Make Your Pro And Troupe Wish List For Dancing With The Stars Season 22
It’s that time again! Question: What Dance pros would you like to see dance on Dancing With The Stars Season 22? Pick only 12 (6 males and 6 females). You can also pick a few Alternatives in case they make the cast a little bigger or in case your main choices don’t work out. Who you would you like to see in the troupe as well? Let us know your picks in comments and then we’ll send this post to the Producers in a few weeks. Reminder: Remember Allison Holker will be having her baby next season, so, it wouldn’t do any good to include her in your list.
Ok, here is my Pro Wish List:
Females: Sharna Burgess, Karina Smirnoff, Anna Trebunskaya (she cracks me up and I totally enjoyed her being back on the show for Season 21), Emma Slater, Peta Murgatroyd, and Lindsay Arnold. Alternatives: Elena Samodanova, Edyta Sliwinska, Cheryl Burke, Kym Johnson
Males: Derek Hough (but, only if he wants this to happen. I’d really like to see him be a creative director instead and bring back the Macy’s Stars Of Dance numbers, etc), Gleb Savchenko (but, I also support his choice to dance on Strictly Come Dancing or DWTSRussia too for whatever he wants….just so he’s dancing for the masses is all that matters and he’s in a place where he can do his thing and grow. Sometimes I felt like he was too limited on our version), Mark Ballas, Sasha Farber, Misha Gabriel (I love new blood and I’m curious what Misha could do for DWTS), and Aljaz Skorjanec (from SCD! He’s amazing. He would be a good replacement for Tony). Alternatives: Artem Chigvintsev, Alexey Balash (from DWTS Russia),
As for the Troupe: Paul Kirkland (he’s such a creative choreographer. He’s limited in ballroom, but, he can do it if asked and he’s a force in hip hop and freestyle), Witney Carson (I don’t like her as a Pro, but, I would love her on the troupe), Nika Kljun (this girl is theatrical and a constant work of art), Sonny Fredie Pedersen (same as Nika Kljun), Hayley Erbert, Paul Karmiryan (I love his complete joy for the dance floor). I also really enjoyed some of the dancers they brought on for the finale this past season. I’m not sure on some of their names, but, they were good.
Special Note: We plan to do a Celebrity Wish List very soon as well! So stay tuned!
I am actually hoping they shake up the pros a bit. It needs to be freshen up. I really don’t care for any of the troupe except Sasha right now. In addition, Keo seems like a nice person but after 3 seasons he has fail to prove himself.
Females: Sharna, Emma, Lindsay, Karina, Anna, Peta
Alternatively Kym or Jenna (not a huge fan of hers but it would be interesting to see how she gets on as a pro)
Males: Mark, Sasha, Artem, Val, Tony (for the older contestants) and Giovanni (from strictly come dancing).
Troupe: Alan, Keo, Paul, Brittany, Hayley, Jenna (or Witney)
Pros male:
Derek (obviously)
Mark
Artem
Sasha
Val
Louis
Females:
(Allison would be my first pick but shes not doing it)
Witney
Lindsay
Karina
Hayley
Sharna
Emma
Troupe:
Alan
Brittany
Jenna
Male pros – Derek, Mark, Sasha, Gleb, Artem, Val (Alternatives just in case Derek and or Mark doesn’t renew contract) Alan Salazar, Tristan
Female Pros – Karina, Anna, Sharna, Emma, Lindsay, Peta (Alternatives Kym, Cheryl (still having hope one day she will come back)
Troupe: Witney, Hayley, Brittney, Alan, Paul Karmiryan
Sasha!, Derek if he wants, Mark, After that I don’t really care, New blood or return of Gleb, Tristan…or stay with Val, Artem, Tony, whatever fits the celeb line up.
Karina! Emma, Kym, Sharna, Lindsay and Peta or Anna.
As far as troupe, I’m not so familiar with the larger dance world but I like Vogues ideas.
Al, I agree and no to Keo for me too.
Females: Karina, Anna, Cheryl, Sharna, Emma, Lindsay
Males: Derek, Val, Mark, Tony, Artem, Tristan
Troupe: I’d prefer they do away with the troupe. All they do is clutter up the dances and I’d rather see more pro dances.
I’d love to see Tristan return too, but, he is so happy on SCD.
And thanks, Jess!!
Pros
Females:
Sharna
Lindsey or Witney
Karina
Anna
Peta
New female Pro to add diversity (Asian, Black, or Hispanic) or Jenna Johnson or Lauren Schelfhaudt
Males:
Val or New pro (if Val wants to pursuit other opportunities)
Mark or New pro (if Mark wants to focus on his music)
Derek or New pro (if Derek wants to pursuit other opportunities)
Artem
Tony
Sasha or Keo (Keo could be troupe to get experience)
Troupe: New dancers and ones who are not pros
I’ll start with eliminating the pros I think aren’t coming back (but that I wish could): Tristan (happy in UK, left DWTS a bit miffed), Cheryl (moved on), Gleb (doing better in UK/Russia).
Men: Derek (only if he wants to, but I think that he will leave), Mark, Val, Artem, Sasha, Tony — after that I don’t care, but I think they need to try to bring in someone younger who could draw viewers like Witney/Lindsay/Sharna/Peta have for the ladies. So far, the last male addition to get that kind of reception was Tristan (gone, likely never back), and before that probably Mark/Derek. Val also kind of counts as a newer popular pro, but then again he’s basically taken Maks’ place.
Women: Sharna, Karina, Lindsay, Emma, Peta. I love Anna, when she gets a fun partner like Gary; with a more competitive partner, her deadpan humor doesn’t always come out (Evan, Drew). I do love to watch her dance, though. Witney is way too big a star not to be on the season, but I agree that she seemed off with Carlos, and I think it’s been an adjustment for her to deal with partners post-Alfonso, whose natural performance quality and charisma (and dance background) made him one of the best (if not the best) celebrity performers in the history of the show. Witney was just beaming during those performances — and nothing since then has been the same. The show has done better in bringing in new female pros, so there’s a lot to choose from.
I totally forgot Emma, so she is added to my pro list.
Gals: Lindsay, Anna, Sharna, Karina, Witney, and Emma
Guys: Derek, Mark, Sasha, Tony, Val, and Louis/someone new
Troupe:I honestly could do without the troupe. I’d rather have eliminated pros dance before and after commercial break, but if I must Keo, Paul, dude I really don’t care! Haha! Sorry, just no Hayley. I don’t ship Dayley enough and agree with a lot of Courtney’s tweets.
I have more women than men on my wish list. For the men, definitely Derek, Mark & Sasha. Please let Sasha finally be a pro! Especially if Derek leaves. After that, I don’t have any strong preferences.
For the ladies, I guess my top 6 would be Karina, Kym, Anna, Sharna, Emma and Edyta (although I know Edyta is a long shot). Others would include Cheryl, Lindsay & Witney.
I think Keo needs another season or two in the Troupe.
I also have to add, I think Lindsay really proved herself this season. And Witney who I loved in S19 just seemed to do the opposite this season. I thought she could have been the next Julianne but this season was bad. Perhaps the rumours of outside help was true.
Ill start with troupe!
Alan Bernsten: He’s been doing great so yeah keep him.
Keo Motsepe: He’s been a pro three times and didn’t have to do troupe beforehand, and none of those times have really worked out. I relaize he’s in troupe for most of the season anyway but I think the demotion could really inspire him to learn to become a better teacher.
Brittany Cherry: I just really like her for some reason and she’s a great dancer of course.
Jenna Johnson: I know most people either despise her or want her as a pro. I’m in the middle. I like her but don’t want her as a pro quite yet.
Not sure about the third male or female if any. Hayley Erbert improved over the season but idk if I want her back or not, or about the males either.
Female Pros next!
Emma Slater: She’s been great with every partner even though many were not good dancers. I hope she gets someone that does well for Season 22.
Sharna Burgess: I’ve really enjoyed having her on the show but she focused a little too much on winning this season. If she cools it on that I’d love to see her back.
Lindsay Arnold: She’s awesome, fun, and more than earned a permanent pro spot during Season 21.
Anna Trebunskaya: I love her so much and it was great to have her back this season. I want to see her go further this time though! 😉
Peta Murgatroyd: If they give her the right partner (someone she can just have fun with rather than play up the sex factor) I’d be thrilled to see her return.
Kym Johnson: I’m kind of torn about this one because I know Season 20 was such a special one for her with Robert and in a way I don’t know if she could top it (not in terms of place but the sentimental factor). But I love her and would like to see her again.
And now for Male Pros!
Derek Hough: I feel the same way about him as I do Kym, because Bindi was such a special partner for him and I don’t think he could top it (also because of the other stuff he has going on and may want to do). But if he was given a partner that’s completely different from any other he’s had I think it might be interesting.
Mark Ballas: I just love this guy and really want to see him in the finals again, okay? 😛
Artem Chigvintsev: He got royally screwed over this season and more than deserves a permanent pro spot.
Paul Kirkland: I just think it’d be so cool to see what he could do! Love his choreograhpy. And some new blood in the lineup would be great!
Sasha Farber: He has fully proved himself as capable of being a pro and I think it’s time for his big comeback season. It’s been two years and I’m still baffled as to why he got put back in troupe after his season with Snooki. I could go on a whole rant about that but you get the picture. 😉
And I can’t believe I’m saying this and will most likely regret it five minutes from now, but…
Val Chmerkovskiy: For the past couple of seasons I’ve been praying for him to leave but this one reminded me that I actually enjoy having him around when he’s not too focused on winning or is part of a showmance. When he has a challenge I find him highly entertaining in kind of a guilty pleasure way. 😛 So for that reason I’m going to say I actually do want him back but NOT with a ringer or someone they’ll set up a showmance for.
Forgot to mention that my backup choices are Karina Smirnoff for the ladies because I feel like she’s had a bad streak it might be nice for her to break, and Tony Dovolani for the guys because it actually would be kind of sad for him to leave after a season in which he had o withdraw the third week (same with Val even though he lasted much longer).
Some of these aren’t very realistic (Tristan, anybody?), but here’s what I’ve got:
Females
* Witney
* Lindsay
* Emma
* Sharna
* Jenna
* Kym
Males
* Derek
* Val
* Mark
* Artem
* Keo
* Tristan
Troupe
* Brittany
* Sasha
* Alan
* Hayley
* Tanisha Belnap
Female: Sharna, Peta, Emma, Lindsay, Anna, Karina
Alt: Witney (I don’t think they’ll put a MB winner back in the troupe though)
Male: Gleb!, Mark, Artem, Sasha, Val, Tony (he serves his purpose)
Alt: Derek (just because I don’t think he’ll be back, esp. with the season he’s had. But who knows?)
Troupe: I love the idea of Paul Kirkland! I just a love him!, Hayley, Jenna, Witney, Keo (he needs troupe training) + other guys, don’t care who
Females – Emma, Lindsay, Sharna, Peta, Witney (but with outside help with her choreography) and I would like to see Cheryl back, but highly doubt that will happen.
Males – Derek, Mark, Sasha (he’s earned it and I love him) Artem, and 2 new pros that aren’t boring like Tony or have a huge ego like Val.
I would love to have Tristan back, but that won’t happen. Leo doesn’t deserve it. He can take Sasha’s place in the troupe. No Val or Tony or Louis.
I don’t really have a list for the troupe. Although I liked Jenna and Hayley.
Females: Peta Murgatroyd, Sharna Burgess, Witney Carson, Lindsay Arnold, Emma Slater, Jenna Johnson
Males: Mark Ballas, Derek Hough, Val Chmerkovskiy, Artem Chigvintsev, Tony Dovolani, Sasha Farber.
Troupe: Alan Bersten, Keo Motsepe, Brittany Cherry. I guess Haley too although I didn’t think she was very good at latin numbers
Alt: Anna Trebunskaya solely for entertainment with some partner like Gary Busey
Females: Peta Murgatroyd, Sharna Burgess, Witney Carson, Lindsay Arnold, Emma Slater, Anna Trebunskaya
Males: Mark Ballas, Derek Hough (if he wants to come back), Val Chmerkovskiy, Artem Chigvintsev, Tony Dovolani, Sasha Farber.
Troupe: Alan Bersten, Keo Motsepe, Brittany Cherry, Hayley Erbert, Jason Glover, Paul Karmiryan, Nika Kljun, Jenna Johnson
Females: Peta, Lindsay, Emma, Sharna, Witney, Karina.
Males: Sasha, Val, Tony, Artem, Mark, (Someone totally new). I like the idea of Misha. No Strictly imports anymore please, they are darn boring pros, zero creativity, except Pasha of course. No Derek please.
Women:
– Sharna Burgess — Kind of a no-brainer, especially now that she placed second with Nick.
– Witney Carson — Again, a no-brainer (in spite of her less than stellar job this season), what with being a fan-favorite and a past champion and all.
– Peta Murgatroyd — I have a feeling this will be a triumphant return for her
– Lindsay Arnold — She really proved herself with Alek, so I’m pretty sure her spot as a pro is already set in stone.
– Emma Slater — Good person, good teacher, everyone likes her, not as much of a no-brainer as Sharna or Witney but I wouldn’t mind her returning, as long as she doesn’t get thrown into the showmance loop again…
– Karina Smirnoff — She could go either way, really, but I’d prefer her to return.
– Brittany Cherry — She’s the one who always stands out to me during the troupe numbers. I wanna see what she would be capable of as a teacher… That and I just want her to get more screentime.
Men:
– Derek Hough — Only if he really does want to. I wouldn’t care less if he decided to come back, but I think Bindi was the perfect “happy ending” for him as a pro.
– Val Chmerkovskiy — For the same reasons as Witney.
– Mark Ballas — Probably my favorite of the current male pros. I’d love to see him back, but if he decides to focus on his music, that’s fine by me.
– Artem Chigvintsev — After what happened to him this season, he needs to return, preferably with a ringer, so the Artem who won Strictly can finally come out in DWTS.
– Keo Motsepe — I won’t be surprised if TPTB decide to give him another chance. Hopefully next season he’ll get someone that does well enough to last more than three weeks.
– Tony Dovolani — I’ve heard he’s a permanent fixture of the show, so I doubt he’ll be going anywhere.
– Sasha Farber — In case Derek really does leave. Lindsay got her comeback this season, I don’t see why next season couldn’t be Sasha’s turn, especially after his stint with Nastia.
Troupe:
Jenna Johnson
Alan Bersten
Hayley Erbert
Paul Kirkland
Brooklyn Fullmer (from one of the live tours)
Maybe a couple new folks from SYTYCD too…
Argh, I forgot to finish my comments on Peta. What I meant to say is that I have a feeling next season will be a triumphant return for her after the whole deal with her getting injured and being sidelined this season.
Female
1.Sharna
2.Emma
3.Lindsay
4.Karina
5 Witney
6.Peta
Male
1.Derek (♡♥♡♥♡♥)
2.Mark
3.Sasha
4.Val
5.Tony
6.??? I don’t know.
Troupe
Hayley
Jenna
Brittany
Alan
Keo
For the ladies I have to go with Emma, Lindsay, peta, witney, Karina, sharna, and kym. I would have said Allison but she is expecting but maybe/hopefully we will see her in some capacity next season. For the men I have to say mark, Derek, Val, artem, Tony, and Alan or Sasha. Was nice to see Louis but just really want to see one of the other two I mentioned as a pro. Note I did not say Keo this time….I have him a chance but he just fails so badly. For the troupe I’m going with Jenna, Britney, Sasha (if not a pro), Alan (if not a pro), Keo, hailey, and Trent from scd.
Hit submit too early. Side note typo I meant to put have given before lol. I tend to think of who I want to see as a pro based on my celeb wish list….and let’s just say that I actually think I came up with a nice one.
Female Pros:
Emma, Sharna, Peta, Lindsay, Karina, Witney (although she’s not my favorite, I just can’t see them getting rid of her).
Male:
Sasha, Val, Mark, Derek, Artem, Tony
Can we have all pros who are in relationships so that we can avoid a showmance next season?
Men (assuming Derek decides to move on):
Mark
Sasha
Artem
Tony
Val
? (not Keo)
Women:
Lindsay
Sharna
Emma
Karina
Peta
Witney
Backups: Anna, Kym
Troupe:
Girls: Brittany, Jenna, Haley(?)
Guys: Alan, Paul Karmiryan, ? (I didn’t watch that season, but maybe one or more of the ballroom people from Season 11 SYTYCD)
This is going to sound mean but my opinion is we need a major shakeup. We have some insanely great pros who can choreograph & teach ANYONE and then pros that can’t choreograph or teach or both. I’m all for another season 19 where we get 3 new pros OR they bring back some older pros (except LVA!!!)
I really like Keo as a person. I think he’s a great human being but I don’t feel like he can do DWTS. I think he needs to be trouped & pronto. I don’t think producers will do it though.
I also really really want LVA to go back to fat blasting. I don’t care for his attitude or choreography. To me, look how well Paula did with Mark. IMO she could’ve done better and had more fun without LVA as a partner.
I’m kinda glad Alison may be out on maternity leave. She is sweet & talented but she is too weak in ballroom IMO. Replace Mandy Moore with her.
I gotta say I disliked nearly all the group numbers this year. Really really disliked. The only one I liked was the number when ONJ was guesting.
My picks, regardless of probability:
Men
Derek
Mark
Val (only if he is given a Tamarish person that he can’t shomance with)
Tristan
Sasha
Artem
please no more Tony. Please. May we start an online petition?
Women
Sharna (the Sharna of S20! Not of S21)
Lindsey
Emma
Peta
Karina
Anna
Honestly I am over Wit. I just am. Her attitude & choreo this year wasn’t on point. I doubt they wouldn’t include her as a winner of a season but I’d like her out. She needs time off or something
And please no Jenna. Please. I don’t know what it is about her. Perhaps it’s all the self touching & come hither faces she tries to make. I just cannot stand it. Even the Elle King number felt over danced.
Troupe
sonny (would love this!!)
Keo
Jon platero
Oksana
tanisha
Hayley
*i wouldn’t mind if they brought in a newbie male for a third spot. I would love Paul Kirkland but I doubt they could make him pro & I wouldn’t want him perpetually trouped.
I find Alan boring and I’m a little over his perpetual shirtlessness.
Female Pros: Sharna, Emma, Peta, Lindsay, Karina and Anna
Male Pros: Sasha, Val (I’m sure he isn’t going anywhere), Alan, Derek (but I doubt if he will be returning as a pro), Mark (but heard his contract is up and he may be focusing on his music), Paul Kirkland and Misha Gabriel (he just won the Choreographer award with Mark Ballas).
Please no Keo, Witney, Tony or Louis next season
I’m back…sorry people. I have a question for you guys. Did anyone feel like S21 was a perpetual Jenna for pro audition? To me she appeared to be highlighted/preferred over Brit & Hayley
My ‘evidence’
1-Jenna dances with Tony the ‘I dream of Genie’
2-Jenna & Val tango the night it was announced Tamar was out
3-Jenna dancing to Elle King
I don’t remember seeing Brit or Hayley featured other than in bumpers.
@Herbie Don’t forget Jenna almost replacing Tamar for the duet rumba with Nick and Sharna.
Pros:
Female: Emma, Sharna, Karina, Peta, Anna, Lindsay if there is a 6th
Male: Derek (if he returns), Mark, Sasha, Val, Gleb, Tristan, Artem
Troupe: Alan, Paul, Keo, Hayley, Jenna, Brittany
I googled some of these people and I’m thinking Paul Karmiryan might be a better pro that Kirkland, but I might start him in the troupe just as a warm up to the show.
Male Pros: Derek, Mark, Val, Artem, Sasha, Tony
Female Pros: Peta, Sharna, Emma, Lindsay, Witney, Karina
Troupe: Brittany, Jenna, Keo, Alan, Hayley, Paul Karmiryan, Brooklyn
Just curious..why is there such a dislike for Jenna? I don’t understand, I find her to be one of the top dancers on the show. She is probably the most well rounded of the troupe girls in terms of pure technique. Her lines in contemporary are exquisite, she has beautiful legs, feet and an amazing turn out and her in latin and ballroom is quite exquisite as well. I feel like, same with Sasha, shes’ worked hard and deserves a chance at pro. She’s the only one in troupe that’s been there long enough without the opportunity to truly show what she is capable of with a celebrity. I think she would do a great job, having done some research, I see she has done some teaching and private lessons as well. I think she and Sasha both are the two most eye catching of the troupe dancers and they both have shown why they should be pro.
I also don’t understand the dislike for her. I think she’s a beautiful and sweet girl! I see she is one of the pros that seems to always show her gratitude to her fans, she likes, favorites and responds to a lot of them online thanking them for their support. I really would love to see her as a pro so we can really see her personality because I think her image is a bit intimidating, but her personality seems quite endearing from what I’ve seen. I would really love for her to prove some people wrong because I personally feel like she is amazing. As are all the pros.
Just my thoughts ::)
Male: Mark, Derek, Artem, Sasha, Val (just because he’s a fan favorite), and I agree new blood. I love Misha so I would be for that for sure.
Female: Lindsay (honestly the whole female I would be disappointed if they don’t make her a permanent pro, Emma, Sharna, Peta, Karina, Anna (maybe not the biggest fan of her so wouldn’t mind another fresh blood)
Troupe:
Feamle: Hayley, Brittany, Witney (sorry never was a fan of her as a pro in the first place.
Male: Alan (not the biggest fan but he’s fine in troupe), Paul (from the dwts tour, always loved him), and Keo
Omg I would LOVE aljaz! He’s a great ballroom dancer and choreography on scd, plus he’s hot ?. And gleb too!
My list: 1. Derek Hough (because it makes me happy to see his beautifulness every week), 2. aljaz (sorry if I spell his name wrong), 3. Gleb savchenkho 4. New blood/new person that’s cute and ballroom trained, not contemporary, hip hop, etc. 5. Mark ballas (on afterbuzz they said this is his last contracted season, but I can imagine him staying) and
Val
.
For the ladies 1.) Sharna 2. Emma 3. Lindsay 4. Peta 5. Karina 6. Witney. I would be interested in seeing how jenna handles a spot as a pro though, she has done so well this season.
Troupe: Alan, Brittany, Hayley, new guy, Sasha, and one of the two girls from last season who would come occasionally, Brooklyn or Cheyenne (?)
@kashti what do you mean Courtney’s tweets? I should get twitter ? does anyone know how tall Paul k is?
@jen I really liked Jenna on sytycd but I think some don’t like her because she can come off as showy or attention seeking? I’m also kind of craving a witney break. She seems like a deflated over-thinking version of her former self and her choreography has not been as good (although possibly because of the Alan Salazar thing). Would like it if she took a season off and Jenna tried out even
Herbie, I hadn’t thought about it, but, you are right. It does seems like they might be conditioning Jenna to be a pro after the performances you listed.
Jen, I don’t think anyone dislikes Jenna. I think there are just other dancers fans approve up before her (myself included) and she seems kind of forgettable. Though I admit, I loved her and Val’s finale dance that is going to be featured in the tour.
@Vogue I’m not exactly fond of Jenna… She seems kind of fake to me.
Bia, I know what you mean.
Female: Sharna, Lindsay, Emma, Peta, Anna, and Witney (I want to see her take on an older contestant)
Alternatives: Karina and Jenna (cool to see her get a chance but wouldn’t mind if she stayed in troupe a bit longer)
Males: Mark, Artem, Val, Sasha, Tony, and Derek (though I’m not quite sure where I stand with him staying or leaving).
My alternative for Derek if he leaves would be someone new, and not Keo, he needs to learn in troupe for a bit.
Troupe: Brittney, Alan, Keo, Jenna or Hayley (she was a nice addition but imo forgettable), Paul Karmiryan and Tanisha Belnap (but seriously Paul and Tanisha are incredibly talented and versatile the show needs to pick them up as soon as possible, ESPECIALLY Tanisha).
NO MORE non-ballroom pros. Doesn’t that leave Paul and Misha out?? Alan is too whiney, judging by how he outs pros who use him, and has a tendency to throw them under the bus. We need NO MORE of that.
Allison is out for sure – she confirmed it in some video this past weekend.
Females: Emma, Sharna, Peta, Witney, Lindsay, Jenna
Males: Derek, Mark, Artem, Val, Sasha, not sure…
Troupe: Brittany, Hayley, Brooklyn, Keo, Alan, Paul
I sincerely hope we get no more non-ballroom pros. I enjoy watching dancers of different genres in Macy’s dances and as back up to musical guests, but pro spots should belong to ballroom dancers. That’s the main technique used on the show and it should be taught by those who were extensively trained in it.
Mind you, I say this as someone who nearly swooned off the couch while seeing Robert Roldan dancing backup in several dances in Iconic Dances night.
Female Pros- Karina, Peta, Emma, Lindsay, Sharna and Witney (who I’m willing to give another chance not to come across as an bored zombie).
Male Pros- Sasha?, Mark, Artem, Pasha Kovalev, Alan, Tony.
Derek needs to spread his very talented wings and fly the coup. While it will never happen, Val needs to go be douchy somewhere else.
Troupe- Paul Karmiryan, Jonathon Platero, Tanisha Belnap and Janette Manrara.
Females: Emma, Sharna, Peta, Lindsay, Anna T., Karina. Alternates: Brittany
Males: Artem, Val, PASHA KOVALEV (I Love him!) , Tony, Sasha, Mark.
Troupe: Paul K, Witney, Tanisha Belnap, Alan, Brooklyn
No more Hayley and no more non ballroom dancers!
Ladies:
Lindsay
Karina
Emma
Peta
Sharna
Oti Mabuse! (I watch every week with my daughter, right after dance class, and wish she could see a beautiful woman of color like her!)
Gents:
All I want is…..Tristan!!!
Troupe:
Paul and Hayley would be fun!
Brittany does nothing for me though…
Lacey (if she can tone down the mugging for the camera)
Kym
Karina
Peta
Emma
Sharna
Lindsay/Edyta
Derek
Mark
Sasha
Artem
Val (if he can contain his ego and knee jerk reactions)
Tristan
The troupe bores me. They all seem generic to me and I’d rather not waste time on them.
jen i agree 110% about jenna. i met her and the other pros on tour and she knew my name before i introduced myself to her im assuming because she always favorites and responds to my tweets. thats a truly cool feeling as a fan. i hope they give her a shot she is remarkable and so kind.
things like this just make me excited for season 22, hurry up 3 months break haha.. (note my wish is to see Derek move on to bigger and better!)
The Guys: Artem, Mark, Sasha, Val, Alan, Tony
The Girls: Peta, Emma, Witney, Sharna, Lindsay, Karina
Troupe: Keo, Julz, Jenna, Brittany and Tanisha Belnap
Alternatives: Kym, Anna, Natalie Lowe (Aus/UK), Aljaž Skorjanec (UK), Louis, Dmitry
If you guys are in touch with the producers. Can you please ask them to include Michael Wentink as a pro on the show if possible? He can bring the diversity on the show. Also, he will be a pretty good addition with all his latin/ballroom skills. The show seriously needs some new faces now & a pro shakeup ASAP.
We’ve been seeing the same pros since quite sometime, with an addition of probably Louis, Kym, Anna at times. Want new ballroom faces like they have on Strictly every year.
First off I would love to see Derek and Mark on the show every week, but as many of you said, wouldn’t blame them if they said goodbye to the show and move on.
Males:
Derek
Mark
Sasha
Artem (would love to see him do what he did on Strictly with a good partner.
Aljaz
Pasha
If Derek and/or Mark decide to leave my replacements would be: Gleb/Tristan
Females:
Lindsay (I used to prefer Witney on SYTYCD and on DWTS at first, but now Lindsay grew much more as a dancer, and comes of as a genuine lovely person. Witney not so much.
Emma
Sharna
Peta
Karina
Maybe a new pro?
Troupe: Hayley, Brittany, Tanisha, Jenna, Paul Karmiryan, Alan, Julz and Keo
In my perfect world, I don’t want to see any of Mark, Derek, Val and Tony back. Half because they’re really talented and should move on from DWTS, and the other half because I’m sick of them. Hopefully you know which half I’m talking about.
I’m also torn on Sharna. On one side she’s awesomely talented, very supportive and a great sport. On the other hand, she keeps ringing me as a really shady person. I have no idea why.
So, the pros for me:
Male: Sasha and Artem are the ones I really want to see competing again. The others are rather interchangeable, though I’d like to see Alan now instead of Keo.
Female: THE RETURN OF HOLY TRINITY KARINA/JULES/KYM PLEASE! Ahem. The one I’d really like to see competing, of all people, is Peta. Really missed her. Second would be Linds. And of course Karina if she sticks around. I know it’s a long shot, but I’m not (and I mean NOT) looking forward to see Hayley somehow getting promoted as a pro. She always stick out as the worst to me in the non-Freestyle bumpers, what should I expect if she’s a pro then. Also, Jenna irked me every time I saw her.
This is difficult for me. I really enjoy the pros who really work hard to make each season special for their partner, and who are there for their partner first. So, I REALLY like seeing Derek, Mark, Sasha, Lindsey, Kym and Emma before others. BUT! I don’t want to see Derek on, I want him to spread those wings and FLY! and I’m assuming that Kym will return to judge on DWTS Australia.
I’m pretty iffy on Sharna, as much as I hate to admit it. In her earlier seasons, she was exactly the kind of pro I wanted, but the more seasons she’s on, the more she seems focused on what’s best for her, instead of her celebrity. And I’m having some issues with Witney, too. I did miss Peta, and if she could have another season like she did with Tommy, I’d welcome her back, but she does seem to have a choreography glitch that insists “when all else fails, take off as much clothing as possible and dance around partner”. Val and Tony are nice guys but….
Okay, here’s my try:
Men: Mark, Sasha, Artem…. Val, Gleb and Tristan? I’d like to see Keo learning in the troupe, and I’d like to see Paul Karmiryan also. And maybe fill in the holes with some new pros similar to Mark and Derek.
Women: Emma, Lindsey, Karina, Peta, Sharna, Brittany. Witney as an alternate or troupe.
Females: Karina, Anna, Kym, Sharna, Lindsay, Peta and Emma
Alternative: Jenna and Brittany (might be time to give these two a shot at being a pro)
Males: Derek (I too would like to see him become the official and permanent Creative director), Mark, Sasha, Artem, Alan (Time to give him a chance) and Val (not a Val fan but…. IDK, I don;t mind seeing him for another season. This season he was less annoying than in previous seasons)
Alternative: Louis, Tristan and Tony (Maybe)
Troupe: Hayley, Whitney, Keo, Paul Karmiryan
I’d like to see Derek replace Mandy Moore.
Females:
Lindsey
Emma
Anna
Peta
Sharna
Jenna
Males:
Sahsa
Henry (If he were to come back, he’s a great dancer who wasn’t given the right partner)
Artem (he was cheated this season, especially since he was supposed to be in it!)
Mark
Val
Alan
Troupe:
Keo (he needs some time to pick up some teaching tips, but he is a great dancer!)
Brittany
Paul Kirkland (give him a little more intro and then maybe make him a pro later)
Julz
Witney (she needs to step back and get reinspired)
Allison (I know she said she’s not coming back as a pro, but maybe she could do what Peta did and come back as a troupe dancer for a portion of the season)
Hayley
Paul Karmiryan or Serge Onik
Cari, if you read this post, you’ll see Allison talking about next season and she said she hopes to be back to dance in a few numbers after she has the baby:
https://www.puredwts.com/2015/11/30/allison-holker-and-louis-van-amstel-talk-on-dancing-with-the-stars-and-more-videos/
Thank you! I love hearing that! Even though she’s not the most skilled ballroom dancer, she’s a joy to watch.
Henry is a bit of a jackass. He can stay gone as far as I’m concerned. Don’t think it was his choice not to be on this season either.
I’ve just found out that apparently the bald male pro that popped up from time to time during this season’s finale wasn’t Paul Kirkland, but Vincent Noiseaux from SYTYCD and America’s Best Dance Crew. Adding him to my troupe wishlist.
As a person who never got into SYTYCD and has only ever watched a routine or two, I have a question.
Nick Blossum Carter was on the same season as Wit & Lindsey and is trained in ballroom. He is 6 ft so he wouldn’t have height issues like Sasha.
I know nothing about him. Is he good? I wonder if they have ever talked to him?
@danie, I would totally prefer julianne as a dancer than a judge! She is such an exquisite dancer, but her judging gets on my nerves and she goes overboard trying to be impartial to derek, im never going to get over nastia and dereks hosing by the judges, nastia danced her AT and dumba better than hayley and julianne did on move!
@charlie that is so cool and kind about jenna!
@bia I thought about Vincent too. He is great. I looked him up online & it looks like he danced in one of the Jason Derulo numbers on DWTS and some of the Macy’s numbers but I don’t remember it!
Two of the other male dancers they have used this year are Jonathan Redavid & Robert Roldan. I think Robert is trained in contemporary & hip hop. Jonathan is trained in ballet, jazz, swing, tap, and others.
I think any of these 3 could be an amazing addition but I don’t know that any are trained in ballroom so they would probably not be pros
OMG, Jodie I thought I was the only one who felt that. I also thought Nastia did the AT and rumba better than Julianne and Haley. My blood boils every time I remember the way she was treated. Nastia said in a recent People Magazine interview she’s not doing anymore reality shows. I think the experience left a bad taste in her mouth.
Ditto on Henry and same on Michael Wentink. No thanks.
Guys:
Mark:
My absolute favorite. How I have missed Ballas freestyles these past seasons
Val:
What can I say, I have loved some of his partnerships and work he has done with celebs.
Sasha:
I hope next season is the season they give Sasha another shot. I don’t get why they don’t want to. He’s brilliant!
Derek
Unless its his decision, I do not see how he wont be back. Like some have said, I’d love to see him as creative director. Ugh we need more macys stars of dance and good pro routines
Artem:
Loved how gentle he was with Ms Patti and I also loved him when he did Strictly. Would love to see him back next season
Louis:
I didn’t mind Louis this season so I won’t mind if her came back
Girls:
Karina
PTB Please give her a good partner. I’ve missed seeing this slaying queen shine for some seasons now
Lindsay:
Developed a new liking for this beauty after this season. I appreciate her choreography especially ballroom as there is more than 8 counts of hold in it lol.
Anna:
Didn’t always like her approach on afterbuzz but I lovee seeing her dance. She’s so fierce and I’m all for OG’s so why not?
Sharna:
I do have to say, I wasn’t really impressed by Shar this season but I know what she can do like she showed us with Charlie and Andy.
Emma:
I love Emma, shes so positive and I love how she handles her celebs with grace.
Peta:
Missed seeing her! As long as now showmances, I’m good haha. Good thing she aint single anymore
Troupe:
Keo: I used to be a huge fan but he does have some learning to do.
Witney: Have never been that impressed by her. She does lack maturity IMO
Britt, Jenna, Hayley,Alan: Love these 3 in troupe
Paul Karmiryan: Hes outstanding!
@ananya really I can’t believe nastia said that, that makes me so sad. ? I really want to see her dance again, and poor Derek blames himself when it’s not is fault. :'( maybe he feels he didn’t warn her or protect her sufficiently enough from the producers shady ways. It was so stupid too, ohh nastia wants to remain private..how scandalous!!! *rolls eyes*
Ladies –
Emma, Lindsay, Karina, Janette from SCD and SYTYCD, new people. I would be ok with Jenna – she stood out all season for me in the troupe.
I was disappointed by Sharna and Witney both this season. Especially Sharna who seemed light on content and as though she decide to have one theme all season and never really pushed Nick out of his desired cool dude mode – only in my opinion, of course.
Gents –
Derek, Mark, Sasha, new people. None of the boys in the troupe stood out to me until the finale.
I would like to see only trained ballroom dancers as pros, but enjoy the extended abilities of other dancers in the troupe.
I enjoy doing this but I like to have a realistic list and a proper wishlist because I’m well aware some of what I want just wouldn’t happen. I don’t mind the pros we have and I don’t think we really need a huge shakeup especially as all the pros have gained built in fanbases that keeps them fresh and popular, but I certainly think a couple of changes are needed as IMO this was the worst season of DWTS for a good while (bar Bindi winning). I must say that personally we’ve already made a good start with Allison out and Peta back in. Louis and Anna don’t do it for me in particularly either so if they are also both out then that would be another positive step for me.
My wishlist:
Females:
Sharna
Lindsay (Strong first season, she fully deserves another go)
Peta
Emma
Karina
Kym
Males:
Derek (Should he wish to stay. I’d love him as creative director as Vogue says above)
Val
Mark
Sasha
Artem
Tony (As said above he serves a purpose, give him the old one with no talent and hope)
Troupe:
Witney (She’s a weakest female pro. So how’s this for an ego check)
Jenna (Feel sorry for Jenna but she’s back of a very large female pro queue. I like her and she does deserve a shot but if it came down to Karina, Kym or her then I’d have to pick one of the other two)
Brittany
Keo (Sorry, bad teacher, weak pro, either give him time to learn in troupe or dump him)
Don’t really mind/care about the other two males. Dump Alan, he’s the new Henry.
Now for my realistic list
Females:
Witney
Peta
Sharna
Emma
Lindsay
One of Karina, Kym or Jenna
Males:
Derek
Val
Mark
Tony
Artem or Louis depending on whether Louis finds another celebrity to request him as a partner (Sharon Osbourne maybe). I’m guessing based on last season that should anything like this happen during the casting process, Artem would be the first pro TPTB would throw under the bus before anyone else.
Keo (It says a lot when hardly anyone on this blog holds nothing against him personally but doesn’t have him on their wish list. Unfortunately due to “ethnic diversity” and not his skills as a DWTS pro, I expect him to return. Bad news for Sasha!
Troupe:
Jenna (if she hasn’t been given a teaching pro spot)
Hayley
Brittany
Alan
Sasha (like Jenna, stuck in a long queue)
Someone new perhaps, maybe one of the guys going on tour or Paul K.
Personally if we have the 12 pros as I expect, I’d cut the troupe by two, six is way too many troupe members IMO.
@M8, this wasn’t Lindsay’s first season as a pro. Her first was S16, paired with Victor Ortiz. This was just Lindsay’s first time actually making it all the way as a pro.
I know Bia but let’s be honest it felt like her first proper go. Season 16 will be three years ago in March and since then she’s spent tons of time in troupe learning the ropes and honing her craft since then. She’s a much better pro for it as well based on last season.
Want to add that Nastia also had nothing but praise and accolades for Derek. I personally was so happy she came to see Bindi’s freestyle. It is indeed shameful how she was treated. It makes perfect sense that she would not want to put herself at the mercies of a reality show producer. I’ll always feel very cheated that we didn’t get to see a Nastia freestyle.
@Jeny Nastia was just asked on twitter if she’d want to return for an All-Stars season and she said probably! So there may still be hope! Lol
female pros
sharna
Lindsay
witney
peta
emma
jenna
Cheryl
anna t
male pros
val
mark
tony
artem
sasha
julz
henry
troupe
alan
paul k
Brittany
haley
keo
@julia really that would be amazing!!!!!! So excited thanks for telling me!
I also agree with the nick blossum suggestion, he danced a trio with witney and lindsey and I thought he was so cute
Does anyone else get a vibe that Julz Tocker is trying hard for a troupe or pro spot? I know he is around a lot and featured on AfterBuzz sometimes, partially because he is roomies with Keo & Emma (I think) and because he was a S16 trouper.
He is going on the tour this time & I don’t think he was on either of the last two. He fits the mold they seem to be going towards (handsome & ripped)
Thoughts anyone? Am I just imagining this?
Here are my pros for Season 22…
Mark Ballas
Derek Hough
Val Chmercovskiy
Keo Mosepte
Toni Dovaloni
Artem Chigvintsev
Sharna Burgess
Whitney Carson
Lindsey Arno;d
Karina Smirnoff
Emma Slater
Peta Mergatroyd
Female- Lindsay, Sharna, Anna, Peta, Emma, Jenna
Male- Mark, Derek, Val, Artem, Sasha, Gleb
Males:
Derek (I just can’t help it, he’s a joy to watch and brings the best out of his partners. He truly showcases their talents and brings the best choreography)
Mark
Sasha
Artem
Val
Tony
Females:
Sharna
Emma
Lindsay
Peta
Karina
Anna
Troupe: Witney (She needs an attitude adjustment), Brittany, Jenna, Paul Karmiryan, Keo
My wishes?
Male–Mark,Artem,Sasha,Gleb,Tony and Derek(for my own selfish reasons of getting to see him on TV each week
Females–Lindsay, Sharna, Karina, Peta, Anna and Emma
Troupe-Keo,Hayley,Jenna,Brittany,Julz,Serge (NO Henry EVER again in any form)
I’d rather see Derek given the role of Creative Director so we can see some NON-Mandy Moore opening numbers. I think Derek is far better at that AND Some Macy’s Stars of Dance!
I wondered that too herbie, maybe trying out again for a troupe spot? Eh, I still kind of don’t like anna despite this past season, she comes across as bitter to me although she can be funny. I agree with all the calls for derek to become creative director and take mandy moore’s spot.
I would like to see these 6 female dancers on season 22 of Dancing With The Stars. I would like to see Karina Smirnoff, Peta Murgatroyd and Sharna Burgess. I would like to see 3 new female dancers. They are Jade Hatcher and Nicole Cutler. They are from the U.K. version of Dancing With The Stars. That is the show Strictly Come Dancing. The 3rd one I would like to see is Katusha Demidova. She is a 3 time U.S. Champion. Her sister Anna Demidova was on season 8 of Dancing With The Stars. I would like to see these 6 male dancers. I would like to see Derek, Mark and Val. I would like to see 3 new male dancers. They are Paul Killick and Matthew Cutler. They are also from the U.K. show Strictly Come Dancing. The 3rd one I would like to see is Stephen Defilippo. He is a champion from The Amateur Division. I don’t own my own computer. I am doing this on a library’s computer. This comment is from Steven Lantz. If you would like to respond back, I am giving you my address. It is 1601 West 5th St., Brooklyn N.Y. 11223.
Females: Sharna burgess, Witney Carson, Emma slater, peta murgatroyd, Lindsay Arnold, Anna trebuyanska.
Alternatives: Karina Smirnoff, Cheryl Burke, Kyle Johnson.
Males: Derek Hough, Mark Ballas, Sasha Farber, Valentin Chmercosvkiy, Artem Chivisgnstev, Tony Dovolani.
Alternatives: Keo motsepe.
females
witney
lindsay
sharna
jenna
emma
peta
males
derek
mark
val
alan
sasha
artem
troupe
paul k
julz t
brittany
tanisha b
hayley
Females:
Emma – She always loves her partners and has such a positive outlook but I would love to see her with someone who could go far!
Lindsay – She was amazing with Alek I really hope they keep her as a pro.
Karina
Kym – Really missed her this season.
Sharna
Peta
Males:
Derek – Agree with everyone that only if he wants to come back.
Mark
Sasha – PLEAAAASE! He was amazing with helping Derek and Nastia!
Artem
Val
Aljaz
Troupe
Jenna – I think she is just fine in the troupe it bugged me how they tried to make Jenna happen this season.
Brittany
Paul K.
Alan
I really hope they stick with all ballrooom dancers.
Men:
Artem
Keep one: Val/Derek/Mark
Bump up: Sasha
Snag from Strictly Come Dancing:
Trent Whiddon – he was added when one of the other pros dropped out last season and turned out to be a pleasant surprise
Pasha Kovalev – he’s one of their stars, so probably wont happen, although it did happen with Artem
Aljaž Škorjanec – ditto with Pasha. He’s awesome and gorgeous.
Women:
Peta
Sharna
Emma
Lindsay
Witney
Bump up: Jenna – I think, like Lindsay, she would surprise.
Add: Anya Garnis – She is hands down a better ballroom dancer than the other cross overs from So you Think You Can Dance. She was added as a pro last minute on Strictly and did a phenomenal job with her celeb. She also adds a level of maturity that the younger pros lack.
Troupe: Alan, Paul Karmiryn, Keo, Brittany, Tanisha Belnap, perhaps a woman of color. The cast could use some diversity on the female side.
The ladies list is easy:
Sharna
Emma
Lindsay
Karina
Anna
Peta or Witney (depending on height of contestants)
I’d love for Jenna to be promoted from Troupe.
Men- harder to come up with list since no one impresses me as much as Derek.
Derek
Artem (LOVED him with Patti Labelle)
Sasha (PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE)
Mark
Tristan
Maks over Val
My please, dear lord, NO list: KEO!
I know it may not be realistic, but my greatest wish is to have Tristan back. Love the positive energy he brings. In fact, it would’ve been awesome if he was on this season and was Bindi’s switch up partner. Assuming 12 (not 13) here’s my list. I realize it’s not very likely, but it’s what I’m wishing for.
Males:
Tristan
Gleb
Artem
Sasha
Derek
Mark
Females:
Lindsay
Emma
Karina
Sharna
Peta
Anna
Alternates: Val, Paul Karmiryan, Witney, Kym
Female:
Peta (with a great partner)
Emma(ditto; someone’s who’s under 70 and over 20 PLEASE)
Sharna
Jenna(she did great filling in for people this season-Kim, Tamar etc)
Lindsay(great with Alek)
Kym/Karina(don’t mind)
Male
Derek(if he wants to)
Mark(same)
Val
Sasha(he’s great, does whatever TPTB throw at him, has proved himself like a zillion times; the list is endless. JUST MAKE HIM A PRO. HE DESERVES IT)
Artem(he can be amazing- Kara,Holly,Natalie on SCD)
Tony
Is it true that Sharna might not do next season? Because if she doesn’t I’ll be pretty damn disappointed.
Bia, where did you Sharna might not dance next season?
Apparently there’s been talks of it… Someone on a confession blog said so.
I saw this somewhere too. I think Sharna gave a non-committal answer to the standard question of “will you be back next season?” She didn’t immediately say yes, which some take as a “no” for some silly reason – after all this time. Sharna above all, knows better than to say yes to a question where the real answer is always “I don’t know.”
Male pros:
Val
Mark
Derek
Artem (he’s owed)
Tony
Sasha
Female pros are a bit harder!
Sharna (my absolute fave, love how she partnered Noah and Nick!)
Peta
Lindsay (earned it)
Emma (so cute with her partners)
Karina (if given a real competitor, she could kick some serious butt)
Witney (I could give her another chance)
Alternate: Jenna (I don’t like her persona very much, but there’s no denying that the girl can dance beautifully)
Troupe: Brittany
Hayley (needs to work on Latin though)
Brooklyn Fullmer (or some other female with ballroom experience)
Alan
Keo (sorry, he needs to go back to the sandbox and learn how to teach)
The only source I’ve seen of her talking about it is her last Afterbuzz interview and like Heidi said, she said she didn’t know which is what they all say. I can’t see her quitting DWTS or TPTB not hiring her back….especially since she just won 2nd place with Nick. Don’t believe anyone on anything unless it comes from a reliable source. Otherwise, it’s just talk.
They seriously need fresh blood in the male pro dancer area. I’m assuming Derek will not be back after this season (but great if he is) and Keo needs to go to troupe so they’ll have empty slots.
Troupe
Brittany + new girls (and Jenna if she isn’t moved up). Hayley isn’t a ballroom dancer and she is no Allison either so they can drop her.
Keo/Alan/someone new (Assuming Sasha will finally move up if Derek leaves)
Re Jenna’s performances this season. It makes sense for her to have got those opportunities – she is next in line for pro in the females and is clearly the best/most cross-trained dancer in the troupe. They initially dropped Britt for Hayley so they obviously don’t regard her as that important (sadly). Jenna also works with Val so thats why she was in his numbers.
Enstarz said that Len told them that Derek is coming back next season. For some reason though I feel like that’s wrong, I keep thinking he’s not coming back.
Female pros:
Karina
Emma
Sharma
Lindsay
I don’t see TPTB dropping Witney, despite her being less than stellar for the last couple of seasons.
And either a DWTS vet or a surprise for the last spot.
But I’ll be seriously PO’d if Emma Slater is dropped or troupe.
Male pros:
Derek – Simply the best all around. If he wishes to do something else, I’d respect that. But he’s earned a permanent spot.
I enjoy Mark very much. But if he should want to move on, I’d respect that.
I’m not a Tony fan but understand that the producers might feel loyalty there.
Sasha has more than earned a pro spot! And unlike Keo, he was actually good! Most season’s have a female celeb or two who are petite. And they don’t need to be Snooki sized either. How many times have Derek, Mark and Val had partners around their own height?
I can barely tolerate Val. I’d love to say goodbye at least for a season. He sure needs a does of humble pie.
I’d absolutely love to see Tristan back!
Clearly, Keo is front and center for diversity. He’s great looking and a talented dancer. But 3 strikes should mean you’re out as a pro. There are surely other ways to bring another Black person into the DWTS on air team. A different pro? Guest judge or host/hostess? Celebs, live performers, troupe members, etc.
I don’t see how Len could possibly know anything about Derek. He’s been in the UK and Derek was in Hawaii and now is in New Zealand.
And Enstarz actually spoke to Len? Doubtful.
Yeah ph plus enstarz is not the new york times lol, but I wanted to put that out there in case anyone else had read something. I would like it if derek left and pursued other interests and just popped back for an all star season. Would love to see derek with nastia again or even meryl…the possibilities!
I am just so impressed that you have such well-rounded knowledge of all of these dancers.
My wish list would be to bring back a few more brown skinned ladies. Too many blondes in the cast at the moment.
I would like them to stop including SYTYCD alumni as much (non-ballroom trained) because there is such a big difference in the flow of the back between a dancer who has been ballroom trained and one who hasn’t. Hayley and Allison for example do not have nearly the right flow and drama from their back as the ballroom ladies. Is what I’m saying making sense? They have a stiffness to their movement.
Why do I not enjoy Mark’s dances? I feel like his dances are all costume and not real content. Or they somehow seem self-serving. Can’t put my finger on it.
Tony serves a purpose. Keep him. I’d love to see Sasha give it a go with a partner. Put Keo in troupe. He needs some teaching skills.
Witney will stay on if she wants to be there because she just got into the final.
Sharna
Witney
Lindsay
Emma
Peta
Hayley
Jenna (Alternate)
Corky
Tristan
Keo
Artem
Sasha (PLEASE!)
Alan
Females:
Lindsay (She did so great with Alek, I’d be furious if they didn’t bring her back. She’s grown so much in troupe und totally deserves her spot.)
Emma (sweetest person ever, and I am still dreaming about her with a capable partner…)
Peta (I missed her, and I am interested to see if her pause has maybe re-inspired her)
Sharna (I don’t think they will dump her. She is great, but I was disappointed by her this season.)
Witney (they won’t drop a MBT winner – but I really hope she does better again because she just annoyed me with Carlos. And I actually like her.)
Karina or Jenna (Karina is just fabulous… If she’s not on, I would love to see Jenna. Sometimes I like her, sometimes I don’t, but I am curious to see if she can really cut it as a pro — wouldn’t mind her being pro over Witney actually. At least she would be fresh blood and maybe bring something new to the table.)
male:
Derek (He is the best pro – but I wouldn’t mind him do other great things or be creative director (Someone please replace Mandy Moore))
Sasha (!!!!!! if someone deserves it, it’s him!)
Mark (didn’t enjoy him this year, but normally I love his numbers)
Artem (I loved him with Patty and missed him this season)
Val (loved him with Zendaya and Tamar, not with his other partners. But he’ll be in as a pro for sure)
+ someone completely new!
Troupe: Jenna/Witney, Brittany/Hayley, Alan/Keo, Sasha (if he’s not a pro)/someone completely new (maybe Julz? Although he wouldn’t be completely new… I still am not sure whether I like him or not, but maybe they could give him another shot)
I hope they go back to a smaller troupe with only 4 people. I liked Hayley, but she didn’t really excite me. Same with Brittany.
Firstly, let me say that I know Witney didn’t have the best season but I don’t get all the negativity toward her – I feel like she was still super supportive of Carlos and helped him break out of his shell while still respecting the major role his faith plays in his life. Was there something she did that I just missed?
That being said, here’s my personal wishlist:
Male Pros:
Derek (if he comes back, I’ll admit I’d be glad to see him have more creative control over the dances he creates – he got screwed over by the song police more than once this season)
Mark (LOVED him this season with Alexa – something about their partnership made his creativity fly)
Sasha (he’s more than earned his second chance, I know he’s short but he deserves a shot)
Artem (he got cheated out of a spot this season, and I don’t dislike him nearly as much now after his season with Patti)
Val (as he long as he doesn’t showmance, I’m cool with it. This season showed me a whole new side of him)
And I’d love to see Tristan, Gleb, or Dmitry Chaplin return! But realistically, I think the last spot will be filled by Tony
Female Pros:
Lindsay (she was amazing this season, I’m so proud of her!!!)
Sharna (the last two seasons, she’s really made some magic onstage, I’d love to see her get an Emmy nom sometime in the near future)
Peta (it’s comeback time baby!!)
Witney (she’s just got that star quality about her and I love her choreo)
Either Kym or Karina (as long as they get a decent partner!!!)
Jenna (I think they’re definitely setting her up for a shot as a pro, and I think she proved this season that she has what it takes)
Troupe
Alan (I think he’s doing well)
Keo (bump him down to give him some more time to learn, he’s had a fair chance and he doesn’t done very well as a pro)
Paul Karmiryan (love him!! such a good dancer, and he’s trained in other disciplines, which is a nice bonus)
Brittany (I would love for her to be a pro but she needs more time)
Nika Kljun (she is super fierce, she’d fit right in with the rest of the female dancers)
Tanisha Belnap (girl can DANCE! and she’s trained with Mark before, I’d love to see them dance together in pro numbers)
Still dreaming to make it onto the show one day, or at least onto people’s dream pro lists xD I’ll get there, but dang is ballroom an expensive sport to go pro in
As much as I enjoyed Nika on MOVE Live on Tour….she’s a hip hop/Jazz dancer. Even FARTHER removed from the ballroom than Allison or Hayley. So I have to give a hearty NO WAY to her. Would love to see her on Move again though.
I could swear I saw a video of her doing an Argentine Tango somewhere that I absolutely fell in love with, but I might be mistaken. I’d be okay leaving Hayley in the troupe, tbh I think she’s adapting better to ballroom technique than Allison, or I’d put in… Brooklyn Fullmer? I dunno, she wasn’t my favorite on SYTYCD but she’s been on tour with DWTS so I wouldn’t be surprised to see her come into the show sooner or later. Or maybe one of the Ballroom with a Twist girls, Alla Kocherga or Magda Fialek? I dunno, nobody stands out to me as an obvious contender right now.
Female pros: Karina, Lindsay, Peta, Sharna, Emma, Witney
Male pros: Mark and Derek (if they stay on), SASHA, Tony, Artem, Aljaz from SCD (this is an awesome idea. Sad he and Helen were just eliminated. Thought they could go far, but it was an unfortunate situation)
Troupe: Keo, current troupe + Paul Kamiryan (I want them to stop bringing SYTYCD people over but I really love Paul so I can make an exception for him)
Pros:
Mark, Derek, Artem, Sasha, Val, Louis
Karina, Kym, Julianne (or Lindsay), Sharna, Emma, Anna
Troupe:
Paul Karmiryan, Keo,a new guy, Jenna, Witney, Hayley
Worth mentioning that the last three pros brought onto the show classed as “new blood” (thrown straight in as a pro without any time in troupe) have been failures in my opinion. Tyne, Keo and Allison. That’s probably the main reason why I’m not a massive fan of them bringing in people without spending time in the troupe first. Compare that with Peta, Sharna, Emma, Artem and most recently Lindsay who spent varying amounts of time in troupe and came out much better as a result.
I love Allison, but, it does seem like fans are divided on her. I’m not sure I’d consider her a failure being she placed 2nd last season?
Have to agree with you M8 about Keo but not so much on the girls. Tyne got the toughest male celeb to train and was then never given another chance to prove herself as a teacher. Allison has proved herself, she lead Riker into the top 10 of all time (in terms of average scores).
Ditto on Keo. I don’t even think going back to the troupe will help him? But, then look at Lindsay. She is just a amazing now. So, maybe I’m wrong on Keo.
Agree Vogue she splits the fans opinions. I don’t judge success or failure based on placements during the season, I judge it based on actual abilities as a teaching pro. Emma and Lindsay have both never won or placed 2nd but I’d consider them both better pros than Allison. That’s just me, others probably judge a pro on placements and that’s fair enough but I personally see it differently. It’s like saying Tristan was a failure as a pro because he never took his partner beyond the quarter finals.
So true too, M8. Like Lindsay, I love Emma. Same with Sasha!
Riker was an actual trained ballroom dancer (the only celeb every on the show with that level of training), so of course Allison took him far!! When she goes that far with someone with no ballroom training….or she teaches someone with no training a ton of good ballroom content, then we’ll talk.
Look, I LOVE Allison as a dancer – a *contemporary* dancer. But she is not all that as a ballroom pro. She is getting there, sure. But honestly, it’s kind of insulting to people like Sharna, Emma, Mark and Derek and the rest (even VAL) to put Allison in the same job as them and then try to claim that she is even a fraction as accomplished as them. They trained their whole lives in ballroom dancing, Allison didn’t. Allison doesn’t even claim to be as accomplished as them, I don’t think, so I think her fans should relax and quit trying to level a playing field that just isn’t. When she can teach a complete non-trained dancer a recognizable Waltz or Rumba…or even a cha cha, we’ll talk more.
M8, while I agree on Tyne, Keo and Allison’s categorization as “failures” in the context of DWTS, it’s got little to do with lack of time in the troupe. In fact, I’d say it has nothing to do with it at all, except for maybe Keo. Fact is, neither Tyne nor Allison are ballroom dancers by profession – I don’t know that time in the troupe would solve that. Can you really expect dancing in the troupe to bring a contemporary dancer up to the level of a Derek or a Sharna in ballroom?? That’s rather, again, insulting. The ballroom trained pros have danced ballroom for YEARS. They are experts. Allison and Tyne are novices at ballroom. I just think DWTS should still to actual ballroom dancers. As for Keo – time in the troupe (like, years) could probably help him. There is no question that he’s a great dancer. He’s just a really bad teacher. And I don’t know if that can be fixed.
I’m a fairly new viewer as far as the series as a whole is concerned, regularly started watching during season 18. To this day, Riker is one of my favorites but I had no idea he was so trained in ballroom until recently. So naturally I’m rethinking my thoughts on Allison, and my life in general.
I wouldn’t say Allison is on the same level as Keo when it comes to teaching ability, I think she’s been quite a bit more successful. But I’m not sure she’s on the same level as Sharna or even Emma either. This season had to be distracting for her due to her pregnancy and all the travel that Andy required, so I don’t want to knock on her too much.
I really want to give Keo a break…I keep waiting for his breakout, but haven’t seen it yet. I will say that he hasn’t had great partners up to this point. But is it that they are that uncoordinated, or is his teaching ability lacking? If he’s given another chance as a pro, I’d like to see them pair him with someone that has a little bit more natural ability or at least better work ethic (Charlotte!) and give him a chance to really showcase his ability. Not suggesting a ringer, but maybe someone that connects with the audience better.
In the end, the true champs are those than can make anyone a dancer. So, I understand if Keo isn’t given another chance. I do think we will see more of Allison if she wants to return after the baby is born.