USA Today Article on DWTS

USAToday.com article called “‘Dancing’ Stars find new fans and more opportunities”.  The focus of this article is mainly on Gilles, but it’s a pretty interesting read all the way around. Here are a few excerpts and the picture they used:

LOS ANGELES — Hours after actor Gilles Marini and dance partner Cheryl Burke wrapped up a rumba that drew a standing ovation from the Dancing With the Stars studio audience, he needs a body tuneup.

Soft New Age music and a soothing tabletop waterfall in chiropractor Tom Rudenko’s office are a quiet contrast to the boisterous theatrics at ABC’s hit ballroom competition. But they’re just the tonic for weary Marini.

The potential payoff is far bigger than bragging rights and the cheesy mirror-ball trophy awaiting Dancing‘s winners on the May 19 finale. Yes, the actors, athletes, singers, models and reality stars who have appeared since its 2005 debut have risked injury and humiliation on live TV. But Dancing also has jump-started careers, polished tarnished reputations and generated opportunities in ways most of them couldn’t imagine.

Lil’ Kim, the pint-sized rapper best known for R-rated lyrics, breast pasties and prison time for perjury, was ousted last week. But during her stint, viewers saw the sweet demeanor and feisty spirit of a hip-hop artist shaking her booty to the cha-cha. “I think I’ve already won,” she says. “This has shown another side of me. I’ve got new fans. Acting makes sense; I could see doing a kids’ show. Definitely, the music will be different.”

For Johnson, 17, who may aim for the 2012 Olympics, Dancing provides more options. “It’s really given me the opportunity to see what else is out there. I never thought about acting. Now? Maybe,” she says, giggling.

Even show regulars have managed to parlay Dancing into opportunity. Co-host Samantha Harris is subbing as host of syndicated game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Burke, who opens her third dance studio this week, also has an apparel line and endorsement deals. Pro dancer Julianne Hough is leaving to focus on a promising singing career.