Dancing with the Stars Season 22 – PRO WATCH!!
It’s that time of year again and who knows what kind of funky will go down this season. Will Derek finally hang up his DWTS shoes? Will Artem get hosed again in favor of the ever annoying Val? Will Sasha finally get his chance? Will Sharna continue to follow in the wrong footsteps, making unwise statements? Who will take Allison’s spot? These questions and more will hopefully be answered soon. 🙂
I don’t want to hear about Jenna being dance captain. I think that is likely decided among the dancers themselves and I doubt it has any significance in regard to the show – maybe she’ll be a pro, maybe she won’t. Derek and Julianne’s dance captain was someone you’ve likely never heard of. So what?
Kristyn Burtt claims that the pros have been told rehearsals start on February 22 – it remains to be seen if that is true or if it actually happens. Last season was so…fluid…that we’ll have to wait and see. I do think we’ll start to hear stuff from those with a lack of ability to keep their mouths shut. 🙂 There are some Derek fans that worry his media sweep happening next week will include an announcement about his status. The media sweep is because of Disneyland 60 – if an announcement happens, it will likely be that he’s out. If he says nothing or hems and haws, it might be that he’s in. He’s a tough call, as usual
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ETA: Sad to report that I may have just discovered that Derek is going to be a pro on this season. Since just yesterday he sounded like he was out, this may be a new development. Anyway, he was scheduled to be in Iowa next Friday the 26th. The group hosting him just announced that it had to be rescheduled to the following week due to Derek’s “contractural obligations”. What, you might ask, could he be contracted to?? Well, DWTS. GMA is in LA doing a Pre-Oscar show on the 26th. Coincidence? I kinda doubt it, unfortunately. Normally the cast is announced the Tuesday AFTER the Oscars…but Derek’s schedule change is interesting to say the least.
Also, recently, Mark, Val and Sharna have all implied they intend to be on this season – that is not a confirmation, though, as they’ve said similar things before just meaning they will be there if they get a partner. But that does answer the Mark question. He wants to be there.
ETA2: Tom Bergeron told DWTSGossip that the cast announcement is NOT on the 26th – but the mystery regarding Derek’s obligations continues….
ETA3: According to an ABC email sent to subscribers, the DWTS pros are once again going to be on the Post Oscars Party on Live with Kelly and Michael – February 29th
ETA4: Thanks to Clair on Twitter who found this photo by Andy Grammer which is apparently a rehearsal photo for Kelly and Michael? Notice who’s missing?? Now, last season there were pros missing at Kelly and Michael who ended up being on the show, so can’t put too much stock in it, but if you watch these interviews with Derek on PDH…well, they’re kinda weird. He’s acting weird. 🙂 I’m sure there are also people in this photo who WON’T be pros…but it’s fodder for discussion. 😉
ETA5: Just Jared just published the DWTS pros going into rehearsal. Once again, the absences are more notable than who’s actually there. They got eight of last season’s pros plus Emma.
ETA6: Vogue here and it’s a NO for Lacey Schwimmer.
ETA7: According to a new interview in Life and Style Magazine, Val is on Dancing With The Stars this season. You can read more about it in this post. ~Vogue
ETA9: Forgot one tidbit. We have strong reason to believe that the rumors are true – Edyta is back after a 6 year absence. Discuss. Also, DWTSGossip says Jenna is still troupe.
ETA10: And DWTSGossip says Derek is out. This coincides with our source who has seen hide nor hair of Derek – no indication that he’s on this season.
ETA11: DWTSGossip is also reporting Louis as in for the season. ~Vogue
ETA12: Karina has been spotted around McCadden, so we are calling her IN. We were never sure Louis was back, and now DWTSGossip is saying he’s been replaced, so I’ve changed him to a big question mark. I’m putting Hayley back in the troupe just because I don’t think she would have been at Kelly and Michael today if she weren’t troupe…although I find it odd that she was not seen in any photos at McCadden last week cuz she was rehearsing with Derek the whole time. Odd. And I didn’t see Emma on Kelly and Michael, but Kristyn and DWTSGossip say she’s troupe, so that’s where I’ll put her. Odd though. We’ve not heard a peep on Tony, but DWTSGossip says he has an NYC celeb and I can’t imagine they will ever replace him, so I’ve marked him IN.
ETA13: Tony and Keo are in for sure, as is Witney. All have partners.
ETA14: According to DWTSGossip, Sasha is a pro this season!! We have not corroborated this (I don’t think..I lose track), but I’ll buy it. 😉 Artem also has a partner, as you will see when you check our couples spoiler post.
ETA15: Source is about 90% sure Lindsay has a partner – so in light of nothing being reported to the contrary, I’m changing her status to “most likely IN”. -Court-
ETA16: Just for the sake of clarity – Lindsay has a partner. And no, I have heard nothing about Derek and/or Emma getting a partner at the last minute and being a “surprise announcement” come Tuesday. As of right now, this season has 12 couples, period. -Court-
The lists below reflect who was a pro last season and who wasn’t. I don’t really think Louis will be back because Paula asked specifically for him. Kym? Who knows?
Male Pros
Val – IN
Tony – IN
Mark – IN
Artem – IN
Keo – IN
Derek – OUT!
Sasha – IN!
Louis – OUT
Female Pros
Sharna – IN
Peta – IN
Emma – Troupe
Witney – IN
Allison – OUT (due to Pregnancy)
Karina – IN
Edyta – IN
Lindsay – IN
Status of Former Pros
Gleb Savchenko – Strictly Come Dancing
Tristan MacManus – Strictly Come Dancing
Anna Trebunskaya – ??
Kym Johnson – ??
Lacey Schwimmer – No
Cheryl Burke – Out – committed to another network
Maksim Chmerkovskiy – retired
The Troupe
Emma Slater – OUT for season 22 according to her instagram.
Sasha Farber – promoted to pro
Henry Byalikov – ??
Jenna Johnson – IN
Brittany Cherry – ??
Alan Bersten – ??
Hayley Ebert – IN?
New male troupe member – ??
Ooooh. Let the worms fly out that can. Ill just be over here with a glass of something strong and a popcorn!
Looking forward to one more great season of Dwts!
Would love to see Derek, Mark, Artem, Val and Sasha as male pros this season. Sharna, Peta,Emma,Lindsay and Brittany/Jenna. I don’t want to see Witney this time due to her lack lustre conceptualisation last season. She well spend her time with fiancé.
I’m looking forward to seeing who comes back this season! The past couple of seasons have surprised me-ish.
So exciting! I can’t wait!!
yay!!! I’ve been looking forward to this post!! I hope Lindsay stays as a pro and doesn’t get downgraded to the Troupe!!
There hasn’t been much said so far about Season 22 except Len is back. It is always exciting with the anticipation and build up. I would think cast announcement will be after the Oscars in LA on GMA as in previous Spring seasons, perhaps March 1 or 2. But it is nearly halfway through Feb and there hasn’t been much done yet, promos, etc. It is time for ABC to get on the DWTS ball and start rolling out the news! Come on ABC we are waiting in eager anticipation!
Wasn’t there a rumor (maybe Kristyn?) that they interviewed a bunch of new pros in the offseason? I wonder if they are planning a shake-up of some kind. I don’t really mind if Val sticks around (as I’m resigned to the fact he isn’t leaving anytime soon) I just need him to not be pimped and given a ringer YET AGAIN. I really REALLY hope Lindsay is a pro again. Not only was she great with Alek, she was delightful to watch and has earned her spot. I would love for Kym to come back again but I won’t hold my breath.
Technically, Jenna has earned a chance as a pro I guess, but I really just can’t stand that girl. She’s the worst attention seeker I’ve ever seen on this show, and that’s saying a lot (other than the C brothers that is). Whether it’s crying backstage when Tamar couldn’t dance, constantly mugging for the camera instead of paying attention to her partner, or something else, she always makes it about her. I can’t even see her trying to make a celeb the center of attention. I do think it’s funny people put stock in the dance captain thing. Most likely, no one else wanted the job and she wanted to feel important.
What is the captain thing? I don’t really understand…
Anyway Lindsay better be a pro next season and Sasha too. I think Artem should be a pro also instead of Keo for example. For the ladies I on’t see big changes except for Anna and Karina.
My predictions:
Male Pros:
Val
Tony
Artem
Keo
Sasha
Someone new or Louis
Female Pros:
Peta
Sharna
Witney
Emma
Lindsay
Kym or Karina
Troupe:
Hayley
Brittany
Jenna
Alan
Julz Tolker
Paul Barris
What kinda statements what Sharna said?What did she say?
Who I would like to see:
Lindsay
Emma
Sasha
Artem
Anna
Karina
Mark
Val
Sharna
Peta
Tony
someone from Strictly (preferably either Giovanni or a return of Tristan or Gleb)
I absolutely adore Derek and Kym but their respective last seasons were just so amazing it might be nice for them to have ended on those notes.
Who I think it will probably be:
Val
Artem
Keo
Tony
Witney
Peta
Sharna
Lindsay
Jenna
Emma
two more male pros either from troupe or completely new
Yay! So excited. Can’t wait to find out who the new Pros are gonna be.
In the name of all that’s holy, Sasha better be a pro this season.
I’d love to see Kym, Karina and Lindsay back. I’m believe Peta is a sure thing, which I’m happy about.
I hope Val takes a season off to work on his life skills and learn how not to be such a jackass.
TPTB needs to make Paul Barris a pro!! Gosh! He’s so freakinnn’ HOT! Hope the makers cuts Keo from the pro spot to troupe & make Paul B a pro! But they won’t do due to diversity sake..:(
Well my predictions:
Male:
Tony (for sure)
Mark (for sure)
Keo (for diversity sake he will keep coming back!)
Artem (for sure, esp. after last season’s fiasco!)
Val (wonder if he’ll sit out this season for all the suing controversies?)
Derek (pretty much he will be back! where else will he go?)
Female:
Witney
Sharna
Peta
Emma
Lindsay (hopefully)
Any of the older pros like Karina, Kym, Anna etc.
Can’t wait for DWTS to begin soon!!!!
Susan, it might take longer than a season for him to achieve that. His lack of remorse after publicly shaming a child is unbelievable. Mark and Derek are the big question marks. They have a lot going on, so whatever they decide is ok with me. Just hope Lindsay is back as pro. She more than earned it last season.
Let me guess. Val is in and gets someone with dance experience, gets over praised by the judges. Same s*h$t, different season. I still don’t understand why tptb goes to the extend of making him “the one”. I think he gained popularity because he was NEVER gets critisized accordingly by the judges thus making viewers think he’s “the best” when in reality Derek is one with so much accomplishments. Did Val befriended all the producers or what? Is it because he’s loud and whiny? If I can say something to tptb, I’ll say this “Confidence is silent, insecurities are loud.”
If derek and val leave wont it just be the fam left?
:/
I actually don’t think Tony is a for sure bet. Wasn’t he almost not in last season? I vaguely remember something about that. Sure he’s always good fodder for the older or maybe more difficult celebs, but I also think Keo and Artem have taken on that role as well. I just don’t think he’s as needed anymore.
I really, really need to have Emma back in the pro line up. I was very unhappy that TPTB even considered pushing her back to troupe last season. I’d also like Lindsay to have another pro run. She was a treat with Alek.
Even if I don’t like them, Tony and Val have earned their spots. Derek and Mark have more than earned theirs. I understand why those spots are permanent unless these men decide not to participate. Although I’m not sure that Val should be in the line up with the lawsuit and controversy surrounding him, I suspect the producers won’t bench him. They might relish the extra publicity it’s bound to generate.
I’m not committed to Artem but he stood aside with grace when they snatched his spot and his partner from him last season. Even though I suspect a promise was made that he’d be in as a pro this season because of it. I want SASHA with a celeb partner again! He’s loyal and has proved his value to DWTS over and over. I do absolutely believe they keep trying to make Keo happen because of race and diversity. I’m white so I can’t speak to the importance of having a Black pro. I just wish they’d do something about his skill set then. Pointers on teaching and showcasing your partner rather than just yourself. And I can’t help but resent Artem and Keo because they seem to stand in the way of Tristan (past) and Sasha.
So there’s the rub for me. I’d like to see some new pros. But I know this is a GREAT job for professional dancers. (And the judges.) I can see why most don’t want to give up their slots. But with only 12 openings, I’m more fearful of seeing someone I really want to see out for the sake of a shake up.
Careful, PDS, your stupid is showing. Again.
I think you’re thinking of Val, DLT. If Tony isn’t in its because his celeb didn’t sign, not because they don’t want him. They need a tall, older guy, and HE has nowhere else to go. 😉
If Derek and/or Mark are out I think they’ll keep Tony in for the oldschool viewers and for problematic personalities and slow learners. Artem and Keo don’t have his teaching experience. (They brought Anna back for Gary because of her teaching experience.)
Since Mark is working on his music career I really can’t figure out if he would a) stay and use DWTS for publicity or b) he’s out and will concentrate on having a club tour or something like that to promote the Alexander Jean EP and be finally seen as a serious musician instead of dancer/singer.
With Derek you never know. I’m sure he has thousands of things going on as always but he just loves the show so he might be tempted to do one last season. He tends to make last minute decisions anyway so we’ll see. I think it would be a great ending for him though if he decided to make S21 his last season.
I’m curious about the Val situation though. ABC is family oriented after all. They might want to keep him on this season anyway since he’s obviously still popular with the ladies but I’m wondering if they would want Derek to stay one more season to take the focus away from the Val disaster.
“Where else will he go”? PDS, you don’t know Derek very well or don’t want to accept how talented he is (not sure which). He has so many things he can do. Right now it’s heavily rumored that he will be in “Singing In The Rain” on Broadway (rumored for the Fall). He also might be in the Dirty Dancing Remake. He’s also working on music. He doesn’t need DWTS. It’s the other way around.
But, I will say I love Paul Barris too and would love to see him replace Tony or Keo.
If Val is kept in the line up, then we know the producers aren’t concerned about the lawsuit and the publicity it will bring. They might be looking forward to it, you know! They want to be in the news, it’s already been speculated that the lawsuit is unlikely to be decided against the defendants as is and they might feel it adds to Val’ s bad boy cred. I’m also sure DWTS, the network and Val’ s publicist have image rehab plans in place.
My biggest concern is, if DWTS take up Courtney’s excellent idea an includes a celeb with DS on next season or in the future, that they put enough care and thought into how and who to teach them that it be a good turn for the star, not just the TV show, network or pro.
I hope that Mark is on this season. I want tosee if AAlexander Jeans fan base will pay off and also because the show is perfect for him to gain more publicity and promotion…
PDS, Derek was offered the leading role in Singing in the Rain on Broadway (rumored for the Fall as Vogue said). We know that Harvey Weinstein wants him to do it, Gene Kelly’s widow wants him to do it, we just don’t know yet what Derek has decided.
But since Derek is doing a lot of media next week to promote the Disney 60 Special for which he served as master of ceremonies (airing on ABC on Feb 21st) we’ll probably find out soon what his plans are at least for the near future…
I was seeing tumblr rumors that next season would be an all stars season though i see it as just a rumor right now. Interesting to see if it would affect casting.
While I’m absolutely sure that Derek Hough has a very bright future, and opportunities that we haven’t even heard rumored yet, I kind of doubt he’ll be Johnny Castle in the Lionsgate Dirty Dancing remake now. They’ve cast 19 year old Abigail Breslin as Baby. So I’m expecting someone closer to her age and less blond for Johnny.
And I’m doubtful that they are mounting a Broadway revival of Singing in the Rain as early as Fall 2016 now. While Playbill has it on the “Upcoming” list, they have no info beyond director. Not even any rumors for publicity. For comparison, a remake of Fred Astaire’s Top Hat is also on the list. This has been in the works since 2013 and there have been workshops. And that Amber Riley will headline a Dreamgirls revival in London in late 2016 was announced recently. But that had been cooking for years and she was signed more than 6 months ago.
Mark’s Ep with Alexander Jean is coming out in March so we’ll see how that will paly into his commitment to DWTS.
In Kym’s press tour for 5678 Fitness, she is certainly following the party line (not sure, casting right now, etc.) However, recently she has changed her response just a bit to perhaps I could be involved in another way.
It likely means nothing but I did see Tom Bergeron reply to a tweet by Peta & she replied “I’ll see you soon.” My guess is she is in. Having seen the tour I would “guess” females are Peta (she said her wedding is sometime in 2017) Sharna (she did a lot of talking to crowd in show) Emma, Lindsay. I think Witney likely is in but she has lately a bit of an attitude for me. As for rest it’s a guess. Kym seems to have a lot of good things going on in her life. Anna maybe if they bring in another Gary type? It’s weird but I actually liked Jenna’s dancing in tour but on tv she comes across to me as trying too hard. As for guys I think Tony for sure, Keo (who was great in tour but needs a teaching tutorial) Mark if he wants to promote BC & him (?) and Val. My guess is Val is trying to settle lawsuit now before show starts which would be wise. I’d love Sasha to get a spot and am ok with Artem but rather Sasha than Artem. As for Derek, I can’t imagine not watching him but last season was like a perfect storybook ending. And I’d rather see him in new ventures. Louis, I’d rather not see ever again. Can’t figure out where Julz Tocker fits in since he’s on tour. Nowhere or troupe?
I really just want to see Sasha get another chance as a pro! He was great with Snooki, who I didn’t really like until she was with him, and he was a good sport with Nastia!
That’s interesting about Kym Johnson! I know she talked for a while about planning for a “post dancing” career. Referring, I believe, only to not competing on any of the DWTS franchise. So just for speculations sake, what might she be referring to?
The judges table? With Len back on for S22, I count 4 fools so would they even need/want a guest judge? Any hints about one of them taking time off? Or, maybe she’d replace Erin for certain dates?
Can there be something similar to Macy’s Stars of Dance on the old results shows that would show case the DWTS pros and others?
How is Kym as a choreographer? Could maybe Mandy Moore be getting competition?
As much I hope kym is on this season something tells me it’s not going to happen. if I had to guess the pros (and odds are I’m probably wrong about one or two) I think it’s mark, Derek, artem, Val, Tony, and Sasha for the guys but something tells me that Keo will be in there and the question for me would be who doesn’t get the spot. For the ladies, I am praying that it’s Emma, peta, Lindsay, Karina, sharna, and witney. As much as im going to miss seeing Allison I’m hoping she is in the audience or maybe even a fill in for Erin if she has something else one night like she did in the fall season. I’m not sure about Anna to be honest. I half want to see her back and half don’t.
For females, Teaching and Troupe, I imagine it will be the usuals – Peta, Witney, Lindsay, Sharna, Emma, Karina, Anna, Kym, Jenna, Hayley, Brittany.
For males, Teaching and Troupe – Tony, Val, Mark, Sasha, Derek, Keo, Artem, Julz, Alan, Paul Barris Louie
However and whoever they mix them up. And there are the possibilities of new ones.
Val’s the defendant, Colleen. But yeah, the producers are probably chomping at the bit to get the publicity. I think they have to be careful of a backlash though – ABC is Disney after all.
Colleen, SITR has already been in the press as a done deal by Weinstein for the fall. Derek himself told me that he was asked to be the lead and was considering it. There is no “rumor” about it. Just because you don’t hear about it, doesn’t mean it ain’t happening.
I do hope he’s NOT going to do the Dirty Dancing thing, although he seemed a natural pick to be Johnny before they cast Abigail. The age thing isn’t a problem though – Johnny was older than Baby to begin with. I just don’t think Abigail is at all right for the part and wouldn’t look right with Derek in any case.
I don’t know why I just thought of this but in regards to the dirty dancing remake (which I am intrigued by) I think that Sasha could make an interesting Johnny. I know he probably isn’t as tall as Patrick was or resemble him in any way but it would be pretty fun to watch.
I’d expect the DWTS producers to have a discussion with ABC’s legal team AND their publicity department about the Val C vs. a child with DS and her family lawsuit. But after they were so insanely stupid last season over Tamar’s trip to the emergency room, I’m afraid that’s giving them too much credit!
I guess I just find pondering these type of questions/ BTS motives / numbers more interesting often than the competition itself.
Like why is Artem getting a pro spot season after season rather than Sasha? Keo vs. Sasha is much easier to guess. I do think all 3 guys are “nice”, attractive and great dancers. But Sasha has proven his loyalty and value to DWTS both as a troupe member and a pro with the sometimes (often?) difficult Snooki.
I “see” why Witney and Sharna are given contenders and would stay a pro before Emma Slater. But not so much Allison. Even though I like her, I’d say Emma has proven herself to be at least as good a teacher/choreographer for this show. And the idea that Emma could have been pushed back into the troupe, still infuriates me. Even while I do sort of have sympathy for former proven pros who would appreciate another season.
I also see why troupe members like Jenna and my beloved Sasha have expectations of having a crack at a pro position. But it means someone else loses their slot unless they have another, better job offer. Or, they’re having a baby!
On the plus side though, I do love this ongoing trend of made for TV musicals. It’s offering good jobs to large ensembles and for talent like Julianne Hough (and maybe others from DWTS) it’s a way to showcase themselves widely without the long term commitment of a theater run. I know the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hairspray and Dirty Dancing are all in works but hopefully, that won’t be the end of the trend yet. Rocky Horror and DD won’t be “Live” either but still, made for TV events. Should create further flexibility in casting.
@Vin
Abigail Breslin is probably about 5’3″ and she’s comparatively hefty. She was visibly fuller than all of her Scream Queens co-stars. Makes me think they’ll need someone with proven lift training for the famous ending number. I have no doubts that Derek could handle it. The Dirty Dancing remake won’t be live and I’m sure a lot of practice will go into handling the famous over the head lift. But I was taken quite by surprise on choice of actress for Baby. In the original, Johnny was not much older than her, I believe. It was mentioned that college wasn’t an option for him. And the plot had to do with a contrast in privilege between the upper middle class, Jewish, daughter of a Dr. and working class, sexy, Italian Johnny Castle. Abigail is a very fair, rather young looking 19 year old. Frankly, I love the suggestion of Glee’s Jacob Artist for Johnny in the re-make.
For the males I’m gonna guess: Mark, Val, Tony, Keo, Artem and Sasha/Derek.
I love Derek but last season with Bindi was just so special that I think it would be the perfect way to exit the show. We’ll see what happens.. If he IS back then I’ll enjoy his dancing nonetheless.
I also wouldn’t be all that mad if Alan became a pro. He’s a bit of a show-off (he really gives Val and Henry a run for their money on shirtless pics) but I feel like he has a nice, fun personality either way. Would be interesting to see if he has what it takes to be a teacher.
Paul is another one who I think could potentially be a good pro partner. Pretty sure he was a pro in the Mexican version of DWTS or something like that. Wouldn’t mind him replacing Keo. He’s also Hispanic so there’s some diversity if that’s what the show wants.
As for the females I’m gonna guess: Peta, Lindsay, Witney, Karina, Emma and maybe Kym or Jenna if they decide to bump her to pro (please no).
I’ll also say that it would be nice if we could have one or two dancers from other versions of the show (or other countries all together) or just dancers that the public doesn’t really know (kinda like when Keo came in). Preferably ones who have experience teaching too…
Sasha is short, Artem is taller. Pretty sure that’s all there is to it.
I DON’T see why Witney and Sharna have a leg up on Emma, actually. Don’t see it at all. But I wonder if it’s a personality thing – maybe Emma works great with older men, and neither Witney nor Sharna have the temperament for it. Considering Sharna’s rant about Val not too long ago, that wouldn’t surprise me. If she’s taking after him, then I’m going to have issues with her.
@colleen: i think abc will dip into the dwts talent pool hopefully but I’m really hoping that they don’t screw than casting up lol. I know people that are convinced it’s going to be Channing Tatum but the only two people that I really wouldn’t want to see as Johnny are Channing and Val at This point lol.
Channing Tatum is rapidly reaching the saturation point. If I don’t see him again for a long time, it would be okay with me. And I doubt VERY MUCH he would do a TV movie anyway.
Yeah, I don’t think Derek has/will have any involvement in the Dirty Dancing remake. Actually, Henry Byalikov was auditioning for the role of Johnny a few weeks ago lol…
As for Singin’ in the Rain, that is still very likely to happen imo. To many clues from Derek himself for it to not. Cats the Musical was just recently announced and is opening in less than six months (July) So no reason SITR couldn’t be announced at a later date and still open in the Fall. And the fact that it’s a transfer from the recent Paris production and not a brand new production makes it more likely. In fact, the Choreographer from the Paris production actually Followed Derek on Twitter while Derek was in Paris last month presumably seeing SITR.
That’s right, Amanda – totally forgot that Derek went to Paris to “see a show”. LOL.
I love pro watch! I think that Lindsay has solidified her slot thanks to Alek, and I have a feeling that we’ll see Jenna as a pro too. I would like to see Sasha get another slot, but Tony and Val’s longevity might hinder that. So we’ll see.
How do we think Hayley did last season? Do we think TPTB might want to expedite her to pro?
@Princess Heidi I’m actually wondering if Derek doing all those talk shows next week may have something to doing with the announcement of SITR. I could be totally wrong, but him appearing on 3 different talk shows, all in NYC no less, seems a bit odd if he were going JUST to talk about the Disneyland Special.
Ah, Paris wasn’t on my radar for pre-Broadway runs! I wasn’t doubting Derek’s involvement, just the timing as it might affect S22. Rehearsals are 2 months, tops, I believe. The hardest part of mounting a Broadway show, especially musicals, is funding. And a big part of that is casting a “name” so that’s how the news often breaks. In any case, I’d be thrilled to see Derek Hough in Singing in the Rain whenever!
About Dirty Dancing – Kenny Ortega was involved with a re-make several year ago but it was cancelled/ postponed indefinitely. ABC is now going to do a re-make as a 3 hour musical TV event. (Not live like Grease.) It’s going to star 19 year old Abigail Breslin as Baby. No word yet on who will be Johnny Castle or when this musical will air. The choreographers I saw listed don’t include Ortega. There is a separate rumor of a possible live Dirty Dancing show with Anna Kendrick and Channing Tatum but wouldn’t they wait until after the ABC event airs? Like the plan to bring The Wiz revial to Broadway this year.
Amanda, if I remember right, Henry said he was auditioning for the Dirty Dancing Remake, but, that was it. He didn’t say it was for the role of Johnny or what part. Though I’m sure that’s the part he’d like. I can’t see it at all. lol
I would LOVE to see Derek in SITR. The trip to Paris and follow mentioned above is I think a pretty solid lead. Can’t wait to see if we hear more so I can book flight and get tickets as soon as available. Having seen Derek in NYSS he is so perfect for the stage!
My thinking is that if producers have been interviewing new dancers over the break they will be troupers rather than pros. I guess I could be wrong though.
My guess would be that Kym won’t be back. She is happy and working her diet program. I don’t know if we will see either Anna or Karina. That isn’t based on anything but a personal guess. They may have only brought Anna back to fill a spot and cope with a notoriously wild celeb. With Karina they just seem to be pushing her out early each season. It feels deliberate to me. I’m wondering if it’s the producers obsession with sex sells and young and hot barely dressed dancers. Anna and Karina are older than the others and Anna hasn’t ever been as oversexualized as the other girls.
My guess would be
PETA
Sharna
Emma
Whitney
Lindsay
Jenna (I feel like last season they pimped her like crazy)
If my guesses are correct troupe would be Brittany and maybe Hayley and a newbie or two. I don’t dislike Hayley but she isn’t a ballroom dancer and you can tell.
With the men I think it will probably be typical with the exceptions being Mark & Derek. I think Mark might sit one out. He has a real shot to go far with BC. As always Derek could do anything.
I think Tony will be back even though we all groan collectively. I’m sure Val will be too. They’ve spent years pimping him. They won’t sideline him. I also think Artem and Keo will be back. If Derek and or Mark sit it out they had better let Sasha move up. WHO DOESNT LOVE SASHA!!!!??!?! As for a 6th, I have no clue. Perhaps Alan but he doesn’t really have the pop and charisma to be a good pro.
Could be all fresh blood on the troupe. That would be cool!!
They’re all ABC shows he’s going to, so I think it’s likely just the Disney thing. I might find him and smack him if he turns down SITR though.
Colleen, we’re aware of all that in regard to Dirty Dancing. In fact, we’re 95% sure that Derek HAD THE LEAD in the Dirty Dancing movie that Kenny Ortega was doing. I think it fell through due to casting of the female lead and due to the fact that Lionsgate was the studio (if I remember correctly) and they were either having financial trouble OR were being acquired – can’t remember which. I think the TV production is a separate thing, but Lionsgate must have given up the rights to it for it to go to TV. The Dirty Dancing TV thing with Abigail is not a rumor, it’s solid – they also cast Debra Messing at the mom and an actual rumor (in that it hasn’t been backed up by an announcement) is that Nicole Scherzinger has a part in it (I’m thinking likely the Cynthia Rhodes part). OTOH, I believe the Channing Tatum version is JUST a rumor. If it’s real – why would they wait for ABC?? Anna Kendrick is too old to be Baby. By a lot, I would say.
I also don’t think that SITR has an impact one way or another on DWTS. Derek’s contract is either over, or only has one more season. And if he wanted out to do SITR, I’m pretty sure they would let him out. At this point, he may even be season to season. That’s how he talks, anyway.
My last minute Pro Wish List:
Females: Sharna Burgess, Karina Smirnoff or Kym Johnson, Anna Trebunskaya(she made me laugh last season and she was so good with Gary), Emma Slater, Peta Murgatroyd, and Lindsay Arnold. I would just die if they announced Elena Samodanova was a pro.
Males: Derek Hough, Mark Ballas, Sasha Farber, Artem, Paul Barris, and maybe Louis Val Amstel (loved him last season with Paula). Like Elena, what a dream come true if they announced Gleb Savchenko was dancing.
I’m excited for another season. I wanna see Witney hopefully they don’t screw her and mark over again in the packages like last season.
Two of the shows Derek is going are on ABC but Live with Kelly and Michael airs on different channels depending on where you live (ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS) but you are probably right about it just being the Disney thing.
As for Henry in Dirty Dancing – on one of his Snapchats there was a piece of paper showing he was auditioning for the role of Johnny. I also saw him reply to someone on Twitter that he had to sing for the role. I had no idea he could act or sing. Ha!
Someone from Strictly I’d love to see on DWTS is Trent Whiddon. He was Peta’s former ballroom partner and was on Burn the Floor alongside a bunch of DWTS pros/troupe members, and I think he did a pretty good job with Pixie Lott in Series 12.
I think (guessing) that Derek will be back for this season. If I am counting correctly, this should be the last season on his contract. It is conceivable that he would have time for the spring season and then possibly go on to a fall stint on Broadway. Hopefully, he will get a partner that inspires him and we will again see Derek opening up even more creativity in his arsenal. Tony is still youngish and attractive although he definitely has a shelf life. I can see him on for a few years more. Val will of course return as sitting him out for a season will only allow him to expand his martyrdom on twitter. I expect Mark to be back as he seems to successfully juggle the show with his music commitments. Plus he has double the audience for his shows when some are Alexander Jean fans and others are DWTS fans. Still wish they would dip into their former pro pool and bring back some fun faces.
God bless Henry if he does get the Johnny Castle role! There’s been a lot of negative sentiment every time a remake of this “classic” has been proposed by die hard fans. And it’s mostly over who will “replace” Patrick Swayze. Abigail Breslin had been rumored for a couple of months but not a whiff of a hint as to the plan for Johnny. This will also be a musical so they’ll be looking for a triple threat for the role. I’m already flummoxed over the choice of Abigail, who says she’s uncoordinated! Whomever plays her “Johnny” will really have his arms full! But seriously, that’s why I like Jacob Artist for the role. Over six feet tall, strong, experienced triple threat (trained in ballet and modern dance) but new enough to count as a fresh face. And different enough from Patrick Swayze to avoid most comparisons.
Remaking a Gene Kelly classic will also be difficult. But Broadway vs. TV is aimed, initially at least, to a different audience. There’s a great deal of career upside to performing well in a role originated by a legend like Kelly. Rather different than just taking on super fans of a cult movie by “replacing” their fav in one role.
Just cuz he’s trying out, Amanda, doesn’t mean he can do either. 🙂
On the plus side, if he was auditioning for that, then Derek must not be going for it and that makes me happy. I don’t see any way they pick an unknown Henry if Derek was interested.
That was sort of my point 😉 I am too glad Derek doesn’t appear to have any involvement in this remake. IMO they ruined it by casting Abigail Breslin as Baby.
oops that emoji was supposed to go after the word “point”. Don’t know why it jumped to the beginning after I posted the comment lol.
Seeing this post makes me so happy!
Having seen the tour, I won’t be surprised to see Paul included somewhere this season– he seemed to be featured a lot more than Julz was. I wouldn’t be upset about this since he’s nice eye candy and a pretty good dancer. I was also impressed with Alan, much more so than seeing him on the show. Jenna happened to not perform on the tour stop I was at in Lancaster. Honestly, can’t say I really missed her. She is a great dancer, but her persona doesn’t click with me. I also take the “dance captain” title as a grain of salt; I always was kind of under the impression she’s a pretty big suck up to Mandy Moore and that’s why she’s in that role.
Can’t wait for season 22!
DWTS really need to give Sasha another chance as a pro. He has proven his loyalty to the show. And has never complained. Always classy too. I don’t think they have to find a pettite, short person like snooki. He looked just fine with Nastia.
If they need someone for one season until they find a permanent replacement for whoever might be leaving they could actually get Gleb or Tristan to do it since they should be free on the off-season from Strictly. But like Len they would go back to Strictly in the fall since they are being treated way better there.
I think the moment Mark decides to leave permanently Sasha will most likely get his spot. It just seems like the most natural fit with them being a simmilar hight and kinda filling the goofball spot on the show.
Well I’m guessing TPTB have already taken steps to avoid the fiasco of last season by signing up Jodie Sweetin who will probably be Val’s partner. I think Lindsay has secured her spot for this season as well, to put her back in troupe would be seriously harsh.
The only change from last season I see in the male pros is Artem taking his spot back from Louis, providing they have no last minute cast dropouts on the female side. I feel like the male pro lineup will have a shakeup in the fall season, especially if the rumours are true that Derek’s contract runs out after this season.
Females is also quite straight forward with Peta coming in for Allison, leaving one spot for Anna/Karina/Kym/Jenna. I suspect that Jenna may finally get her chance this season, but if Kym or Karina are available I’d take one of those two instead in a heartbeat.
After Nastia’s season Derek said that he has one more season left on his contract but some reported him saying he has one more year (meaning 2 seasons) I think that’s where the confusion comes from. But he never spoke about his contract after Bindi’s season so I’m guessing the contract ran out but he could still do next season if he wants.
I went back and read Derek’s last TV Guide blog of Season 20 and he sais: “I still have two more seasons in my contract…” But I think he also mentioned somewhere that it’s possible for him to fulfill his contract without being a pro. I guess he could easily do Mandy Moore’s job and choreograph the pro numbers.
Could Derek possibly be fulfilling his contract by doing the Disney Special for ABC since he’s obviously representing DWTS there?
He said both I have one more season and I have two more seasons, geri. I don’t think he was sure because he’s changed the story, even in person, a couple times. He probably has it figured out by now, but isn’t sharing.
I doubt that the Disney thing does the trick, but who knows? It sounds like something he loves to do.
You guys actually could have Tristan and Gleb for the spring season, because Strictly doesn’t have one any more. I don’t think the contracts for Strictly 2016 will be drawn up yet, nor do I think many if any pros take multi-series contracts. I’d love to see them do both, because they were both amazing last year. I know it’s an off-chance, but not an impossibility.
I don’t want to see Val come back but I’m assuming he’s still under contract. After those memes he posted, he shouldn’t be allowed to come back, but TPTB will use it for publicity and shove it front and center all season. I can do without that and if it happens, shame on them.
I don’t want Tony or Louis back either, but Tony will be which is disappointing. Please, TPTB, give Sasha a pro spot. He deserves it, he proved with Nicole that he can do it, and I’m betting there are a lot of people that would love to watch him over Val, Tony and Louis.
I know Derek should probably move on, but I’m hoping he comes back. He brings something to the show that no other pro can. The closest to him is Mark, who I enjoy watching also. Neither of them are afraid to think out of the box and they have some of the best choreography on the show.
I say it before every season, would love to get Tristan back.
For the women, as long as Emma is on, I’m happy.
Just putting this out there for what it’s worth. What about Julianne as a pro and Kym taking her place as judge? Kym has judged the Australian show. With the success of Grease having Julianne back on the dance floor would be a ratings dream! Not to mention it would bring in the younger crowd DWTS has been trying to attract. Not to mention those of us who have been itching to see her DANCE rather than judge.
I would love that, Narice. It would be so cool to see Julianne as a Pro again.
#54 @Vogue I would love to see Gleb and Elena join us over here in the ballroom as well, and speaking of picking up Strictly pieces of their shattered mirrorball: I would love to see Aliona Vilani and/or Ola Jordan from SCD crossover to the ballroom here in America.
Aliona (in my opinion, and I feel like this would be an interesting angle IF Derek came back for one last season) could provide a counterbalance for Derek’s fantastic talent.
Both pros just left strictly, and I personally don’t know how strong their non-SCD fanbase is. Maybe the two/or one could switch up programs, who knows?
They’ve already had Artem transfer over to DWTS. Plus don’t get me wrong I do love the idea of Len/Kym jumping in the her judge’s seat, and Julianne jumping back into the show as a professional, but I couldn’t see it… especially after this last season.
Because out of every pro we have, she could easily point out bs coming from the judges that the producers feed to them, or whatever tptb does to set up a storyline. Could they pay her enough to work at the physical level that being a ballroom dancer requires, and on top of that sweeten the deal with more pay if she plays dumb with the whole judging fiasco we’ve seen from the judges table within previous seasons? Because I doubt that if you are getting payed to be a dancer, you’re making less than a judge… or I could be wrong.
But yeah ALIONA VILANI FOR DWTS SEASON 22!
+1 Nico. I’m game for that idea!!
The success of Grease is the exact reason why Julianne will never be a pro dancer on DWTS again. The show was a success, so why would she be a pro again? Even without Grease, she’s still doing movies, which is one of her loves also. I don’t know what she has the same love for dancing/being a pro that Derek does. And with all the BS that happens on that show, if you don’t LOVE it, you’ll turn into Maks.
Er, you do realize that DWTS and SCD are owned by the same company, right? If Aliona burned any SCD bridges, she won’t get hired on DWTS. They needed Artem, with Derek’s impending departure – they don’t actually need Aliona or Elena. They had Gleb but threw him back, for some reason. Then again, he didn’t really make an impact when he was here.
Beyond that, watching Aliona and Derek dance together is a thing of beauty, for sure.
The dancers absolutely are making less than the judges in most cases. The judges are making a ridiculous amount of money – I remember reading what Bruno was getting and was rather appalled. The only dancers possibly doing that well are Derek, Mark and maybe Tony – and that’s only due to longevity and ability to negotiate based on it. The others are too new and I can’t see the contract getting better – only worse. And I doubt that even those three are doing THAT well.
Artem was a different story to any other Strictly pro. He lived in LA during the off season, was by far the most popular pro on the show, had a strong record with his celebs and had appeared on American TV before (SYTYCD DWTS etc). His transfer permanently to DWTS from SCD made sense and was a one off in comparison to the many old DWTS pros who move to Strictly. DWTS producers obviously consider their show and their pros, much better than any SCD pros else they would have surely asked pros other than just Artem to join DWTS over the years. I love Aliona but I can’t see her being asked on the show although she does live in the US I believe.
I thought that Aliona said in an interview that as a dancer it’s best for her to go while she’s on top and that after 7 years on Strictly it’s time for her to concentrate on her private life. And DWTS is even more time consuming and stressful so I don’t really even see her wanting to move on to DWTS and start from the bottom even if they offered.
Yes Geri, but when you’re offered the money, the outside season work, media and the fame that being a DWTS pro offers you, it’s enough to turn any pro dancer in the world’s head.
You’re probably right M8 but with Peta, Witney, Emma, Lindsay and possibly Kym I’m afraid another blonde female as a regular pro is the last thing DWTS needs. We should all be thankful that Sharna (who’s a natural blonde) dyes her hair because that’s basically the only female pro diversity we have when Karina isn’t around…
That was the impression I got of Aliona more or less. First pro to get two wins and such an awesome series, she felt like she’d done everything she could do. Besides, after Harry she was paired with the first person out 3 times in a row and I don’t think she enjoyed it. Also I’m not sure if it’s a factor that the other 2 Eurasian girls, Kristina (who’s pregnant) and Ola (who I get the feeling has been over it for a while) were already out for 2016. But either way, Aliona can either try for bigger things (like DWTS) or focus on her husband and maybe start a family. I wouldn’t mind either way. Either way I liked her better as a redhead.
So, I got my newest issue of People. In it, there was a little blurb of a new show featuring the C-Bros. they’re calling it Maks and Val Live on Tour!
Hmm. Interesting. I call it self-serving. it’s not aa though Derek and Julianne called their show Derek and Julianne live on tour.
You’re probably right Heidi at this point she IS kind of beyond the talent of most of the pros but it does seem such a waste her judge Hopefully she’ll do a few routines this season.
The name of the show is fine. But that they’re charging $1000 for their front row VIP is just…insane. Combine that with this app their buddy created where you can pay $200 (or $400) to talk to some of the pros…greedy.
Saw that too @kellyk. I can’t even. No words…
edit: *it does seem such a waste for her to just judge
After my post, I went and researched the ticket prices…figuring that they’d be more than MLOT. But WOW! 1K?? Hell NAW! For that much, I want a personal lap dance from each of them.
I’m thinking they predict to make $$$ like Derek & Jules did because there’s no MLOT slated for this summer. Wonder how much of The Fam will be involved…Peta for sure, since she’s in their Promo pic. Guess Val won’t be doing the DWTS tour this summer 😉 And that App their ‘friend’ set up? That’s just….well, typical of them.
Julianne is NO WAY gonna be back on DWTS as a pro. I mean, she did a movie opposite Zac freakin’ Efron & the movie is a box office hit!! Also her Grease Live is a big hit. Julianne is a STAR! I doubt any other pro can come close to what she has achieved so far. Maybe Derek, but then his debut movie bombed..& i doubt he’s offered any more movies after that.
& Artem was only brought from SCD because of his immense popularity on the show..he was like SCD’s Derek.. but then he really dint make any impact here on DWTS yet.. i don’t think any SCD pros will be brought on DWTS anytime soon, not even Tristan or Gleb.
The only pro who can probably make an impact on DWTS if brought is Travis Wall…& i hope TPTB ropes in Travis as a pro someday…he’s impeccably talented & creative..& can surely choreograph Emmy worthy dances on DWTS as well..he’s one of the best in the business.. 🙂
PDS, Derek’s movie was an Indie movie anyway and was shot in 2011 so I doubt it’s sucess has any impact on what movies he is offered now. People evolve you know. Nappytabs choreographed the movie and its lack of success has definitely not finished their career.
Does Travis Wall have any Ballroom training?. I know Allison Holker had ballroom training as a child but it’s pretty obvious her forte is contemporary. She did well with Riker Lynch because he used to compete in ballroom against Witney and Lindsey as a kid. I say the same about Hayley Erbert. She was in the troupe last season but her training is in contemporary dancing.
I DO think Derek will be offered more movie roles in the future. The Derek Hough that shot Make Your Move in early 2011, is NOT the same Derek Hough we have now. Humans evolve over time. Well, most do anyways 😉
I don’t think there IS a DWTS tour this summer, Kelly. I researched a tiny bit and two of the theaters are 1,500 seats – way smaller than most of the theaters that Derek and Julianne did. They’ll still make more money doing that than what Val got for the DWTS tour. Surprised they let him do it actually – maybe it’s pay back for doing the DWTS tour three or four times in a row.
Ignore PDS, Geri and Kelly, she trollin’. And she’s not very good at it.
Derek’s movie was an indie movie with NO promotion – since it had low expectations to begin with, it was hardly a “bomb”. And even if it was, it would have no impact on whether he made more movies or not. If that was the case, most movie stars today (including Julianne) would be out of a job. Derek HAD the lead in Dirty Dancing remake, before it was shelved and I suspect he’s looked at many others. Sad fact is, it doesn’t seem to like movie making, from everything he’s said. He’s said that he would do it again only if it was something that really spoke to him, also.
But, we’ll see him on Broadway, and that’s more fun anyway. 😉
Yeah I’ve heard the next DWTS tour isn’t until winter. Someone I know was at one of the locations talking to the pros and that’s what they told her.
We all know I’ll be going to the Our Way tour because I’m total trash for this stuff but the $1000 high-level VIP is ridiculous.
What?! Charging $1000 for a VIP? They must think they are super “celebrity”. I feel bad for their fans. Who in their right mind would pay that and a video message for $200? First thing that came across my mind was, “are they trying to raise funds?” I mean, $6 million is a lot of money. Thank God Derek didn’t charged that much for those dancing with him at OSU. Plus you can watch him talking to you on snapchat for free 🙂
I blame Derek for having one lol
The part that gets me besides the exorbitant fees is the ego of the whole project. They plan to tell about their roots and how it led to the dancers they are now. Who is vain enough to think anyone gives a crap about every moment of your life up until now. Clearly, you think you’ve arrived, but arrived where? There are still pros more successful than them and their success wasn’t based on “let me tell you all about me.” I get that it’s actually a dancing show but why fleece the die hard fans that you have?
The hilarious thing is Maks is basically admitting with this tour that his career post DWTS has failed and so he’s forced to go back to dancing in order to make ends meet, not to mention in 1500 seater theaters half the size of Move, that won’t even sell out due to their extortionate VIP prices just like Sway Miami. What happened to all those numerous film and presenting roles you expected to come rolling in after you won your precious mirrorball???
@Julia
I had ppl telling me I was NUTS for paying $525 for front row VIP AT MLOT Last year. But really? Hang w/Us for another $475?? Erm, no.
3000 seats was the average of their first tour, M8 – they went bigger than that in half the theaters the second time around. Radio City seats 6k for example – that and Mohegan Sun were likely the largest. I’ve not made an in depth study of it, but I’m sure someone has.
Yeah, my friends looked at me like I was nuts for getting the “first 10 rows VIP” and that was what? $400?
I saw the promo pic for Maks and Val’s tour. Who is going to pay that kind of money?? I’m looking into going to the Walking Dead thing in Atlanta and those VIP passes are $1500. That is for one of the biggest shows on TV right now!
Kelly – the $1000 VIP level is the highest of 4 packages which is pretty much the equivalent of the MOVE one you got. The lowest level is $300.
I think Maks and Val’s tour is ridiculous. With those prices and the egos on them… I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to even finish what I would say.
On another note, Peta’s also going on tour with them based on the pictures, so to call it the Maks and Val tour is discluding a major player.
The dance class that Derek taught at OSU was for free, you just had to be a student there.
If Mark and Derek have the same contract, which I’m assuming they have since they joined the show together, shouldn’t Mark’s contract have run out while Derek’s still has one season left because he skipped one season while Mark didn’t? Maybe that’s why Derek was confused on how many seasons he has left…
Geri,
I remember Kristyn saying Mark’s contract did finish. He could easily sign a new one considering he’s on of the popular males but I can totally see Mark taking the season off.
Wow, $1,000 for first row? 80 That’s nuts.
I agree Cari. What about Peta if she tours with them as she is just as big of player if not more so? I think the title is egotistical too. It should have been just called the “Our Way” tour.
We don’t know if Derek and Mark have the same contracts. I would assume they would be very similar. But I also think that they can get out if they want to. Their “people” should have a clause in there at this point. But who knows? It’s not like Derek hates doing it and would be looking for ways out. Sounds like he has a great relationship with the producers and they’re flexible.
Have to love the tag lines for that new tour. Let’s make history? They are basically replicating what Derek and Julianne did who broke ground and went for it. These guys are riding on coattails in that regard. Big brother has repeated time and time again that he never wanted to be a dancer and doesn’t want to do it anymore so I’m guessing he’s going to try his hand at stand-up. It’s pretty funny at this point.
They seem to be asking for a lot of money for these tickets. Not really sure why they are so expensive. I get that maks and Val are popular BUT I highly doubt that their fans will shell out that kinda dough.
Yeah, I don’t get the whole “make history” tag line. But then, a lot of times these guys say stuff that makes no sense or just isn’t true. What is so historical about this??
To quote Inigo Montoya: “you keep using that word. I don’t think it means what you think it means.” 😀
I hate how Val and maks pull out the fact that they are first generation Americans like it is something that is so inspiring and different. I’m a first generation American and there are so many more aspects of my life that are more important or significant than that. Sometimes I feel val tries to make it into something inspirational, but seriously not everyone is going to be an Amy Purdy! Plus, if anything Keo and Artem have a more telling immigrant story but you don’t see them twisting it to create a sob story for themselves.
I used to like Val but this behavior lately is really turning me off. Also the naming the tour after themselves nobody does that, not even Taylor swift or Beyoncé! Who do you think you are? They need some serious humble juice. But yeah in the tour in the why they dance part, val comes out sounding so self absorbed. More than anyone else.
I think the “history”-train left two years ago on that one. Just because J+D aren’t immigrants it doesn’t make their show anything less than what Maks+Val can pull out. Move was aimed at motivating people to have a more active life not a self-promotion spectacle…
It looks like their tour is coming to Canada and my boyfriend says we’ll go but I’m not so sure I’m into it. Anytime I’ve seen Maks and Val work together Maks always overshadows Val. And Val on the DWTS tour is a bit much. I need to more about how this is going to play out. Who else is dancing? And I do hope it’s about dancing. If Peta does this with them and isn’t even announced with them that’s just CRAZY. She’s more relevant than Maks is but she has to take second place because of some sexist idea that Maks is a sex symbol and is more popular than her. It’s just setting the stage for the rest of her life with him. Sorry to be so negative
And isn’t it amusing how Maks and Val are always promoted as the “hottest pro dancers on DWTS” because there’s apparently nothing else they can come up with to promote them…
“missy” if you really want a question answered, you’re going to have to try a different tone.
After doing some research, I found a site that says Singin’ in the Rain on Broadway opens on July 1, 2016:
If that is indeed the case, and Derek is involved, I would say he is definitely not going to do this season because preparation and previews usually start a few weeks/months beforehand.
Vogue here: go to this link to read about the link Amanda found. Thanks Amanda.
I work in musicals and if that’s the case I really doubt Derek will do season 22. He’s smart enough not to spread himself too thin, and it’s not fair on his partner for him to do both. He’ll be missed, but even if he leaves for good now you can hardly say the man didn’t give enough of his time or creativity to the show.
Yeah, I doubt very much Derek would make the mistake he made with NYSS a second time. That’s much too difficult. You heard him commenting about letting someone (Nastia) down. I don’t think that will happen again.
But then, I question the website saying July when a better known publication said fall.
Yeah, I wouldn’t bet on the date from that site to be 100% true either. It’s the only one I could find that actually had a date. All other websites only mention it opening sometime in the fall.
Hmmmmm July 1 seems like a strange opening day for a Broadway show since it’s a Friday this year and shows usually open on Tuesdays, the start of a typical Broadway show week. But yeah if it’s true than I don’t think he’d do Season 22.
Yes, my big concern with Derek is overwork leading to injuries. I love his enthusiasm, but NYSS + DWTS was far too much to take on at one time.
I do hope to see him on this coming DWTS season, but only if he is free in plenty of time for SITR: I think that Broadway show would be better for him in the long run than yet another season of DWTS.
Separately, I would really like to see Sasha and Lindsay back as pros this season. I love Anna, Peta, Sharna, Emma, and Karina, and would be happy to see them all on stage regularly. Witney and Jenna tend to just be ‘background blondes’ for me so troupe is the place for them. Keo, as much as I like his enthusiasm and camera presence, needs to work on his teaching skills and priorities before coming back again.
Priorities: I like the pros who make the celeb their priority. They make sure that the celeb gets the spotlight and the camera time. They are there to support and encourage the celebrity. Keo (as an example) is a great dancer and super hot, but steals the camera instead of putting his celeb first. My choice for pros are the men and women who prioritize their celebs. Honestly, I think it reflects much better on the professional dancers when they prioritize their celebrity partners.
It’s kinda annoying that Jimmy Kimmel didn’t ask Derek anything about season 22. We could have at least learned when the pro reveal is or if Derek is doing next season or at least something first hand instead of embarrassing humor that didn’t bring up anything new. Oh well…
I agree Geri. Although Derek is doing a bunch more media stuff today and tomorrow (especially today) so I imagine he’ll get the question at least once. Of all the media stuff he’s doing this week I kinda figured Jimmy Kimmel would be the least likely to ask him about next season.
Is anyone else surprised that we have ZERO information about next season’s pros (other than Allison being out, which we’ve known since October) considering how close we are to the season? It seems like in past seasons there’s been at least SOME info by this point.
Geri, Jimmy could have been told not to ask on the new season.
I’ve seen a few Derek fans complaining about Jimmy – I thought that interview was great fun. Very funny. I think some Derek fans are a bit too delicate. 🙂
ETA: A producer goes over the questions and things to discuss with the celeb BEFORE they go on, so it’s very possible that Jimmy was instructed NOT to ask about Season 22. And being a good company man, he agreed.
I just thought Derek really seemed embarassed by that Jimmy Kimmel interview and he actually gave Derek only like a minute to talk about the Disney show he was there to promote… I liked the Kelly and Michael Interview way more cause it was more relaxed and laid back 🙂
Derek didn’t seem embarrassed to me at all. Derek was volunteering plenty of information and would have kept talking if Jimmy hadn’t cut him off due to time. Not a guy who was uncomfortable in my book.
Julianna’s is not returning as a judge this season. Us just reported with Julianne and Rob Wade both confirming
Julianne*
Jimmy interview was great to me I could stop laughing and Derek seemed to have enjoyed it as much. All his interview were great the chew, Aol, K and M. In fact KnM was a bit too short for me but that may be because its never enough Hough for me :-). His breakfast event being postponed has me curious now 🙂 DWTS?
I’m not surprised that Derek is back, I remember that he said he still have two more seasons on his last blog from season 20 (I think it’s the last one), anyway I’m excited for the new season.
People always quote that blog by Derek, forgetting that he didn’t actually KNOW how many season he had left. On multiple occasions he said he only had 1 left, then on others he had two.
Was your “sad to announce” ironic or are you one of the people who think that “Last season with Bindi was so perfect that it was a great note for him to leave on”? He’s had many great seasons and I think he’ll stay on the show unless he’s tired/burned ot/uninspired (which doesn’t seem to be the case) or a better creative opportunity comes along. The show is an amazing outlet for his incredibly creative mind and he’s a great teacher, I hope he’s back. The show would lose a lot with his absense. But if he’s moved on I’ll be happy for him too.
Excuse my ballroom ignorance, but who is this Paul Barris? I know he was on the tour, but where did he come from? I saw the Pony number and he didn’t impress me.
Some people have made their wish list for pros, so I’ll make one too:
So far we don’t know how many people are going to be on; we had 13 couples for S21, 12 for S20…
Males
Derek
Mark
Val
Sasha
Artem
(Tony)
Keo would be in troupe for me. He’s had 3 chances & wasn’t able to deliver anything great.
Females
Lindsay
Sharna
Emma
Peta
Karina(Or Anna)
Jenna (she deserves a chance)
Troupe
Witney (she can be in the troupe for one season so someone else gets a chance)
Brittany
Hayley
Alan
Keo
Julz
*The () around Tony’s name was a typo. Would love to see Gleb back too, but he’s has two great season in Russia and UK, he should stay there…
I’m one of the “last season was perfect, why not go out on top” people. He did essentially confirm he’s going to Broadway on AOL yesterday – it’s just a question of when. He said “sooner than you think” – which leads me to believe the Singing in the Rain he told me about is going to happen in the summer or fall.
well if Derek had to reschedule that Breakfast then it was obviously for an obligation he couldn’t miss. After Tom’s Tweet, it doesn’t sound dwts related, So maybe SITR announcement? Or something else important?
It would be nice if he was going to announce a different involvement with DWTS, like creative director or something. Since it seems it is not going to be a cast announcement. I would sure like to continue seeing Derek weekly, but agree about moving on, too. Tough call.
I hope it IS another kind of involvement. I feel like he’d be a great creative director. After last season it’d feel weird for me to see him as a pro again.
Tom said that it wasn’t the 26th, but shortly thereafter in direct response to DWTSGossip’s question about DWTS. So, Tom is talking DWTS, but who knows what Derek is doing. I can’t imagine why he has to miss the breakfast on that day, if it’s not DWTS.
I wonder if he maybe has to meet his new partner on that day or something?
Surely they could have worked around a simple breakfast…plus rehearsals supposedly start on Monday. If he’s not meeting a partner until the 26th…well, that would suck.
One would think, but who knows especially with it being almost on the other side of the country. I’m grasping at straws here anyways.
When I first saw that February 22nd date I kinda wondered if it might be just pro rehearsals starting then and the celebrities entering the picture a bit later. Don’t they usually only get 3 weeks before the season premier with the celebrities? Monday is 4 weeks out.
It’s different every season. Who knows.
Sonic, I was thinking the same thing.
I, like quite many others, would like to see Sasha be a pro again. Also, keep Lindsay and bring back Artem. As for the person who’d like to see Ola Jordan, didn’t she fall out with SCD over some alleged rigging issues? If that’s true I doubt she’d even consider DWTS.
I would just love to see Sasha with a partner. Also hoping the don’t use Witney and Jenna and Lindsay at the same time as I’d like to see some variation with the girls not all the same age and similar backgrounds. It’s a bit boring why not try more of a mis.
Whatever happens I’m ready for this season to start. It’s been a long break.
*mix
Would February 26th be photo shoot day for the pros and Their celebrity? Last season they took photos just before the announcement.
Interesting that the poster is Keo and Witney (Keo posted to insta).. Safe to say we will see them in the pro lineup
Neither of the pros in last seasons poster made it onto the show, for one reason or another. Just sayin’.
I will also add that you guys see it as a badge of honor of some sort – I see it more as a case of who’s available and who’s contract will allow DWTS to use them in this way. People like Mark and Derek might have contracts that say they have to be paid more for something like that. You just don’t know what the reasoning is on this stuff.
I would love to see:
Sasha and
Artem back (and Val sit this one out, until the dust settles).
Mark, Tony, Keo ALSO: Derek (but if he has a better offer, I’ll be so happy for him)
Lindsay, Peta, Anna, Karina, Emma, Kym
Announcing the Pros on March 8, 2016 will be my best Birthday present!!!!
I am guessing the mods must have heard by now that Derek hinted about big things happening next year and its worth the wait on today’s interview and I am again back to thinking may be his STIR will be mostly in fall. so DWTS may be a possibility?
I’ll be a happy girl if Derek is a Pro again for S22! Since there won’t be a Move Live on Tour 2016 this summer…I’m happy to be able to see him on my TV every week for 11 weeks!
Now, I HOPE he’s doing SITR this fall…I will DEFINITELY make the trek to NYC to see him perform!! I’ve got friends there who’d be glad to meet up with me! 🙂
Derek’s “big project” next year could be something totally different from SITR. I still think it will most likely open in the Summer/Fall. I just hope that if it opens in the Summer he doesn’t do dwts and risk over working or injuring himself.
Side note: I had to laugh at Derek uploading and them Deleting from IG “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. He only deleted after Maks/Val fans started attacking him for it and we honestly have no clue if that’s what is was about, but their tour does seem like a copy of the Move Live idea. “Our Way” my A$$ lol
Hehehe…for all we know, he wasn’t even referring to them. But hey Cinderella, if the shoe fits, by all means – lace that bitch up and wear it. 😎
Derek said, straight up, that he would be on Broadway “sooner than we think” – so I do think SITR is in the cards for the fall. What else he has going on sounds interesting too.
Yeah, it probably had nothing to do with their tour tbh. He posts quotes all the time which rarely have any correlation to anything other than encouragement. Yet, still, in the C bros fans minds, Derek is still somehow a terrible, arrogant person lol…
Also, $1,000 for a front row seat to the “Our Way” tour? I Honestly wouldn’t even pay that much to see Derek & Julianne and I loved their tour! Ha!
Typical Val fans – they think everything is about them. That was an album cover of what he was currently listening to – someone tweeted it to me.
If the C-bro fans didn’t know deep down ‘our way’ is an imitation of ‘Move’ they wouldn’t be attacking Derek. Ha
Really? Just an album of music he was listening to? Lmfao oh boy crazy C Bro fans…
People on Twitter and Tumblr are losing their minds over this. He better not have to issue an apology over an ALBUM COVER. How does he always end up the victim? Some people in the dwts fandom have got some serious issues lol
Yep, Amanda – she even screencapped where she found the album on line and it was the exact picture he tweeted. They started attacking him (insecure? worried?) so he pulled it down. It would not surprise me AT ALL to find out that Derek didn’t even know they were going to do a tour.
I apologize for my multiple posts but just now saw someone on twitter who’s a Broadway performer (@Dancermia13) say SITR is most likely opening in December/January. Had hoped for a little earlier than that but I guess that most likely means he’ll be back for this season of dwts 🙂
I saw that Amanda – and she’s credible. I’ve talked to her a lot. Previews would be in October and November though, so it might not be that long. 🙂
I agree. I don’t think Derek even know the c-bros are going to do a tour or even care. And for the amount of shades they threw at Derek and his partners, Maks and Val fans think Derek just committed a cardinal sin over a post that wasn’t even about them? Wow, they need to take a deep breath.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate the c-bros as a human being but I do hate their attitude and jealousy. What you sow is what you reap. I always think every 1 step they make, Derek and Jules are 10 steps ahead of them.
I tend to think that Maks and Val do like Derek, and think he’s talented – but that doesn’t mean they can’t be envious and jealous as hell that Derek and Julianne got out on the road two years before they did (among other things). That’s actually a normal feeling. But that they can’t get over it, and ignore it and be bigger men is the problem. And I think they post/tweet/instagram in ways that it makes their insecurities and jealousies clear – and it trickles down to their fans who are just vile half the time. Really, though, I think this is much more a Val problem than a Maks one. I think Maks has matured a bit and is happy, which makes a huge difference. And Val’s fans project onto Derek behavior that they’ve seen Val actually do.
That they’d get so upset over the innocuous thing that Derek posted after Val’s little meme issue is also hypocrisy at its finest.
I disagree that it is mainly Val’s fans, but I’d agree they are better at keeping it in their own circle. One of the worst yesterday , however, was a devout Maks fan. If Derek wanted to throw shade by using that IG, he wouldn’t have taken it down once he got a look at the meltdown it caused. Can any one of them honestly believe that this tour isn’t riding on the coattails of the Move tour success though? It’s not even really a question, it’s so obvious.
So, how long until we get a rumor mill round-up post like last season?
I wouldn’t mind if Tracy Shibata, who filled in for Sharna for the tour, was on troupe. I enjoyed her dancing during the tour and she’d be a great addition. I dont know if she’s ballroom trained though, and she might be touring with Katy Perry right now.
I really hope this means Derek isn’t coming back as a pro. Plus, there has yet to have been ONE person actually ask him specifically if he’s coming back in all these interviews he’s done. I don’t really care if that means we don’t get to see him every week on tv. He just needs to move on to be able to achieve other things 🙂
I don’t think everyone in that photo is a pro on this season, but I really hope Sasha is!
The Kelly and Michael flyer said dwts pros, not cast. I agree that this does not lock anyone out. Could Tony be on the east coast and rehearsals in LA? can someone identify the dancers or am I the only one who does not know everyone?
Who is the guy in the upper right corner,….and the girl in the bottom left? Fascinating!
Adding: and the guy by Peta is new too?
No chance that the pic is only made up of DWTS S22 pros. Derek probably has better things to do. Tony has his family in NY. However I’d be a little worried if I was a Brittany or Hayley fan. What would those two have better to do than this?
There’s no Alan there either. It doesn’t look like the troupe is involved. Or at least the majority isn’t.
The girl on the left hand side looks like it’s Dana Fukagawa who’s an associate producer.
I’m wondering if Jenna got a celebrity partner now. I figured Anna probably wasn’t going to be back and was hoping for kym to be honest but I guess I would be curious to see how she would be as a teacher.
@vogue: the guy by peta looks really familiar for some reason but I can’t place where I saw him before.
So, two strong hints now that Jenna will be a pro this season. Just tell me Sasha will get a celebrity partner again and I’ll live with it!
Vin, same here. I can’t put my finger on it.
At First glance, I thought it was Henry, and I really hope that it’s not the case.
Well I’ve stared at the picture until I went cross eyed and I still can’t figure out who the guy in the upper corner and the guy by Peta is.
#42 Princess Heidi; can I ask what was Sharna’s rant about Val? In condemnation of him I hope not defence because I love love love Sharna and would hate to see her stand by such a deplorable act…
@Eabha – You can read the rant yourself here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BBN7djduywv/?taken-by=sharnaburgess And no, it was not in condemnation of Val – it was in SUPPORT of him.
Courtney I am actually disgusted. Sharna has fallen so So far in my estimation. I knew she was “fam”.. But her blatant disregard for how completely and utterly wrong Val was is unbelievable to me – not to mention she openly held the innocent, discriminated VICTIM in contempt… Wow. Just wow. Being a part time wheelchair user and having a cousin with DS I can absolutely say you can never overlook circumstance. I know the meme had something to do with the girl being heavy – I am studying biology in college but I would assume anyone would have the intelligence to understand that having a disability renders it IMPOSSIBLE to be as physically fit as an able bodied individual. If I spent every waking hour of the day at the gym I would never have legs like Sharna. (Not that I’m bitter it’s just fact)
I used to like Val. The first of him I saw was his season with zendaya and I found him charming and undisputedly talented I really enjoyed his choreo. Over the following seasons the more entitled, sleazy and into himself he became, the lazier and more lacklustre he became creatively. Being a avid dancing fan of all genres I can say with unqualified certainty he will never ever be in the same league creatively as Derek, some of his contemporaries on the show or other phenomenal choreographers from SYTYCD and such. He has no interest in growing as a human or choreographer and he genuinely thinks that he should be treated like a God and appreciated for just breathing.. I used to think he was just egotistical and pig ignorant but it’s abundantly clear he is also an imbecile… But hey – he’s a great guy and definitely doesn’t just visit children’s hospitals for publicity nor does he engage in any kind of vomit inducing fake PDA with people to gain popularity. What? Val? Never. Family over everything am I right?
UGGGGGH rant over
I’m sorry please don’t block me lol.
Side note: I really love the work you guys do here. Pure is one of my favourite parts of DWTS – I like to watch good dancing (sometimes bad) skip the bullshit politics and viewer manipulation (shock horror I’m not as stupid as TBTP assume… What?) and skip on over here for the DL and BTS gossip… Ye’re all fab
Courtney I particularly enjoy your sass – your Twitter cracks me up gal
@M8
Derek is rehearsing a number for Harvey Weinstein’s Oscar Party and Brittany and Hayley are in this number with him, so that might be why they aren’t there with Andy.
I also read on twitter that Hayley removed DWTS info from her Bio – no idea if it’s true or not since I didn’t care enough to check, but it’s possible she’s no longer in the troupe. She is going where ever Derek goes though, clearly. Derek is the prime example of how to date someone and keep it on the extreme DL – of course, most women don’t care for the extreme DL after a while, so I hope he gets over this pathological need to keep any relationship a secret. I mean, I get it that he wants it to be private – but he seems to carry it to a bit of an extreme. 🙂
@PH – This girl got tired of the “extreme DL” relationship after 6.5 years. I hope D realizes that most women have a bullsh*t threshold…
Amen, Court – I did that for 3.5 years (son of a famous sports executive) and tried to buy in the justification, but at the end of the day it was kind of bullshit, and surprise, surprise, it ended badly (my only relationship to do so). I understand Derek’s need for privacy, but when it’s taken to these kind of extremes it just doesn’t seem healthy for relationships.
PH – I didn’t check elsewhere, but yes Hayley doesn’t have anything about DWTS in her Twitter bio. That is usually very telling (first thing I changed when I left my last job).
It’s easy to understand his need for this, considering the state of media these days where he’s screwing everyone he’s ever pictured with – that has got to be annoying. But I think he needs to find some balance. I think he would get people off his back by just saying, “I’m involved but I don’t discuss those things.” and then act normally in every other way. Women tend to get pissed when you run away from them any time you see a camera – not to mention that it’s a pattern of behavior that is more telling than simply walking down the street with someone.
i think one of the guys name specifically the one next to witney is kiril Kulish… jenna first original ballroom partner found him in a pic on jenna instagram
@PH – As I like to put it: There’s a difference between having a relationship that’s private and a relationship that’s a secret. It’s possible to have the former without resorting to the latter. And if a guy (or girl, really) insists upon the latter, it’s a bit of a red flag – makes me question what that individuals true motives are. Do you just want privacy – or do you want to keep up the guise of being an unattached single that’s free to do as he or she pleases? Or are you ashamed of your relationship and afraid it will lower your social stock? After a certain amount of time, these are questions that have to be addressed. Fully understand the need for doing things on the DL early in a relationship – but I don’t think it needs to go on indefinitely. It SHOULDN’T go on indefinitely.
Hayley’s ig profile:
Top 6 SYTYCD Finalist | Dancing With the Stars Season 21 | Lover, animal enthusiast, food fiend | So grateful to be living my dream
I think it’s all because of Cheryl Cole, actually. Before he dated her, he wasn’t so strict. I came across all kinds of stuff of him and PDA with Shannon when I was cleaning up PDH the other day. And Cheryl’s huge in the UK with pap issues (and fans) that are insane. I think he was…traumatized (too big a word, but it’s what I got) by that experience. Not her, just all the crap around her. Ever since then, he’s been secretive. Add to that the one time that he essentially declared love in public, the relationship ended shortly afterward. Burn number 2. He’s a mess. 🙂 But I love him anyway.
Yeah, Carrie – but she specifies season 21 instead of just saying DWTS.
Hayley changing his bio could mean that she is leaving, but Mark also removed DWTS from his twitter and instagram bio this off season, but he is still pictured in the Andy picture so I am just waiting for an official pro confirmation.
her* autocorrect mess
Although I know this really isn’t a place to talk about personal relationships, are we sure Derek and Hayley are dating? They looked like they were dating at first to me, but now they don’t seem to hang out as much and when they do it’s only with dwts friends or Kristy who is Hayley’s roommate and Julianne’s best friend. Anyway, I don’t know about anyone else, but I honestly get more of a friend vibe from them now. Who knows with Derek though lol.
As for her removing DWTS from her bio, it may mean she’s gone from the show, however Mark removed DWTS from his bio a few months ago and it looks as if he’s going to be a pro this season.
Pretty sure they were dating at one time, Amanda – don’t know if they still are. Whether Derek likes to believe it or not, he’s quite obvious. 🙂 Since I’m not at all invested in who he’s dating, it makes it pretty clear to my eyes. But yeah, it seemed like there was a change there for a minute. But I don’t think he would include her in this thing he has going this weekend if they had broken up, so who knows. There’s friends and then there’s friends.
Obviously, Mark and Hayley have two very different work and life situations and therefore aren’t really comparable. He has a multitude of reasons for wanting to remove DWTS from his bio, whereas she has more reason to play it up if it were still true.
Amanda, some fans saw Derek kristy Hayley and Hayley’s mom at groove this Sunday hangingout if that counts.
Okay. But I do think its odd that Derek jokingly said something about having not meet his wife yet last summer at the Emmy’s. He’s also said at least twice in recent months that he’s single in interviews. I know he’s very private but I honestly don’t think he would go to such extremes to hide a relationship.
Kind of off topic again, but I’m actually glad he appears not be friends with Cheryl Cole anymore. He unfollowed her on Twitter about a year and a half ago and she did the same. I know he was just trying to be a good person and help her through her husband cheating on her at the time, but reading some stuff about her online.. Yikes! I know not to believe everything you read on the internet, but she doesn’t seem like a very nice person. Also, marrying a French playboy after less than 3 months of knowing him? (that’s when Derek unfollowed her) Then getting a divorce? Not very smart to say the least! Okay I’m done with my ranting now 🙂
In the Andy Grammer twitter photo,the man standing far right looks an awful lot like Gleb Savenchko. He also poses like Gleb. I really hope it’s him, he was terrific on Strictly.
Amanda,u did hear Jimmy K right he dated atleast 8 or 10 secretly lol that was so on point 🙂 ha ha.
Ok Val is back I am surprised :-).I cant wait to know if sasha is getting a chance. I am guessing Derek is not comming back specially since all these interviews he did no one asked him directly if he will be back.So, my reasons to watch Dwts is going to be Sasha this time. I hope he gets a chance 🙂
Sue, I wish it was Gleb, but, it’s not. He’s been in Canada dancing in “Dancing Pros Live” this week.
Oh sure he would. Last time he didn’t he got burned. And, as I’ve said numerous times – everyone is single until they are married. He wouldn’t speak about Cheryl until years later when he admitted to dating her.
I know he would but imo he often just avoids the question rather than out right saying so. I just think it’s a bit odd that he would say what he said at the Emmy’s when he wasn’t even asked about his personal life beforehand.
I also found some photos of him and Nicole Scherzinger getting really close (basically holding each other) at that Jennifer Lopez concert in Vegas last month. Imo that’s going a little to far if he were still dating Hayley at the time. But I guess he is a touchy-feely person. I sometimes wish I knew what goes on inside his head, honestly. 🙂
Thanks Vogue for letting me know about Gleb …sob!
Sobbing right with ya!
There were a lot of rumors from VERY good sources about Derek and Nicole at the time they were partnered. Courtney may remember what I’m talking about…but that’s all I’m saying about that. 🙂
Ummm… that they dated or? I thought he was dating Cheryl at the time? He’s honestly so confusing lol.
Also, I was just talking to my friend on Twitter who said Hayley was liking things on Istagram about an “invisible boyfriend” on valentines Day. That’s likely to mean two things:
A) Derek and Hayley aren’t currently dating
B) Derek is in big trouble lol
I didn’t even think of the possibility of Lacey being back but I’m really curious about who could have allisons pro spot. I’m personally hoping for kym but she seems pretty busy so I’m guessing not her. Would be cool to have Anna two seasons in a row.
Hit submit too quickly: I sent the picture that Andy posted to my friend in England and my friend in Australia (the one on Australia would recognize people really quickly and the One in England knows a couple of international versions of the show really well) to see if they recognize anyone of the mystery people in the pic. If they get back to me with anything I will tell you guys.
Last post I promise lol: I saw on face book that edyta posted something about a new Facebook page to like becuase of exciting things coming up soon. Definately something that made me go “very interesting”. Probs nothing but on the off chance she means this season I would be very happy lol.
This was pre-Cheryl, I believe.
Derek in big trouble. 😀
Last thing I say about anyone’s personal life on here: I will say that it appears that Nicole currently has a boyfriend so hopefully whatever the heck her and Derek were doing last month in Vegas (holding hands/getting really close) was just a bit a fun and innocent. But it does make sense why her and Derek having been getting closer since last summer. She broke up with her long time boyfriend Lewis (she was with him around the time dwts was happening) last year. I also understand why Nicole and Cheryl Cole apparently hate each other now. Never understood that one, other than the fact they were both on Xfactor lol.
Didn’t Nichole call Derek “my bro” on Twitter when asking people to support for Bindi?
@Vin #211 (among other comments) – I have a hunch that Allison’s pro spot is going to Jenna and all the others are holding steady, leaving us with a lineup of Sharna, Emma, Peta, Lindsay, Witney, and Jenna. (I know that’s been said by a bunch of peolpe already and that those are the girls in the picture more or less). All of them except Lindsay and Jenna are locked into pro spots by now, IMO, barring injury or something else unexpected. Lindsay I think proved herself in a big way last season, and I think she’s a bunch more down to earth than some of the other female pros, which I like. Jenna’s been next in line for a partner for at least 2 seasons, and I think that it’s time to give her a shot. I just hope Valenna doesn’t get too much in a way.
I think Karina and Anna were both one-time things – Anna was really the only one to hold Gary Busey down, and I think Karina has at least partly moved on.
Sorry I hit submit too soon and I really don’t think we can take Hayley’s like sereiously coz her Twitter likes are full of Derek and them being a couple she likes anything and everything 🙂
I’m not surprised Val is back. I just hope he and his Fam tone it down with their twitter usage. All the shades-throwing are getting old. Now, I don’t like to talk about Derek’s dating life but how can he keep it private or secret when even his snapchat includes Hayley. I understand not many people have SC but fans talk with each other plus his or Hayley’s friends posted their SC on IG or twitter with them always being together. I love the man but he confuses me 🙂 I think they are very much together. Hayley involvement in the Oscar party proves it. I mean, she IS wherever Derek is. So whether Derek wants privacy or being secretive about her isn’t working. What I do know though “relationship goals” aren’t as simple as “both are cute together” or “she’s so pretty, he’s so handsome”.
#Thiana ha ha clearly not working lol :). I just got confused with Nichole thing because I remeber very well she recently called Derk very proud of my bro.Also, at Jlo party I was wondering y no after party pics with Nichole instead there were more pics with nappytabs and team and him dancing with Haley F and sitting on her lap which was very funny 🙂
I was actually wondering if the guy in the right was the guy cast in Dirty Dancing, Colt ~ It’s my understanding he’s danced in a pro number or so in the past. Wouldn’t surprise me if it were him as ABC may want to cross promote him. Then again, I don’t know it is 🙂
Lol Mishti #220…Didn’t Hayley repost something like “if you take me to Bora bora I’ll love you forever”? I’m sure she wasn’t referring to Kristy Sowin 😀
Anyway, back to ProWatch, I will be disappointed if Sasha isn’t one of the pro. If Jenna makes it so should Sasha. And I would like to see Emma given a good chance at the MBT. I didn’t really care about Artem but after Ms. Patti I kind of want him to get good partner this season 🙂
@Mishti If Derek and Nicole were dating then they definitely wouldn’t taking pictures together. I wasn’t implying that they were though. However, I honestly can’t think of one circumstance where two exes who are dating other people go to Vegas and hold hands with each other would ever be a good thing. But, hey, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas I guess lol
@Amanda, I don’t know I would not put so much though into it they were partners and they are dancers and they all are very comfortable with holding each others hand and all. Derek does that with every one all the time.Also, I checked back on Nichole’s twitter again she called proud of my bro Derek when she asked people to support Bindi. Now, why would she call him a bro if they dated that is weird to me :-). Anyways the snapchat game is strong today so I am enjoying the current girl right now 🙂
#Thianan if u follow their banter at all there was one comment Jason made on hayley’s post when they were on vacation which was deleted soon after made everything absolutely clear on what the equation was 😉 I don’t care much for Jenna but I want Sasha to get a shot its long over due :-). I hope he is a pro and they give him some one decent at least 🙂
@mishti Wasn’t me who said they used to date, it was Heidi 🙂 Also, why would she call Derek “bro” during the time they used to date? Because he hides his relationships. Just like it appears he’s hiding his relationship with Hayley. It’s what he does. That’s basically what this whole conversation started out as 😀
Hayley has been continually harassed on social media by “fans” saying that she’s only gotten on Move/DWTS/the Disney special because she’s with Derek or that she’s just a cheap Bethany stand-in (not my words). I think part of Derek’s secretiveness has to do with that, to keep her out of the line of fire.
It’s a smart move from Derek if that’s the case. I don’t agree with any sort personal abuse, but you have to wonder if someone like Hayley would have been brought on DWTS if she wasn’t involved professionally and/or with Derek. At least Brittany was an actual ballroom dancer with a good CV (Ed Sheeran etc)
:::cough::: Who said anything about *dating*?
These people are grownups and this was a long time ago. What happens now is irrelevant.
Are we really still talking about Derek’s romantic liaisons? *insert squinty-faced, confused emoji here*
Okay, sorry. Back to Pro watch 🙂 I wouldn’t mind if Hayley was gone tbh. Imo, she’s not a well enough trained Ballroom dancer to be on the show. But I guess they’ve had Allison and Tyne on the show, so that obviously doesn’t matter to the producers. I thought she might be returning because it looked like she was training with Sasha in the off-season, but maybe not. However, I think the real reason Hayley is dancing at the Oscar party is because there’s tap involved and she’s a trained tap dancer.
Hmmmnnnn, umbrellas and a trained tap dancer for the number Derek will perform at the Weinstein’s pre-Oscar party! What does that make me think of…………….?
holy moly!!!!!! EDYTA?!?!?? WOW!!! that’s incredible if she’s actually back after all of these years!! I was never expecting to see her back on dwts again! This feels so surreal lol
Wow! When I saw that rumour from DWTSGossip about an old pro returning I never would have expected it to be Edyta considering what I’ve read about her burning bridges on her way out. I wonder what made them take her back.
If Edyta’s coming back then I can still hold out that one day my favourite golden oldie pro will return! Come on down Mr Corky Ballas 😉
I’m psyched edyta is back!!! Praying that they give her someone really good and entertaining so we can see her get to the finals again. Curious to see what reception she would get since she has been away for so long though (outside of fans like us of the show she could really win over some of the newer viewers the show has gotten in her absence).
@sonic – It probably helped her cause that 6 years have passed and there’s a new executive producer at the helm – Conrad seemed more apt to hold grudges than Rob is. In a lot of ways, Rob has taken the show in a completely different direction than Conrad.
When you lose two Houghs you go for an old familiar face?? Just guessing – we don’t know about Derek yet for sure, although I’m leaning towards out right now.
Well I know some may not be fans of Edyta but I always liked her as a pro myself. I’d take her as a pro over Jenna any day!
Fair enough. I just always kinda figured she was gone for good. Heidi’s reason makes as much sense as anything too.
I think why their bringing in Edyta, who is 5’6″ tall, is because they probably have another celebrity male that’s quite tall. The other for Peta.
OMG dying if Edyta is in. She even said last year during Dancing Pros Live she had been in talks with them to dance again.
Oh no! Edyta’s kinda dated & so boring & not even a great pro, IMO. Everything is hell lotta different now than how it was back in her seasons..i feel she is dated for the show now. & if she is given a contender, i swear i’ll go kill the producers.. Karina -who is so much more charismatic, fan favorite & a great pro wasn’t given a decent partner last season after her comeback..also poor Anna had to bear the brunt of crazy Gary. So Edyta should also be paired up with a non-contender.
“Should?” Bullshit. These pros are on TV – they’ll take who they can get.
Honestly, I look at Edyta as bring back some of the tradition and class to DWTS. The other women, except Karina and maybe Emma, pale in comparison to her.
Edyta?!? I’m stunned! Happy, but stunned. Like other posters here, I thought things went so badly that it would be 3 days AFTER Hell froze over before she returned… 3 days to make sure it was a solid freeze, and not merely a heavy frost. 😀
Wow, death threats against the producers? Just when I thought it wasn’t possible, PDS sunk even lower.
Bro. Chill.
I think someone already mentioned this above, but I do think that guy on the top right next to Witney is Kiril Kulish. This guy: https://www.instagram.com/kirilkulish/
I have no idea if he’s pro, troupe or just a fill in but he is a trained Ballroom dancer and has experience acting on TV. He was one of the original Billy’s in Billy Elliot the Musical on Broadway a few years ago as well.
I’m still hoping Sasha gets a partner. And I’ll take Edyta over Jenna any day. I actually think Edyta is a pretty good call and she’s not 21 and from Utah. I thought it was possible that Jenna had matured since her first season where she came across as such a desperate wannabe but her crap from the last few days proves nothings changed.
So if Edyta and Peta are in and so is Karina (who I’ve been hearing is) then there are presumably three other female pro spots, and four other ladies from last season pictured at rehearsals. So, who would be bumped? Lindsay, the one who has been a pro the least? Emma, the only one off the four not to make the S21 finals? Or someone else?
I have always loved Edyta. I can still remember her slinking around George Hamilton in a beautiful dress. In a show with pretty, fit celebrities, I always found it interesting that Mark and Derek spoke of her with awe. (years ago) I hope she is in because there is something special about Edyta.
Edyta *speechless*
Edyta!! im in shock (of the good kind haha) … at a guess perhaps a direct swap for Anna, with Peta being bought back in for Allison. Would hate to see Lindsay not get another season after her success last season. (can’t see any of the other female pros being moved on)
Would assume Artem will be back to replace Louis, which is good news – but would love to see Sasha and Alan get a shot.
You really thought i was giving ‘Death Threats’ @Court? I mean WTF! I was just kidding! Gosh! Lol
@M8 I wouldn’t be surprised if the reason for Edyta’s return was being requested by a celeb. Isn’t that why Louis and Anna returned last season?
John, I knew you’d be happy!! WOO HOO
PDS, you sure haven’t been keeping up with Edyta and your cruelty is just sad. Girl is not dated. She’s very fit as she’s always been and has been touring non stop and working with dancers from all over the world. If anything, she is even more wiser and will be even better than before. Clueless. I hope you eat your words.
Quick, someone get the smelling salts for John! 😀
Edyta — Wow. If she has a good attitude about coming back, I’m all for it. Nice to mix in some mature women amongst the girlies. The costume department must be happy too since that’s one less pro to dress. She won’t be a drain their material supply; just a few sparkly undergarments and some sheer hankies will get the job done. You go girl–if ya got it, flaunt it!!!
I didn’t start following the show until after Edyta, I think I just missed her. I’m fine with her return over a ballroom lite pro, but I hope if they only have room in their line up for a couple of the classic pros they don’t leave out Karina. And Kym too for me over Edyta but just because I don’t have an attachment to her.
It will be nice to see Edyta again. My favorite comment about her was from her partner, Lawrence Taylor. “Edyta’s allergic to clothes.”
I’ll join the chorus of happiness that Edyta is back. She was always one of the most interesting to watch. She moves like none of the others. Those that are not familiar with her, you are in for a treat! And Sasha….come on! That would make a season without Derek palatable for me, Edyta ad Sasha.
According to Artem’s instagram, he is invovled in this upcoming season in some form. How, not sure. But he is in.
LOL Linz! Love it!
Do you think Derek will be in this season ? If he’s not,would he tell us by now ? Anyway i’m looking foward to this season.
As much as I loved Edyta before, I’m not sure I could picture her on the show now since it’s changed so much. Like for example, I really don’t know if I could see her doing contemporary
@Trent, Think positive. Maybe Edyta has more strings in her bow than you’re giving her credit for. She’s a talented dancer and very fit. If she’s open minded and embraces the challenge of doing different styles, I think she’ll be fine. Now that DWTS has gone to this quasi-ballroom/quasi-contempo format, most of the pros are going to be better at one or the other and a bit challenged by the form they’re not as familiar with. That’s not necessarily a bad thing.
I’m very happy with the buzz re Edyta. I really miss the touch of class the original ladies like Edyta, Karina, Kym, Anna and Cheryl brought to the show. I hope the buzz re Karina is true too, and I agree that of the newer group only Emma brings that element to the show. I don’t like the in-your-face styles of a few of the others. On the men’s side, my one hope is for Sasha to be pro. I do think Derek will probably return, but as with many here I also think he has outgrown it. Having said that, I’m sure my face will light up if he’s announced ?
Cari, thanks, but we know that he’s involved in some way due to the Just Jared photos. What we’re trying to determine now is if he has a PARTNER.
Don’t know about Derek yet, and no he might not tell us. He might be contractually (or as a favor) keeping silent until the producers decide it’s time. Or it might be that he’s busy with his Oscars thing and that explains his complete absence from all things DWTS this past week.
Trent, I believe she did a contemporary dance in “Dancing Pros Live” last year and it was stunning. She will be just fine.
https://www.puredwts.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/DancingProsLive-3076.jpg
https://www.puredwts.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/DancingProsLive-30241.jpg
And check out these splits:
https://www.puredwts.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/DancingProsLive-3389.jpg
I started watching the show after Edyta left, but I’m pretty impressed with what little I’ve seen of her. As far as her age: She’s 34, younger than Anna, younger than Maks, younger than Karina, younger than Kym and 8 years younger than Tony. Not old in the slightest, and certainly not too old to compete in the show. Karina was older with Corbin, Maks was the same age with Meryl, Tony was older with Melissa and I could go on.
I think another factor in why Derek hasn’t revealed his status for this season could be that he’s aware of his history of “crying wolf” about leaving the show/taking a season off and he doesn’t want to do that again.
Eh, I doubt he cares too much about that, Sonic, since it was never actually “crying wolf” it was actual changes of mind or circumstance. He’s NEVER been this silent before if he’s been on the show. He is usually the first one to say/imply that he has a partner. Usually quite a long time before anyone else. The past couple seasons have been tricky, but at least we’ve had an indication one way or another – people would ask, he would either waffle or say he was back or say he was out. This season…NO ONE has straight up asked him. I find that to be very strange.
Good for Derek! I saw singing in the rain when it was here in South Africa in December and he would be perfect in it if that’s where he is headed
Well it makes my Mondays a lot more open! Unless there is a huge “get”, I’ll tune in on opening night and if no one really jumps out at me, I won’t worry about keeping Monday’s free and I won’t have the stress!
It means I won’t be running between three computers trying to catch everything for two web sites. 🙂
Yippee! Finally, Derek is moving on to bigger and better things! Will probably “tune” in here more than to ABC. The pimping there gets on my nerves!
WORD!!!!
Excited for whatever Derek is doing, but, I really hope Sasha got a spot now. There’s really no reason now. Also really excited for Edyta. Much rather have her than Allison! I’ve been watching all the OG pro dances since she’s been rumoured and contrasted with just this past tour, you start to miss just pure dancing (ie. no flashy costumes, lighting, etc.)
Ugh apparently Louis just said he was in on periscope and DWTS Gossip is now hinting Emma won’t have a celeb this season. If the latter happens and Sasha isn’t a pro either I am legitimately skipping out on this season. (I’ll still read here on course though! :P)
Fuckin’ Louis?? Ugh.
Okay, I watched his periscope and I didn’t hear him say he was in, although it was hard to hear.
Louis might be back for a second season in a row….ok so as much as I hated him before he won me over with the Paula pairing so I’m cool with that. Saying that someone must have requested him I’d guess.
Hit submit to early: I’m kinda annoyed no celeb for Emma this go around if that’s true. She makes me smile and laugh and she had such a great season with Hayes so I’m confused more than anything. Then again wasn’t she close to not getting a partner or something like that last season so hopefully she is in the troupe at least.
Emma has been pictured at recent rehearsals so I think we can safely assume she’ll be in troupe at least. It seems they automatically tenure people with MBT’s for life and if that’s true, IMO it’s not right that they’d allow those pros to just skate by and 100% prioritize them over others who do always put their all into it and just haven’t happened to win. In no way am I saying all or even most of the MBT holders do that but I think there maaaay be one or two.
I saw Louis’ Periscope and he said he still doesn’t know if he is in or not. He said “the pros are always last to know”.
So who knows if he’s in..
Bummed about Emma not being in if that rumor is true…
FWIW, DWTSGossip just tweeted that Louis is in.
Val is so petty, it’s hilarious, asking if people still reads this ‘garbage’ site? You guys really got him I guess, I couldn’t stop laughing. His fans actually think Derek fans are upset about him leaving. Jeez, we all have been praying for it for so many seasons.
You beat me to Ananya. Val really is delusional….not Kanye delusional yet but getting there. I’d bet he won’t be so cocky after that tour with maks doesn’t work out as well as they seem to think it will.
@ananya where did val say that? I can’t find it on his twitter.
Yeah, I’m going to wait for our source on Louis. He usually says if he’s in or not and he hedged on periscope. Plus, I think the echo chamber is currently in effect.
I only saw it cause someone I follow quoted it. He tweeted “Do people still read that garbage?”
Yeah, I think we struck a nerve. 🙂 They always say the truth hurts. Yes, Val, our views were up by a HUGE margin last year, so rest easy…people are still reading us. Including nearly all your fans. 😀 And YOU, I would guess. 😉
Big jump in today’s views in 5…4…3…
Smh at Val lol. I’ve never bashed him on this site before. I think he’s an excellent dancer and probably a good teacher. But him as a person? Probably not quite the same. I’m actually glad Derek won’t be on this season so I don’t have to follow it so closely. I’ll still watch, but I’m not going to care about any of the shows BS anymore 🙂
If Louis is actually in for Derek then I might honestly find something better to do than watch live and just YouTube the dances. It’s like losing a Ferrari and gaining a Corsa.
I’m an original viewer and Edyta was wonderful to watch. We still joke about when the celebs got to design the pros costumes and Laurence Taylor’s grandma told him to put some clothes on her. So I’m happy she is back. Louis, no way. Derek being gone is not news, as I’ve said a million times and in my guest blogs at PDH, it’s time for him to soar & seeing him at NYSS confirmed he’s made for Broadway. This means I can just set DVR and not rush dinner, daughter’s homework review etc because unless after the first night someone is great, I don’t see myself that engaged. If Louis is back and Sasha not a pro, that really disappoints me. If Emma is bumped to troupe I’m not that surprised. I like her a lot but they seem to have their favs and also pigeonholed certain pros (sexy, wholesome etc) I’m interested in seeing what happens with Sharna, she seemed to be very “highlighted” in tour show we saw. Then again her “rant” supporting Val may not have been a smart move while everyone kept their mouths closed.
As to Val’s garbage comment, yeah Val tens of thousands of people and news agencies do along with the show and pros. Likely including YOU. Of course that assumes you actually read and not just tweet/RT your fans 24/7. So if you block me on Twitter like you did on IG for saying simply to take down the meme of the girl, then I’ll know you or your spies are reading this too. ?
Louis IN? Derek OUT? Edyta IN? Boy, things sure have changed since I last checked in.
This is season will be interesting to watch since Derek is out. If the going gets tough who will val shade against this time its fam dominant going forward Sharna, Peta also Mark are looking good on paper.Val, better step it up this season 🙂
Offtopic:- I am sorry in advance if I am offending any Val or Fullerhouse fans but he was Ewww to me in fuller house so much overacting. I actually liked Maks hell lot more and I am no maks fan and I loved watching him 🙂
So Derek is out! Well, he went out with the biggest bang possible for him last season with Bindi. He may be back sometime in the future, but I’m happy for him in his present possibilities.
I don’t know if I will be watching the show this season. Derek is DWTS for me and without him, it seems pointless, especially with Louis, who I dislike as much as Val. In any case, shoot for the stars, Derek, because you’re the brightest one of them all!!
Hey, Miss Heidi, I’m happy for you too, I know how you wanted him to move on to bigger and better things. Hopefully now, yours and Vogue’s workload won’t be as heavy. 🙂
God bless no Derek this season. A complete dream would be no Chimes too.
I wonder if Derek being out will have an effect on how Mark approaches creating dances this season, especially when it comes to the theatricality. Watching his stuff from Season 12 almost feels like a 3+ years early preview of Seasons 19/20. One theory proposed in the archived comments of this site from the time was that Derek being there and teasing him when his costumes/themes got extra over-the-top had kept Mark in check a bit in other seasons, and without Derek the more unfiltered Mark showed up. I’m curious to see if anything like that happens this season.
@Sonic, I think Mark has matured a lot in the last few years and has settled into his own skin/style. So I don’t think the presence/absence of Derek will have much impact on him artistically. I think he’s more likely to miss Derek as a brother, friend and source moral support in the harsh/turbulent/stressful environment of a DWTS season (especially if Paige is a contender). I think Mark knew that no matter how things were going, Derek always had his back. With Derek gone, who among the pros can Mark count on?
@Cidra – Fair enough. I hope Derek will still be able to be there for his “brother” even though he won’t be at the studio every day.
Cidra, it seems like Mark is also very close with Lindsay and Emma on the show. I’m sure he will be able to lean on them for support if need be. They’re not Derek, who Mark has known for a loooong time but they seem to have great friendships with him.
Julia, All the more reason to hope those two lovely women are on this season! I’m hoping both Lindsay and Emma will be busy with celeb partners of their own, but if not, I suppose they’ll be in the Troupe and available for moral support, trios/switch-up weeks and whatever else TPTB dream up.
DWTS360 echoed DWTSGossip’s statement that Emma does not have a celebrity this season. 🙁 Neither source seems sure about Lindsay yet but I think she will be competing.
I wonder why Emma is out? Hopes it’s not because she wouldn’t feed the gossip about her and Alek at the expense of her relationship with Sasha. Still hope something works out for Sasha. I think Mark will be just fine without Derek. I’ve never had the impression that while they were friends they were also totally independent of each other. I wonder if Brittany is out. Wouldn’t mins seeing Paul Barris in the troupe.
If Louis is “in” and Sasha is “out”, I will just scream! I guess I can’t have it all! I just had my “sugar fix” re: Derek news! Still, Sasha is such a wonderful person, in contrast to Louis and his jealousy issues, and a great dancer!
Gotta say if Louis is in and Derek and Emma out, if Sasha doesn’t get a celebrity, I doubt I’ll be tuning in much! I’ll read Court’s power rankings and then just watch any good dances! Really bummed if it’s true about Emma as she’s probably my favorite female pro after Karina!
If Derek is really out, does anyone know why? Its not the Oscar thing bc that’s just one night. The Broadway thing is apparently next year, right? It’s too early for rehersals. He hasnt said anything… What about Tony? No word on him either… Also, I hope at some point dwts makes Tanisha Belnap a part of the show, I think she’s amazing.
honestly, the only way I think that Louis can be in at the expense of Sasha, is for a celeb to have specifically asked for Louis. I have a hard time believing TPTB would choose high maintenance diva LVA over hard working team player Sasha – but I guess you never know with them.
SO glad Derek is moving on. Of course, we’ll all miss his creativity and charm, but the man has out grown this show by miles. The world is his oyster, and there’s no doubt he’ll be hugely successful on Broadway, or any way he chooses to go. And it wouldn’t surprise me to see him back on a future season of DWTS, just because of his love for the show, for the challenge. What a delightful surprise that would be, because no matter how mad i get at the blatant manipulation, I always tune in for the next season. Hope springs eternal LOL
Sharna does disappoint. She was a top favorite for me right out of the gate, loved her work with Andy and Noah, but Cidra nailed it – I think she turned a dark corner when she and Charlie were “sacrificed at the alter of Maks’ MBT”. Which is odd to me because i would have thought it would turn her OFF the Fam, rather than in their corner drinking their koolaid. I can see participating in a “competition” where TPTB try to rig the outcome – beyond just the judging where one could argue art is subjective – would take the wind out of one’s sails. But then again, these dancers are working, on national TV, getting paid reasonably well plus the exposure that leads to other paid opportunities, so you get a little wind back. But why even involve yourself with this asshat’s insensitive and just plain STUPID tirade? Why align yourself with someone who is so full if himself that he cannot even see where he might have been wrong in a given situation. Why even go there?
If Emma is actually in troupe then it only strengthens my belief that SCD will have a second crack at recruiting her for the autumn/fall with them needing two new female pros. If she signed a three year contract before season 17 (just a guess) then it will run out at the end of this season as well.
I was thinking that too, M8! I wonder if she’d take it this time, or if the same thing that happened three years ago would re-occur and DWTS America would offer her a pro spot. I really do hope Emma gets to be a pro SOMEWHERE again soon!
For the 500th time – we don’t actually KNOW what is in Derek’s contract with DWTS. He said both 1 and 2 seasons for how many he had left – he wasn’t sure either, obviously. Since he will have to start rehearsals for Singing in the Rain probably in September at the latest (Opens in January, but there will likely be at least a month of previews), it’s clear that he could have done DWTS this spring. Perhaps his contract expired and he couldn’t come to an agreement with them for one more season, perhaps he asked to be let out and they agreed – who knows?? Does it matter?? The man clearly deserves to sit down as a pro if he wants to and I imagine the producers recognize this as well. Maybe he’ll choreograph some pro dances – I can’t imagine the show wanting to let go of another shot at an Emmy.
Tanisha – I don’t think we’ll be seeing her as a pro, but I could be wrong.
Linde, I think they get talking in their little groups, with no outside input, and start to believe all the myths that surround this show. It’s probably Derek’s fault that the producers manipulated it for Maks…they were probably really trying to get Amy to the MBT. :::rolls eyes::: I’m only half joking. They also start to believe their own PR. It’s a little echo chamber – where they’re telling each other (and their fans are telling them) it’s not their fault, they’re great and beautiful and way more talented. Just because they’re on TV it doesn’t mean they are immune to believing stupid shit on the internet. I suspect that’s what happened to our Sharna.
I think the reason why you don’t see that from Derek (and Mark, these days) is that he’s got Julianne and three other sisters to yank him back down to earth if he were to EVER start believing his own hype – not to mention a second mother in Shirley Ballas. Conversely, some other pros have parents who feed the ego. Or their parents are several thousand miles away.
Hate to say it but if our version won’t use Emma as a competing pro/doesn’t realize what it has the maybe strictly would be better for her since gleb has been warmly embraced over there and she could become the next long term female pro there.
good points PH – and I agree there being a huge benefit to having real people around you to yank you back when you start spinning too far out of orbit.
I know she’s been through a lot, with dad and BF, so maybe she can throw herself into a fun journey with Antonio, rather than focus on the win so much, and we’ll see the sweet and funny Sharna we knew and loved. One can hope.
That is a good point, PH. In thinking about Sharna, she is an only child, and everything that went on with her grandmother and is going on with her dad must be a tremendous burden to bear alone thousands of miles from home. I remember when my mom was sick, my brother was my rock. I can’t imagine not having anyone that truly understands. Friends/fans only understand so much.
I’m starting to think that if Louis is in he’s paired with Kim Fields. If Derek is out, wouldn’t that leave a spot open for either Artem or Sasha to return?
@Jordan 6 spots for male pros – Val & Mark are confirmed in. Derek is (probably) out. Keo and Tony are likely to be in. I’d say Artem is also likely to be in as he was in then bumped for S21. So unless Tony (not having been seen lately) has decided to skip a season, there is only 1 opening for a male pro. But why would Tony skip a season voluntarily? He isn’t injured as far as we know. He doesn’t have any other big project or commitment that we know of. Of course, the DWTS team might not have asked him to return. But why? The only thing that would come to mind is them putting a bigger emphasis on youth. But that doesn’t entirely wash. Lately, they consistently brought on celebs decades older than Tony. He seems to have a slot in the show with ladies of a certain age where they might be leery of how they would look dancing with a much younger man vs the Miss Patti types who enjoy it.
The rumor that Louis will be competing this season is interesting though. He’s a year older than Tony but half a foot shorter. In a perfect world, Tony is taking a season off and Louis gets his slot. Then there would still be an opening for much beloved Sasha Farber. But alas………………
LOL Maggie – go to a Val fan site where you belong and quit trolling here.
Someone’s going to feel REALLY stupid when they actually READ the latest DWTS news…
I’m guessing Emma’s in Heidi? If so, people really need to stop spreading stupid rumours without solid proof. If it’s about something different entirely then disregard this haha
M8 (#311), I agree with you, I’d love to see Emma as a pro on Strictly this fall. Of course, I understand that the money and exposure is better on DWTS, but getting stuck in Troupe is such a waste of Emma’s talents.
No, nothing to do with Emma, to do with Derek. 🙂
I think we are in for a big surprise. I am beyond thrilled for Derek and SITR. No one deserves it more. However, Heidi’s timelines are spot on, and we might have one more ride on the Merry-go-round with the most amazing dancer/choreographer of our generation.
#Cidra. How is it works? Is Emma bound by the contract? I’d love to see her doing DWTS, but if rumors are correct, I’d rather see her on Strictly than in the Troup.
Do we know anything about the troup?Who is IN and OUT?
@LoRee – Errrr, thought the post was pretty clear above, but so far, only confirmation we have for troupe is Jenna.
Cheryl, I don’t really know. I imagine all the pros’ contracts are slightly different since it’s a negotiated agreement, but if you’re contractually obligated to DWTS, you’d have to get a release to do something else. However, since DWTS and Strictly have ties, it might be easier to work a deal. Maybe PH or Court can offer some insight.
Don’t know if you guys saw yet but DWTSGossip just reaffirmed Karina’s po spot but said Louis has been replaced. (Fingers crossed his replacement is Sasha!) They also said Tony is in and has a celeb from NYC. For some reason my first thought was Iman, the model who is the widow of David Bowie. There are so many people it could be though.
Courtney,I’d like to know the rest of the troup -.-
And I’m telling you, LoRee, that WE DON’T KNOW THE REST OF THE TROUPE -.- What is listed up there is what we know so far. Not sure what else you want me to do…
I bet Louis is pissed.
I would be surprised if it’s Iman.. it’s only been a month or so since David died.
If Louis is out I am glad. If they have a short celeb I really hope Sasha gets to be a pro!! His attitude is great and he is fun and creative!
I really am upset about Emma being out. I don’t see why she can’t have a spot, particularly with Alison out. They have given her a lot of rough partners and she has always done well IMO.
Go Court! Looks like it’s time for the pre-season “Etiquette Post” — although the ones who most need to read it are the ones least likely to do so.
#Herbie lot of last min changes keep happening in DWTS. May be she was just filling in last minute because of no Emma. may be It does not really mean much :-).Nothing is really sure till the show starts I guess 🙂
But the absence of Emma is really worrying me now 🙁
Court, I may be wrong but I think Loree is referring to comments by Heidi 321 and 324. May be she got confused as that there may be some other news apart form SiTR 🙂
I’m not so sure that Louis was ever told he was in. We had no indication that Louis was ever in. No one is infallible. Thing about Louis is, I’ve never seen him able to keep his mouth shut. He said on Saturday he didn’t know yet – that sounded real to me.
I confess, Emma’s absence and Hayley’s presence this morning is rather troubling. But I still say to not get worked up until we get some kind of confirmation.
I have to believe that Emma being in or out, and in whatever capacity, has to have more to it than meets the eye. She has been incredibly loyal to the franchise, the only person other than Val to be on every tour. And unlike Val, she never took family vacations in the middle of the tour. Her entire life for the last several years has been DWTS. Not to mention she has the second highest social media following of any female pro (2nd behind Witney).
My hope is that she was just as much involved in any decision as TPTB. Perhaps she just needed some time off? Here’s to hoping she didn’t totally get the shaft!
The suspense of all of this is killing me. I really hope that Emma is still on this season in some capacity. I’d prefer she be given a celebrity, but troupe is better than nothing. I just don’t get why she’d potentially be demoted, though.
We have heard that Emma may b troupe n jenna is the only one confirmed.And just this week julie berry and brittany were talking about counting days to be together again so, I am guessing brit may b back that does not leave a spot for Hayley to b in.Her involvement today may b just to fill in for Emma.That is all i can think of unless they dump brittany again which will b kind of mean 🙁
Derekluv(c) – I would prefer that people comment in full words on this site, and not in twitter-speak.
As for Brittany versus Hayley – the size of the troupe has varied greatly over the years. Brittany indicating she was going to be there says nothing about Hayley. After all, it was Hayley that was there this morning, was it not?
Sorry Heidi :-)I guess I have gotten too use to wriiting on how I write on twitter. i will try to not do that. Ya, u are right I just thought may b having 4 girls in troupe would be too much and put too much thought into what Brittany was saying (counting her to be back) Hopefully we will get a clear picture on what is going on soon.
As I understand TPTB were trying to decide between Emma and Lindsay as possible partners for Hayes last season and chose Emma which would have left Lindsay in troupe and Brittany was out. The only thing that led to all kinds of plan changes was Peta having to pull out. Suddenly Lindsay was needed as a pro and there was a troupe spot for Brittany again.
Already last season it seems to have been between Lindsay and Emma for a pro spot and this season it seems to be Lindsay who got it after her unexpected success in S21.
@Geri – You’ve got it mostly correct, but I’ll add a few things. The overall impression I got last season was that they were SCRAMBLING at the last minute to sign a full cast, so things were very fluid up until the cast announcement – and I had heard that Hayes & Alek were the two very last cast members signed (Hayes about 48 hours prior to the announcement, and Alek about 12 hours before). Adding to the complication? Peta’s dropping out, and Val’s original partner allegedly dropping out. Peta had already been paired with Andy (and they had already started rehearsing), but when she announced she had to withdraw, they were still waiting on Allison’s partner to sign (and I’m guessing it was originally supposed to be Hayes), so they went ahead and gave Andy to Allison; when Hayes signed, they suddenly had a partner for Emma, who had been relegated to troupe along with Lindsay (and Brittany & Jenna had been let go completely). I got the impression that Alek was a very, very last minute opportunity (that they weren’t expecting to say yes), which is why they promoted Lindsay to pro and suddenly needed both Jenna & Brittany back. Peta’s withdrawal had a lot to do with the shuffling, but a lot of it also had to do with celebs taking a long time to sign. Had Hayes signed on sooner, I think he very well could have ended up with Allison instead of Emma, and perhaps Emma could have ended up with Andy.
As for the guys – I’m about 80% sure that Tamar was not Val’s original partner, and that she was supposed to go to Artem instead. However, when Val’s partner fell through (my best guess is Shay Mitchell), they opted not to let their reigning champ sit last season out, so it was Artem left out in the cold.
Court, if you can share, do your sources say this season is less chaotic or are they in scramble mode again?
@Cidra – Too soon to tell.
Thanks, Court.
Hayley needs to go! When your meal ticket leaves, then you need to leave too….
Well, that was an exceptionally bitchy thing to say.
It’s highly possible that things could totally shift between now and next week, right? I mean, we’re dealing with TPTB here, and dance is a sport that is very injury-prone. So I’m hoping that Emma will find a way to get a pro. because I really enjoy her and her accent!
Really Megan! So rude!
I want Hayley gone simply because she’s not a ballroom dancer, and I’m a tad tired of this show hiring contemporary dancers and giving them a crash course in ballroom and expecting them to be every bit as good as someone that has been dancing ballroom for years. Who she’s making the beast with two backs with is no concern of mine.
Are we still seeing 12 celebs or possibly 13? Im hoping 13 and they decide on finding someone for emma!!!
Totally understandable, Court. I have to admit, Hayley isn’t one of my favorites on the show.
I’m against hiring non-ballroom dancers for the same reason, Court – but that makes Megan no less bitchy.
Of course, similar things have been said by Bindi shippers, so I have to wonder at her motives as well. Shippers be crazy and all that – and are more prone to saying such things.
Hoping that tony’s partner is Lara spencer.
I’m hoping Tony’s partner is someone who can’t dance so we don’t have to endure his mind-numbing choreography and groan-worthy costuming for more than a couple weeks. Now I’m being bitchy. 😉
It was bitchy….I mean, just because someone leaves the show (whether they are dating or not) means she should too.
@cidra: I usually have the same issue with Tony but for some reason I think they could be really funny together since she just seems like a fun personality on tv.
Now that Derek is likely out, the only reason I’ll watch this upcoming season is to see how my Steeler Antonio Brown does…the only reason I watched S12 was for Hines Ward 😀 Steeler fans are rabid…as are most NFL fans!
OMG! Miss Lady Leg Warmers might be back? Woo Hoo!
Well imho, Megan and Cidra both made bitchy comments, but Cidra’s really made me laugh! So true, Cidra, so true!
Emma possibly in the troupe and Derek possibly not coming back. Emma is my favorite female pro and has done a wonderful job with whoever they gave her each year she’s been a pro.
Like others, I can’t imagine another season without Derek. The one he took off several years ago wasn’t the same. He brings something to the show and the dances that no other pro can with the exception of maybe Mark.
I’m going to wait until the entire cast/pros are announced and go from there. I hope there’s someone on this season that makes me still want to watch.
@Cidra (#359) I don’t think you went far enough – Tony’s costumes (IMO) are enough to gag… remember that nasty meshy thing he put Martina Navratilova in? (Does this make me bitchy, too? Please? 😀 😀 )
I am just going to throw this out there…from the left side of the moon as they say….but maybe Tony’s partner is Carla Hall from The Chew. That is ABC and she has been very outspoken about her desire to do the show. She is New York based so you never know…just a thought. I will miss Derek. And call me crazy but I kind of like Hayley although I understand the concerns about her not being a ballroom dancer.
I like Hayley very much as a dancer and she seems like a sweet girl – I just have an overall objection to non-ballroom dancers on a ballroom show.
Carla would be awesome for the show too! She cracks me up since se was on top chef those two seasons and now the chew.
I agree with the mods re: Hayley. If anyone care enough to rewatch Alexa and Derek Tango during switchup week, one can tell Hayley had a hard time catching up. I’m not an expert in dancing but I can see the beauty in it. Watch how Jenna was smooth with her movement. She did one swift move while turning and Hayley seemed struggling and made few walking steps. Jenna isn’t my favorite dancer and Hayley, I’m sure, is a good dancer but she still needs to learn a lot. She seems like a sweet girl but sometimes I think she kind of more into looking at the camera instead of the dancer in front of her. Hayley fans, please don’t hate me.
It’s funny you say that about the camera with Hayley, Thiana – I think Jenna, Sharna and Witney are number 1 in camera mugging. Hayley is nearly unnoticeable in comparison. She does need a lot of work in the ballroom area though.
Ok so according to my friends the guy next to peta could be Shannon holtzaphell.
Hayley doesn’t bother me at all. I think she’s adorable. Maybe she needs work in ballroom, but she’s in the troupe and they cover a lot of ground. If she had a celebrity partner I could see it being a real issue.
I guess I just feel like “the fam” has had more than their share of cronies the show, why not give extend the Hough’s the same courtesy? It could be much worse.
Hi Sally (#366) – Sure, if ya wanna be part of the bitchy club, I’ll sponser you! Yoiks, do I remember that horrific fishing net he put Martina in! I’ve been trying for forget, but without success. There’s “fishnet” and “fishing net” and what Tony gave Martina was the latter.
Vin (#361) – well, if Lara’s on, I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt, but I hope she puts her foot down and insists on taking charge of her costume designs.
Hit submit too quickly. They sent me a link and everything so this could be something or could be nothing. I’m going to send it to the mods.
True, Heidi. Wasn’t even thinking about those 3 ladies. Now that you mention them I can’t really compare Hayley 🙂 And Whitney #373. I agree. I guess with most of the Fam on the show it’s best to balance it out. Hayley is still young and have time to learn. She might be great someday. Anything is possible if she put her best effort.
And for Mark. I hope he doesn’t go overboard with the choreography. A lot of times, simple is better. Learn from Derek. First dance, to me as a viewers, is as important as the finale. Go out with a bang. Paige seems to be a really good contender. They can win, unless of course, tptb has someone else in mind.
I apologize if I’m repeating anyone else’s comment regarding who this Shannon person is. (Too many comments to read lol). I remember him being one of JLos backup dancers on her world tour. He was in a couple numbers last season. He’s definitely a hottie ?
@Cidra, @Sally Wait, there’s a CLUB for that? Count me in. That gay cruise fishing net of a costume was a classic example of not bothering to adapt even that minor aspect of the package for his partner. It had worked (as well as something so ugly can) on Melissa and Audrina but Martina, who I should say I love for being warm, funny and honest, is also self-conscious, masculine and 50-plus. Any one of these things should have been a red flag for this Edvard Munch painting of a costume, but Tony barrelled right on ahead in spite of that.
To keep it relevant to this season, I’ll say that I don’t think it should be necessary to give someone a “contender” for them to show their stuff, but Emma has never had someone without massive “roadblocks” so to speak. Hayes was probably her least challenging partner, and he was a foetus with a very limited fanbase in the DWTS demographic. I’ve really liked Emma with these unusual and difficult partners, and would definitely like to see more of her.
What about Robin Robert’s as Tony’s possible partner who’s from NYC?
@Vin (#372), I did a quick search on Shannon Holtzapffel and think your friends might be on to something. I didn’t delve very deep into his vita but “ballroom” didn’t leap off the page. So as pretty as he is and as good a dancer as he may be, I’d like to know he has legit ballroom cred (even if he’s just going into Troupe). If he doesn’t have ballroom, then I hope he’s just a casual member of the company they is called on occasionally for special appearances/pro numbers.
I stand with Court and PH. DWTS’s roots are firmly planted in ballroom. So even though TPTB are branching out into contemporary and jazz in a (misguided, in my opinion) attempt to broaden the show’s appeal, they will loose their foundation and identity if they keep replacing ballroom pros with contemporary pros.
@Mr A (#378), Sure, why not, there’s a club for almost everything these days.
I’m with you on wanting, at least once, to see Emma with someone neither young nor old, fit, and with some natural dance talent. Not saying she’d be a shoo-in for the MBT, but I’d just like to see what she could come up with for them.
@cidra: they are pretty good at some things lol. It’s kinda like Liam neeson in taken lol. Personally I’m worried about how bad they could butcher his last name in live television more than anything but if he is involved in screen this season I’m hoping its troupe.
Teehee. It’s Shannon Hotapple…..Holdsnapple…..Holdupsfell… ..This guy!
I’m less worried than I would have been with Brooke Burke at the helm though. She had a talent for butchering reading from the autocue.
If you haven’t seen the dancing abc snap chat, Alan appears to be in since he’s on video there talking about being excited for season 22. Not sure in what capacity.
Jenna just started following Shannon Holtz and Dennis Jauch on Instagram. I’m guessing these could be the “Shannon” and “Dennis” bins.
The mystery “Dennis” is Intriguing since my people couldn’t find any sign so they have hidden that one well.
I was snooping around in Dennis Jauch Instagram and he has a photo from a while back (123w) where he trained Amy Willerton on her walk. Could that be a connection? Isn’t she a rumored contestant?
@herbie: good catch. never would have thought to check on Instagram to be honest.
Hit submit too early: I was hoping/praying that it meant Dennis Leary or Dennis quail to be honest lol.
@vin. I have no idea if it means anything. Just happened to see it.
I personally am hoping it is Denys Drozdyuk. I know the spelling isn’t right but I think its pronounced Dennis. Could be an easy mistake to make? He won SYTYCD Canada and he is ballroom & contemporary.
Ugh… I cannot believe Jodie is not paired with Val. Val is paired with Ginger from GMA…
Congratulations on repeating the content of another post and acting like you’re sharing new info, CH. *slow clap*
I for one am glad Jodie is not paired with Val. Why should he get yet another ringer with extensive dance experience? That said, seems like TPTB ARE trying to hand Sharna a MBT.
I started following Dennis Jauch on snapchat. I saw his story today and he is apparently doing a photo shoot for dwts. Maybe he’s a new pro dancer to replace Derek?
I’m curious to see who they’ll pair Witney with. Are they going to hand her another winner and put Emma and Lindsay in the troupe? Whatever happens with her I hope it’s easier to watch than last season and if she does get someone good she doesn’t take it for granted.
Idk, maybe go check the spoiler post 😉
*snort* You’re killin’ me Court! Are people stoopid or just freakin’ lazy…or both?
Answer to Jennifer – YES. To the Witney part only, so far. 🙂
I’m happy that Artem’s back in this eason! I really like him and missed him last season.
SASHA!
YESSSSSSSSS!!!!! SASHA IS BACK!!!!!!!!!!
I just want to be neutral and an observer. But I am just curious about why so many on here dislike Sharna so much. Why they are saying she’s part of the “fam” or because of her ties to Val, Maks and Peta.
I love most of all the pros… though I will say I think some are still too young as well as not “ballroom” enough to of even become pros… I prefer the ones who strictly came from ballroom rather then SYTYCD style background and dabbled enough in ballroom.
In my opinion, I feel like a lot of fans of the show need to understand that most of these pros were actual performers and “working it” is part of the job of a dancer. Camera mugging as you’re calling it isn’t as bad as I think you should make it to be. They have probably had more experience with camera blocking as well as they are more seasoned with the show’s cinematography. As well as that a lot of them have known each other way before the show even existed, so of course they are “family” to one another. Jules and Derek growing up with Mark in the UK; Peta and Sharna competing on the ballroom circuit in AUS before both joining the show, BTF. Wit and Linds growing up together as BFF’s. Even Emma is probably a lot closer with some of her BTF/DWTS castmates then we may think (starred with Peta, Sharna, Henry, Maks, Sasha). As dancers we have our own “language” and “community” even– such as like in NY and CA there’s China Town, Lil Italy, K-Town. Because dancers sacrifice so much for their craft that fellow dancers become family b/c that’s the majority of who you’re with 24/7. If you’re not performing, your’re taking a class, rehearsing, etc so you can be ready. I mean… why do you think Russian dancers are so good (not necessarily the ballroom side of dance but pro ballerinas)??? <– seriously research about how those dancers lives are affected and just how much is sacrificed! I personally appreciate the ones who aren't US born b/c I think they are a lot more grateful and grounded then the others b/c they came from places that taught them how cruel the world can be (Tony growing up in war torn Kosovo, Karina, Maks, Val b/c of government change in Ukraine, Sharna leaving everything to go to the UK and working 3 jobs just to support herself to just be able to dance. Just the fact Keo came from South Africa with all the history from that country with all the apartheids). They didn't grow up with the spoils of being born spoon fed and actually know what sacrifice is and not having familys that are "naturally" rich.
As for Sharna lately… I do feel like she hasn't been herself since about halfway through season 21. Though I think a lot of it comes from not just the DWTS PTB but as well as the fact that not only her but all the pros have those who "represent" them (Managers are they called or???), and that she is to some degree an unwilling pawn being pulled in 100 directions on what she needs to do in the public eye to be "successful" and that she's "lost" herself some and doesn't know what to do– follow her heart or the pull from PR, DWTS etc. Because I noticed she isn't being represented by the same PR co that she, Maks, Peta, and Jenna all were using. I think a lot of fans who fell in love with her either fell in love with her from either her first season as a pro with Andy… I mean the fact she was able to handle Andy Dick!!! or with Charlie b/c they were definitely robbed of making the finals (plus i think it dealt with the fact of one of the finalist's strong beliefs…). Or when she was paired with Noah. Which is when I fell in love with her. But that Sharna started disappearing last season– not because she was paired with Nick, I don't think, but b/c of the producers and such. She was one of the "senior" pros who made it all the way that didn't have at least 1 win under her belt, and so the producers decided to try and make her seem selfish in wanting to win the MBT. Because even with Noah she wasn't like that. Not to mention that the show is the one who decides what part of each couple's week long vid package gets aired and neither the celeb nor the pro has any say.
I also think that the Sharna we've known and loved change to how she's been acting now has been due to her personal life. Having to talk about her Dad and Nan. Being on tour when her Nan died and not being able to go home for the funeral etc. Fact that even though she has people in LA and all her fellow dwts dancers, she really doesn't have actual blood family that she can just see/call up. And then, I'm pretty sure by now, most fans/people realize that she and her man broke up. That's A LOT to handle. Not just in general as a "normal" person… but as well as in the public eye. I think she's been having to "fake" a lot of things (such as appearing carefree, happy, etc) b/c she hasn't really had time to slow down since season 21 ended as well as being a celeb in her own right as a pro on the show. Because she did the tour, then Peta and Maks engagement party, and now gearing up for season 22. I don't think that she, herself, has even had time to really process all that's going on in her personal life. I'm really hoping that once the season starts we can see the old Sharna again.
@Aziza – I think your post comes from a genuine place, but it comes across as a bit preachy and wayyyyyy long. Maybe next time, try not to comment on other people’s opinions and just keep it brief, k?
OK, if Pure puts faith in DWTSgossip saying Sasha is in, then I’ll celebrate. Woooot!!! This makes me happy, happy, happy! 😀
Sasha a pro??? Best news that I’ve heard since the Weinstein Pre-Oscar Party! Thanks for posting this!!! Makes the cast line-up even better!
If anyone is looking for me, you can find me under my bed cryingg buckets of joyful tears because Sash is pro ??
Um. What?
I thought I was long winded. It’s really not up to you to determine whose feelings are valid and why they might not be, Aziza.
So we can basically bet on Sasha being with Kim Fiekds?
Sorry, I updated this post a few hours ago with sasha and forgot to tweet out the update. Sorry, ya’ll.
I’m trying to making sure I read everything posted before I comment so I’m thinking you guys must have been updating about Witney and her partner as I was commenting on it. Sorry.
I’m so excited about Sasha. Woo-hoo. Best news ever. I also think Mischa and Artem are a great pair that I’m going to love to watch. In my humble opinion this is already looking like a great season. Can’t wait. Thanks for all the information. I feel alive again.
Yay Sasha!!
I’m sooooo excited for Sasha! He’s earned it and I hope his celeb partner is able to go far.
Yay Sasha! He’s so fun and talented. My guess is he’ll have Kim but we’ll see. Could be a young one too.
Glad to hear Lindsay is almost confirmed. Not only do I feel like she earned it last season, but if DWTS is taking Emma from us it spares me from having to watch Jenna’s muggy self as a pro. This way she can go back to what she does best, which is following Val around pretending to be the third member of his partnerships.
I just love Lindsay and Sasha!!!
I’m hoping and praying Lindsay is back in this season, and while I cannot STAND the BAchelor, I would love to see her with Ben Higgins. Talk about another gorgeous pairing!
Good idea, Cari. I like that idea too.
Any idea how many couples they are going to end up with this season? It was looking like 12, but there seem to be more rumors circulating – are they thinking 14?
Did anyone else see Kym Johnsons last Instagram post with Whitney and Sharna. She says she is excited about Season 22. Could she be doing something for the show?
@Becca
According to Wiki Season 8 was the last time they had more than 12 contestants on the show in a Spring season and they still had the Result show back then. With the more limited time frame now they’ve recently been doing 12 contestans in Spring and 12/13 in the Fall so I’m pretty sure it’s 12.
YES!!!! Super excited for Sasha. Well deserved promotion.I hope he’ll become a permanent teaching pro. There is a lot of short celebrities around. Waiting for news about Lindsay. Any gossips about male troupe members?
I wish they would have added one more spot for Emma, but I’m thrilled for Sasha and especially happy Karina is in. I hope Geraldo can move lol.
Someone on twitter spottet Kiril Kulish (Jenna’s former pro partner), Alan and Heyley in the Ginger Zee part of the DWTS promo (there was a screencap and it really is them) so I’m guessing Kiril is replacing Sasha in troupe. Looks like Emma, Hayley, Jenna, Alan and Kiril for Troupe.
Thanks Geri. What a doll (if true). Just made a new post: https://www.puredwts.com/2016/03/07/could-kiril-kulish-be-a-new-dancer-on-the-troupe-of-dancing-with-the-stars-season-22/
I think Dennis Jauch is also a new troupe. You Should check his snapchat
Jenna fans still seem to be convinced she’s a 13th “surprise” pro because she’s the only troupe person in NY and she also seemed to be leading the group pro rehearsal. Do people care about Jenna enough for her to be a surprise? Sasha was promoted again and it wasn’t treated as a big deal.
In response to comment #427: Jenna’s fans are crazy. Like Lisa said, Jenna is doing what Jenna does best… She’s in NY because Val’s there. I bet she’s pretty pleased he’s starting to get married women now for partners. Honestly thought she was going to have a meltdown during season 19 when she was semi sideline in favor of his showmance.
Jenna fans seriously over estimate her popularity and importance. Even if she was a pro….BFD. But she ain’t a pro. They best learn to deal. She was dancing on camera when they referred to the troupe. Maybe the other troupe girls couldn’t go. I know Hayley was packing last night, so she was going elsewhere.
Once more, I will repeat this: THERE IS NO SURPRISE 13TH COUPLE. There are no “last-minute signings”. There are no additional couples to be announced at a later date. THIS SEASON HAS 12 COUPLES, PERIOD.
If there was going to be another couple, at the very least, we would have seen some sort of “smoking gun” by now – an extra slot on call sheets, a mystery celeb showing up at McCadden/the promo shoot/etc., some murmurings amongst those close to the show. We have seen no smoking guns. THERE ARE TWELVE COUPLES.
Apparently Hayley is in NYC right now with Derek seeing a Broadway Musical. I wonder why she didn’t dance with the troupe on GMA this morning? I guess that means she’s not in the troupe after all…
(Also probably confirms Derek and Hayley as a couple. Derek really needs to stop going to such great lengths to hide relationships. Like others has said here, there is a point where it becomes unhealthy for the relationship)
Also, do we know if Brittany is in or out of the troupe? Doesn’t make sense to only have 1 girl and three guys in the troupe..?