Afterbuzz TV Reviews The Dancing With The Stars Season 20 Semi-Finals
Kristyn and the gang reviewed the Dancing With The Stars Season 20 Semi-Finals in their new Afterbuzz TV show. Val Chmerkovskiy was their guest. I haven’t listened to the whole show yet, so, be sure to let us know what you think.
I usually listen to Afterbuzz but Val being the guest considering everything last night, I think it won’t be that objective. I’m all for eliminated pros or troop coming on but I’m not really into pros who are currently on the show because you can’t properly critique anything
Ps. *cough*damage control*cough*
I decided not to watch the moment I found out Val was the guest. I wanted the discussion to stay on Houghkin this week without influence of outside guests. but of course Val has to come and shift the focus. All he cares is about himself. He knows he pissed off a lot of people and came to save his own skin, not show respect to Nastia & Derek. Based on the Intel Courtney gave us, he obviously wasn’t misinterpreted.
I, for one, found this … SOB to be very uninteresting and the chemistry with the fellow co hosts were nonexistent. Can’t even dream of beating Derek on a level playing field but alas… Mama C wants her shiny bookends
Had to stop listening halfway just a lot of Val whining about being misunderstood and again PR for the family. Trying hard for sympathy vote, I’m so misunderstood. The other day I heard Maria M say she was for Rumer, can now understand why After Buzz slats this way. Not sure how long he is on but Skype cut him off and he came back by phone. If Val could choreo a dance half as good as Derek he would not have to whine about it.
Yeah, Val should be worried. And of course he destroys an already questionable show by his very presence – all for his pity party.
Welp, I spent 12 hours at the office today, 6 of that in a meeting. This would be a serious waste of my limited time.
I’m watching this at the moment… holy cow, Val is the most boring guest they have ever had. It’s taking forever for him to talk, with all the stammering and shit! Looks like he’s only talking to himself, no enthusiasm at all! But the biggest let-down is that he’s always putting himself on a pedestal! Whatdafark! He’s one big egotistical asshole. And why is he even a guest? He hasn’t been eliminated. Seriously Afterbuzz! There are far more credible people out there who can give their two cents without being biased in favor of themselves.
Was going to watch it but I got distracted by the new kids on the block on American idol (proud to say I knew all of the old school choreography 🙂 and taught it to a three year old) so I’m gonna watch now. I expect a few good laughes.
I would rather skip actually watching the show will just check the comment section 2 know wat they said I can’t stand seeing Val nymore and his attempt at damage control. I will read through the comments of the amazing ppl who post here
I was advised to skip to the 35 minute mark if I didn’t wanted to listen to him, and that’s what I did. So I don’t know exactly what he said, Its just ridiculous watching him trying to do some damage control, while his friends are openly talking sh** about Nastia and the other couples on twiter. I’m not interested in listening what he has to say.
AB shouldn’t need a guest every week, especially if they are wasting 35 mins just to talk about himself or one couple.
Ok so I watched it, even though I was leery of the guest. Now, I have made my dislike of Val very apparent since last night, and he is still deep on my crap list. However, I have to say when asked about what he said in that package he was very forthright and didn’t back peddle as much as I expected. He pretty much owned up to saying the wrong thing and said basically, “no matter what I say they(D/N fans) are not going to like me or forgive it and that’s OK” Now do I think he was entirely sincere, well hell no, not at all, but at least he manned up and said that he gets why it bothered people. So that’s something better than “whine, whine, out of context, whine, whine you are mean…more whining.”
Have to say I did kind of laugh at his whole speech about the HoughBallas Mafia vs The Fam. It was unintentionally hilarious in that he sincerely thinks it’s the fans causing the issues. He also was point blank in saying about Derek, “I’m not going to lie, we are not best friends. We’re not” and then went on to blow some sunshine up Derek’s butt about all his talents and successes ect. But all in all he wasn’t a total douche, it was more contrite douche. Damage control without being over the top.
As for the rest of the show, it was interesting to see just how much the rest of crew called foul on the elimination and blasted the producers over the smear job they ran on Nastia with the package and it’s continual showings and how they never showed all the closeness between Derek and Nastia like in Sasha’s instagram pics and how the storyline showed.
I was planning on listening to this on my way home from Aruba. Guess I will download another book instead
Yeah I tried but so much of Val’s sob story I can take. I was hoping for nice Val and not annoying Val.
Sounds like a disingenuous douche to me. He thinks it’s the fans?? No, we listen to what he says and we see what his “Fam” tweet on twitter. Does he think he’s invisible??
He admitted to what aired. Wonder what would happen if they showed EVERYTHING he actually said. 😀 I will also say that he severely overestimates (as do his fans) his importance to the show and to other fan groups. He just gives us something fun to talk about and make fun of. 🙂
As for the AB crew crying foul?? They were active participants in that storyline all season. It’s a little late to back pedal now.
He is not on for the entire show and was only asked about his and Rumers dance. The other hosts carried on after he left to talk about each dance and the show as a whole. I’m of of the feeling if I don’t watch or listen to something myself, then I won’t offer an opinion. I’ll watch it myself so I judge it on my own.
The focus was on Val seeing the hosts were asking questions about him and Rumer. He was on the be interviewed so why would he spend the whole time answering questions about other couples? That doesn’t make sense. Plenty of other media outlets cover those who have been eliminated.
I know many people are really upset about Derek…,but let’s leave Val’s mom out of it.
PH sounds like you need a cocktail after the day you’ve had! Chocolate?
Again, Jillglove – you are not a moderator here. Don’t be telling other people how to post.
I have cocktails.
Didn’t Suri go on each week about how much she couldn’t connect to Nastia. The whole crew was busy all season giving Henry lion share of the credit till Shirley Ballas stepped in. Now crying foul? Too little too late.
#Michelle could you please tell us what were their comments on Nastia’s Quickstep and VW this time.
“Wonder what would happen if they showed EVERYTHING he actually said.”
PH, so he said more things far worse than “uninteresting”? SPILL! =)
I haven’t listened to the show but agree completely with you, PH. Afterbuzz, specifically Suri Serano, did a lot to promote the producers story arc for Nastia. They were not unbiased or even slightly fair to her when critiquing her this season. As for Val, he can just simmer in the shit he has created for himself. When will the producers realize he does not have the class to carry this show.
PH I noticed the plural! Cheers!
Yeah like I said, I found his whole speech on the fans being the issue as hilarious. And hey, who knew I was part of a mafia, not just any mafia but the HoughBallas Mafia(dun dun dun). At least our leaders are smart and now have skills digging holes and using jackhammers for when we need to do some body disposal. Plus they both rock a mean fedora.
Nope, not watching. I told myself I was beyond done with AB after Serge’s week. Then of course they had Shirley and Corky the next week so I had to back peddle. Not this week. I feel like I know all of what Val is going to say, so why am I going to give AB the views for what I know will be utter crap I don’t care to here? Thanks but no.
On a random note, I read an eloquent blog written by Curt Schilling where he wrote about some of the vile things tweeted to him about his daughter after he tweeted about her. I thought of this stuff because he differentiated the stupid but harmless tweets he saw from the vile and bullying ones which reminded me of the conversations we’ve had about bullying on this show. Again, I know this is random but I thought I’d mention it. 🙂
Exactly, PH! AB fanned the flames all season when it came to the “Nastia doesn’t connect with her emotions or her partner” crap. Maybe they should try sticking to the facts and leave their biases out of it next season.
Also is no one going to call Val on what he actually said about Derek and his relationship with his partners? I mean if one of Val’s fans copied it from Courtney, as I read on twitter, then why can’t someone ask him about it now?? It’s out there now! I’d love to hear him talk his way out of that! I think the general public should get to hear what Val is really like!
I have to agree with jeremy, it is 4 am here in Europe and listening to Val talk is definitely putting me back to sleep. -_-
@#17 Mishti they thought Nastia came out killing it and showed all her star power in the quickstep and how she broke down the last of her walls in the V. Waltz. Also said that the connection between Derek and Nastia was “electric”. I’d normally say that was them kissing the booty of the one eliminated since they have been raging on their connection all season but the connection was electric and kind of undeniable in that waltz. They also talked about how flawless her technique was and how she deserved to be in the finales and then ragged about the package some more.
#Michelle Thank u so much:-) ya kind of ODD all season Nastia was not good enuf and she had no chemistry not connecting. I don’t trust that panel any more and them bringing in Val for whatever reasons has done it for me. I am not fond of Tony that much but even he would have done better as a guest host according to me.
I thought he tried to own up to it in his own babbling way, he did not say that he didn’t say it and rambled about, but I did think he kind of owned up to it.
Derek and Nastia even laughed about it in their interview with no hard feelings.
It was nice to hear the remainder of the show in agreement regarding Nastia’s treatment from the show. I also love the picture of Nastia and Rumer on the balconey that I think was retweeted by Nastia. And that Nastia and Rumer’s sister’s had some fun tweets back and forth. Ughhh….Val you had to go and take the fun out of the night. I still like Rumer and wish her success next week, even if it means a little something for Val. I have this feeling Val will be known as the Susan Lucci of DWTS 🙂
I do have to put in a plug for the movie, “The Odd Way Home” with Rumer, it was a really good story about a man with Autism. We just watched it as Autism is close to our family and we happen to find it when looking for an update on DWTS. That is the best thing that I have gotten out of Season 20.
Oh my god, I never realized how boring Val is. And this is the guy the show wants as Derek’s replacement?
Yeah, Derek and Nastia didn’t hear ALL of what Val said. Beside, Derek is used to shade from the C-bros and it probably kills them that he just laughs it off. The very talented and confident can do that.
But PH… I’m dying to know! What are those other things? Spill some please. =)
Exactly PH. Derek laughing it off is basically saying, “to be upset, I’d have to care about what you say and I don’t.” It shows a complete lack of their significance in his life and for those who crave reaction it’s the worst kind of insult.
I missed it, but could anyone else tell me what else Val said re: Derek and Nastia besides what was shown?
#Meggie (23) — what did Val say re: Derek’s relationship with his partners? I’ve been following a gazillion threads here and elsewhere, and somehow I missed it.
As usual, Val probably said too much on Afterbuzz, but not all was bad. He didn’t shy away from the Chmer/Hough-Ballas divide, which was weirdly refreshing to me. Their relationships are complicated — you do see pictures of them all going out and socializing (and apparently getting pedicures), and they’ve known each other since they were so young, so there is a friendship but the rivalry is never really gone. Derek has an easier time moving out of that mode because he’s had huge success, for Val and Maks it’s got to be harder — not Derek’s fault, but still. I think the big difference is that Derek and Mark want each other to do well, but they don’t relish any Chmerkovskiy failures — I don’t think the same is true in reverse.
I did like hearing Val talk about himself, his insecurities, and his upbringing (even if was supposed to be talking about Rumer). I feel for the guy when he isn’t putting his foot in his mouth — there’s a genuine vulnerability to him. One thing that hasn’t been mentioned, but hearing Val talk, it occurred to me that there is clearly a class/socio-economic aspect to the Chmer/Hough-Ballas rivalry. Maks and Val come from a more working class community in the NYC/NJ area, and Derek/Mark/Julianne are from upper middle class/wealthy families and had a lot of advantages in training that others might not have (including top pros as parents/teachers). If the Julianne/Derek show Blackpool ever really happens, there’s so much material in their experiences — I find it fascinating.
I’m glad the AB crew talked about the manipulation in the production with Nastia. They’ll never admit to it, but the Rumer packages are just as manipulative in the other direction, just like the Meryl/Maks ones. Indeed, it is a highly produced show.
I read on another site Val stated Derek and Nastia had no connection really. Which lead him to say the only reason Derek has been successful was because he kept his partners at arms length so they have no friction, and gets drama free seasons/packages. Funny how that sounds a little like what Henry stated in his package earlier this season when he was helping. Val also stated the only partner he had connection/chemistry with was Kellie and that is the only reason she beat Zendaya who was a better dancer. Sounds like he never got over that seasons loss.
Why didn’t val appear in person on the show? By the way, did anyone see the instagram post nastia posted about rumer? SUPER cute, good sport.
So his success is due to both his chemistry and lack of chemistry with partners? Smells like desperation and envy to me.
If AB is now slamming the producers for Nastia’s packages and before they were saying they had no chemistry, it sounds like they don’t really think for themselves and just believe whatever they’re shown or told.
I commend Val for being upfront with everything that he said. I do agree that the HoughBallas v. Fam feud is taken to the next level by fans. But Val is honest about him and Derek not being best friends- its true, Val and Mark and much better friends than Derek and Val will ever be. Val has his friends on the show and Derek has his and that is fine, there is no reason why they should have to be bffs.
If Val is correct about Derek keeping her partners at arms length then I see nothing wrong with that- it has won the guy a mirror ball 5 times. Maybe it is a strategy others should look into?
Val might have said some stupid things and got caught on camera saying them, but at the end of the day he is not a bad guy or else he wouldn’t have so many other DWTS pros being apart of his studio’s production or just being good friends with him in general. I’m sure he is not the first pro to ever say something backhanded before.
At the end of the day my votes next week are still going to Sharna! Love that girl. She has proven that she has the ability to create unique and memorable pieces each week, and the way she was able to adapt and creatively work with Noah’s disability is admirable.
The thing is Meghan if Val did say that bit about Derek keeping his partners at arm’s length so there is no drama then it not only makes no sense butit is not factual at all. Is he talking about not getting into romances? Ok sure, Derek has been good at not going there since the first time he did. But if he is talking about keeping them emotionally away from him then that is total BS. Derek is very close to many of his past partners and had strong emotional connections to several of them. Maria and Amy immediately come to mind and with Maria, there was plenty of friction to be had but man did they adore, defend and protect each other.
Derek’s partnerships do tend to have very little drama, with just a few heated moments here and there, but generally they always seem to just be having a blast. Val’s partnerships on the other hand always seem intense and heated and drama filled, with the notable exception of Zendaya whose age I am sure played a part. Val must think that the reason Derek’s partnerships lack drama is because he doesn’t emotionally invest in the them when the exact opposite is true. It’s because Derek emotionally invests in his partners and they in him that there isn’t the need for an intense push and pull. Derek knows when he can push them and when to hug them. He knows when to be serious and when to play. He learns them and how they operate and gives them that same opening to him. That’s why his partnerships are so successful and why there is a lack of drama and it’s why you never see any of his partners and him turn against each other after the season ends.
The only two things I didn’t like about any of what Val said was he was tired of trying to appeal to the fans and his reason for saying they were uninteresting. Doesn’t he know that DWTS is a fan based reality show? If he truly wants to win, he should do any and everything to appeal to us. I understand that they had to say something negative about them, but for him to say they were “uninteresting” was straisght out bashing them. He could have easily said something along the lines of her not being able to connect to Derek because she spends so little time with him, or something. But, he chose to say how he truly sees their dances.
I read the first few posts and when I saw Val was on I no way needed to hear anymore from his sorry arse. And, I’m not surprised that some are saying he is boring and wooooooooo is me persona once again. I and many on here I feel knew when Len said it could be his season, which was way out of line, that the producers and judges would make it happen. Derek never won this way and he didn’t need to because he has been the best dancer and choreographer on the show, and I doubt no one will ever take his place as long it lasts, which may not be that long after a season like this because of the stupidity. Who wants to watch a show that has become so manipulated.
Val hasn’t won yet though, and Rumer may have one threat out of the equation but there are 2 more contenders and all Nastia & Derek’s voters will vote like madness. AS for me, I am going to vote as much as I can for Riker because he is Derek’s cousin. I always vote for the dancing, and although I am happen for Noah’s accomplishments, he’s is not in the same league as Riker.
@Michelle I think Val is just bitter people were turned off by his showmance with Janel. He acts like Derek has never had a showmance or ever dated any of his partners. If I remember correctly, many people thought he was having a showmance with Maria and people were turned off by it. He’s also dated at least one of his partners and it was not well received by people at first. Just because Derek chooses to separate his work from his private life now doesn’t mean Val has to be bitter about it though. Also, claiming that the only reason he lost MBT in season 16 was because it was the only season Derek had any chemistry with a partner? Incredibly bitter. I’m not sure Val really meant everything he said though. He doesn’t think before he speaks. He needs to work on that. Actually, the whole entire fam does because they may have just blew Rumers chances of winning unfortunately.
I know we are not suppose to leave one line comments, but I think #Michelle hit the nail right on the head. Couldn’t have said it better myself! 🙂
Oh God! I read comments of Val’s fans on Facebook and Youtube. I swear to God, they are vile creatures! They stop at nothing to make Val grab that MBT!
@Jeremy I saw some of those too. One said “Derek and Nastia are so uninteresting they should just kill themselves” Disgusting. I also saw one of Val’s friends say that he thought a loaf of white bread was more interesting than Nastia. Wow..
I know it must be hard for Val with all of the success Derek has had but he’s got to stop playing the victim. Another thing I noticed is Val seemed to be saying that Derek was so perfect that he is a kiss ass. I don’t think that’s the case, Val. I think he just genuinely strives to be a good person. You shouldn’t want success so bad that you have to bring others down. Also, like Heidi said, Val doesn’t know we know what he really said about Derek. Had he known, he probably would have been more apologetic.
I watched some of AB and it sounded like Val’s confession. Val reminds me so much of Tony. We never heard the end about Tony never winning the MBT for 15 seasons. Finally they gave it to him for the All Star Season. No way was his choreography with Melissa better than Derek’s with Shawn.
I hope that people vote for the best dancing couple, not for the pro who needs a MBT.
Amanda, I found out through the mods here that Val had said more shitty things against Derek and Nastia during that segment, but the “uninteresting” comment was the only one that made it to the edited package. What are those other things he said? I’m really really curious!
I really dislike when they have pros in the semis or final on at this point in the season, it does really come across as a campaign for them. And let’s be honest, of all 3 left, Rumer & Val already get the most media time.
As far as the ABuzz hosts being disappointed with the producers for their treatment of Nastia & Derek, I’m glad they said all of this and mentioned Derek’s blog, but only Kristyn has been a real fan of them this season. The rest of the ABuzz hosts didn’t do N&D any favors to help her image or help promote the good things and the facts of this pairing and only started remotely giving her praise last week.
Didn’t really feel Val had much interesting to say as other pros do when they come on the show. His monotone makes it worse, making him sound even less interested in what he’s saying. I do get confused on why the producers so want him to ‘happen’. Maks at least had charisma and some star quality even with his jerk side. I think Val is a great dancer to watch in pro dances, otherwise, I don’t think he’s got that star quality and there are other pros they could get more behind that would make sense to me.
I do agree with Val in the respect that the fans take everything that happens with BallasHough vs the Fam to a crazier level. And I don’t believe Val and Derek hate each other at all and they do get along at least and respect each other’s talent. But, the C bros and DWM have thrown too much fuel in that fire, evidenced in print, social media and video, to be completely considered ‘victims in the middle of a fan battle’ or just misunderstood.
For those that asked, what Val really said in its entirety is going around social media, so you can find it. Very close to what Penny (33) wrote above. I kind of hope Derek never sees it but he probably will, it was more of a knock to him than Nastia. I don’t even see how Val could say something like ‘Derek keeps his partners at arm’s length and has no connection with anyone but Kellie’….how would he even know that? He’s not around them enough to be able to make a statement like that, and it should never be said on tape to be used in the show anyway. It’s obvious that it is not true anyway, just look at his relationship with Amy P for example. Val can say all he wants and again I do believe he does not hate Derek but he does have some deep seated issues involving the guy. There was no reason to say everything he actually said to the producers for that video segment. Saying uninteresting was bad enough but at least it pertained to his opinion of the topic at hand, Nastia & Derek. But to go on and on about Derek and his past partnerships, saying things like he knows them to be fact when he never could really know that, in a segment about this season and only supposed to be taking about Nastia & Derek) and to bring up Season 16 and his loss there again shows some….issues. Fans on both sides can be crazy but there is a reason that the C bros fans so often show themselves to be really rude and the Derek fans tend to be about positivity. Look at the people they are fans of. Derek’s interviews vs. Val’s interviews on the Tues night show and Derek’s blog this week vs. Val’s ABuzz interview show all the evidence of the differences between the two.
Leann, I’m hoping that won’t be an issue because none of the pros in the finals have ever won. So someone can’t really vote for one person who has never won because none of them have won. I, personally, am sending my votes to Riker.
You have to have fuel to start a fire. It doesn’t happen without a spark.
Val himself and his Twitter twits are the spark.
If this sort of thing only happened his first few seasons when he was just finding his way, then he matured and came to the realization that the content and intent of his words on camera and on social media were fanning the flames and pulled back, then I would feel more inclined to cut the guy some slack.
However, here we are how many seasons later and he STILL hasn’t learned his lesson. Well boo friggen hoo Val.
And because of his attitude, some people are turned off voting for Rumer, myself included. I actually like her a lot. Bruce Willis should go all John McClane Die Hard on his sorry hide.
Val’s comment that it’s all about Derek’s fans vs. his fans is all BS and lies because what he said off camera tells otherwise. It’s all about him being a sore loser and can’t be the so called man of integrity (by his own claim). Why not congratulating Derek just like he did to you huh Val? Maybe that way your fans will follow your lead in more positive way. Don’t blame the fans because you are obviously the fire that started it all.
Afterbuzz saying they r bummed that Nastia went out is all crap total BS.All season they have been targeting her. Why dint kyrstn say at the beginning of the sesons that her practicing with Henry or sasha for 4 min or 3 min or 2 hours does not matter she did she adapted its such a challenge? not every 1n can do that, why dint they say that? They dint raise their concern last week or any other week for not showing more of Derek and Nastia. They dint talk about it last week when the package was aired that it was very unfair. Now u want to talk about Derek’s blog hello? he has been writing his blog from day 1 about how they r managing everything did they not know he writes blogs every week and how conveniently praises for his choreography was edited out last week. AFTERBUZZ has been behind Val from day 1n supporting him in doing nothing doesn’t Krystn keep saying that they don’t know who their guest will be till last min on twitter and then she says that it was planned for some time that Val will be on with them. LIES, DOUBLE STANDARD I hated this episode more than ever they are equally responsible for Nastia’s exit I am sorry for being bitter reading Derek’s blog I was already so mad and sad that so much if thing were not shown and we lost so much and then 2 c Afterbuzz act all lovey dovey for Nastia after the way they have nipicked her and Derek UGHH, now I have lost all respect for krystn as well. Sorry for my bitterness early morning but I am too mad.
Veronica, you can leave one line comments as long as it’s not during and right after showtime – that’s when there is a huge amount of traffic to the site and people treat the comments like they’re twitter. And often with no context. Context is always good.
That pretty much sums it up, Buttercup.
In the words of the great Ron Swanson, from Parks and Recreation, in giving advice to Donna who is complaining about dating a guy who is kind and respectful, “Don’t confuse drama with happiness.” Val thinks Derek doesn’t connect because there isn’t any drama? And this is why I am a fan of Derek and not Val. Drama is not happiness, it’s just drama. Derek looks for the beauty, notices it, and appreciates it. If Val is looking for the drama no wonder he’s such a stress ball. Just another thing he can learn from Derek.
I work with a woman from the same regional area as Val, and they have a lot in common. Always the victim, always someone else’s fault, nothing is ever good enough, and yet she is the smartest person in the world with the greatest advice to give, and the world owes her everything. Bless Val. He will continue to be miserable and follow in Derek’s shadow, while Derek continues to grow and succeed. It’s all about how you look at life. It’s your choice, and Derek seems to have realized that.
So on twitter Val says his words were taken out of context but then he owns up to them on afterbuzz? That’s pretty terrible damage control.
This probably wont happen but I would love to see Nastia Co-Host All Access during the finale! She comments for the Olympics and Gymnastics and they had Willow do some of All Access for the semi-final.
Yes….envy, desperation, jealousy…all make people say and do very irrational things. Val is desperately searching for the key to Derek’s success, and doesn’t understand how he does it. Because he sees Derek’s very real connection with his partners stay relatively professional and friendly (as opposed to romantic) these days and he can’t fathom how that could possibly work. Dude, it works ALL THE TIME in the real world. I have connections with my coworkers, yet I don’t need to either sleep with them, or stare longingly into their eyes for it to be real and very productive.
The fact that he doesn’t understand these things actually explains a lot.
As for the fans being the problem? Ummm…most people I know pretty much ignore those who aren’t also Derek fans. Most of us have nothing to prove. I will, however, chew the ass of people who come HERE – to a blog I work on – trying to start crap. That’s how it works – my house, my rules. You know, I tweeted with people yesterday and do you KNOW how many people who are NOT Derek fans, but Val fans butted into my conversations?? Quite a few. So don’t talk to me about “the fans” – if Val’s fans would mind their own fucking business and stop interfering with other people’s conversations, trying to change their minds or bullying them into submission, there would be no problem. Instead, they get on twitter, they come here, they copy conversations from this site and paste them into their little discussion group holes, plot, then all show up here to post. We know this – we can see where people come from to get to this site. So, you want fans to cool it – you now know where to go. Val’s fans are just like Val. Derek fans try to be like Derek – but it is difficult when Val’s fans (like Val himself) are ALSO obsessed with Derek, but not in a good way.
I will also add that Derek benefits by having four sisters, three of whom are older than he is, in addition to three mothers. THIS is why Derek is the man he is, I think. He gets women. He loves women. I’m not so sure the C-boys really do – they worship their mother and grandmother, but seem to have a more old world view.
I stopped watching AfterBuzz this season apparently this was planned weeks before, but really? I think he was trying to backpedal, what’s the point? He’s gonna win regardless. Really disappointed in DWTS! Reading Derek’s final blog made it sound like if he returns next season it’ll be because he’s obligated to do so not because he wants to. At least that’s how I interpreted it! It’s sad!
As a Val fan, I am hoping that my post won’t get deleted, or that I won’t be called names or sworn at. He is not at all perfect… and I did actually listen to the whole Afterbuzz program, so I feel that I can comment on it accurately. I did like that Val owned up to his faults, and that he recognizes that his weakness is the freestyle. When I look at the three celeb finalists – Rumer, Riker & Noah…my vote will be most likely for Rumer. At this point, I feel that she is the best dancer. Noah has overcome great obstacles, but at the end of the day, I am looking at dance. Riker’s movements are sometimes jerky and bother me. I loved his contemporary this week; did not like his AT. His QS was great; some other numbers not so much. I do think that Nastia should have been in the finals, and then, I would have been torn…it would have come down to whoever had the best dance…so I may have thrown my votes toward Nastia. What if the partnerships were reversed…what if Nastia had been w/Val & Rumer w/Derek? I still think that we would have gotten beautiful, quality dances from each of these celebs because they have been beautiful dancers & performers, each in her own unique way. The one point that I do agree on w/Afterbuzz is that there should have been no double elimination and a 4 person finale. It would have been great to see another Derek freestyle.
I think what Val doesn’t realize is that just because he and Derek can get along, forgive, and like each other, does it mean the rest of the world has to do so or approve of his behaviors. He tries to sound all warm like and still in the same breath after apologizing, he tries to justify it because they were too perfect or whatever and it’s not his cup of tea. He’s been dissing Derek in blanket ways like that ever since he started this show and he’s blocked a multitude of fans at twitter and some who have never tweeted him anything unkindly. If he finds out someone is a fan to Derek, boom, he blocks them and then he wonders why many so fans are put off of him. I mean…there is such a fan that is/was a fan to he (Maks) and Derek and I use to be one of them. Val, if you want things better, start being kinder to fans no matter what fan base and stop with the blanket disses on Derek and maybe fans will or would take you more genuinely and get over the bad stuff.
Yeah the Val fans on Twitter were tracking down Derek fans to head hunt yesterday it’s was kind of pathetic actually. The funniest thing is just like they follow their leader in being abrasive and crass, Derek’s fans were following theirs and laughing in their faces which like Val, ticked them off more.
You can tell that Val attracts a certain kind of personality and Derek attracts a certain kind of personality and it certainly shows that hypocrites attract hypocrites. All of them up in arms because Derek’s fans said harsh things to Val and how he apologized and that should be it. Man if Derek had said Rumer was “uninteresting” in any context they’d be calling for his head and rampaging up and down the eastern seaboard with pitchforks and tire irons. They’d attack anyone in connection with him to get their point across and yet Derek’s fans tweeting Val and saying, “yo, why you being an ass?” is “salty”? Come on now.
To take Heidi’s explanation a bit further, I use this as an example: politically, I’m libertarian – which basically means the overarching philosophy in life is to let people be and do their own thing (whether or not I agree with it), unless it somehow infringes upon my own liberty. With that in mind, I don’t go slithering into liberal or conservative online forums trying to stir sh*t up or start fights – and the same applies to my DWTS political philosophy: I stick to expressing my own opinions on my own turf (here, or on Twitter) and I don’t go butting into forums where my opinions are clearly not welcomed (i.e. pro-Chmerkovskiy online forums, Twitter conversations between Val fans, etc.) Aside from calling out the occasional person on Facebook or Instagram generally being an asshat (i.e. labeling Charlotte a “bimbo” simply because she has large breasts), I stick to my own Twitter and this blog. My opinion is very much “You’re free to your own opinion – go ahead and express it over there, and I’ll express mine over here, and we can both exist and not cramp each other’s style.” However, I find that many Val fans (and some fans of other pros) do not afford me the same courtesy – in fact, they think it is their god-given right to but into my conversations, insult me, and force me to listen to their many reasons why I am wrong/stupid/a bitch/need to die/etc. When it’s here at Pure – I am under no obligation to listen to it. You’re in my house, where I’m paying the bills, and I’m not about to sit here and let you take personal shots at me while I’m trying to entertain my friends. When it’s on Twitter – I liken it to being out to dinner with my boyfriend or my family: you may be able to hear what I’m saying from the next table over, and depending on how politely you approach me, I may let you join in the conversation; but I’m generally not going to be particularly friendly (or apt to engage you) if you come at me with sheer vitriol. And it blows my mind when these offenders act SHOCKED that I either refuse to respond to them, or throw it right back in their faces. The sense of entitlement is astounding – just like the entitlement of “everyone deserves a trophy”.
Yes Vogue, as someone who never twitted to Val, but got blocked by him last season, I had such a good laugh. Is there a better display of his insecurity? Does he go around social media, finding Derek fans, and then block them? Dude, Use that time to improve your choreo.
moravmac, I am not a mod but I don’t see why you would be worried your post would be deleted when written well like that. They do not delete posts of Val fans just for being Val fans….I figure that would be obvious by now.
Most of the people posting from what I have seen do not have a problem at all with Rumer. She’s my favorite personality wise of all of Val’s partners. But, after Nastia, Riker is my second favorite, so I most likely will be voting for him next week.
I thought Val had some good insight into himself. I didn’t disagree with a lot of what he said (everything not about the him vs Derek stuff) and am glad he has noticed his freestyles have been lacking. Hopefully that means he will do better this time. If Rumer & Val are destined to win, I want to at least like what they put out there next week.
I do think he knows he says dumb things too, but I still think he would often like to blame the fan factions more than his own actions that fuel the fire in the first place, and he still never seems to learn after the 20th time of putting his foot in his mouth on air and will still stoop as low as his full unedited remarks about Derek for that video package. How the producers were going to put that all in there (since it apparently was all in there until last minute edits) I will never know. I think all mouths would have been open in the ballroom if that aired and a 10x worse social media frenzy would have started. It’s a wonder they even considered airing it, which would have made their new chosen one look bad in front off all viewers, not just the dwts superfans. I guess they really thought the major drama that would arise would be a good thing for the show then thought better about it.
Oh man, you guys are great, love your posts Vogue (60), Michelle (61), Courtney (62) and Ananya (63).
Thanks mods for this board, I’m so glad I found it many seasons ago, you guys all go a great job making the dwts seasons more fun and also keeping the disturbing fan postings to a minimum.
Even when the original package of what Val said had been aired his fans definitely would have defended him by saying that he was the only one who was honest and how a genuine person he is for stating his honest opinion. Others and more stupid ones might have accused the producers for putting words in his mouth and edit it word by word to make him look bad.
“Everyone deserves a trophy” is as logic and productive as “Every employee even the laziest should be employee of the month”.
I’m pretty sure Val could join ISIS and some of his fans would STILL tie themselves in knots coming up with an explanation for why he was in the right for doing so. I’ve gotten a good chuckle out of some of the outrageous explanations some of his fans have tried to spoon-feed me on Twitter for why he acts like a complete twatwaffle at times – makes one wonder who they’re trying to convice: me, or themselves. And it still boggles my mind why they feel the need to convince me of anything – since I just write for “some sh*t blog that nobody even reads”. 😎
Michelle #61, that actually happened to me. I replied to one of Princess Heidi’s tweets, and then the person butted in. We had an interesting exchange, with me backing up my responses with verifiable facts and her grasping at straws. I realized she was just goading me, trying to break my cool, so I told her off. I decided to block her when I learned that she did the same to many of my friends, about 5 of us in total, I think. One part that still makes me chuckle was when she said that Derek isn’t a saint. I retorted that of course, Derek’s not a saint, but beside Val, he certainly is.
Vogue — Your post reminded me of seeing Val in the DWTS Tour promo. Can’t remember exactly the set up — they were all clowning around, and someone said something about giving out hugs, and the camera went to Val, he looked into it and said, “Yeah, girl, if you’re looking good …” I was dumbstruck. He doesn’t seem to be a very highly developed individual. There’s just so many times you can get by on “things just come out of my mouth.” Well, why don’t you try doing a little thinking about it and put some attention on who you are and what you say? In every way I can think of, Val is his own worst enemy.
Courtney — Your comments reminded me of an office mate I had years ago. If she had to choose between A and B, it wasn’t enough for her to just make her choice. She had to KILL THE ALTERNATIVE. If there was no evidence of any alternative, then there was no possibility that her choice could be wrong. Psychologically there is something very obsessive about it, like the existence of the alternative just will not be tolerated. That’s how I see Val’s fans. The continued existence of the alternative is an on-going threat.
lol Court. Amen!!
And thanks EP! Ditto!
After listening to the AB ‘review,’ I contend that it suffers from the same bias & excessive production as the TV show. Nearly 3/4ths of this AB show was devoted to Val’s Skype feed & then his phone call which was a one-sided monologue discussing himself, not even his partner! He did his best to deny/portray his negative remarks about Nastia as being taken out context & therefore not representing his personal feelings. Hard to buy into that!
The host allowed him to drone on & on, barely leaving time to discuss the other celebrities’ dances, even coming back to a discussion of Val/Rumor’s Swan Lake at the end. They mentioned the negative production arc of Nastia’s package but not their own part in reinforcing that package at every opportunity on every single show, especially from Suri!
In my opinion, they are part of the media bias that worked against Nastia/Derek this entire season. Val should NOT have been interviewed while still being a contestant on the show, just gives him that much more exposure & unfair to the other contestants.
Sending out positive wishes for the finale to the remaining ‘deserving couples’ was the last straw…too little, too late for a situation they played a big part in engineering.
Haha Courtney (67).
I used to post on the abc boards waaaaaaay back in the early life of dwts, before I found this site, when it was relatively tame. So glad to be out of there!
I’m not on twitter, and don’t even think about engaging with the crazy posters on dwts fb or the abc boards. I don’t even bother to go to those pages, I know it will just make me annoyed that people act like that. I don’t know how people take up so much of their time on social media being so mean to others or trolling people they dislike or trying to prove they are right and everyone else is wrong. How do you have the time and energy for this? I state my opinions here but have no desire to waste my time seeking those people out and arguing with people like that. And, really, when you look at all the facts, Derek, for example, needs no one to fight for him, he is a winner because of what he has accomplished and how he views and lives his life. He needs no help from me on anything.
@Suzy – I know exactly the type of person you’re talking about, and I can’t tell you how much it disturbs me that there are people who exist who simply cannot rest knowing that there is an opinion that opposes theirs that even exists…and yes, I see a good number of Val fans that are of that same mentality. The idea that anyone who doesn’t think Val is perfect (let alone actively dislikes him) simply cannot be allowed to exist. True story: one of the comments made here yesterday from a Val fan that never made it past the trash can ended with “this website must be stopped”. And some of them have gone to great lengths to try and stop us from even existing – a few have gone after our advertisers, some have tried to get us in trouble for copyright infringement, some have falsely reported us for spam, and one rogue fan even managed to locate my boyfriend on Facebook and sent him a scathing message that basically claimed I “disrespected dancers” and that he should end his relationship with me as a result. Most of the fans tend to harass us a bit, then give up and move on once they’ve been blocked; but it’s these fringe few that really kind of make me worry about the state of affairs that we live in if some individuals simply cannot fathom the existence of an opposing viewpoint – that’s when our freedom of speech really starts to become threatened.
I haven’t seen this episode, but based on the comments I gotta say, this again highlights the difference between the fam and the others. Mark was one of their best guests. He was still competing but didn’t feel the need to steer the conversation to him and his partner every chance he got. He gave equal time to each couple and was gracious about everyone. Contrast that to Tony in Season 17, and Val yesterday, and you see how self-consumed these people are.
We don’t delete people for being Val fans, moravamc, we delete them for being assholes. Since you were not one, you won’t be deleted. This math is pretty simple. 🙂
As to your what ifs? What if, what if?? I think we’ve been pretty clear that the problem with Rumer is totally VAL. And that’s Val’s fault. People vote why they vote – if they think that shitty behavior shouldn’t be rewarded, that is just as valid to them as only voting for the best dancer, regardless.
I wasn’t going to watch afterbuzz again after how angry it made me last week but saw it on here these week and saw that val was going to be on it and wondered if he was going to try and explain He’s extremely uncalled for comment to Derek and Nastia. After watching it all I see is a guy trying to save himself from the fans he knows he just lost and dereks fans who he knows are really not going to vote for him now. At least Val can’t blame derek this time for him losing Val brought this one on himself.
I am first a Derek fan, but I also very much enjoy some of the other pros that are on the show. I feel that if Derek/Nastia had made it to the final but had lost to Noah or Riker, I would be disappointed, but I would be very happy for either of the other couples.
However when Val/Rumer lose this final, I foresee heads exploding and all sorts of internet bashing to commence.
Lastly thank u PH, Courtney, Lori & John for providing a safe haven for fans of dancing. I feel like a belong to a community and have really enjoyed getting to know everyone on this site.
I compare the week Mark was on with this week and it just shows so much of who they are.
Val felt the need to explain who he was and where he comes from, his childhood friends, his eastern European culture, blah blah blah.. Instead of talking about the competition (which he only did when directly asked) he used this time to talk and explain himself. And I really think that is what makes him so unattractive. It seams immature and insecure. Too concerned with what others think about himself. Even when he said he doesn’t care because he won’t change Derek fans mind he had to go and explain himself in twitter. I think his insecurities are his worst enemy. He needs to forget about the competition (both DWTS and his personal competition with others) and just try to have fun.
Unlike this, other pros I feel really enjoy what they are doing, understand the process and do not feel the need to explain or talk about themselves every chance they get. People like Mark, Sharna, Emma, Derek, Whitney… don’t live their lives doing damage control because they enjoy what they are doing and don’t let insecurities or competition dominate them. That episode with Mark was fun because he did not focus on him and his challenges and whatever, he talked about everyone and you know that regardless of how he might feel in the inside (assuming he might be mad or competitive sometimes) he is mature enough to not let it control who he is.
I really loved him when he started as a pro, and every season with showmances and pimping I like him less and less. This might also be the show’s fault but instead of stopping that narrative he has gone with it.
Whatever… now that Nastia left I want Ryker to win. But sometimes I think Val should finally win so we can get rid the show trying to pimp Val and maybe see a more even and just (as just as a produced show could be) competition.
@Tei
If and when Val does win, it won’t be the last since he said that DWTS is all he has and nothing else. Another shade on Derek of course. He reminds me of a little kid always blaming things he does wrong on that mouse in the house. Val will take his trophy and think he is the new “king” of DWTS, but he will never replace the Master.
I understand the desire to let Val have his MBT in order to “set the show free” from that overriding narrative. However, for a show that has done its share of drawing attention to the destructiveness of bullying, that to me smacks of being bullied into that result. I will be voting to override that bullying and the desired end.
And, really, why VAL of all the pros who haven’t won?? What about Sharna, for one.
I sometimes look back and wonder how much different Val’s journey on this show would have been had he won with Zendaya. Don’t get me wrong I’m delighted that Kellie deservedly prevailed but I think how much different Val’s attitude towards the whole show might have been had he got that win. Two years later and I don’t think he’s ever lost that massive chip on his shoulder that he’s had ever since he watched Kellie and Derek’s freestyle live and realised that his first mirrorball was being stolen right in front of his eyes. I hold hope that if he does prevail next week, he finally loses that chip and stops taking things so seriously just like Tony did. Win or no win I expect him to be on this show for a long time to come, and I’d much rather see a different side of Val than the (insert expletive here) side of him that we’ve had to endure for 2 years now.
I haven’t watched this episode yet so take this comment with that caveat, but it sounds like AB is now complaining about the edits of Nastia and Derek? Where was this indignation back when they were proclaiming they weren’t feeling her or their connection? It sounds like they were repeating what the judges were telling them until it was too late. It’s fine if you feel that way about a couple – but the revisionist declarations is kinda funny.
Additionally, I just want to say that I absolutely have no problem with a current pro guest hosting on AB. I don’t see it as much different than any other type of media appearance. How they use their time is up to them. But it is telling that Mark was an absolutely wonderful host and exuded positivity and enthusiasm for all the couples with constructive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights. Whereas apparently Val focused on himself the entire time. Again, his right to do so – but probably doesn’t make for compelling viewing, especially if he was trying to assuage Nastia’s fans.
Fig, I think Shirley played a big role in the way Derek and Mark turned out. You can tell she is straight forwards, but has a lot of warmth and kindness to her. She certainly passed on those qualities to her boys.
M8 I understand what you’re saying. But … the chip on his shoulder preceded the loss. It’s what convinced him it was “his” mirror ball in the first place.
Also I feel Val is just in denial of reality and likes to live in his own bubble (which explains why he blocks Derek fans). Last season for example it was so clear that Alfonso would win, with an outside chance of Sadie. Yet he was so shocked when him and Janel came in third. Derek, on the other hand, is so connected to his surrounding that he already knows prepares his partner for the coming results. Consequently Amy, Bethany, and Nastia all accepted the results so expectantly and gracefully.
I guess Maria too said that Derek had told her that they may be going home.
Agreed, Ananya, about Shirley. She even finds it in her heart to love Val, haha (just kidding). But really – I think she set a wonderful example for them, and it shows.
@Fig You haven’t watched it so to let you know, I don’t think Val can be accused of making it all about himself in this interview. Kristyn did that with her questioning. Every question she asked him was about him and Rumer e.g How did your Vienesse Waltz go? What have you got planned for the finale? etc etc. Mark’s appearance was a lot different because he was in the studio and involved in the discussions involving each couple’s routine. With Val because he was on skype and only there for half the show Kristyn went the interview route rather than the discussion route and just asked him questions relating to himself and Rumer along the “uninteresting” comment. (Val was obviously well prepared for that question with how he answered it). To be honest if I was in Kristyn’s shoes I would have done the same considering the dodgy skype connection and lack of time so I’m willing to let that slide tbh. I’m sure it didn’t help her that Val answered every question with a mini essay.
M8, I agree that Val has never gotten over that season or his loss then. Which is fine by me ’cause I’ve never gotten over what a joy Kellie and Derek were to watch each week on DWTS either! I’ve watched and rewatched not just their freestyle but all of their performances. Even their packages for her warmth, charm and to see the occasional moments of tension and doubt that gave way to those shockingly (from her) fantastic dances! Despite the season’s agenda, all 3 judges were wild for Kellie and her dancing, even CAI who treated her like an idiot. They raved about Zendaya too and overlooked things for her. But they never didn’t admit to Kellie’s extraordinary accomplishments.
Rather, it’s VAL who cannot acknowledge them or Team Derek & Kellie. I don’t think he even believes that her moving and exquisite freestyle is what captured the audience’s heart and won the trophy. He’s still grasping at straws as to why he and the Disney princess didn’t succeed. And if they had, Val would probably still be whining about why Derek has won MORE trophies than himself and how favored he is.
M8, I appreciate you pointing that out, as I didn’t realize it was more of an interview type interaction than a co-hosting gig, which does make a difference. I still haven’t decided if I’m going to watch this episode or not. I really really have tried to like Val but he just turns me off so much sometimes. I don’t need my pros to be perfect, and I even empathize that he’s got a lot of insecurities – Maks is the same way – but he’s often just so humorless and negative to downright shady about some things that he makes it so damn hard.
Kellie and Derek will always be special to me. Wish I could forget how Val and Zendaya would not congratulate them on their win. Honestly, I think this is who Val really is. So sad!
@Steph. Love the Ron Swanson reference….drama vs happiness.
Well unfortunately drama sells. Drama gets the buzz going. How many people gather around the water cooler to discuss happiness? No, it’s who’s gettin fired, or sleeping with someone, or whatever. Look how many people on this page alone are talking about drama. What would we all be talking about right now if Val hadn’t called Nastia and Derek uninteresting? The fact that he called them uinteresting is causing….interest.
We may not like it, but it’s human nature.
Obviously, I don’t have the insights that our hosts and many of you have to this. But I’ve also often wondered. I expect the helped to boost Tony to a long complained about win first. He had truly been there a while and like the eldest in the family, he is often saddled with the mature celebrities and is useful to TPTB. But I expect the C brothers were also complaining often about their importance and how they should be given contenders. Having lost the popular C brother, Maks, they might still have thought they could make Val happen at that point.
What I don’t understand is why they are going to increasingly desperate measures to both handicap their Emmy winner and to appease Maks and Val! I’m thinking so marketing genius told them that the audience also buys into the everyone should get a trophy school of thought. Why else would a newbie like Witney get contender Alphonso? And rumor has it, they’ve been trying to get either Riker or Rydel Lynch, ringers. Riker is naive and rather honest always. His responses to dance experience and how he’s related to the Houghs was the only time I’ve ever felt he was giving prepared lines from TPTB. Allison is right in thinking this is probably Her best chance at a trophy from DWTS. So there was a back up plan for a possible newbie winner in case Team Die Hard faltered. But of course, as others have pointed out, there are other factors. Like keeping the Emmy winner onscreen and the appearance of a rivalry for fans. A sweeter victory for Val if Derek would be in the final but they also don’t want to chance an upset like with Kellie’s freestyle either! And, as noted, having S20’s winners on the tour would be another asset for TPTB to consider.
It may surprise you, jillglove, but we often talk all season long about non-drama things and things not related to Val.
Around our watercooler on Tuesday, we talked at length about how we cried during Monday night’s DWTS and what a great show it was and how lovely Nastia and Derek’s dance was.
@Ananya – I don’t think Val or Janel expected to win. None of his fam even showed up to the finale. But, yeah, I definitely agree Val is in his own little bubble. He can’t seem to handle other’s opinions well, but he always seem to think people should understand his; if people don’t understand or agree then they are haters. He’s just an immatue cry baby, basically.
Agreed, Steph – the Ron Swanson quote is very appropriate. I’m a pretty drama-free person, but that doesn’t make me any less passionate or invested – it just means I understand what makes me happy. 🙂
@della #92
Yes, Kellie & Derek’s season will always remain my favorite. Nastia & Derek came awfully close. I realized that Nastia was not a performer like Kellie, so she didn’t have that built-in ability to naturally win the hearts of viewers so easily, but I could see her mellowing when she did the Frozen Disney character of Anna with Derek.
And, yes, I thought Val failed Zendaya and didn’t prepare her ahead of time in case they lost. Derek always does this for his partner so they don’t get their hopes up so high. I’m sure Mark prepared Willow, because although she shed some tears she hung in their and showed great class for a 14 year old.
PH I wasn’t talking about every conversation on the board, this particular thread. I read the threads while the show was airing, the power numbers, etc……
I read many posts about the wonderful dances, and there were more than a few that were followed by: “did you hear what Val said”? That happiness did not last for long. Funny when he made the remark, I paused the show and thought about what he said. Not good to say it on TV, but to me it made sense. Incredible dances and choreography, she is so graceful, but it leaves me feeling indifferent even thought this week was my favorite. I enjoy it in the moment, but then I move on. It doesn’t stick with me and so far I yet to watch one of their dances a second time. Maybe that’s why Val’s remark didn’t bother me. For me it was true, but really Val, there is a time and place. BTW Rumer and Val do nothing for me either, in fact less.
#68 Nobleze. You really can’t talk to a person like that because they talk in circle. You ended up going back to point A instead of Z. I work in environment where many times I have to call different doctors in their specialty. it’s our nature to gather facts and assessments before calling them because they don’t have the time for you to chitchat or talking in circle especially during a critical situation. So I just can’t stand people who keep going on and on. It gives me unnecessary headache 🙂
#73. Don’t worry Court, I always enjoy reading your blogs. I will even read your blogs without watching the show next season. I enjoy yours and Heidi’s blogs more than the Afterbuzz 🙂 I do encountered a comment such as we need to boycott Pure or something like that from the Fam fans. Wow…they even tracked your BF? Crazyyyy people. That’s harassment. People like that need to take a break outside, take a deep breath and exhale. Ignore those people. Let them bark. I always think a chihuahua bark louder than a pitbull (not the singer).
Doesn’t matter if it’s true or not to him or you. It’s not a “fact” and it’s not true to lots of people. But most of all, he said it on TV which is incredibly unprofessional and downright stupid.
Their boycott?? It ain’t working. 😀 I think it’s safe to say our traffic is higher than it’s ever been.
PH. I never said it was ” fact” (I’m using quotations as I’m quoting you) I was stating MY opinion and I can understand that people feel differently, in fact I’m sure I’m in the minority’s here and that’s okay.
I also said that it wasn’t appropriate to say on TV – more than once.
As someone who used to REALLY love Val, these last two seasons have put me off to him. I think what I really liked about him and what I liked about Maks too is because they SEEMED genuine. When they got pissed, they got pissed and you knew it. You might have not liked their blow ups because they were over the top, but they were who they were and I kind of rolled with that. Even with the thing with Zendaya, he was a competitor and he was pissed and yeah he acted like a baby. I’ve lost before and I have acted like a baby before too…. it’s not pretty, but it happened.
After Maks and Meryl’s fake relationship and after Janel and Val’s fake relationship…. everything seems to fake and ungenuine. Nothing seems real with him anymore. They are both too freaking consumed by the fame monster that they’ll do pretty much anything to get it. In C-Bro logic, once you get a mirrorball, that equates to getting famous and essentially getting the careers that will make them stars. I’d love to hear Maks’s logic as to why that hasn’t happened yet. Even though Val acted poorly to the loss with Zendaya, he seemed to act like an actual person during a large amount of that season. I just feel bad for Rumer and even Peta because I think they’ll get dropped so fast as soon as this is over.
@Megan – I’m not so sure Val will drop Rumer. I think he’ll hang onto her like he did Zendaya. He’s already said Rumer will be in SWAY and on the tour for some shows.
Man – Val’s interview was a bore fest. I agree with the others that now all of a sudden Kristyn, Suri and Davina are fans of Nastia after putting her down all season? I really hope that Riker and Noah’s freestyle blow Val’s right out of the water. Wondering if the pimping on GMA will continue on Monday for Rumer – or if they will give equal time to Riker and Noah?
@MissJ He said that for Janel also after the final(that she will be in SWAY and on the tour for some shows) and we all know what’s happened after …
I didn’t claim you said it was fact. I was making a point that it doesn’t matter what you and Val think. And clearly I was agreeing and emphasizing (as opposed to soft peddling) the fact that he’s stupid.
@Lili – Lmao, true, but I think the situation is different. I don’t think Janel held much worth to him after the show. Rumer comes with the Moore-Willis name and celebrity connections. She’s a better dancer than Janel, and his fans also seem to love her the way they love Zendaya. I think he’ll keep her around, especially if she wins. Also, I think Janel backed out of those opportunities. I can’t see Rumer turning those opportunities down unless she gets some big gig.
109 @Miss J – exactly what I meant to add to that post…… Whatever gets them where they need to be. It’s gross.
Rumer might have something to say about hanging with Val considering her growing friendship with Derek. Pictures showed up of them hanging out before the show talking and hugging. If you watch the red room sometimes Derek and Rumer end up together talking. Wouldn’t that be a real twist in Val’s panties.
@Kristynburtt’s live tweeting the PaleyLive DWTS panel discussion and she asked Rob Wade directly about the manipulation of Derek and Nastia’s package!! I’m still waiting to watch the live archive…but that’s amazing for all the devastated Houghkin fans.
https://screen.yahoo.com/live/event/paleylive-dancing-with-the-stars
@Megan I agree with you, I used to be a major Val fan after his seasons with Kelly and Zendaya and didn’t even mind him with Elizabeth and Danica, but then Janel came along and he and production tried to force a relationship…at least with Meryl and Maks they were not kissing or trying to act romantic and they have stayed genuine friends. Val lost me in season 19 and again in 20. Rumer seems sweet but none of her dances have been special enough to claim the mirrorball, and she seems like she is just saying what production wants her to and I don’t feel like I have gotten to know her. For me she is 3rd place at best.
I go back and forth on if he will drop her or not. Her and Val will never have the relationship that he has with Zendaya…and he still hangs out with Kelly Monaco a good amount. I think Rumer will come to a few shows here and there in the future and that is about it. She will not be a memorable partner for him, even if they do win because they honestly didn’t produce anything of winning quality.
But I will disagree with you about Peta, she has always been tight with the Chmerkovskiy brothers, and she is not going to be “dropped” and is not going anywhere. I have always thought that she and Maks do pair well together in real life and wish them nothing but happiness and success in their relationship.
My two favorites this season are Nastia and Rumer. I thought it was sad that Nastia had such bad luck with Derek being injured, but, man, her quickstep with Sasha amazed. Derek’s choreo was brilliant. I have also loved Rumer and her progress and beauty and softness throughout the season. I really like her dynamic with Val. They have such heart. Unlike most others on this thread, I appreciated the AB interview with Val. I’m so glad Suri arranged it. The DWTS show seemed so edited I wanted to know his thoughts. To me, Val seemed very human and sad and tired. Although, a little long, I didn’t find him boring or whiny at all. He gave his background and perspective honestly. I also read Derek’s blog and Nastia’s comments. After listening to all of the AB show, the main thing I found myself thinking about was the juxtaposition of incredibly beautiful dancing from EVERYONE against the manipulative editing/production of EVERYONE of a reality show, that Kristen and Suri talked about. To me it feels like the DWTS show takes these incredibly talented people, including Val, and Derek, and Nastia, and throws them into a meat grinder as part of the “entertainment”. I wish it wasn’t this way. I imagine it must be so painful to all of them. All that said, I am so looking forward to the dancing in the finals. I want to ignore the meat grinder and be happy/excited for all contenders and myself. Noah and Rumer are now my favorites (Ryker and Allison’s style is just not my cup of tea), but all of them are deserving.
Thanks for the link Jane, it is now available to watch, will comment with any thoughts later!
After thinking about it a bit more I realize “they’re so perfect they’re uninteresting” comment was just a nicer way of saying what was edited out of the package. Being perfect = why Derek is so successful because he stays about from romance. Uninteresting = again staying away from romance therefore getting less drama which is less interesting, apparently. I think this is why Val said his comments were taken out of context – because they weren’t really about Nastia but a really low insult aimed at Derek. I think this is why Nastia was more excepting of his comments but Derek wasn’t so much in the post show interviews – he knew Val was talking about him and not Nastia.
Well after watching the clip from the panel at Paley, Rob Wade is basically saying he thought that negative clip showed actual emotion from Nastia which is what they had been waiting to capture. Then that led to Derek and Nastia actually connecting but it was possibly too late for the audience.
You had Alfonso nodding his head in agreement in the background……which kind of annoyed me even though I love him.
I can agree that Nastia isn’t going to be as dramatic or forthcoming with emotion in rehearsal or show day as others but I call bull on the fact that everyone is trying to take the narrative that Derek & Nastia didn’t connect at all until late and run with it til everyone believes it. I’ll choose to believe what Derek said in his blog because he would know and has proven himself to be less shady than the others involved (producers, Val, etc). Also call bull on one moment of being tired and stressed being played to represent that being that person’s general nature. Why couldn’t they have shown more of them being goofy together? If the fans can see that in just interviews and in one 1-hour live stream a week, you know it was there more than that to show.
I would have preferred Kristyn to have mentioned their treatment of them THE WHOLE season not just that one clip, but it was good of her to try to get an answer of some kind.
Do we know what the finalists are dancing this week? I can expect a major Rumer pimping going on…
Linda Perry tweeted that Rumer will be dancing to her version of Toxic and Val will play the violin.
I can’t believe Val is going to schlep out his violin again. He has never done well playing it on this show. Plus, the level of schmaltz from him, including that ridiculous Swan Lake parody, is quite overbearing to me. Pray that this creates an opening for Riker&Allison.
I don’t think so, Amanda. Derek tends to let stuff people say about him roll of his back – especially a chmerkovskiy, since he knows they are anything but well spoken – but he will defend his partners.
I shouldn’t have used the words “non expecting” to describe how Derek feels. I still think the comments that aired and the comments that were edited still mean the same thing. Only that the one that aired was more about Nastia which wasn’t what Val was really trying to get at so he called them out of context. Just meant that after watching a few post show interviews Derek knew that the comments were more about him and he wasn’t too pleased with what Val said. He has every to not be pleased though.
Yeah, EP, that’s total BS. Those are all company people on that stage though, doing what they’re told. If Rob REALLY wanted to show Nastia finally showing emotion, he only had hundreds of hours of the two of them laughing and enjoying each other. But I don’t think he realizes laughter is an emotion too. What an asshole.
Alfonso is obsessed with DWTS. How does winning the latest season qualify him to judge/advise those who have had a rougher time going through the show’s process? He’s one of the few ringers producers left alone; they actually let his journey be about his dance ability. He had slightly harder judging mid-show but they focused on his injuries which made him sympathetic, all-in-all he came out pretty unscathed.
I’d love to know how some of the other pros/contestants (Karina/Ralph, Sharna/Charlie) who were put through the ringer, felt about handling the DWTS process and manipulation.
Alfonso does my nut in these days, instead of spending your life snuggling up with Rob Wade and appearing on every DWTS show because you’ve got nothing else to do, how about going out, getting a proper job and working on shaking off that Carlton image that you were so desperate to shed on DWTS. Probably feels like he owes a lot to Rob after being spoon fed his victory last season.
Charlie already said that putting him and Meryl at jeopardy was contrived to the press at the time. He also remarked that you did not have to be what you are not to entertain people.
He also told his friend that the producers wanted him and Meryl to bring out the rivalry factor more but they declined. He acknowledged that it was a reality show so he was not surprised at his elimination.
Can someone share what Suri’s background is? I googled her a bit and there isn’t a whole lot out there giving a really clear picture. The term “actress” (which clearly is a title anyone can be tied to these days…cough cough..) and “reporter”…I ask because nearly every show she says something along the lines of “I couldn’t even do that” when discussing a celebs dance….Is she a dancer? gymnast? Just trying to get a sense of where she is coming from when she makes her critiques.
I really don’t have an issue with Afterbuzz. Everyone has their bias and opinions so it really doesn’t matter. I do actually get why they were on Nastia so much during the season is because she is so perfect that the only thing that she had to work on was breaking down her walls, which she did. Everyone on this site has a bias (which is mostly Derek fans) so you can’t be mad at Afterbuzz for having an opinion. I personally don’t care for Val and That is my opinion. This site favors Derek (who I like ) so u can’t blame AB for everything.
Spare me Andre. Everyone has a bias, sure – but some own them and some try to claim impartiality while hosting a show about DWTS.
I will have to go back and look but in one of the after show interviews Rumer said something to the fact that she loved the experience and particularly dancing and she wanted to seriously be a pro on the DWTS someday. Likewise she acknowledged having a long long way to go to achieve that goal. Val looked at her with such disdain and started to give her one of his famous scoldings (like he does in most of his rehearsals with his partners) when they can’t “get it right”. I know I felt uncomfortable just watching it. Thankfully he caught himself and made a recovery. In my opinion Val is only gonna do what is best for him and too many times he has been shown to have no regard for his partners until he brings them to a point of a break down. I’ve seen it since his second season. So he thinks that is what makes his partners dance better….. fear,as opposed to Derek or Mark or Sharna who teach with laughter and concern and hard work. Hmmm I guess I for one would take the later.
@PH #123
I never saw Rob Wade before or listened to him; but watching the Paley Event I got tired of Rob, Tony, Alfonso and even Erin. Erin saying she wasn’t good enough for Derek just rubbed me the wrong way. So, I clicked out and didn’t watch anymore. Thanks Rob for putting Nastia down all the time and your 4 stooges on the judges panel were good little puppets for you helping to cut Nastia down to sway votes from viewers. The two I did enjoy was Kym & Candace.
I guess the result is foregone. It will be Rumer, Noah and Ryker. I will watch Derek’s dances and Ryker/Allison but will not bother with the rest. That interview w/ Wade can’t be more obvious on who they want to win. No wonder they are losing a lot of viewers. They had a very good start 10 years ago – it was wonderful watching the contestants learn how to dance. Now it’s mostly a battle between the pros and who’s story has the most arc. I mostly watch it for the dances but then there is always youtube.