planned from the get-go, but it’d be odd for it to be Nastia, in that case. Unless the unthinkable that she was actually the lowest total and would have been eliminated – but no way is that the case. I do think she earned that immunity, or at the very least Willow tied for it (I liked Willow’s dance even more upon rewatch) so again I’ll just try to chalk it up to Erin’s flub at miswording what she said, rather than showing her cards too early.
I did watch this episode (hint hint: I’ll keep watching with good guests like this) and I didn’t agree with everything they said, but I do appreciate that Shirley and Corky spread their love around to everyone in some form. I’m glad they said what many of us have been saying about Chris – that he’s way, way, way worse that he is being scored.
I also agree with those that LIKE the big productions. There’s a lot of people that complain, but personally I love that they’ve created these grand numbers – ten years of the same routines over and over wouldn’t have made this show what it is. I don’t mind the troupe (in most cases) and I love the theatrics of the numbers. Sure, on occasion there’s moments where I feel like the focus shifts a bit – but overall I think they add more than they subtract.
@Melissa – Other sites have been taking intel from here for YEARS and trying to put their own spin on it – and more often than not, they end up looking like fools later on because the truth comes out and it’s consistent with what we’ve said. But I have no doubt some will still bury their heads in their own hindquarters and insist this was “all Derek’s fault”, despite being confronted with overwhelming evidence to the contrary. To them, I say – have fun riding your unicorns off into the sunset 😉
Can I say I love Derek even more. He covered for Henry. He said Henry has scheduling issues and added both Sasha & Henry are great guys. This man is such an amazing human being. Something to aspire towards.
What idiot said he was being indulgent? Oh wait…I’m on the AB post. Got it.
This is why some people just don’t win this show. They don’t THINK. Derek is keeping HIS FANS in the game. Smart.
I found Derek adorable and engaging in all aspects of Mondays show. I think his putting himself in the dance was smart, strategic and NOT indulgent. We hear the comments about “lack of chemistry” every year different pro/celeb—this year it’s Nastia– not that big of a deal and can be overcome if played right. With that said I think Derek being in the dance was for her benefit with him present fans will continue to vote possibly more so than just based on her alone. Let’s face it Nastia is an outstanding dancer yet she is not the most engaging celeb Derek has had for whatever reason, the competitor in her maybe, although she seems to be coming around. Yes, this is a dance show but engaging with the fans does help (ie. Robert, Bill E, etc)
Yeah, Corky has NOTHING at all to be upset about with regard to Monday nights show. Not exactly what I would call an unbiased source. Shirley either, for that matter. As much as they love Derek, they would probably try to pay someone to make sure he doesn’t win another MBT before Mark does.
Remember, they only asked Nastia to be on this season because Derek joked about his Monday’s being free and then his original NY partner fell through. That makes it kinda hard for me to believe that he displaced any other dancer.
But if he did, tough crap. Derek’s a star, Henry isn’t. That’s show business.
Anyone else getting tired of the hyperbole that AB spews?? I don’t watch the show – I just don’t have time – but dang, I’m tired of reading about it. I mean, Derek and the troupe?? Have they watched this season at all?? Derek and Sharna were the two pros notable for having barely used the troupe at all this season.
Well Shirley didn’t find Derek indulgent at all and disagreed with Corky on it and then changed the conversation to praising Derek’s work ethic. So I don’t think she felt up to playing that game.
She did mention Derek using the troupe and not getting called out for it, but she said that in reference to the inconstant judging saying that it was called out on one before him but not on that routine. I found that to be a fair statement and not a dig on Derek. I mean, Shirley is not usually a hypocrite and she would be if she came down on Derek using the troupe one time whereas Mark has been surrounding himself with the troupe dancers all season.
I just love Derek’s beautiful heart and he’s a wise young man. That’s one reason why he is loved so much besides his awesome talents.
This was a good one. I liked quite a lot of thins on todays show but here is my take on few things.
I lovedddd Willow and Mark she was doing really good I liked her any day more than Rumer and Riker but I think not a lot of ppl really voted for her that was the main reason she got voted out. The show may be rigged but I kind of think they dint do it on this one.
2.Erin saying Derek and Nastia winning immunity. She said you win the immunity as of now I think she meant was that they are above Riker and Allison and have taken the lead on immunity. she did say As of now.
3. Derek using troupe and being indulgent hmmmm I was okay with wat shirley had to say he wanted to be their for Nastia and do watever he could I tot that was very smart move on Derek’s part to not let it go O have seen a few on Twitter saying they may not vote if Derek was not ter ny more so him being present and including himself in the dance is smart. Now I dont know why but Corky seems to be going anti Derek for some time actually that was him making it all about Nastia by being ter for her even when he was injured.
4. Henry Henry Henry really that was why he gave it up what was it did the FAM ask u to act like tat or u yourself are so full of S###.
5. After Henry acting like an A## Derek still had him in his troupe and said he has scheduling issues man this DEREKHOUGH is CLASSACT
I enjoyed Shirley a lot more today than Corky I love how she said that when Derek is working he is 100% does not think about exhaustion or travelling he is just there even though he is very exhausted at times.
That’s an interesting theory, Jean, and I hadn’t actually put it together in my head quite that way. It did occur to me on watching the show back that Rumer and Willow might be the real bottom two, but it hadn’t occurred to me that giving Willow immunity would have meant Rumer going home.
That said, however, Nastia had the dance of the night easily, in my mind. I do think the judges realized she was going home because no one said a peep about Mark not following the rules and doing his assigned “Era”. While I’ve loved most of his dances the last two seasons, I spent too much of the dance on Monday night saying “WTF??”
I haven’t watched, so I’m just going by the comments here…
Oh, wow! Shirley said that about Henry? Ouch! I did get from the comments in other posts that his “ouster” as Derek’s stand-in during camera-blocking had something to do with Henry’s ego. I still remember your parsley guy analogy, Courtney, and it still makes me chuckle. If I were Henry right now, I’d be burying my head in the ground in shame.
As for Corky’s “self-indulgent” comment on Derek still being in Nastia’s dance, well, doesn’t hold water for me just because this season, many other pros have been pretty much self-indulgent, if we go by instances where the pro could change songs not once but twice, go the big production route for many of the dances he/she creates.
Agree with Figmentation #14. Erin just made a mistake, which actually confused Derek and Sasha (even Nastia, if I remember correctly). She then proceeded to correct herself saying something like “you got immnnity for now.”
I loved how Shirley brought the Henry situation so casually into the conversation. The look on Kristyn’s face though! Suri seemed to have little-to-no reaction, so I hope this info sinks in later.
I wonder if this Henry situation has affected the way the other pros view him. I noticed he isn’t going to be in any of the Trio dances next week. Starting from Season 14, he’s been featured in them every season since. Maybe I’m just jumping to conclusions since there’s only 2 girls left, one being Nastia, which, well, that’s never going to happen (again).
I also wonder what his chances (of staying in the troupe or being promoted to pro) are next season – are the producers okay w/ his behavior?
Yeah, Mark also wanted to do the Ninja routine which wasn’t even the assigned Era. Takes a lot of balls to say Derek is the one being indulgent.
Good to know, Michelle.
I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. I don’t mind the troupe if they stick to the background. I wouldn’t even mind the big production numbers on their own. But man, it kinda removes the fun of the freestyle/finale. By the time we get there we’ll have seen everything. Unless Derek has another stroke of brilliance. 🙂
I think part of the problem with the use of the troupe and tons of props and sets is also that when you combine it with non-ballroom dance styles, it doesn’t feel like DWTS anymore. Not a ballroom show. I need to go back and watch Nicole and Derek to recapture some of that great old feel.
Corky seems to really try to knock Derek down a peg sometimes in order to prop up Mark. Or at least it comes off that way to me and I could be wrong.
What I love about Shirley though is that she doesn’t seem interested in doing that in the least bit. She is just a proud mama who thinks both of her boys are the bestest things ever created by God. Yes sometimes she hyper pimps Mark but she doesn’t put down one to praise the other. I respect that.
I’ve always enjoyed Shirley and Corky on Afterbuzz however I think this time around it was too soon since Monday nights show for them to truly be unbiased and at times it seemed to be an underlying factor in some of their comments. Of course like Shirley mentioned MANY times the packages, judging, and production decisions are “manipulated” to increase the drama of this REALITY show. But without some of that would there even be a 10 yr long running show for their son to be on or better yet for them to be commenting on?
Side note Suri just bothered me the whole show pretty much just sucking up to them. Kristen at least try to explore other sides and outlooks.
I am glad to see Shirley give some Love to Val. Too Cute! They spread the admiration around.
I agree that Derek had a nice advantage on the sidelines to tweak Nastia during the dance and again by working as a trio next week for the second week in a row. You Go Derek!
Derek knows how to showcase the star, but I still am not fanning over Nastia.
I am sorry Derek, but I think I am going to have to leave you and vote elsewhere. It is the BRF that gets me every week.
The whole Henry thing makes me laugh….If it makes him feel better at the end of the day not to play second fiddle than he did the right thing for himself.
Although I like it when Shirley comes on the show, I don’t know about Corky. Last season I remembered him being super harsh on Bethany & Derek’s dance. And in tonight’s episode, I thought it was hypocritical of him to say Derek was being self-indulgent. Just look at Mark! All the costumes he puts himself (& his partners) in, the crazy makeup & over-dancing (though he has toned this down over the last few seasons) – he has taken the focus off his partners many times, in my opinion.
Going a little off tangent: when Mark was on AB earlier he said he keeps a notebook of ideas for potential dances. If he wants to bring these ideas to life, why doesn’t he just choreograph some pro numbers instead of waiting for a capable partner? Derek’s done some AMAZING pro numbers throughout the years – and won an Emmy.
I’m kind of confused about afterbuzz 🙁 i feel like some weeks they are somewhat hurtful, like remember last week (or the week before?) when they were saying stuff about derek and everyone was getting mad here? And this week its the opposite. Is what afterbuzz says always truthful? Is it gossip? I dunno.
Michelle #21 – Mark used the troupe in the actual dance only once – the Hunger Games dance – and they were only on the stage in one other dance, and that was the Whiplash salsa last week (but I don’t think they even danced). There’s some weird perception about Mark “always using the troupe this season” and it’s just not true (unless I’m forgetting something).
The quality of AB always seem to depend on the guests. Not a fan of Corky, but Shirley is an amazing guest. Mark was fabulous as well. When it comes to Serge, they are really scraping the bottom of the barrel.
@jennylynn- There was no way they were going to pull out the Derek bashing stuff of the last few weeks tonight with Shirley Ballas sitting there with her baby cub injured. They are not that stupid. They want to keep Shirley coming on their show and harping BS on her son while he’s out with an injury would not be the way to do it. That’s why I felt safe watching AB this week because I knew they would never go there.
I LOVE that Henry’s true colors finally showed! And I also loved Shirley’s last plug for Derek and Mark’s show. She’s such a proud mom.
Corky is full of crap with the whole “indulgent” thing. But I’ve noticed before that he is not as proud of Derek as Shirley is. Probably something to do with the dynamic of their relationship. Have you seen the comments on Instagram on Nastia’s last post? They’re asking people if Derek should be in the next number or not, and people are screaming IN like crazy. Just a few no’s here and there, but the vote is overwhelmingly showing people want him in. So hush and don’t be bitter, Corky. It’s unbecoming.
jennylynn it depends on their guests. The hosts have a tendency to agree with everything their guest at the time says whether they are right or wrong as they don’t want to risk annoying them. So if they have a guest like Shirley Ballas here then the show is fine. But when they have someone like Serge on, that’s when the show can lose credibility.
@Jane-maybe the producers haven’t let Mark demonstrate pro numbers on the show? This is just a theory though. Either that or maybe mark has never gotten around to doing it for some reason.
Fig he also had the troupe in the Alice in Wonderland dance. I guess I just meant that if Shirley thought Derek was wrong for his production/troupe use this past week then that would be the pot calling the kettle black.
@Oh okay guys just wondering, no idea who serge is though. I can’t watch afterbuzz for long though, I get bored with all the talking, but shirley ballas is one of my favorites. 🙂 she seems sweet.
It still makes Corky a hypocrite, Fig, which I think (without going back) is the point of the conversation. Corky was talking about Derek being “self indulgent” – well, does he not watch his sons dances? Derek used the troupe twice, so did Mark – but Mark had them all through his Hunger Games routine, whereas they were very much the background in this recent dance and only on in the beginning and end in his first dance. Either way – both used them twice, he’s only calling out Derek.
Not to mention that it’s quite self indulgent to use all the crazy costumes and then do a ninja routine which is hardly in the correct Era. There wasn’t anything remotely futuristic about it, IMO.
I get that he’s stung that Mark got eliminated. And I get that he’s feeling protective. But he loses my respect completely when he tears down Derek to prop up Mark.
Henry is so far up the Chmerkovskys collective asses he needs a map and a compass just to find his way home at night. If it was Val who needed a stand-in you better believe he’d be doing it and justifying all the reasons why it was necessary for him to make this selfless sacrifice to help out his “family”. I really can’t stand him and hope the show wipes the slate of him.
I think Erin just made a mistake. The girl’s got a lot on her mind right now and definitely seemed off her game and distracted this week. She also made a huge deal out of repeating Rumer and Val’s number several times and right then I figured they were in trouble. She’s usually more subtle with her pimping, especially when it comes to her beloved Chmerkovskiys.
That’s right – the card knights – ugh, I actually did NOT like them (more for the costumes than anything else) so I probably tried to block that part of the dance out, haha – a dance which I otherwise loved.
But it wasn’t Shirley at all who is saying Derek did too much – it was Corky. She was just complaining about a lack of consistency from the judges – arbitrarily punishing one while not mentioning it to the other – not that they shouldn’t use them.
In general, I agreed with Corky on a few things – his take on Rumer’s Jive, especially – but Shirley has always seemed to be a much more positive, warm person than him, although they did seem a bit raw about the Willow elimination – understandably, to a point.
I don’t think Corky really thinks of Derek as his son nearly as much as Shirley does – who obviously feels a love for not only Mark and Derek, but Maks, Val, Tony, and the rest. I love that about her.
The moral of the story for having over the top ego is: 1. Sasha–out of the crab suit, 2. Henry–2nd choice troupe and going to wear the crab suit when needed 😀
I thought they were supposed to be futuristic ninjas – that was my take.
Oh and I’m not defending Corky, I was just pointing out this perception about Mark “always using the troupe” seems to be odd, given that he had quite a few with no troupe at all. So my point was more about Mark than Corky’s opinion.
However, in Corky’s case (again not defending him, just clarifying) I think he was more at issue with Derek singing, the addition of the musical guest, the troupe, and the set – I think he thought that Derek threw too much in, rather than just the fact that he used the troupe. Again, not neccessarily agreeing with him, just explaining what he was trying to say since some haven’t watched the video yet.
Jennylynn, Serge is Henry’s twin brother from different mother hehe…
Did Shirley say something about 22 years of marriage? Are she and Corky a couple again? I thought they had divorced a long time ago.
@ PH #19, the way Shirley was talking about Rumer & Val (but mostly Val) made it seem to me she would rather VAL win the MBT over Derek. I think her bias showed very clearly when she said their Jive was underscored (WTF?).
@ Jennylynn #39, either way (whether it’s producers or Mark himself), I think it’s disappointing Mark’s never choreographed some pro numbers. I do think he is very creative but when it comes to the competition, I think the OTT production overpowers his celeb & he prioritizes making his concept come to life over his partner’s technique.
I got such a different vision of Corky while reading Derek’s book than the one we see regularly. I guess Derek just highlights the positives in others.
Funny thing is I was actually at a dance event where Corky was on the panel of speakers right after Derek won the Emmy. There was another dance coach there who mentioned that her daughter and student had won this prestigious ballet award and I kid you not as soon as she said it, Corky busted out with, “yeah my son just won the Emmy for choreography.” The woman gave him this sideways look that cracked me up.
Matrintx – I heard that too, which I thought was odd since Wiki reports them only having been married for ten or eleven years – but I don’t know the actual tenure.
BTW, according to Wiki Mark’s grandfather invented the friggen Weed Eater, haha wow! I wonder how much of that money ended up in Corky and Mark’s hands!
It reminds me that Mike Nesmith’s mom (he was the guy in the hat for the Monkees) invented White Out. Also, that I would LOVE if they got Mickey Dolenz on the show!!!!!
I didn’t get the sense that Shirley was praising Val OVER Derek, just that she had positive things to say about both of them. She fawned over Derek’s work ethic and his dance this week – although she did say she didn’t think it had much Charleston, she loved it.
Really, Shirley glowed about almost everyone – they were both over the moon about Sharna especially, but also Val, Witney, etc. She even complimented Maks.
I agree mostly with all Shirley’s opinions, and I felt Corkey a lit bias, but then Mark is his flesh and blood.(when it came to Nastia & Sasha/Derek dance. Not saying they shouldn’t be upset with Willow & Marks shock elimination. Shirley just seems to love all three of them kids and is proud of them all. This is the first time I’ve watched AfterBuzz that I enjoyed and I was actually laughing (sometimes out load). Didn’t miss Anna one bit. I liked all three ladies comments.Loved the name (Dasha) I especially love it every time Corky put his finger on top of Shirley’s head and she went off on the little skit about the show being a reality show..etc etc. Some of their comments were interesting about the judges (inconsistency) and the producers. And, glad to hear these two professional dancers tell it like it is when it comes to Henry.
Yeah Shirley and Corky both probably said that it was highly-produced a few too many times, but I get their point. It’s difficult to take anything about the results of the show at face value – and Jean’s comment above about Rumer being the other bottom celeb makes for a very intriguing point.
But in general I agreed with most of what they said, especially Shirley. I’m trying to like Val more than I do, and it’s nice to hear positive things about him from her. She also made a very interesting observation about Robert & Kym’s dance – that KYM was the one who messed up and Robert caught her. I wasn’t paying close enough attention, nor do I really want to rewatch it – so maybe someone else here can offer their opinion on that possibility.
This is strictly my opinion, but I tend to believe that Henry didn’t want to help Derek over Val. Henry is now part of the ever-so-important “fam” and he may have been struggling with aiding the competition. As someone already said, if asked to do the same for his brother Val, I’m pretty sure he would have done so without any problem.
Even though Corky said he was confused by the subway dance, he agreed with the scores. I sense he had trouble taking it all in, but did appreciate the quality of the dance.
I agree with many of your sentiments Heidi. AB is hypocritical swaying with their guests. Kristin moderates and doesn’t express her true opinion at times like this and I don’t respect that. It was too soon for Ballas fam to be objective. They were bitter and didn’t really see all sides. Corky was disingenuous in his comments. The indulgent comment was uncalled for. The Ninja number wasn’t Marks best, black on black didn’t photograph well, didn’t fit the era theme, didn’t have enough dancing and wasn’t the tightest. It was in no way equal or better than Nastia’s dance.
It seems that Emmy’s involve respect and participation in the dance world. Multiple nominations, great dancing that evokes true emotions and not just production value. I don’t think Mark is connected or greatly respected in the dance world and has the other components. Just an observation.
I do believe even Shirley would rather see Val/Rumor win not because Rumor is better than Nastia but because she doesn’t want Derek to earn another MBT. That family cannot be truly supportive to Derek. I hope he sees that. I do believe Mark does truly love Derek. I think Mark is talented but not in Dereks league and Ballas family doesn’t want to see that Derek has moved much farther ahead in his career in so many ways.
It’s hard to watch DWTS with all the manipulation but I don’t think Willow was getting the votes. I hope this is the last I see Corky this year on AB or anywhere.
The way Shirley was talking about Val gave me the impression that she was endorsing him to win the MBT. Now that Mark’s out of the competition, I just thought naturally she would be behind Derek for the win, so I was a little taken aback when she said (and I’m paraphrasing), “as long as Val keeps his head on straight, he has a good chance to win.” But I’m probably just jumping to conclusions. I have a tendency to do that, sorry. 🙂
@Jane #49
I thought the same thing when Shirley & Corky were giving their opinion of Rumer’s 60’s Jive. Shirley loved it, and Corky said it was too slow, no drive if I remember correctly. Even the judges said it was too slow no drive, also and for once I agreed with them.
I caved and watched this week because I have liked Shirley on the show in the past.
I really did like this week on the show. I didn’t agree with everything, but I think Shirley and Corky wore their biases on their sleeves. I liked some of the scoop they gave and some of the calling-out that they did. This also reinforced how much the guests influence the show. Last week vs. this week it’s like two different shows.
My favorite was the comments about Noah. The balance thing is really impressive, and I liked how Corky said there are awkward moments but those are quickly drowned out. Obviously, I didn’t agree with everything said, but I found this week to be far more informative and enjoyable than last week’s.
I don’t think that was an endorsement of one over the other at all. She said that if Val can keep it together, they have a good shoot – which is true. She also said Nastia is the frontrunner and praised Derek a ton throughout the show. Is it true that she’d be okay with Val winning? Very likely. But she didn’t give any indication that the same wouldn’t also be true for Derek.
Shirley adores Val and I am sure she’d be happy for him if he won. She also seems to really like Rumer as a dancer. I don’t think that means she is endorsing Val for the win. Shirley gives out two voting numbers every week on her social media and they are Mark and Derek’s and in the past when Mark has gone out before Derek or vise versa she just gives out the number of the one still on. So while I think she would be thrilled for Val if he won and proud of him, in terms of flat out endorsing or promoting a couple she only seems to do that with her sons.
Shirley loves all of her students and praises them and thrills in them but she does not hide her bias when it comes to her kids which I kind of admire.
Yes, I can see my thoughts on Shirley endorsing Val was an over-reaction on my part, I apologize for that. I guess I just got a little carried away just b/c of the unfair treatment Derek’s been getting from the show & AB. I just hope now that the whole Henry situation has come to light, they will stop throwing shade at Derek (this mostly goes to Anna in particular).
Also, when Shirley (& Corky) was talking about the manipulations of the show, I thought she would have seen the special treatment Rumer & Val have been getting from TPTB & so, have that play a part in her judgement of them. Because who knows? Maybe Willow & Mark got eliminated in order to protect Rumer & Val? Of course, this is all speculation.
But yes, Shirley seems like a very sweet person, very supportive of all the pros, she’s always one of my favorite guests on AB. I also love her feistiness – telling Corky not to interrupt her so she could finish what she wanted to say, I loved that part!
Kim #31 I am so glad you noticed Suri sucking up the entire time to Shirley and Corky too. It was driving me INSANE. I have noticed it a lot from her this season on AfterBuzz and I think it is because their guests every week have some connection to Mark- Marks BFF Darvina (like 3+ times), Mark, Shirley, Corky. I guess it would be awkward to not seem like you are interested in Mark’s dances with those people around because you don’t want to see rude.
Well, there’ve been many interesting things said……but what I found very surprising is how they spoke about people’s votes. I mean, do they really manipulate with them? Can they? Because if it so, I think that pro’s like Derek wouldn’t be a part of such a biased show anymore.
i think Shirley likes to show her closeness to the pros and how she taught them or has a personal connection which is fair enough. Val displayed this week, the exact behaviour she says would be his downfall though. That being said, Rumer appears to have a public relations team behind her ensuring she is on the cover of magazines and websites (US weekly, Daily Mail, her father speaks about her at every occasion ). Is this to compensate for her inability to attract votes? Who knows but she has the Willis machine behind her with all its millions. On another note, the Henry story was karma for sure.
#Lucie – l dont think that anyone is talking about the votes themselves being misrepresented. the producers simply couldn’t get away with that kind of wholesale fraud. What I think we are talking about is the fact that the producers can make every effort to manipulate the voting population: through the packages; through the positioning of the dances; through the choice of dance, music, and themes; through the judges votes; and by deciding whether or not there will be an elimination in any given week and how many people will be eliminated. Keep in mind the producers know the answer that the public has given soon after the show ends (i.e. exactly how many votes each couple is pulling how those votes are trending) and that gives them a week to figure out how to “handle” that information.
I don’t think Tom said “not necessarily the bottom two” when Rumer and Willow were the last two standing. Also as someone mentioned above Erin gave out Rumers voting number as a reminder. I’m wondering if she isn’t getting the votes either. I think that the person getting a good amount of the votes is Noah. Let’s face it his dancing is not the best, but what he has accomplished over these last seven weeks really is amazing. I would not be surprised if he makes the final three and wins. Isn’t that what this show is all about?
I love the Ballas parents and am always VERY interested to hear what they have to say and they say the shit everyone else is thinking and I do think producer manipulation goes on A LOT. That being said, I don’t think there was any manipulation going on here. I’ve been thinking for weeks who was voting for Willow. She came in with just the Hunger Games and not even a major star in it. Yes, she’s extremely likable, she had great routines, was doing well, but she had a subpar week 6 performance. She was people’s 2nd favorite celeb probably and we are at the point where people are just voting for one person. So I 100% buy she had the lowest combined votes and score. Now…does that mean the producers purposefully scored her 1 point from the lead for the shocking elimination? Potentially. So I think that’s where the producer manipulation comes into play.
Also, Corky is being a bit hypocritical about Derek and the troupe when you look at what his son does. I’ve come to accept though that everyone involved with this show is hypocritcal, especially the pros.
The problem with noah for me is…that I see more and more walking every week in the routines..and barely any hip movement..noah has also been in jeopardy more than once as well..these next few weeks are gonna be interesting..because really who is getting the least amount of votes consistently…
Well I broke my vow not to watch the show anymore because Shirley was on.
I think Shirley has the personality of a nurturing Commander In Chief. That’s why I love her.
She filled to the brim with maternal love and fierceness for both Mark and Derek.
This is just my speculation mind you, but I wonder if Corky has some underlying envy going on with regards to Derek’s success. When the student overtakes the teacher sort of thing.
Perhaps Henry should go back to Australia and get his old job back as a pro on their DWTS. Then, someone like Paul Karmiryan can get the empty troupe slot. Henry goes bye bye and we get Paul. It’s a win win situation.
Shirley mentioned in a previous AB that Val was an expert in the jive particularly. He either won competitions or was known for his expertise. Since then I have watched Val when he does the jive and I can see how skilled he is. Comparing jives, Rumors jive wasn’t up to par and was not the quick, precise , energetic jive I’ve seen him produce. as a dance teacher, Shirley knows that so was disappointed for the extra praise this time when it wasn’t warranted and she revealed her subtle bias with that, as recompense for the unfair treatment of her son, Mark.
Sigh – I had vowed to never watch AB again but couldn’t resist upon hearing that Shirley was on. Shirley has always been clear about supporting her boys but she has also always been fair about critiquing their routines and offering constructive criticism, which I really appreciate. I agree with those who said it was too soon for the Shirley and Corky to be on following Willow and Mark’s elimination.
The self indulgent comments by Corky in regard to Derek bothered me but even more so was his insistence on repeating that it should be about the celebrity. While I agree, I think it’s insulting to say that about Derek. If there has been any pro who has consistently made the journey about their partner, highlighted their partner’s strengths, it’s been Derek. Other pros have certainly done so with some of their celebrities but Derek always does it.
I was so glad to hear Shirley comment on the Henry situation! Kristyn’s face during her comments was pretty funny. Interesting to see so many try and discredit her as showing favoritism for Derek or boosting his ego when I’m pretty sure those same people are effusive in compliments toward her when she says something they like about their favorite celebrity or pro.
I would buy that, Fig, if there was anything remotely “futuristic” about the staging or the effects. And really, Ninjas speak to “old world” not future world. But in any case, Corky is being a hypocrite saying that about Derek regardless of which part of the dance he was talking about. The pot’s father calling the kettle black and all that.
Jane, Mark’s creativity seems to have much more of an ebb and flow when it comes to dancing. Maybe he doesn’t WANT to choreograph a pro number. He’s got plenty of other things he’s doing, after all, and I don’t think it’s his main passion.
If Henry feels that way, Rose1, he won’t have a very long career in show business.
And he’ll never win a MBT if he feels that the “competition” is the end all be all and must be won at all costs. Like Maks. He felt that way and they practically rigged the show to get him a win.
Mark Ballas is the poster child for self-indulgence. Sometimes after his routines, my head is spinning and I’m trying to figure out what just happened!
As for Henry – wow is all I can say. He sure is nice to look at but I guess that it!! LOL!
I don’t think I would go quite that far, Kate. I think Mark is talented in other areas and those other areas are the ones he’s focused on. He and Derek aren’t really doing the same things any more.
I think wanting Val to win is the standard “rooting for the under dog” or the person who has never won that we see all over the place, and has little to do with Mark.
I have always felt that, as a rule, Corky uses Derek as a counterweight to his lack of balance about Mark.
I strongly suspect that had Mark done the subway dance, complete with singing, Corky would have been over the top with how wonderful it was, how original, how genius …. My impression is that he has done that in the past – criticized Derek for the same thing he previously praised Mark for.
Have Corky and Shirley ever acknowledged or complained about judging and other inconsistencies when they are in Mark’s favor, which they certainly have been as much as for anybody?
BTW, I am not criticizing them, everyone is entitled to their own perspective. It’s just they do have their biases, and willingness to criticize Derek doesn’t mean they don’t.
I’ll just put this out there about Corky & Shirley: I’ve taken lessons with both, and I’ve found that Corky is the jokester who likes to have fun but also tends to be full of bull at least 50% of the time; Shirley is very no-nonsense, but is about the most honest and fair coach/adjudicator/pro I have ever met. I can see why their marriage may not have worked – there personalities are just SO DIFFERENT. Corky has always doted on Mark as his Mini-Me, since they look and act so similarly. Shirley adores her son (as she should) but I sometimes wonder if she feels like a bit of a third wheel to them – and I think that’s why she relates to Derek a bit better at times. I’m not really surprised about anything either of them said – but MAN, I think Shirley and I could become BFF after her Afterbuzz commentary. You all know why. 😉
Yep Court. We do!!! 😉
Great episode. The guests really do make or break this show.
I really enjoyed hearing all the different opinions, even when I didn’t agree, because of the way the were delivered. Mostly agreed with Shirley but sometimes agreed with Corky too (Rumer & Val’s jive, Shawn tribal samba trio being memorable). Didn’t love the self-indulgent comment of course, he’s entitled to his opinion but because Mark AND Corky are such look-at-me hams on the dance floor, it was definitely a little pot-calling-kettle. Mark is a great partner but sometimes he does take the focus off his partner with his costumes, concepts and over dancing (latter has gotten better though). Derek has many less dances in the history of DWTS that draw focus upon himself over his partner in comparison.
It was interesting to hear some more info to back up your Deep Throat intel on the Henry situation Courtney! I really liked Henry when he first came on the US show and it’s a shame his attitude has become what it is now.
As for Emmys, I disagree with Suri and others. I really don’t think Mark’s routines this season are ‘Emmy worthy’. I feel like anytime someone sees a different from the norm routine they scream Emmy nod and it’s a bit over used. Mark’s routines are entertaining and unique yes. But the competition is stiff in the choreography world for those Emmy nominations now, and unique or theatrical concept is not enough to scream ‘that’s definitely Emmy worthy’. Derek’s routines that got him the win were unique but also danced at a very high level. Just my opinion, we will see this summer when nominations come out.
I loved this episode of AB with Shirley & Corky. I really enjoy listening to and learning from Shirley, and I have a lot of respect for her accomplishments and professional insight. Corky……not so much, although I did enjoy their witty interpersonal repartee. Unfortunately, I am too biased against him for (and of course this is only from what I have read in the press) cheating on Shirley and destroying their marriage. I feel like she deserves a lot of credit for them remaining friends, probably for Mark’s sake.
Appreciate your perspective on Corky and Shirley, Courtney #80! It sure makes sense of how differently Corky & Shirley looked at Derek’s routine for Nastia and Sasha this week. Which also explains why I’ve always felt that while Shirley might have biases (don’t we all?), she still comes across as honest without being really mean. Yes, you and Shirley should be BFF.
I love Shirley – Corky, I’ve always been a lot more lukewarm to. Even though Mark resembles Corky and definitely has his goofiness, I can see a lot of Shirley in him too, especially as he’s gotten older – his heart and warmth definitely seem to come from her. He seems to be a good amalgamation of his parents, and they have every reason to be proud of both Mark and Derek.
I think Shirley sees Val’s potential, and that’s what she’s hoping is realized – that he stops getting in his own way and lives up to what he can do. I think she wants Mark or Derek to win always, but would be thrilled if Val got a win (that he deserved).
Why have DWTS not made them judges? At least Shirley!
Loved this show… and LOVED Shirley’s comments on Henry! Unlike the people saying it was to early to have them, I think it was perfect because we got the inside scoop from her still recent disappointment from the show. 🙂
I always thought that Derek saying scheduling issues was an excuse to not bash Henry.. at the same time it was a hint that something might not be right since it makes no sense that he had no time to do what is his job! which is DWTS, especially since he is en everyone else’s dances. How must have Henry felt sitting at the far end of that train and seeing Sasha dance with Nastia? I’m surprised he was even chosen to be a part of the dance and not Alan. Life has a way of teaching people lessons when they are most needed.. “ohh so you think you are too good to be helping a colleague, who is also an Emmy winner, who has trusted in you?.. here you go”
And I have said this in comments previously… Love Sasha, everything happens for a reason and if someone was going to get this opportunity life made sure it was the one who deserved it. 🙂
Oh how I love Shirley Ballas. She is so honest, its amazing. Although I would not use the word ‘indulgent’, I do agree with Corky a little bit. The first time, I watched the dance, I was focused on Derek the entire time and holding my breath every time he would suddenly jump up cause of his injury. However, upon watching it a second time, I could really focus on Nastia and Sasha cause I knew Derek was fine. Sasha has to be one of my favourite people on dwts ever. He is so humble, even in the interview with access hollywood. TPTB c’mon give him another shot as pro!
Shirley Ballas is so right on!!!!! Never thought of it as Nastia and Sasha having Derek as a teacher. Brilliant observation. I had been thinking about how EVERYTHING has changed for Nastia, and the fact that she is now much more part of the whole DWTS experience than she was while commuting, plus, of course, having Derek (well, his brain and energy at least) full time. It is such a bizarre thing to think, but notwithstanding that Derek can’t dance, everything for Nastia is coming up roses! Just weird.
I love everything that Shirley said and like she said, I think everything came full-circle in terms of the Derek/Sasha/Henry situation.
Like Shirley kept mentioning about producer chosen eliminations, I 100% agree with her, I always thought that Sharna & Charlies elimination was deliberate in order for Meryl to get his votes, as well as what Vogue said about Karina and Ralph.
My favorite episodes of AB have always been with Shirley, so I hope she comes on more (or maybe replace Len???)
This was the AB episode to watch so far this season. As many have said, Shirley had some interesting revelations/confirmations and good insights. I am interested in experts who point out good technique/choreography or lack thereof. Just don’t get a lot of that from the judges. I’d like to see her as a judge.
Also thought her explanation of Mark’s approach to the season was helpful. Having a 14-year-old actress gave him the idea to create characters for her to play each week. It was more thoughtful and not just Mark pulling ideas off some list of themes he always wanted to do.
Although I love Shirley and I think she’d be an amazing judge, I have to wonder if she’d be up for TPTB games that they seem to have to play. She does seem so straightforward that it doesn’t seem like she’d be a good fit for their agenda – but I would love it if they did add her on.
I can just see the cries of favoritism now – a Hough AND a Ballas on the panel?!?!
Tei (#86), If I had to guess, I’d say DWTS hasn’t approached Shirley to be a judge because she’s got too much integrity for their taste. She wouldn’t pimp some couples and low-ball others to fit TPTB’s agenda and storyboarding. Also, as soon as she opened her mouth, she’d prove to everyone watching that Len, CAI and Bruno are fools.
Love Shirley; she’s like the mother of the whole group; Mark, Val, Derek, Tony, Maks :)))
Cidra (#92) – I completely agree with you. I feel like Shirley would be a perfect judge, if Len were to ever retire and take her place but like you said, I think she would tell it like it is and not do what the producers tell her to say or play up a certain character(which is VERY respectable)
Suzanne #70. Noah has been “in jeopardy” once, then was the first to be announced safe.
Wow I thought his jazz was loaded with hip action! That has never been his problem, He moved more in this routine that any other one of his dances.
I found it very interesting that Shirley suggested that some of eliminations could be rigged by producers, because this is something that I have suspected for years, and of course we will never know. I really enjoyed Willow, and even though I was not sure that she would have won it all, I really thought she would have lasted another week or so, or made the finals. I cannot imagine anyone voting for Chris over her, and is not just the quality of the dancing. The chemistry between Chris and Witney is so uncomfortable and to me it is so obvious that he is just tired of all this and ready to go back to the farm with his fiance. I just do not see how it is possible that he received more votes than Willow who was so happy to be there and really was trying hard. Another thing that Shirley pointed out was the timing of the announcement of immunity which I heard too and thought was odd. Last week Tom said several times that there would be a double elimination, and now that has been put off for another week. When there was the results show, everything was so clear cut, I knew exactly what dance I was voting for. With the elimination of the results show, I think everything is much more confusing, which could make some manipulations easier. I love DWTS and will continue to watch it, but I just don/t have as much faith in the results anymore.
My personal opinion is that TPTB don’t directly rig the eliminations.
What they do is try to massage the outcomes of the eliminations the way they want them to go, through two main ways.
The first is pimpage. These guys are master level pimps. In the last few years Val and his partners have been the pimpees. I have no idea why #makeValhappen is the standard operating procedure.
He’s a great dancer but for me he lacks charisma and charm and he has douchy tendencies at times.
Of course the most pimped pro of all time is Maks. They gave him the ringiest ringer that ever rang for a partner and storyboarded the season as “Maks finally wins a Mirrorball”.
The second is through subtle and not so subtle “ideas”. Extra point dance-offs, win immunity dance-offs, judges fawning over chosen couples and the old stand-by, tweaking rehearsal packages to showcase their chosen pimpees or create a desirable storyboard arc.
Again I’m thinking of Maks and Meryl and their gag inducing packages with Maks the tormented, insecure pro and Meryl as the kind angel who gently sets him back on course.
The thing that makes me not want to through up my hands say “up yours A-Holes!” and walk away from the show is that usually the chosen pimpee couple rarely wins. That and the and joy I get from watching couples like Bill and Emma, Peta and Tommy, Amy and Derek and this season’s Noah and Sharna and Robert and Kym surprise. thrill and move me.
And the costumes. God, I love fringe.
#95 Noah has been in jeopardy 3 times, but 1st called safe. Week 3, last week and this week.
Speaking of Noah, I cringed at the awkward pause that happened when Corky said he liked that Noah was clothed, so he didn’t have to look at “that.”
I’m not surprised about elimination rigging. Of course they want their ABC property to go as far as possible. It’s just a shame that Willow was the “fall guy.” I thought it was awful that it was Rumer and Val that they put them in the bottom with. She knew right then she was gone. Though, they didn’t do their “not necessarily the bottom 2” spiel, so maybe this really was and the producers were scrambling.
#97 Susan2, I agree with everything you said. I too think the producers know how to manipulate a certain group of the voting audience. I have seen so many people say that Len is an expert and whatever he says is truth. The love the judges are giving Chris I am not surprised he has not been eliminated yet. I have hope that with a double elimination Tuesday Chris will finally be able to go back to his farm 🙂
henry seems to have disappeared from social media.
I don’t know if anyone else has ever given this a thought but, I’ve always wondered why the producers don’t let the viewers know the results each week after the elimination in terms of figures. I have come to the realization the manipulation from previous weeks have stood out more this season. I feel like we are in S-18. Only the one couple be pimped does have 2 competitors that are strong contenders.
I know this isn’t about AB so much, but reading some of your posts about the manipulations and the swaying of the judges, brought this to my mind.