DWTS 16, Week 2 – Power Rankings
Well jazz/jive/quickstep/WTF? night left me with some mixed feelings – some couples really rose to the challenge, while others really showed their weaknesses; I feel like some couples got too caught up in having a “theme”, while others seemed to have meltdowns in rehearsal. And of course – the judges conveniently chastised some couples for things that they seemed to turn a blind eye to in other couples. Let’s get right into it…
1.) Zendaya & Val – As talented as this girl is, I did have my doubts about her fanbase – but after she trended worldwide on Twitter, I’m wondering if she might have the juice to really go all the way this season. My god, those LEGS – if I had legs that gorgeous, I would wear shorts year-round, regardless of the temperature, because they are GORGEOUS. Oddly enough, though they actually seemed to cause a few problems in this dance – like Val said, with legs that long, you have a harder time doing quick movements…and I felt like Zendaya did have a few moments where she really had to haul ass to get her legs where they needed to be, and she did seem to be taking some wide steps to accommodate those long legs. Thankfully, they should only be an asset from here on out, since she has gotten jive out of the way 🙂 Loved the attitude and sass she had, too – really like this girl, and really like what Val is doing with her. If they can keep it engaging and age-appropriate, they could go far.
2.) Kellie & Derek – As cool as this routine was and as well-executed as it may have been, I’d call it more of a contemporary/jazz fusion than pure jazz. Nothing wrong with that – none of the 3 that did jazz tonight had a “pure” jazz routine – but I saw flexed ankles and more contemporary-type lifts, and in my head I heard my college dance instructor screaming “Point those toes! I don’t want to see any flexed feet, this is jazz 203, not modern 203!!!” Very cool, moody routine, and Kelly is made of rubber, I swear…plus she seems to be handling anything Derek throws at her. But for whatever reason (and this is unrelated to whether it’s jazz or not), I was just left wanting a bit more – maybe it was the music and how there seemed to be this big build up in the beginning, and then it just ended, maybe it was the fierce hand section at the beginning and then the more flowy end, I don’t know…but I don’t really think it was my favorite Derek routine. But Kellie is impressing me, because had I not known better, that could have been Allison Holker dancing that routine…she was that good.
3.) Jacoby & Karina – Yes, I’m aware that many of you find him “cocky” and “arrogant” – I agree. But I can’t stop smiling when this guy dances, and I can’t help but laugh as the hapless Karina tries to whip him into shape…it’s hilarious, and it entertains me every week 😛 And really, it’s not like the guy is completely inept in the dance skills department – he moves big, he isn’t afraid to look goofy, and he has fun out there. Loved the Lindy feel they went with – Jacoby would have fit in perfectly at the Savoy or Cotton Club circa 1947, swinging next to Frankie Manning 🙂 Loved the song, too – now let’s just hope Jacoby can still bring the fun to ballroom, since he hasn’t had to do any thus far. That will be the big test.
4.) Andy & Sharna – Love, love LOVE this guy more and more each week! Love that he’s so excited about dancing, he’s trying hard, and he’s enjoying himself – sober 🙂 This routine was perfect for him – the wacky Alice in Wonderland theme really fit him well, and the dude actually has some moves…was rather impressed to see him turning in sync with Sharna, and really selling the character. Between he, Jacoby, & Kellie, the 3 jazz routines really owned the evening for me – so I guess the experimental foray into jazz was a worthwhile gamble…but don’t congratulate yourselves too much, powers that be. I’m still skeptical about this prom theme…and I’m worried about how Andy is going to fare with the Latin. He’s had two dances that have actually been fairly similar to one another, and I’m worried that he’s gonna get saddled with something totally different for prom week – like rumba or something. Ack. Andy, keep soldiering through – because you make me smile, sir 🙂
5.) Aly & Mark – I find myself without a whole lot to say about these two, for the simple reason that Aly is just not wowing me yet. She executed this quickstep well, didn’t lose time, and had pretty good technique – but I find myself just not really caring. Maybe Mark is right, and she’s still putting on the “podium smile”…because I’m just getting nothing from her, emotion-wise. And oddly enough, I feel like Mark has gotten a little “safe” in his choreography – on a night where everyone is pulling out these wacky themes, you’d think he’d at least pull something out of that ever-scheming head of his…but no. Just went for a very standard, run-of-the-mill quickstep with pretty basic choreography. Oh, except for the lift and the break in hold RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAMN DANCE, which conveniently, none of the judges seemed to see. Makes me wonder if Aly is not the voting juggernaut they thought she would be, and are attempting to give her a bit of a boost. Hmmm…
6.) Ingo & Kym – Probably the most happy, well-adjusted couple this season, and one of the few that seemed to avoid shedding any tears this week in rehearsal…and I do think that Ingo is willing to work hard and really improve. But he doesn’t seem to be a very natural mover, and I worry that they’re beginning to get a bit bland, although not to the extent that Aly or Victor has. His quickstep wasn’t bad, per se – parts of it were actually quite nice, usually the straight sections where he wasn’t having to do much bouncing or spinning. But he does seem to get a bit squatty at times, and I think it’s because he feels like he has to get down to Kym’s height (he doesn’t – ladies job to stretch up, not the man’s to hunch down…ballroom law), and consequently, things seemed to get a bit off-kilter on the really bouncy sections of this quickstep. But thankfully, he’s got it out of the way, and hopefully he can do some more stationary dance next week – lord knows what this prom week has in store, but I’m predicting a lot of rumbas…let’s hope he’s got the hips!
7.) Dorothy & Tristan – *sigh* Poor Dorothy – she’s trying, she really is. But this jive was just hard to watch, because the poor thing just looked petrified. Very tentative, cautious jive, and I’m not sure if it was due to her injury or not, but she never really extended her legs or arms fully, as if she were afraid she might break. A few timing issues as well, and the flat shoes didn’t seem to help with the flicks & kicks – did I read that they had to change out of heels because it was hurting her back? IDK. But I think this week was just kind of a wash for them, due to her injury, and partly due to nerves as well – kind of surprised that Dorothy seems as scared as she is, since she’s been up against much harder, but maybe she really is completely out of her comfort zone. I just hope she can get a dance next week that she can really do well at and ENJOY – because I really like these two, and want them to stick around:-)
8.) Wynonna & Tony – Really, Tony? MALL COPS??? Ai ai ai – give the guy a MBT, and suddenly he thinks he’s got free reign to create wacky themes and have them work 😛 Was it a cute theme? Sure – but it got a little weird, and also seemed like it didn’t fit in well with her quickstep…or quicksteppish stroll, rather. Felt like I was having a flashback to two years ago, watching Wendy gingerly quickstepping at a snail’s pace down the ballroom, and Tony doing some sort of boob-related choreography (somebody refresh my memory – he motorboated Wendy too, didn’t he?)…and I can’t say it was a good flashback, hehe. Wy seems to really enjoy herself out on the floor, and she ain’t afraid to be cheeky and fun…but she just moves so SMALL. I think if she could just let loose a bit more and really move big, she could actually be up there with Andy, Jacoby, and Kellie as a contender. But Tony’s really gotta drill that with her, because I feel like his choreography this week & last has just coddled her a bit too much. Move BIG, Wy!
9.) Sean & Peta – If couples like Zendaya & Val and Kellie & Derek are “the real McCoy” this season…then Sean & Peta are like the knockoff designer bag you buy at the street bazaar in Hong Kong: from far away, it looks convincing, and you get excited…and then you realize that it’s vinyl, not real leather, and it says “Prado” instead of “Prada”, and the fabric smells suspiciously like lead paint. 🙂 You get where I’m going with this? I just think these two are the cheap knockoff of the really good couples this season: they’re trying to convince us they’re contenders, but everything they do is just…cheap & tacky. Hated the lifeguard theme of the jive – especially the “I’m drowning and need CPR!” schlock at the beginning, and Peta’s off-the-wall 50’s ‘do and matching swimsuit, and Sean as the strapping lifeguard on duty, and just some overall mediocre jiving…not the worst of the night, but not the best either, and Peta’s choreography is just kind of paling in comparison to some of the other pros. I don’t think these two are headed home this week, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they found themselves in the bottom 2 next week or the following week…because I daresay I’m not the only one just feeling marginal about them.
10.) Lisa & Gleb – I really wanted Lisa to redeem herself this week…like bad. And I really wanted Gleb to prove that he was worth his salt as a pro and could help whip her into shape. Now while I think they improved SLIGHTLY over last week – it just wasn’t enough, and now I’m worried that Lisa could be destined for the red lights of doom sometime soon. Poor Lisa is just so tentative and shy when she dances – she doesn’t really get off-time or do anything wrong, per se, but she, like Wynonna, just moves so small & careful. Now I’m not usually a fan of smut in jives, but let’s just say Gleb’s filthy grin while unbuttoning his shirt got this girl’s mind working 😉 Sssh, don’t tell my boyfriends – the real one, and Norman Reedus. But for real, I just don’t want Gleb to get written off as “that pretty boy pro that just takes his shirt off instead of actually dancing” – so I’m hoping that he & Lisa get some dance next week that really suits her strengths…whatever those happen to be. Maybe it’s time to bring Giggy back out again…
11.) Victor & Lindsay – Can we please retire “Runaway Baby” from the jive song library? Because we’ve now seen TWO disastrous jives to this song (the first was David & Kym’s in season 13), and I’m not really interested in seeing a third. I’m afraid that a large chunk of the fault for this one seems to lie squarely on Lindsay’s shoulders – sure, Victor had a bit of a meltdown, but I think Lindsay showed her youth & inexperience in how she reacted to it…and this choreography just was not good. Sorry Lindsay fans, but I’m seriously beginning to wonder if it would have been better to see her for a season or two in the troupe, just so she could play around a bit with some choreography and hone her chops. Poor Victor gave it a valiant try, but it seemed like it was just a little too hectic, and the transitions were a bit jerky – saw some off-time feet and some missed hand grabs during turns. Worst of all – I think this couple is about thisclose to becoming very forgettable…they’ve gotten stuck with two crummy running order positions, and don’t really seem to be making a big splash yet. As much as I really like Victor and think Lindsay is a sweet girl, I just don’t see people picking up the phone for these two…not while you have very unexpected, very likeable couples making a great impression around, like Andy & Sharna. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Victor & Lindsay in a real bottom 2 with D.L. & Cheryl tomorrow night…
12.) D.L. & Cheryl – Well, I guess after last week, there was nowhere to go but up – and I do think D.L. improved somewhat, although this quickstep was still pretty damn bad: slouchy posture, butt sticking out, moving tiny, getting a little off time, I could go on. I will give him credit for at least trying a bit harder this time (despite a nasty-looking fight in rehearsal with Cheryl – doubt that footage will do them any favors), but I think these two are as good as done. While Cheryl may have a decent # of fans voting for her, D.L. just seems to be rubbing people the wrong way, left & right…the Bobby & Whitney joke really made me cringe. I don’t think it’s been so obvious who is going home since season 12, when we all knew Mike was gonna get the boot…but at least we kind of liked Mike. Oh well…D.L. can get back to doing whatever it is he does, and Cheryl can go promote stuff, go clubbing, etc. Hopefully this abbreviated season gives her some time to reflect and recharge her batteries…
So how did you guys feel about tonight? And who do you think will end up with the encore? SPEAK!
I absolutely loved kellie and Derek’s dance- loved the choreo- jazz, contemporary, whatever you want to call it. Kellie has a sick body and she knows how to move it. Amazing is all I can say. Oh and I think the step in Aly and marks QS that broke hold is the exact step from Shawn and Derek’s dance no? The jump in the air where mark kicks his leg through?! Exact Shawn went about 3 feet higher:) jk.the QS was ok…they just don’t have the “it” factor. I think this race will be Zendaya, kellie, and jacoby.
I loved Derek’s and Kellie’s dance. I am adding that to my list of all-time favorite dances. Seeing what Derek did with that dance (as well as what he did last season with Shawn) just makes me wish that the producers would challenge Derek’s creativity every week rather than once every couple of weeks. He rises to the challenge each and every time.
Zendaya also danced well, but were her dance steps in the jive a little soft?
Totally agree with you, Court, on the rankings! I’d love to see Kellie and Derek with the encore, but if not them, then Andy and Sharma. Theirs was so entertaining!
Great job Court!!! I love how we are both putting Sharna and Andy 4th!! WOO HOO….
Ok, here we go:
1. Drum rolls please…DEREK and KELLIE!!! Wow wow wowww, what a showstopper! This dance was brilliance at it’s finest. The choreography was out of this world. It reminded me of Derek and Joanna’s paso…my fave dance of all time on DWTS and now I think they’ve just topped it?! I love futuristic theatrical dances like this. I loved the pole move. JUST BRILLIANT! UNFORGETTABLE!! I’m totally stunned and speechless. I want to watch this dance over and over and over again. 30+++++
2. Jacoby and Karina – Once again, these two blew it out of the water!!! What a great dance full of entertainment, personality, and fun. Loved the lifts and tricks too. Such creative choreography again by Karina!! Outstanding!!! 29 and LOL to the little Jazz dancers being the toughest on him.
3. Val and Zendaya – They were amazing again too! Her legs needed to bend a little more at times, but, still this dance was the tops. She and Val dazzled up there!! Val’s choreography was so creative again. 27
4. Andy and Sharna – This dance was everything Andy hoped for. It was full of passion, character, power, and FUN!! I loved how quirky it was. I’d love to see them take on more characters like this. Crazy GOOD!! Also, I love it when people can rise up out of the ashes and make a statement like this which he did with this dance and his whole journey in life. Loved loved their costumes too. 24
5. Aly and Mark – What a comeback for these two and a vast improvement. Her legs were still a touch sluggish at times, but, she danced so much better and more confident. Loved her faces with Marks. And kudos to Mark…perfect dress for her this time. 23
6. Ingo and Kym ~They are such a refreshing couple full of fun, heart, spirit, and personality. Yes, his footing was a tad messy in some places, but, over all, I just loved this dance. He’s having so much fun. I love their romantic chemistry!! 22
7. Gleb and Lisa -these two were a total delight again. Yes, she had some leg issues and she had a hard time keeping up, but, over all, they were so entertaining and in the moment. I loved her faces and the dip at the end which she does with the best of them. All that hard work and pain is paying off. She’s better than she realizes and gives herself credit for. 21
8. Sean and Peta – He was quick on his feet at first, but, then he quickly lost his steam. Peta seemed to be over dancing him the whole time and trying to cover up for him. His arms need a lot of work too as they seemed in the wrong place sometimes too. 20
9. Victor and Lindsay – I just love his get up and go personality. He was energetic and fun and really worked the stage. But, yeah, his legs needed work and he needed more speed. Same with Lindsay’s legs too. They both could have been sharper as the judges said, but, I liked this dance better than last week’s dance. He’s improving. 18
10. Dorothy and Tristan – Poor Dorothy! I felt so sorry for her. You could tell she was hurting and lost practice time! But, I know she can do it, so, I hope viewers will still vote for her. 16
11. Wynonna and Tony – Carrie Ann was right. Wynonna had great posture and carriage, but, she was really stiff through out and needed to be quicker. I love her fun and spirit though. 16 One more thing: I wish she would have worn dance shoes with heels as it might have helped make her lighter on her feet.
12. Cheryl and D.L. – Even though he improved tonight and you could tell he put his all into it this week, I’m afraid he’s going home (especially combined with last week’s scores). He was really stiff all through out. But, I was glad to see he could laugh at himself at the end. 15
My choice for an encore: KELLIE AND DEREK!!!
And that is a wrap! I can’t wait to read all of your reviews and Heidi’s Numbers post tomorrow.
A quick response to Kellie & Derek’s jazz routine about wanting more..actually tweeted that. For me it was that the music was just too short. I was so invested in this dance I wanted it to keep going like an up and down love story. It evoked that kind of feeling for me. I could see myself watching the story I imagined on the stage. Breathless. (Getting my breath back now…) Back to reality and time limits of a live show & HUH…got to see on my TV w/out big tix prices something…the creator of that dance…Derek..he belongs on Broadway! (Selfishly I want to keep him in movies…so I can go see Himmmmm!)
1. Kellie and Derek- loved loved loved.
2. Zendaya and Val- Definitely think her fanbase is stronger than we think. She is the lead in her show rather than Rashon being more of a supporting character
3. Andy and Sharna- I just love him. I hope he goes far
4. Aly and Mark- Definitely good, but I wish Mark would take more risks with her
5. Jacoby and Karina- Didn’t love it but it was better than others
6. Sean and Peta- I know I’m one of few people who like Sean on here, but I kind of liked this. I little too tacky, but I think he definitely improved from last week
7. Ingo and Kym- Their dance was good, but it was a forgettable to me
8. Wynonna and Tony- I’m not loving them. As court said, needs to dance bigger.
9. Victor and LIndsay- Dancing wasn’t great, but I loved his energy
10. Dorothy and Tristan- Needs a big boost in confidence. I think it’s going to hold her back a lot. I don’t want to see her put herself down anymore!
11. Lisa and Gleb- Seems kind of a mess to me.
12. DL and Cheryl- Improvement, but still a disaster. I would be shocked if they didn’t go home
Thanks for the round-up, Court!
I agree with you Court on everything except maybe Derek and Kellie. I am not a dancer but a singer…and man I like to build up to that super high note at the end and let her rip…and let people know I was on the floor…lol…however sometimes it is fun to just let it lie at the end…like a whisper with the crowd almost silent…going “what the heck happened”…it can’t be over…and I think that is what Derek did tonight…he left everyone wanting more and more from Kellie…we will surely anticipate what is to come…for sure!!
Joey, I was thinking the same EXACT thing. When I saw the jump where they broke the hold in the quickstep, all I could think of was that it was move Derek and Shawn did in their quickstep.
I thought Kellie and Derek had the best dance and Jacoby and Karina had the most entertaining, fun dance. Zendaya went down in my opinion this week, despite what I considered slight overscoring and overpraising. I enjoyed her dance last week much better. This was awkward for me. And I just can’t take the voting power of her fans seriously yet given the history of the other Disney people. Maybe she will be different, but I’m not buying it yet. So while she is definitely near the top in talent, I don’t see her as worthy of number 1 ranking yet.
I thought Jacoby was going to struggle with Jazz, I was really pleasantly surprised. Karina did another great job of choreographing to his strengths. And I actually saw a significant improvement in technique between this week and last week. He’s definitely going in the right direction. I agree the true test will be if he can do ballroom, which he hasn’t had yet. As long as Karina continues choregraphing crowd pleasing routines that let him be the showman and he doesn’t bomb in ballroom he’s in good shape. And the rehearsal packages have been positive so far, also good.
I guess I enjoyed Kellie’s jazz more than some others. It was a very different jazz but jazz covers a wide variety of things. I thought she deserved to be in the top alone, not shared with Zendaya. I actually thought Aly improved this week significantly over last week. I think Aly and Zendaya may split the vote of people interested in voting for the young perky girl.
Enjoy Ingo and Kim but I don’t think he’s going to improve beyond a certain point. And I was really disappointed in Dorothy. I’m sure she’ll stay, I hope she will be well enough to really practice next week. Bummed for her and Tristan, I really thought this might be a good year for him.
My favorite dance of the night – Andy and Sharna! LOVED it & I wasn’t looking forward to the jazz numbers.
Loved Kellie & Derek, Zendaya & Val, Ingo & Kym Seeing the props with Wyonna & Tony I am very very surprised Len didn’t comment, you wait for Derek to have one prop and Len will be all over him.
Hoping for Kellie & Derek for encore !!!
Glad Zendaya got past the Jive, she does look like a giant compared to Val…now she can use those long legs as an advantage for the next dances! #TeamValdaya
LOL!!!!!!!!
1. Zendaya and Val – that dance was actually pro stuff
2. Jacoby and Karina – pure entertainment
3. Kellie and Derek – good dance, to me lacked something I cannot put my finger on. Great choreography, but just lacked something for me.
4. Andy and Sharna – I am still smiling.
Everybody else. Don’t remember too much about the rest.
Tonight was just amazing! Absolutely loved Zendaya (everything to me was just amazing. Val’s choreography is really surprising me! I love it!) Kellie (I mean.. girl can move. Hot damn! ;)) , and Andy! (YES YES YES YES. Thats all I have to say) . My three favorites of the night!
I gotta say I’m beginning to like Jacoby just a liiiittttle bit. He really impressed me with this one so I am looking forward to next week.
Aly and Mark… To me they are becoming part of the couples that I really do not care about this season, which really is a shame cause I am a big Mark fan. Like Courtney said.. she is just not doing anything for me. It’s all so simple and plain. Mark has done some outstanding Quicksteps in the past and this one was just so simple and, I hate to say it, it bored me. Don’t get me wrong though, she did a good job technically and everything but that’s about it…
Dorothy! I almost cried cause I felt so bad 🙁 I just hope she gets something like a V. Waltz or Slow Waltz next week because I know she would be great.
Really wanted to see Lisa do well but… yeah.. Same for Ingo, though he did a decent job.
Didn’t care much for Sean, Victor, Wy and DL. They can all just go home in the next few weeks. Soorrry
For the encore I REALLY want to see Andy again. I love me some Zendaya and Kellie … but Andy’s dance is definitely worthy of it for creativity and overall FUN.
Love reading your comments- they are so qualified! I agree – but think you are overrating Kellie and Derek. She is not a Allison Holker.Must say I am a bit tired of the Derek-hype in dwts. Their jazz dance was interesting, but to me it was too much fog, smog or whatever(could hardly see their feet) – combined with two persons focused on showing off their bodies and Derek carrying her around. The picture Derek tweeted of himself (his back) and Kellie tells it all. Yes Derek, you muscles are amazing, but I don’t want you to throw them after me. Only embarassing. Val and Zendaya are amazing, maybe she stuggles a bit with her long legs- but wow! She is 16- it is unbelievable. Mark and Aly are improving- the podium smile Mark is talking about makes her a bit stiff and robotic, but Mark is doing a good job- he should step it up!
Zendaya’s fan base———She’s definitely got one that probably equals Kyle Massey’s. The difference will be a) Val’s base bigger than Lacey’s was + Maks’s fans are throwing him votes (the ones still watching anyway) and b) if she doesn’t turn off voters the way Roshon did with the overconfident “street” talk. She can win this.
I’m so surprised at how Dorothy is so nervous. Shame, because I had high hopes for seeing Tristan do better choreography.
Aly was posting the link to Shawn’s freestyle because she was in it lol !! Anyway to get votes I guess. I think she’ll fly under the radar and pop up in final four. But if its down to her and Jacoby, her fan base might be more willing to power vote and redeem a gymnast on the show and Mark has got a bigger base than Karina and those ladies know how to play the voting game 😉
So thrilled for Andy! It was so nice to see Eric Roberts and Sherri Shepherd cheering with tears in their eyes for him.
Loved Kellie & Derek. I think the ending was appropriate for the dance and definitely left us wanting more.
Zendaya is an awesome “dancer” and fun to watch.
Andy & Sharma – so enjoyable
Aly & Mark – okay was that a “rip off” routine (at least part of it). I like Aly and hope she can bring some charm to her dances.
Hope it’s Kellie & Derek for the encore.
I’ve gotta say, while I was looking forward to Kellie and Derek’s jazz, my favorite routine of the night ended up being Andy’s. I smiled and laughed the whole way through. Andy really is a performer. There is a guy who DEFINITELY knows how to entertain.
Aaaand I’m going to have to agree that I thought Kellie and Derek’s jazz routine was lacking. It just felt too short. Maybe it was the music.
I was really surprised by Jacoby! I actually ended up loving his routine. It was really fun and had a definite Broadway flair, which I really enjoyed.
So happy to see Aly come to life! LOVED Andy’s routine. Agree with everyone else that it was sad to see Dorothy that way. I’m hoping Wynonna listens to Courtney and dances BIG next week. She has so much more in her! Hoping for Andy in the encore.
PS. Thought that was a bit of a weird order – wonder why Lisa was where she was? A lot of votes or not enough? Same with switching Jacoby and Wynonna to the first hour. Interesting to wonder about.
I was disappointed with Wynonna/Tony’s performance but I loved Jacoby & Karina’s Jazz dance and Andy & Sharna’s Jazz as well 🙂
So great to see my favorites did well tonight. Jacoby is still the natural entertainer he is but with a better technique this time. I know I shouldn’t but I was expecting Zendaya’s jive to top Nicole’s but I hardly saw any kicks and flicks in this one, still great dance. I was looking at shirtless Derek the whole dance but Kellie did well I guess? 😉
But my absolute favorite tonight was Andy & Sharna’s. That was so creative and entertaining. Sharna is definitely in my list of favorite pros. Court, maybe the reason jazz routines stand out tonight is because the pros were all great choreographers?
Another thing.. Is the show really running out of songs to use? It wasn’t too long ago that we saw a Jive to “Runaway Baby” and a Quickstep to “It Don’t Mean a Thing” (still hoping for my “Little Talks” Quickstep…)
Also “Chantilly Lace” on season 12 .. which to me still isn’t that long ago…
I really liked the jazz routines and Zendaya’s dance tonight. With Kelly and Derek, I felt an emotional disconnect but, I still loved the dance. Loved Val’s quote about daughters staying away from the pole. He is really shiny brightly this season personality and dance/choreography wise.
Rooting for Ingo and Kym. Love those two shiny-happy Aussies. Their song tonight is just one I can’t get into and I felt the same way when Kristy and Mark had it in their season. With Kym and Ingo’s great chemistry I hope it takes them to the next level (score and performance wise) next week. Guessing they may get a rumba since they have not had a Latin dance yet and I think slow dances with prom.
I’m team Lisa and Gleb, but I thought Andy put on the best show tonight and I would love to see him get the encore. He’s the epitome of what this show is supposed to be about IMO.
I’m just not getting the Jacoby excitement at all. He’s got the groove, no doubt about that, but that’s where it begins and ends for me.
I was glad to see Ingo and Aly improve. Like both of them a lot. I wish Mark would bring someone in to help with Aly’s costuming though. Those costumes drag her down.
If Zendaya is this good in season 2, I can only imagine in a few weeks time. Her caliber of dance reminds me a lot of Nicole. Have to say, it’s a joy to see Val dance with her. He’s so so good, as is Gleb. Two DWTS superstar pros IMO.
Just saw on OTRC that Ingo and Kym have paso. Muy Interesante.
Paso? On Prom Night? What kinda foolishness is this!?
…I’m not liking whete this is going…
Loved Zendaya…I hope she continues to be obnoxious-free. It also looks like Val is more than just a bare (gorgeous) chest. Good for him to adapt so well this season . Andy really had me entertained so kudos to Sharna. For me Aly is just so so…technically ok but forgettable. Her body is not doing her any favors, nor are her costumes. I felt so sorry for Dorothy. Please, please give St Tristan a ringer next season, for goodness sake. He is really a doll. As far as who should go home… believe it or not, I say Wynona.
Kellie and Derek were hands down the best for me tonight. Derek always knows how to showcase his partners to the best of their abilities IN LINE with the challenges that TPTB always seem to love to throw at him (because they all know he’ll excel in them). But hot damn, Kellie is amazing! No wonder Derek found her worthy to come back to the show!
Second best of the night would be Zendaya for me. She is a lovely breath of fresh air and brings out a tolerable (for me) side of Val… usually can’t stand the C bros. But I am enjoying their partnership and her dancing very much.
However, the most IMPROVED was Andy for me. I want him to last a bit longer in this competition… however not at the expense of better dancers. But he def deserves the stay a while longer.
The rest were all a bit non-existent for me since I was watching the Lakers/Warriors NBA game at the same time! haha.. Oh, but I did like Jacoby and Karina. I am vibing him!
A lot of couples fight at prom don’t they? Maybe that’s what the paso is for. 😉 Geez, I am not looking forward to this theme week AT ALL. Although I suppose the cheesecake for that week will be epic…
Yes, YEs, YES Court!
What I love so much about watching the routines that Karina, Derek, and now Val create, is that it’s like watching a little movie. Of course not every single dance is like it but many, for me are. And to see Sharna come out with this great, creative routine, I’m so impressed with her and this is her first season as a pro. Good for her and more power to her!
Zendaya/Val and Karina/Jacoby – were my overall favorites based on choreography, creativity, showmanship and dance ability.
Kellie – I agree, amazing but missed a little something for me but still unbelievable ability and creativity.
Andy – loved this routine. Congrats to Sharna for creating it and Andy for delivering.
Ingo and Aly – I like him but he and Aly have me in the same boat headed for blandness.
Wy – I know she’s doing what she can at this point and I hope it gets better. Don’t give up Wy!
Dorothy – I love me some Wy but I threw a vote Dorothy’s way because she’s what life is all about. When she got 3 5’s did she look angry inside and pitch a fit on camera later that she was humiliated on national tv, of course not. She sweetly smiled because she knew it wasn’t great and didn’t use her injury to plead her case. So darn lovely an example of a human being.
Lisa – She’s such fun with a great attitude but just not wowing anyone but the pilot. I really like Gleb. He’s so talented. I hope if he goes a little early that he doesn’t get discouraged and they not only give him a mover next season but he needs to stop being Mr. Nice Guy (not to the Maks degree of course). He’s too talented to not be in charge and show what he and his partners can do after he trains them.
Victor – Absolutely looks like Lindsay doesn’t have the maturity or ability at this point in time to teach anyone. Obviously, teaching is not an easy profession and doing it well is genius. I think she’s not even close to ready to do it.
Sean/Peta – EXACTLY! Love the purse analogy. Brilliant. Cheap & tacky is all I’ve been seeing from Peta from her first season. Even Sean pointed out that he doesn’t take her seriously.
D.L. – I would, but he’s not worth it.
Tonight kinda further separated the drastic differences in couples talent
The Great
Kellie & Derek – first 30 sec of this routine was GREAT, super creative, and wow at kellies lines & flexibility…and then it just started to lose steam in the middle until that fantastic lift at the end. There was like 15 whole seconds in that routine that consisted of *walk walk grab stick, walk walk hold stick, walk walk shuffle stick between us*. I just kept thinking, put that damn stick down and let me see her beautiful extensions again.
Zendaya & Val – Val wrote in his blog that he tries to choreograph her routines like he would with another pro, and it shows bc that was some great choreo. She is still a little bambi on the dance floor and falls out of her turns alot, but she has freakish potential
The Good
Jacoby & Karina – this was just such a easy going FUN charming routine. he can dance, but I still need to see him do ballroom. He hilarious though
ALy & Mark – technically this was good, but once again they dont wow me or make me want to rewatch. also giant lift in this
varying degrees of acceptable
Andy & Sharna -perfect routine for his personality…wacky & entertaining
victor & lindsay – i feel like he should be better, nothing about that jive impressed me
sean & peta – same disappointment as with victor. he has the potential, but he does the moves kind of jokingly, like he doesnt take his movements seriously
Ingo & kym – still very well matched as a pair with charisma,ok dance and i saw a lot of potential in that routine for him to be pretty good
at standards.
dorothy & tristan – luv them but this was not good. i hope a lot of this had to do with her missed practice/injury and she bounces back with a beautiful standard next week
wynonna & tony – tony does a great job at choreographing routines to the level of his partner, but that made this more of a leisurely walk not a quickstep
DL & cheryl – still bad, but did see improvement
Lisa & Gleb – way too timid. she has got to loosen up
Thanks, Court – high quality writeup, chock full of interesting observations, and pretty spot-on to what I saw, or rather, you say it and then I think, “I knew that.”
Performances I liked best, some for the performance and some for the dancing, were: Jacoby, Zen, the dancing part of Andy’s. (Sharna is amazing) I like Wy and want her to bust out. Thought Kym and Ingo’s performance better matched the judges’ comments than their scores.
I would have loved Dorothy’s dance if she’d been able to do it. I’d been really looking forward to Kellie’s number as well because I think she’s going to be a great dancer. But was very disappointed when she didn’t get a chance to move her feet much. We knew last week that she has a really flexible back and legs. She’s light as a feather, but don’t tote her around all night; I want to see some footwork!
I was also looking forward to seeing what Aly could do moving across the floor, and although she certainly moved her feet more than last week and executed, just as you said, she didn’t reach me, either.
Also feel kind of overloaded with gimmicky stuff and “messing about”. With so many special effects already in week 2, what are some of these couples going to do for an encore? Also, I dislike the kinds of lighting and smogging effects that keep me from seeing clearly what the dancers are doing. The judges, as usual, were grossly inconsistent. And for those who think I sound crabby and codgety, let me establish right now that I do enjoy a nice plump prune.
My favorites were Jacoby, Zendaya and Andy. Fabulous, fun stuff from all three, improvement all around and lovely choreography from their pros.
I was very impressed by Kellie’s quality of movement but I felt no connection to Derek in the routine and the glow stick was overly present IMO. The begging and the end were lovely, the middle was a bit disconnected.
Aly did a very good job but I agree that Mark needs to figure out a way to make her stand out more. Same goes for Ingo and Kym.
The rest I have nothing much to say on.
I was skeptical on the jazz/contemporary but I gotta say I was wrong- good job producers. It might be a bit early for it in the season but damn does it liven up the show.
Loved reading everyone’s comments, and am surprised I agree with so many.
I loved Zendaya and Val. No props, just dance. Yes, she is leggy,and she’s just learning to reel those legs and arms in, but I can’t wait to see her do the slower ballroom dances.
Kellie is certainly flexible, but I, too, wanted to see more dance and less “totin” around. The mist was also annoying.
I am so surprised at how much I enjoyed Andy’s Mad Hatter theme. I am liking him more and more. Sharna seems to be a very good partner for him.
Jacoby is growing on me. He is fun, and he does have the moves for a big man. Don’t think he’s in any danger of going anywhere yet.
Aly is just forgettable for me. She does the steps, but just isn’t fun to watch. I don’t get the feeling that she’s enjoying this at all.
Poor Dorothy. Poor Tristan. I feel so bad for them both. She does seem scared to death. With her skating background, you would think performing before an audience wouldn’t bother her. Maybe her fans will keep her on long enough for her to gain some confidence.
Ingo and Kym are ok. Just not standing out.
Same for Sean and Peta.
Wynonna needs to get moving. That was the slowest QS I’ve ever seen.
Victor has such an engaging smile, I want him to do well, but like someone else said, Lyndsay needed to be in the troupe for a while before trying to teach.
Lisa left the dog at home. Good. She’s trying, but she’s another one that needs to loosen up.
D.L.is just awful.
I thought Kellie and Derek’s dance was the best of the night! Zendaya and Val’s Jive wasn’t all that and I thought it was overscored. Aly and Mark’s quickstep? WtF? NOT one judge called them out for the lift and breaking hold!! Way to steal choreo from your bro Mark! Andy and Sharna’s routine was cute! the rest were just ho-hum. Felt so bad for Dorothy..would’ve thought her Jive had been a little better. DL improved from week 1 for sure and what was up with that porn stache on Tony? NOT a good look for him at all!
I agree Courtney, the Jazz routines won the night for me as well. They were each memorable in a different way, Jacoby and Karina entering in the long trench was brilliant, Andy and Sharna, KILLED IT!, and Kellie and Derek ended the night flawlessly.
Poor Victor, his handicap is his partner Lindsay.
And Sean, hopefully had a reality check, DWTS does not need him to carry this show.
I think Jacoby’s dance ability is there but his cocky attitude just cannot make me like him and root for him. Karina still needs to work on that.
Heh….Val is showing shades of Maks on Twitter. Can’t compliment his partner without taking a subtle shot at nearly everyone else in the ballroom. It’s funny…from Val it just comes off as insecure and a touch bitter. 😀 Dude, if you’re that confident in your and your partner’s abilities, there’s no need for shots at the competition. Unless you’re AFRAID.
I forgot to comment on Andy and Sharna- they killed it! The funniest, happiest and most entertaining dance of the night! Their commitment was incredible- an energy bomb! Made me laugh, made me tear up- just loved it! Encore! Encore!
Well, it’s the next morning and the only routines I remember without going to the DVR is Kellie…and Andy. LOVE Andy. And Zendaya’s gold dress and all that leg. Don’t remember the dance itself but I remember thinking it was pretty good. I don’t remember much about Jacoby’s dance either…but I remember laughing at him “posturing” for Len and then slouching when it wasn’t necessary.
Kellie and Andy – best two routines of the night for me. No contest.
Fatna, I noticed that Zendaya was kicking and flicking much smaller than I expected. I was trying to figure out why that was and if it was a specific choice for some reason. Maybe because with those mile long legs she could easily out kick Val?? No idea.
Oh god, seriously. Paso on Prom night. I have a feeling this is going to suck really bad.
mmc…don’t count on epic cheesecake. Prom night could be SO bad that it overwhelms our senses to the point that there’s too much shit to choose from and our brains can’t process it. 😀 Picture us short circuiting with sparks and steam coming out our heads, arms waving, saying “cheesy overload….cheesy overload….”
Kellie and Derek are who I want to see get the encore tonight!I loved watching every second of it and am so grateful for youtube so I may continue to watch it! I expected a great jive from Z and Val and got it, so for me it did lack that WOW factor!But WOW to Andy and Sharna!It’s hard to believe she is a brand new pro! I knew everyone puts alot of thought and hard work into their routines, but for me Andy and Sharna really show it. But maybe it is also do to the fact that they are the underdogs. I feel bad for all the couples who had the quickstep, cause these all seemed to fade in comparison to the jazz couples.
I’m not surprised DL did better this week and honestly I would much rather watch him than Wynonna, at this point, but I’m still afraid he is the one going this week. Wynonna is so slow and stiff. I get no enjoyment from watching her dance and look forward to when she leaves the show. I only hope that Dorothy doesn’t go or have to drop out do to her injury.
Just woke up and the first thing that popped in my head was Kellie’s jazz. It was indeed modern and normally you would hear me ripping the male pro who went shirtless, but in this case, I could tell Derek wasn’t trying to focus the attention on himself, and even if he was, sorry Bro, but my eyes were glued to Kellie :-). That girl IS made of rubber apparently! LOL. She did very good, despite me also wanting more but I think that was Derek’s way of teasing the audience of more things to come. FLIPPING GENIUS!
Oh and C, so glad you caught the lift in Aly’s quickstep, I thought it was just me.
Oh, Val. But you and Zendaya also went for the mood lighting and effects last week. Must also be nice to have the youngest celeb who is also a dancer that she put danced you n contemporary. I would love to see what Maks and any pro said about Nicole being on the show now that Zendaya is on the show, I imagine there would be more rumblings about her if she is paired with Dere. People are rumbling about Kellie who has no dance background.
I just want to ask people who are saying Lindsay shouldn’t be a pro. I can see your point but is she the youngest pro on Dancing with the stars? she’s 19. Derek is a genius and he started off in the show at 22. She is trying her best and yes maybe start off at the Troupe dance but when Victor had his meltdown, i think what she did was appropriate. she didn’t let him storm off like other pro’s let their partners do.
I loved Andy’s performance and doing the tormented worm made me laugh.
Zendaya was amazing!
I just sent a tweet to Carrie Ann, pointing out the lift and broken hold in Aly and Mark’s QS and no one called em out yet they did call out Derek and Shawn in theirs? The double standard just drives me NUTS!!! We’ll see what kind of response I get…or maybe she’ll block me too! LOL
Can I also point something out that I am sure will eventually be discussed? Am I the only one who thinks the “Vote for the Encore” thing is a bad idea? My worry is that people may focus on their celeb doing the encore versus the ACTUAL voting that matters for their star to stay. I, personally, am not wasting my time on it and will focus on Kellie staying, but that’s just me.
So what’s the general thought if I may ask?
Aly and Mark did NOT do a lift, that is why the judges didn’t say anything. If you go watch the video dwts posted on vine on the iphone, mark breaks down the difference between a lift and an access. He shows that exact move he did in the quickstep.
Val was not taking a shot at anyone…DID u guys read his blog?? his whole goal this week was to create a pro -level jive for zendaya. he stated his whole emphasis this week was not to put a theme/fluff in and to see if he could wow the crowd and make it just as entertaining with a solid, clean, simple competition-esque routine.
He wasnt taking a shot at anyone, he was just proud of himself and zendaya for accomplishing their goal for the week
My favorite dances were Andy and Kellie. And for the encore, I think I would prefer Andy to Kellie, because I know that Kellie is going to have a lot more AWESOME routines to possibly get an encore, and I think Andy just NEEDS it more…. I mean, he’s incredibly sweet and charming, and a hard worker and determined to MAKE his new start STICK! And THIS dance was A HUGE breakthrough… Not just to the audience and the viewing audience, but for ANDY! I think it would just help his confidence that, “YES! I CAN DO THIS!” And, he danced with such JOY! and I want to see it again!
I am glad that DL improved this week, but then there really wasn’t anyplace for him to go but UP. I don’t think he could have gotten any worse. I think neither of the pair is invested in their dance partnership, and they don’t even really FEEL like they’re partners, just two people who can’t stand each other being forced to be dancing together for hours every day.
Aly and Mark annoyed me. Yes, she is pretty good, but…. I just can’t get behind them. And the breaking hold (more than just the 10 seconds in beginning and end) annoyed me. And the lift in the middle annoyed me. And not getting called out for breaking the rules. And that was definitely a lift! Maybe I’m still peeved that Shawn self propelling herself off the floor was considered a lift, and Aly being Mark-propelled off the floor wasn’t.
@Tiffany, Lindsay ISN’T the youngest pro on the show…. She may be NOW, but she isn’t the youngest pro the show’s ever had. Julianne began when she was 18, and she WON! Chelsea was 19 when she started on the show, and I think Lacey was 20. I think with Lindsay, she just hasn’t had a lot of teaching/choreography experience, as J, C and L had… Or, she isn’t as proficient as the other younger pros to adjust her teaching skills to a student with no dance experience, so that he can quickly learn the skills she’s teaching. For example (because this is the only one that I can think at this time) Julianne danced with Helio in season 5, and he had been having trouble understanding the terms and what he was to do, until she related things to his racing, or to other things he was familiar with… And then he “got” it.
I thought ANY TIME a dancers feet left the floor, it was a lift. That’s what CAI said when she called the catch Shawn and Derek did in the My Heart Will Go on Guilt pleasures routine from last season.
@Angela – WRONG. And I don’t need to go watch some iPhone video to prove it, and I don’t really give a sh*t what Mark says, because the judges have LONG defined a lift as “one partner having two feet off the floor in a move that they couldn’t otherwise do without assistance from their partner”. Mark was clearly holding Aly up. I don’t buy whatever explanation he’s selling, because other couples have gotten called out for similar lifts. And regardless of the lift – they broke hold in the middle of the quickstep, which many other couples have gotten scolded for. Funny how the judges turned a blind eye to it this time.
Maybe Cheryl is mad that she didn’t get the hot football player again and instead TPTB gave Jacoby to Karina per her request of having an NFL player for a partner?? I don’t know that Karina and Cheryl get along too well.
@yo – I don’t think people are talking about his blog. I think they’re talking about what he was saying on Twitter.
So sad for Dorothy! Really love her and Tristan. Hope they make it through and can have a slow song to reboot and recharge. Something like Waltz or Rumba would be good. I really LOVE LOVE LOVE Val and Zendaya. I hope they get the encore dance tonight. They deserve it after both performances in weeks 1 and 2. I am really liking Gleb as well. Just hope he can hold his own and get Lisa to step it up. He needs to stop being Maks’ replacement and start holding his own. Don’t get me wrong, he looks way better with his shirt off than Maks ever did but he has way more to prove. I think if he can step it up they will go far. If only Lisa wouldn’t wear pink every week. UGH!
1)Zendaya and Val: WOW.
2)Kellie and Derek: WOW.
Now the ones I didn’t love.
3)Jacoby and Karina: It was fun but I didn’t love it.
4)Aly and Mark: It was the best quickstep of the night but after watching it sgain I think it wasn’t that memorable in the end.
5)Ingo and Kym: Underscored but not memorable.
6)Dorothy and Tristan: Underscored I thought but she should be safe.
7)Andy and Sharna: I am liking him a lot. He is part Cloris (crazy fun to watch) and part George Hamilton (a showman).
Now the ones I disliked
8)Wynonna and Tony: not memorable and I thought boring.
9)Lisa and Gleb: Better than last week.
10)Sean and Peta: What the hell was that? I agreed with Len.
11)Victor and Lindsay: He really is trying and is having a blast. BUT he thinks its all about the performance but maybe a little less performance and more focus on footwork.
12)D.L.: He was slightly better but that rehersal video isn’t helping his case.
Bottom 3: D.L., Lisa, Sean
Going home: D.L.
It’s only when both of the dancers feet are of the floor with the help of their partner
And for the encore: Andy.
Val didn’t take a shot at anyone? he basically said Zendaya and i did not use smoke, a glow stick, no lights all in the background and danced great. I wonder if he felt that way about Sharna then because their entire dance was props. I mean typically smoke is used to hide bad feet, but clearly that is not the case with Kellie- i mean she obv can dance and if anything we don’t want to miss any part of her dancing- gf knows how to point her toes. It was an added effect to enhance the “lights” aka the song title. That is the problem with the C brothers…they take a step forward and then three steps back. He wrote a blog and was actually complimentary of Derek and then 3 days later tweets something that is a direct shot at him because their dance is getting talked about. grow up!
Just rewatched the 3 jazz numbers and Z and Val’s jive. I really think Andy was underscored and Z overscored. Andy’s dance I believe will be considered as iconic as Drew and Cheryl’s “Save a Horse “dance due to all the original movements and characterization. Z is a young, hip-hop dancer who I suspect had to compete at some level in dance as a child to have won her role in Shake it Up. Apart from remembering to watch her posture, I don’t think she has a problem learning or doing choreo, and that’s why Val gives her pro choreo, cause she can handle it. With Kellie and Derek, I can’t help but wonder if Derek had worn a shirt and not used the prop would Len have given them the 9?I definately thought the glow sticks/smoke (and shirtless Derek) enhanced the mood of the dance and I LOVED the total effect. Be I just wonder..
yes, i was stating that what he said on twitter was in response to his goal for the week from his blog, not to anyone elses routines
I do not think Val was commenting/under the table sly insulting Derek’s mood setting. To me he was commenting on “sets” that try to distract from the dancing. ::cough:: Peta and Sean. ::cough:: Their team name reminds me of Vidalia Onions and then for some reason Shrek comes to mind and “Ogres are like onions, we have layers” quote pops into my head. Then every time I see them I picture Shrek and Donkey. It is distracting because she’s a good dancer dang it. It is refreshing though to see Val trying to stay gentlemanly around her.
The majority of the night was unforgettable. D.L. I remember his Whitney/Bobby joke along with the blow up him and Cheryl had more than his dance. For some reason though, I’m not sure if it is Cheryl now or D.L. but when they were doing the end pan the cast and they were looking all sour and then the camera hit them and the “false smiles” appeared that really (really) rubbed me the wrong way. Carrie Ann’s comment about wishing the people at home knew how hard it is for the stars kind of rubbed me the wrong way as well. Also why did Carrie Ann call Gleb out on a lift and not Mark?
Eric Roberts, just for asking Len why he is so cranky, now needs to be on DWTS.
I have to refrain from commenting on Tony and Wyn for a while.
Jacoby does not come off cocky to me. To me he has one of those weird sense of humors that if you don’t get it might come off as being cocky and when you get to know him you see he’s a real nice guy.
I’m not sure if they popped out the 9 paddle too soon, like last week and not using the low paddles enough. Kellie and Zendaya are now their own competition.
Courtney is right about Lindsay though. Her young age is showing.
I think people underestimated the power of Andy Dick and redemption.
Kellie is smarter than people give her credit for because last night she could have been mistaken for a pro on that floor and that to me is a work of a genius on both parts. Even if you did find it missing something you have to admit it was impressive on Kellie’s part.
Referencing Comment #39 by Princess Heidi….How is Val taking “subtle shots” at everyone on Twitter? I have read his tweets since the beginning and I don’t think he is insecure bitter.
Thanks Courtney, I have Kellie and Derek at the top of the list this week. Probably because I thought they got short changed a bit last week – but love her attitude and her abilities. Zendaya is great for her age, but it felt like the steps were a bit sluggish in spots (but I’m 5′ and have no idea what it must be like to swing long legs around) – which get called out on most other jives. Loved Andy and Jacoby, and the rest were meh. I always tend to favor those that seem to be having a great time even if they aren’t the best – they somehow always find a way to engage us. And, the lifts.. I understand that they are allowed in some dances, but have been watching long enough to have figured out when and where and CAI is not consistent and it drives me nuts. Looks to be a lot of potential with the majority of the cast and I’m enjoying the new season… but it’s early!
@joey val said nothing of the sort.
@PH So Zendaya was flicking and kicking in the dance? Why I didn’t remember it much? I just thought she might feel unstable doing them properly because of her long legs. By the way, I thought her legs were way too slender. I prefer Kym’s. 😉
I thought Kellie, Zendaya, Jacoby, Andy and Aly were the best of the night. I’m thinking that Kellie, Jacoby and Zendaya will be the final three imo.
Andy definitely stepped it up last night and had a great dance, song and performance factor. I love when stars take risk. It spices up the show.
Aly was great, however she’s getting overshadowed by the other youngin’ Zendaya! Mark is gonna have to start thinking out the box.
Ingo had a solid performance. Sean was forgettable and I’m hoping he’s eliminated early.
Lisa, Victor, and Wynonna all need to be confident in themselves. I applaud them for going out there, however let loose and have fun. I fear that once DL is eliminated these three will be the next ones eliminated.
Dorothy, please get it together. I had so much confidence in her at the beginning. I’m going to bet that she’ll place anywhere between 8th to 10th place.
D.L., glad to see you put in the effort. Just not good enough to continue.
Prediction for the “In Jeopardy Couples”: Dorothy & Tristan (give her a little scare), Lisa & Gleb, DL & Cheryl
Eliminated: DL & Cheryl
I have to disagree with all the love for Andy Dick. First, the dance wasn’t all that great. They used a tired Alice in Wonderland theme. And at certain points throughout the dance, he looked like Jerry Springer. All of this stuff about him supposedly changing and being sober and all that — I’m not buying it. To me, he will always be a vile human being.
Still don’t like Pickler, but her dance was pretty good. I’m just mad about what those singers did to that song.
Loved Kellie and Andy! Loved, loved, loved! Andy was underscored. Either of them for the encore would be fine.
Zendaya was good, but I think a little overscored. Jacoby was also a lot of fun. He’s growing on me.
Ingo and Aly – good, but not great. And I was sure that that break in hold would be called out…and it wasn’t. Shawn was chastised for it, but not Aly.
Dorothy – sigh… Hopefully she will feel better and improve.
Lisa, Victor and Wy – there’s something about each of them I enjoy, whether sense of humor or smile or whatever, but I’m not enjoying their dancing much. Hoping for more improvement.
Sean – so tacky (which is Peta’s fault), and just not good. He got the same score tonight as Andy, and that’s *just* *so* *wrong*. It wasn’t anywhere *near* as good, or enjoyable, or anything.
DL – improvement from last week. At least he tried. Still more than ready for his exit tonight.
No outside the box, Mark.
I was also peeved the break in hold and lift were not called. Is it because Aly needs the support of the judges? She has the fanbase or I would guess to withstand a couple docked points. Despite that, the routine was fine but not memorable.
yo- its an implication…his twitter post says ” We show up, we dance, we bow @zendaya i’m so proud. No fluff, no props, no set, just jive. That’s what this whole thing is about” # teamvaldaya. Now i don’t know about you- but what dancers last night had what some would call fluff (smokey haze), props (glow stick), props (blinking lights in the background). The only other dancers were Sharna and Andy and I guess Tony and Wyonona on a cheesy mall cop bike? Everyone pretty much danced with minimal production. And for the record if he didn’t mean it that way, it comes across that way. A characteristc of the C brother’s..claiming they speak #truth and what was said wasn’t meant to be interpreted any other way. To me- that tweet implies Derek 100%.
Re Comment #62 by Joey. Again, he is not tweeting anything about anyone else. And as far as his blog is concerned he is proud of Zendaya and he is making “all about the dance”. There is nothing worse than seeing a whole bunch of gimmicks and not a lot of dancing. Val has always been like that. He focuses on the dancing which is what the show is all about. Granted he uses props once in a while but only when the mood of the song is right for it. The whole dance of Kellie and Derek was gimmicky and so was Andy and Sharna’s. I am really disliking the gimmicks. No offense against Kellie I think she’s great I just wish she was not paired with Derek. I am getting sick of his cocky attitude about everything.
Totally agree on the top 4. Jacoby,, Zendaya and Kelli are just at another level compared to anyone else in natural talent and performance ability. Loved Andy’s too. These 4 coples are doing some of the most entertaining dances I’ve seen in a while. Mostly LOVING the choreography from Val, Karina and Sharna. Highlight of the season and hope it keeps up. Sharna is a great addition.
Nathan, I think it’s a REALLY stupid idea….especially since Zendaya has 2 million followers who may not spend a lot of time voting on the web site but will certainly spend half the night tweeting. I think it will totally draw votes away from her, and probably the others as well, but more so from her because of her audience. Horrible idea that I hope they don’t keep doing because that girl deserves to be in the finale and she’s going to need help getting there.
Anybody else disappointed with Lindsay and Victor. I wasn’t expecting Victor to have a breakdown this early. Lindsay looked like a deer in headlights when Victor was having his breakdown. I had high hopes for Lindsay but yea I don’t think she has it, and their Jive lacked energy.
I didn’t care for Andy dance, he just ran around. Jacoby and Karina are very entertaining. Obviously Zendaya and Kellie are front runners. I think D.L. wants to leave asap his package was a clear indication of that. DWTS producers need to do him a favor and put him out of his misery. It’s a lot of forgettable people this season.
@nicole, Val is the same guy who did a dance where he woke up in a bed. Also the props he used and tons of gimmicks with Kelly. I thought it was a dig at all the couples pretty much. The biggest wtf was the mall cop Segway. But it is in the C brothers tendency to be hypocritical. Ringers are bad until they get one. It is all about pure dancing unless they use it.
His twitter, yo. Read his twitter. I understand that C bro fans don’t like to hear it, but the way they phrase things they are OFTEN implying negative things about other people. Listen to how most of the other pros talk about their partners without implying anything about anyone else…then listen to Val. “No props, no staging, just dancing” is a shot, whether you like it or not and it makes him look like an insecure asshole. Why can’t he just rave about Zendaya’s dancing?? She did a GREAT job and he choreographed a good dance – why does he have to bring references to other couples into it?
Perhaps someone needs to explain to him how to tweet so that he doesn’t come off that way, because he, like Maks and Louis, doesn’t seem to get it. That all his words have an impact.
@PH or anyone, what did Val say on his twitter?
He must have taken it down if he did because there’s nothing there now about other contestants, it’s just tweets saying thank you and vote etc.
Oops pushed enter before done. Also looks like Zendaya caught some foot in your mouth. She said is just a number on People and other celebs strongly disagreed. I am with the other celebs. She then said how she cannot rehearse more because she has school. It came off a bit whiney IMO. Zendaya, it is also unfair you are a dancer and they are competing against you. Now if the show allows it, fine. But no poor is me works here. Own it like Mya or Kristi.
He was actually taking a shot at Sharna and Tony too (and perhaps others that I don’t remember)…not just Derek, Joey. And didn’t he use the judges table as a prop last week? I think he did. 🙂
@ joey…there is only implication, when u are looking for one to find
how do u single out derek from his statement??
Andy/sharna -props /gimmick
derek/kellie – props/smoke
tony/wynonna- props/gimmick
peta/sean – props/gimmick
lisa/gleb – props/gimmick
In his blog he stated he wanted this dance to be as clean, simple, competitive, and pro-level as it could like a competition piece to show zendayas dancing could be just as entertaining
what do u do in a competition… “u show up, u dance, and u bow’
val has no problem with props. he used them plenty of times before, heck he used the same smoke derek used last week. He also has no problem with others using props
Troubles with keyboards today. Zendaya said age is just a number. Loved most of the celebs said yeah, when you are 16. So true, lol.
Heh…Cher, thanks. I had forgotten Sean and Peta and that nightmarish hair were even on the show. You’ve ruined me for the day. 😀
My point is…Val needs to learn to be more careful. Not everyone reads his blog (like me), but I do have a list on twitter for the pros and I saw him tweeting. People aren’t going to see every single thing he says in some sort of context. That is something that HE has to work on. He has to see how he sounds and be more careful. Good lord, he has so much potential, it would be a shame to go down the road that others have before him and end up ruining it.
ashley ready what i wrote #74- i quoted his tweet. I was trying to say it more eloquently but Heidi just writes better than me:)
She was doing it, Fatna, she was just doing it very small. It seemed like a choreographic choice on Val’s part and I would be curious to hear what the reasoning behind it was.
I just don’t see how Derek comes across cocky. I think he’s a pretty humble guy! If you think Derek is cocky, what do you think of Maks C? he’s the cockiest of em all!
LOL…Derek is cocky but Val isn’t?? Hilarious.
Now Nicole – learn to phrase your comments better (and teach Val how to also) because saying “he is not tweeting about anyone else.” as a statement of fact won’t go over well here. What you and Val both have to learn is that perception IS reality. If quite a few people looked at his tweet and saw a diss, then the problem is VAL’s and he needs to be more careful. As do you, because you’re treading on a line of being dictatorial.
i would say that only sharna and andy had gimmicks on the level that derek and kellie did…tony riding that scooter is the same as derek riding that tractor which i found that feedback to be ridiculous- it didn’t affect the dance at all. The point is, he phrases and words things in a way that can be interpreted to mean something else. None of the other pros have this problem. It is always Maks and now Val that have this “issue”. I don’t think i have ever heard Karina, Cheryl, Mark, Chelsea, Derek, etc phrase something that could imply a negative remark towards another couple- that is really what my complaint is all about.
Ashley, I think Joey quoted it earlier.
@ Joey #74
“We show up, we dance, we bow @zendaya i’m so proud. No fluff, no props, no set, just jive. That’s what this whole thing is about” # teamvaldaya.
That’s why I didn’t see it on Val’s twitter, because it’s not there anymore. However he intended it, he’s taken it down. Good. Old habits die hard but at least he’s getting there. He may have meant it benignly but he’s got to put himself on the receiving end and given Maks’ history of trashing other pros,producers etc, Val won’t be able to catch a break if he’s perceived to come off as negative when he may not have meant to. Lesson learned, I hope.
Eh, I cut Zendaya way more slack because she’s 16. Her whole “age is just a number” think is EXTREMELY naive…I mean, extremely…but she was being the typical teenager in a “hey, I’m not a child” sort of way.
Little does she know that in 20 years she will be eating those words. 🙂
@Ashley sometimes it is not what you say but HOW you say it.
@Melissa as much as we want to forget Val is the same guy that danced in a speedo so nobody would notice Kelly’s lack of ability to dance.
@Joey I did not take it as a dig to Derek because there is a difference between setting mood and using a prop to hide bad dancing (Peta and Sean).
Then again it is Val so anything is possible. Boy needs to learn to stop while he is ahead.
Kelly…Nicole is baiting. She’s mad that someone found fault with Val so she’s trying to do the same with Derek. That anyone could look at that dance last night and complain about gimmicks? It’s bull – the staging of the dance was beautiful, I thought.
Thanks guys, sorry about that. The other posts hadn’t shown up yet when I was writing at #81. Ugh!
I still see it on Val’s twitter- doesn’t look like he took it down to me?! its the tweet right under his tweet back to erin andrews…
If Val’s previous blog was complimentary to Derek and somewhat humble, then why not give him the benefit of the doubt that he wasn’t taking digs at others on twitter, just talking about his perspective. When you talk yourself up, it doesn’t automatically mean you’re talking someone else down. At least to me it doesn’t
I know PH, but I think I was more annoyed by her whining about how she has limitations that other older celebs do not have. For that, I say, well, you already are a dsncer.
#95 Cher
@Ashley sometimes it is not what you say but HOW you say it.
Absolutely! As well as Val has started off this season, I hope he doesn’t blow it. I also hope Val doesn’t fall into the Maks habit of taking shots and then say he didn’t do it. This is Val’s first season solo and I hope he stays on course and shines. Val says he and Maks are different people, fingers crossed when it comes to bad attitudes and careless word choices deliberate or not.
Not a fan of Zendaya, she is like my younger sister All legs and youth. Val looks like her older bro
Kellie and Derek wonderful & her lines are supreme
DL can go home now.
Ingo and Kym could win this , at least be in the F3.I ♥ love Ingo
Andy Dick, I cant even look at him
Sean and Peta, Peta is a lousy choreographer, Sean just wants to make some money for his bride. I don’t mind if they leave in a couple of weeks
Wynonna and Tony, its either her or DL that should leave tonight
He wasn’t talking just about himself, Natalie – we’ve been through this. Learn to live with disagreement. As I also said – it wasn’t just about Derek. Clearly there were a lot of other props last night.
Back on the Power Rankings…. 🙂
I think based on these first two weeks, I’m starting to be able to break them down into 3 categories. I’m not saying that’s how it’ll work out, but how I’m seeing them right now.
Top Of The Class…. Zendaya, Kellie, Jacoby. All are fully capable of easily making the Finale, but I DO NOT EXPECT KELLIE IN THE FINALE!! Should she be? Based on the first 2 weeks, YES. Will she be? I will be surprised, because she’s dancing with Derek, and THAT is the BIGGEST deterrent for her making the finale. Anyone else? Yes, they’d be there easily.
Middle Of The Class…. Ingo, Aly, Sean…. Possibly Andy. Andy has the charm and the willingness to WORK, and work HARD and to improve himself, that I can see him be the one to bump Kellie. Sean I HOPE would be the first of the middle group to leave, because I just don’t care for him… Ingo I really like, and Aly does have the talent, but I’m not “feeling” her through the screen. Dancing and not dancing.
Bottom Of The Class…. D.L, Dorothy, Wynonna, Victor and Lisa. It pains me to put Dorothy and Wynonna here. Would love to move one or both up, but Dorothy is hurting and tentative, and Wynonna isn’t being given choreography that would make her burst through. And honestly, I had to keep scrolling up and down to remember who I had been forgetting!
While Val’s tweet may not have been a dig persay, he clearly drew the line. If I had to guess, he probably thought they deserved top score. Seems like tptb want production #s vs pure dance so he may want to take notice.
#98 @ Joey
Well I’m twitter handicapped. I still don’t see it. So I’m glad you included it in your post.
#99 @ Natalie
I would give Val the benefit of the doubt because I’m a fan but if it’s it wrong than it’s wrong. I didn’t personally think he was taking a veiled jab at anyone in particular but that isn’t the point, imo. The words you use still matter. Val has to except that if you DID use props, fluff or a set piece last night then it looks like he’s saying he doesn’t need that stuff because he’s better. Unintended, probably but that isn’t the point, imo.
I have to start by saying that once again, Andy surprised me. I was not happy when he was announced as part of the cast, I figured he would be the first off. But last week, he showed that this is important to him, he was willing to work at it and his first dance wasn’t that bad. Last night, his dance put a smile on my face. No, it wasn’t the best of night by any means, but it was entertaining and fun. They both had a good time with it and it showed. I hope he’s able to stay a few more weeks.
I loved Kellie/Derek! That was hands down the best dance of the night. Once again, Derek is pulling out the choreography and it’s wonderful to watch. Kellie is proving to be a good dancer and willing to try anything Derek wants to get the dance right. I know people are saying Derek will never win another MBT, but I would like to see them make the finals.
Zandaya/Val do nothing for me. I didn’t care for Val last season, and so far, that opinion has not changed. I’m just thankful that his shirt has stayed on. Zandaya can dance, that can’t be denied, but I don’t look forward to seeing them dance.
Sean/Peta are just plain boring. He’s another I don’t look forward to and by the end of the night, I can’t remember his dance. The same with Victor/Lindsay and Ingo/Kim.
Lisa/Gleb were better than last week, and I was happy she left her dog out of the dance, but she’s not exciting.
I’m not getting the Jacoby/Karina pairing. So he’s a football player that can move. But I haven’t cared for either of his dances or his goofiness. Maybe it will grow on me, maybe it won’t. But right now, it wouldn’t bother me if he was sent home. But we all know there isn’t a chance of that happening.
i adore Dorothy/Tristan. It was so obvious she was scared, but it’s done and now she can move on to dances that, hopefully, she will relax more and let herself have fun. I have no doubts Tristan can get that from her and plan on seeing them around for awhile.
I didn’t care for the mall cop theme Tony came up and Wynona was moving waaaay to slow for a quickstep. She’s really trying, but she wasn’t able to pull off the moves at the speed it should be at. She will be ok for two or three more weeks.
Aly is another one that needs to relax and have some fun with this. She’s so stiff and I feel like every time she opens her mouth, she’s reading (badly) off a cue card. Her dance was ok, but nothing memorable. I agree, Mark seems to be taking it easy and maybe throwing more challenging stuff at her would help.
DL/Cheryl. Well. From their package, I got the impression that neither one of them wants to be here. Yes, he was marginally better this week, but going from a score of 12 to a score of 15 is not going to keep you around. I don’t like his attitude, he’s already checked out, and Cheryl isn’t much better. Seeing her go first would be absolute joy.
My picks for the bottom two are DL and Lisa, with DL leaving.
Derek is cocky? HAHAHAHAHA!! I only started voting for him last season with Shawn. I never would say he was cocky–that’s not why I nevered voted for him previously….just that I prefer the female pros as my faves.
Val & Maks use twitter to do exactly what Val did. I’d love for him to say it to Brooke in the skybox in front of the other celebs & contestants. But he won’t—doesn’t have the guts.
#105 – I saw the pic on twitter, and based on the caption and the *whole* picture, I didn’t get a cocky attitude at all. I didn’t feel like the pic was about his back or his muscles, or anything like that. It was about the breakdown of the ballroom and the end of the show, and it had that “it’s over” feeling. I can’t remember him kissing Kellie, so if they did, it was the same kind of kiss that *all* the pros give to their partners as a “good job, I’m proud of you” thing. I’m not really a fan of the shirtless thing, but honestly, in this dance, I didn’t notice. To me, it felt like an artistic choice (along with the lights and the fog machine) that were being used to enhance the dance and add mood, vs being “I’m so hot”. Nor did I feel that Kellie’s costume was about showing her body off in a negative way. Showing off the lines, yes, maybe. It just didn’t have a “look at me” vibe at all.
My encore choice is Kellie/Derek, if not Andy/Sharna
Having to move those long legs around, I would imagine it’s difficult to get them into quick jive kicks. Maybe they were smaller to keep her on time and avoid looking like a daddy long-legs. Reminds me a bit of Stacey Keibler although I don’t remember if her kicks were smaller too. I agree with Val that she’s still kind of growing into her arms and legs. Sometimes I see that gangly (sp?) teenager thing going on.
Loved the three jazz routines. I found them all completely entertaining and all different. I like Jacoby and Karina and jmo don’t find Jacoby cocky like others do. I feel like Lori does that I would love to see Andy and Sharna dance for the Encore dance. I also thought the judges underscored Andy and Sharna’s dance. I am sure we will see Kellie and Derek in the future because she is so good, but don’t know how Andy will do in later weeks. For what he has been able to accomplish I think he so deserves it. I love Sharna and so happy that Andy got her for a partner. She is so good for him and their routine just put a big smile on my face.
I also enjoyed Val and Zendaya and she is really good, but I would say of any of them she has experience on her side as well as age. Not to put her down in any way, but having had experience even if a different style has to help. imo
Felt so bad for Dorothy and hope she is able to continue. It is surprising that she is so nervous, but she clearly is. I wanted Victor and Lisa to do better. Again, I like both of them and did some more research on Victor as I know nothing about boxing and he has overcome so much and had such a horrible young life. I really admire what he had to overcome. His smile just lights up the room. Unfortunately, I don’t think he will be with us long.
As others have said Wynonna didn’t do much and wanted her to do better. Same with Ingo and Kym as I like the two of them together and hoped to see more from them.
Mark and Aly were better, but for some reason not feeling her and I think she is dressing too old. Not sure who is responsible for her costume, but again did not find it age appropriate.
I think Peta is doing the same type of choreograph for Sean that she did for Giles last season. I just found it cheesy and completely agreed with Len on his remarks which is rare. I would like to see Peta stress dance more with Sean and stay away from all the extras.
I think DL should go home, but not sure about fan base because of Cheryl so fear that Lisa might go and that would be a shame as I would like to see more of Gleb. Guess we will find out tonight.
@Lori and Gail – I would love Andy and Sharna to have the encore dance too!
I just feel that Kellie, Jacoby, and Zendaya will be there probably until the end, whereas Andy may not have another showstopper opportunity. 🙂
There were a lot of forgettable dances last night, but there were definitely those that I thought were great. I absolutely loved Zendaya and Val’s jive. I hope they get the encore. I also liked Kellie and Andy. Andy was so much fun to watch and you can tell he’s having a great time. Jacoby was also good. I think that Zendaya, Jacoby, and Kellie will be in the finale based on how things are going so far. Andy is not the best dancer, but I hope to see him go further in the competition.
I like Aly, but she just hasn’t wowed me yet. She definitely improved from last week, but her Quickstep just wasn’t that interesting to watch. Lol, I knew that lift looked familiar to me and the judges did not call them out on it.
As far as who might be going home, I think it will be DL. He improved from last week, but I don’t see him appealing to the public. His partnership with Cheryl just looks so forced and it seems like they can’t wait to be done with the show.
Yeah…Sarah, when you learn to behave you can post here again.
If Zendaya doesn’t get the encore I’ll be shocked. I think it’s likely between her, Kellie and Andy, with Jacoby also a possibility.
I dunno, Sandy…it’s only week 2, but if Andy keeps it up he could pull a Kelly Osborne. Next week will be the tell.
Ooohhh.. I spoke too soon. I guess I will not be able to tolerate Val this season. People’s opinions may differ, but to me his tweet did sound like a jab to other pros & Derek in his effort to praise his partner. You can praise someone without belittling other people’s efforts…. not everyone has a ringer here, eh??? lol But hey.. i think Zendaya is *destined* to have a full 10 weeks on the show… so, whatever Val.
To one person here (or a few) Derek may come across as cocky… but IMO, he’s one of the most self-effacing, humble, and appreciative person off the dancefloor. ON THE DANCEFLOOR, he knows he’s the shit! LOL… but really, people who don’t like him always find the little things to complain about
Well I would rather have the judges pick the encore dance. Leaving it up to twitter is a silly idea.
What about us old timers that aren’t tweeters? So now they could be leaving it in the hands of the tweenies… Is this turning into American Idol?
Yeah, Sandy, I agree. I would bet the majority of the audience that watches the show isn’t on twitter…except for Zendaya’s entire fanbase. 🙂
Well since the numbers came in from the viewing audience last night i would think that all Zendaya’s followers were watching the Voice…DWTS won the night- barely….it is getting more and more close with each season. i think the 18-49 age group declined by double for dwts (obv always do since they aren’t the age group that watches)but the edge for dwts was slight for overall.
No, Sarah…you talk about the show, you can talk about Derek. Say whatever you want – but people get to disagree with you without being attacked. What you can’t do is attack me or be sarcastic and nasty with other posters. You came in here all guns blazing acting like an ass. Get over it and your comments will start showing up again. 😀
I for one, am glad they are allowing the pros to add some stagecraft to depict SOME of these dances. In Dereks case, I mean it was supposed to be a smoky moody piece, after all, the music dictated Modern Jazz. He didn’t have the luxury of just putting on some Ragtime clothes and white gloves. What he and Kellie wore and didn’t wear is what is seen all the time in modern jazz contemp. dances. I object when props and staging are used to HIDE flaws but he has no reason to hide Kellie. So far it looks like she can deliver solid performances. So I think his staging was for entertainment value and to showcase the mood of the dance. He has never been one to take off his shirt(only 2 or 3x since he’s been o the show)much even tho people keep begging. And his (or Kellies) tweeting of the pic of them from the back looking at the empty stage was on twitter which is not the majority of viewers/voters. Believe it was a tweet to their fans, saying the night was over? or something? How is that cocky ?
I agree with you Sandy, I really dislike the idea of Twitter voting to decide who gets the encore. I’m not on Twitter and have no plans to get on Twitter. It’s another way for TPTB to pretend that the viewers matter, and it plays right into Zendaya’s fanbase. On the other hand, didn’t I hear Lisa say Giggy has 65,000 Twitter followers? So maybe they’re going after his fans (sorry, couldn’t resist)
Did I miss another troll getting banished back to their van down by the river?
@Sandy
American Idol is tired and needed to end when the first guy won because he was good looking but couldn’t sing worth a badonky tonk. I have a feeling the twitter verse picking the encore dance might backfire against them but that is just me. I split my votes between Andy and Kellie. Do I think andy will make it to r=the finals? No but he has in the pasttwo weeks shown what this show used to be about. Putting yourself out there and doing something hard, working hard at it and not whining because he got slapped down by the judges. It is called integrity. Some people have it, some do not. My only hope is that he stays on this path of redemption and the stress and back stabbing that is this show does not pull him back down. That would not be entertainment and if TPTB pulled that then they are no better then American Idol in my mind.
On a side note I must have a different understanding of the word cocky than most people.
Interesting comment coming from you. Didn’t you just slam Val for a comment on Twitter and accusing him for attacking your Derek and telling how to behave, too??
I’m not sure if Val’s comments were intended as a jab or not, but after reading it, people can very easily see it as a jab. I think he is missing the support of his brother this season though I’m sure Maks is still close at hand if not on-screen. I also think that he is not completely comfortable with having the youngest contestant ever because he knows he can’t come off raunchy with her. I get the feeling that he was jealous that Kellie and Derek not only got the pimp spot this week, but Derek has the freedom to go shirtless, use props, dress his partner sexy, and have complete creative freedom! Also he knows Z is a dancer already and people expect her to do well, and if she doesn’t they aren’t going to blame her or her lack of ability they are going to blame his choreo. The more I think about it the more I think Val is more pressured having the most talented celeb and I think he is just beginning to feel the pressure.
I must have become infected with Len’s crankiness because I was kind of “meh” on last night’s show.
Kellie and Zendaya did extremely well, and definitely deserve their spots atop the leaderboard; but it’s way too early to be dragging out the 9 paddles. The Stooges would be better served by flipping them upside down and handing out 6s to the couples who need them.
Jacoby knows how to perform and has some natural dance talent but he’s a soloist. I always get the feeling that as soon as Karina is out of his sightline, he forgets she’s even on the floor. Until I see him dancing *with* his partner, I won’t be sold on him.
Probably the highlight of the night for me was seeing the confidence and joy with which Andy performed. He and Sharna define what a partnership is all about for me. Hope he can keep moving forward like this — on the show and in life!
Here’s the deal, sweetheart. Val is on TV. I am not. I DO spend a lot of time working on this blog. The other people who typically play here are not on TV either. We talk about them because they are on TV. They are public figures – it comes with the territory. You are new here. You don’t walk into someone else’s house and act like a complete ass on your first visit. When you do, you get asked to leave.
There’s a van?
Awesome. Is it smoky?
Cocky. Really love the first 4 letters…
You could be right, Blonde. He might be realizing that having the uber dance ringer ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. It’s got to be a lot of pressure.
I thoroughly enjoyed Zendaya last night, but I have to say something about her “breaking an ankle in these shoes” comment… did anyone see the shoes she wore at the kids choice awards the other night – they had to be about 5″ heels and she was doing fine on the red carpet. The pros and celebs should remember that they are in the spotlight and there are a multitude of pictures out there to shine further light on their comments. She is like bambi growing into her limbs with a new style of dance, but she’s got the walking on heels thing down pat!
I always look forward to reading Courtney’s analysis and all the comments.
I’m looking most forward to seeing Andy, Kellie, Zendaya, and Jacoby developing over the season but I voted for more than half the couples. I know it’s not very effective to vote split but it’s my way of saying I like a lot of them and really look forward to seeing almost everyone advance.
Zendaya is fabulous and it’s natural talent and experience, but also very good teaching on Val’s part imo, and also imo he thus has no need to take jabs at his colleagues. Sharna and Andy were full out production and it was excellent imo and shouldn’t be knocked. They were the ones who came to my mind when I read his tweet as they were the ones with the most props and I felt defensive for them.
I want Andy to get the encore because he’s the most surprising this season and that was some dance. I don’t want Kellie to do it because I thought her dance was iconic and over exposure isn’t necessarily a good thing. Let it stand. Especially if she makes it to finals and they get a dance chosen for them to repeat, if you know what I mean. I don’t want it to feel like old hat. I guess I could say the same for Andy but realistically, I think he could well make it to semi’s but is perhaps less likely to make it to week 10.
I’m sad for Dorothy and Tristan. I’m counting on them having enough fans to make it on through and hope this coming week goes better for them. I love this pairing too.
I’m sure we’ll be hearing even more complaining because as people tend to do… they jump to conclusions. Bet as this season was being put together,certain people figured Kellie to be this hillbilly who sings country music and finished 5th (or 6th) on Idol. We all tend to forget that MANY people do not fit the little mold we perceive them to be in. And people ALWAYS forget that if Derek Hough get anyone with a speck of natural talent he will turn them into a dancer and possibly a very good one. And as for being conceited, it’s us, his fans who keep telling him, give yourself more credit, don’t hide the gorgeous body if you have a chance to show it. In interviews etc, if someone starts to compliment him very much, he always diverts the subject to something or someone else. Maddening to his fans but he is getting a LITTLE better about blowing his own horn!
Otherwise I’m loving seeing what Sharna can do. Not crazy abt A.Dicks past but really enjoying seeing him get into this and do the work. Hope they’re around a while. I don’t get the Jacoby love, Ali has no musicality or rhythm, Zendaya is too long and lanky for Latin and if Val doesn’t get some lifts in his shoes or something they just have awkward lines(exam-flicks, she couldn’t really extend cause it would really take her out of time with Val)Victor might be good with someone else. Sean-a waste of time. Dorothy- waaay too nervous, Wy, DL just no and don’t remember anyone else.
I am in awe of Derek & Kellie s dance. Fantastic.
Sorry for Dorothy & Tristan…. such bad luck, sigh. Could have been such a nice happy jive. Loved Andy and Sharna, Ingo and Kym (cause i love Kym…). zendayas dance was good, she can definitely dance, but i wasnt so impressed. Jacobys and Karinas dance was cool, a bit like derek and shawns quickstep.
I really try to stay out of the fray BUT…really #74…you said Val doesn’t go for gimmicks…his whole last season was a fricking gimmick…from sex on the floor to that surfing thing he did…I mean really let’s be fair…what Derek and Kelli did was in good taste…what Val did last year…not so much!
I apologize that my thoughts came out in words and I used a revolting word…I am sorry for my language.
@PH Oh, there is a van and it is smoky. Trolls be trippin’ on something. Little bit too much of the Wacky Tobacky going around. Might be a few school buses filled with mattresses too with the amount coming out to play.
@Blonde I agree he is under pressure because as PH said having a ringer really isn’t all that and a bag of chips if he was smart he would use this opportunity to show how creative he can be. Besides, sexy to me is an attitude and there is trashy sexy (Peta and Sean) and classy sexy (Derek and Kellie). Zendaya as a mature young woman can pull off the classy turn down the sexy a notch so he really can’t play that card. Besides, you don;t have to be naked or shirtless to be sexy. Fine line he has to walk he just has to know where not to cross it.
I am of course a Lindsay supporter but I disagree with y’all saying she showed immaturity when dealing with victor! She definitely handled it in a mature approach I don’t know what y’all were talking about. She didn’t break down or scream she just told him the benefit of the doubt. Just saying.
#136- Lynn where did i say that Val doesn’t use gimmicks? my post mentions nothing of the such???
Um, Grant? Aren’t you rather young yourself?? And doesn’t that influence your view of mature versus immature? Just asking. It’s kinda like Zendaya saying that age is just a number. 🙂
Haha Princess Heidi yeah I am young I was just seeing it from my POV. I just thought she handled it better than most would’ve thought! Haha do u agree?! 🙂
The fact that the two people who have come here to take me to task for opining that Lindsay’s inexperience was showing sound pretty young themselves doesn’t really do much to change my opinion 😛
Grant & Tiffany, no, I don’t think Lindsay telling Victor “We have to dance in two days, one way or another” was the best way to handle the situation – I think back to when Chelsie was in similar situations (i.e. Romeo throwing a fit about his shoes) and feel that she handled it better: she tended to try to get to the bottom of why her partner was feeling a certain way, and help them work through it. I think having someone much younger than you make ultimatums like Lindsay did has the potential to make older partners get very defensive – and I think that’s what happened with Chelsie & Michael in season 12. That’s one of the big caveats of being a very young pro on this show: more often than not, you’re going to end up with a partner that’s older than you, and you’ve got to be careful how you speak to them. This is coming from someone who has 4 subordinates at her 9-5 job, all of which have at least 5 years on her…and trust me, I’ve gone about giving them orders the wrong way on more than a few occasions. The pro may be the boss, but they still have to speak softly & carry a big stick.
I also found Lindsay’s jive choreography to be a bit immature – seemed like she was trying to throw in a few too many flashy steps, as opposed to sticking with basic stuff that not only would please Len, but would be easier for Victor to do. It’s rookie mistakes like these that really make me think a season or two in the troupe would have helped her to really get a feel for the show, and figure out which choreography works and which doesn’t.
So I was thinking about last night’s show and it hit me: Wasn’t Wynonna and Tony’s song used before?
And I agree that Lindsay would have benefitted from a season or two in the troupe. They should have just paired him with Chelsie.
Courtney, I completely respect you opinions and you as a person but we can agree to disagree. I think Lindsay did a better job than I thought rather than going crazy. Yeah I am quite young but like I said I think she did good as well with the choreo it might have been a little immature but she is young the experience on the show will help her with maturing and making great routines she is only 19 and Chelsies routines at 19 were kind of in the similar range. She will get better i have faith 😉
I think it is very obvious that Sharna’s experience in the troupe has greatly benefited her over Lindsay and Gleb. Not saying Sharna is old, but experience and age are invaluable, as they can’t be bought or taught. Maybe it’s just me, but when Gleb removed his tie and loosen his shirt, again it screamed Maks Substitute! I really hope he can develop his own unique persona and not just act like a stand in for Maks. Its’ early in the season so I still have alot of hope.
Listening to interviews, for next week got 3 dances.
Andy: Cha Cha Cha
Kellie: Jive
Ingo: Paso Doble
Yeah, blonde – it’s clear from Sharna’s choreography and overall attitude towards the competition that she’s gleaned a thing or two in her 3 seasons in the troupe. It certainly helps observe from the outside, as well as having inside interactions with those who have been pros before. I’ll admit, I was skeptical about her getting upgraded to pro – but so far, she’s done nothing but impress me with her patience with Andy, her choreography, and generally calm & positive demeanor.
Sharna is quickly becoming a fave of mine. I do not think it is just being a troupe member, but she has experience with choreo. She also helped Jason Gilkinson on sytycd so seeing how to approach choreo and teaching them, even if those were dancers. It helps. She is handling Andy well. She knows it is not about winning and she is highlighting Andy so well.
In TV Guide, Lindsay mentioned trying for the dwts before sytycd. Sounds like she was set on being a pro. I found Witney even more immature than Lindsay so glad she is in the troupe. Seems like Lindsay would have benefitted from that too. But I would take Chelsie, Anna and Lacey over Whitney or Lindsay. I also find it disappointed they not only benched Anna and Chelsie but took a chance on Lindsay say over Emma from the troupe who I like.
I have a question….Why do I always hear that Derek will peobably never win another Mirror Ball? I would love to see him win again, it shouldn’t matter that he alredy has 3. DWTS is suppose to be about the celebs dancing. Not voting for Derek & Kellie because he’s already won so many MB doesn’t seem very fair to Kellie, I think she is doing fantastic.
I hope nobody takes this comment in the wrong way. Just asking why
Thanks
Grant, Now you’re talking about degrees of response, in which case I’d agree with you that Lindsay’s response to Victor’s near walk-out was better than if she’d had a hissy-fit of her own, but I also agree with those who say there were better ways to handle it. Also, Lindsay’s lack of experience in teaching a non-dancer could well have had a hand in getting Victor to the breaking point. I’m sure she’ll learn, but that’s not going to do Victor any good. So from that standpoint, it would have been better for her to spend a season observing from the Troupe and better for Victor to have a more experienced pro.
Some thoughts on last night.
Zendaya and Kellie were awesome. I love that style of jazz the most, it looked like a routine from SYTYCD.
Jacoby and Aly were solid too.
Love Andy’s spirit and heart breaks for Dorothy. I am pretty positive people felt for her and voted for her to be back.
Everyone else was just ok, forgettable or bad. Even if I do like most of their personalities!
DL’s attitude did improve, but it still isn’t good and his jokes are often not in good taste, even for a comedian. I do think he will go. The only team they could possibly beat to me is Victor, due to Cheryl’s larger fanbase than Lindsay.
It seems like the C brothers just say controversial things. Some I feel like are unintentional, some I feel like are very intentional. That is why they are loved by many and then disliked by many. I think Val meant to just compliment the huge talent of his partner. But, it was a bad idea to suggest you will never use props, because, trust me, with some of the wacky themes or wacky songs you might get, props will be in your future. Sometimes, they actually enhance the theme in a good way. And to me, for someone who went full out cheese last season with props and theme a few weeks in the competition (cough* surfer flamenco cough*) AND with a showmance when he had a talented dancer in Kelly who didn’t need gimmicks, he really shouldn’t be downing props. It’s just a part of the spectacle that is DWTS.
As for the new pros, Lindsay is green, I hope she can mature through the show, but not sure she will be around long enough to do so. I do like Gleb and want to see more. He seems really sweet, not the “bad boy Russian dancer” so not really a Maks copy. REALLY liking Sharna as a pro and I wasn’t sure I would. She seems like a wonderful teacher and support for her celeb so far. And her choreo has been fun and fresh and promising. Looking forward to seeing more of her!
And I do really like Val’s choreography so far. I hope we can see more memorable dances from them and he can focus on their partnership and stay out of any show or media drama.
I gotta give D.L. this though: When he was being interviewed by Brooke I thought he actually showed like he was enjoying himself for once.
Well, Carol, it is pretty stupid that people would vote for someone else because of the pro – but people can be stupid. 🙂 Of course it’s not fair to Kellie. It also doesn’t seem fair that Jacoby should win instead of either Kellie or Zendaya, but that’s the way the show goes. People vote and People get ideas in their heads and there’s no talking them out of it – and one of those ideas is that Derek “wins too much” – even though he’s only one ONE more time than Mark, Cheryl and Kym.
I’d love to be proven wrong, believe me, and see either Kellie or Zendaya win.
Hey Joey…I wasn’t referring to you…I was talking to Nicole #75…not you.
IMO voting against the pro regardless of the celebrity is just as silly as voting for the pro. Yet plenty people seem to do the latter. The bar of fairness is set pretty low and makes it a moot point.
I’m glad to know I wasn’t the only one to think Lindsay wasn’t up to par last night.
Thanks Heidi, I would love to see Kellie or Zendaya win too
Except the former is so PETTY, sasa. Negative versus a positive.
I’m *really* liking Sharna as well. She never really popped for me in the troupe, but everything I’ve seen of her so far as a pro has been impressive – her teaching, choreography, and helping her celeb through the process. She’s quickly becoming one of my favorite female pros.
@PH
I really can’t distinguish such strong dichotomies in DWTS. The premise is to work with human bias taken into account and amp up the fun and ridiculous side of things. It’s like trying to scientifically analyze astrology.
I do love the show as a celebration of diversity. The pattern of investing hard work into a light hearted result is very appealing as a pattern to try to live by.
So I guess my point is- journey really trumps competition. People also recognize it because we’ve had folks like Kelly O. and Chaz Bono (and Andy this season) do well. Last season was perhaps the culmination of journey (Tony throughout many seasons) winning against competition (Derek&Shawn were arguably the better pair). You can call it petty or you can see it as a need in human nature to end journeys on a positive note.
That’s my take.
Just to make it clear, I don’t think people will not vote for Derek this season just because he’s Derek. In a number greater than usual. I think they didn’t vote for him last season solely in contrast to Tony’s journey. If a journey comes up this season, like Andy’s is shaping up to be (but there are still question marks about his abilities), then people might vote for him more and less for Kellie or Zendaya.
Nope, Cbg, you don’t get to tell Heidi (or anyone else, for that matter) what she “needs to get over”. You’re progressively inching closer to comment moderation, the way you’re posting. Don’t like what people are saying about somebody? Either calmly state how you feel or STFU. Not your place to decide what we are & aren’t allowed to get upset about.
And as for you, Natalie – I’m just trying to figure out why you felt the need to tell us you voted for D.L.
Yeah, I guess some of Zendaya’s fans reflect her level of maturity. Figures. Actually, I take that back. She’s more mature…they’re lowering the bar. As for Cbg….too late. 🙂
Great post. Here are my top 3 performances of the night. I’m posting from 3rd to 1st place for the night-IMO
3rd – Jacoby & Karina! This guy has charisma and the sure fun factor. I wouldn’t call him the best dancer but he sure know how to put on a show. I think his skills as a dancer will only get better as he is driven-Great perormance.
2nd – Zandaya & Val- Very energetic performance and great choreography. These two work amazing together. Though I think Zandaya’s performance was fantastic I did see a moment or two where she may have lost timing but luckily for her it was around the time Val was turning her!He was moving in that Jive. Funny to see Zandaya was tired one after that dance.-LOL The height difference between she and Val reminds me of Shannon/Derek. As a matter of fact I think Derek had her dressed pretty much the same. Don’t know how I remember these things but I do. Overall, I loved this performance. How could you not, Zendaya is adorable and I love how even at 16 she is an emotional performer. She’s a perfect match for Val! Looking forward to these two.
1st – Kellie & Derek! Wow, she is the surprise of the season for me. Who would have thought she could dance the way she has these past two weeks. Her lines were amazing and her flexibility-insane. Loved that turn at the end. Contemporary Jazz is new to me and I’m in the developing stages of appreciating it. Derek’s choreography was truly innovative/incredible. He is TOPS for showcasing his partner’s strengths. Most impressed with how Kellie was able to keep up with him. For someone whose not known for her dancing abilities, that speaks volumes. Incredible performance-loved it. For me she’s top this week. Kellie brings the fun factor too as well she is an emotional performer with a heart of gold. I truly adore her! She gets right in there with Derek & matches him beautifully. Looking forward to seeing her journey this season. Derek’s doing an amazing with her so far.
These three are the tops for me and I must admit I’m loving watching Derek, Val & Karina pull out some amazing choreography. Nothing like a healthy competiion
Gonna be a great season.