PureDWTS Season 21, Week 10 – Power Rankings
Fun fact: you can totally dominate an entire episode of DWTS with your antics, narrowly avoid elimination, and then turn around and withdraw 24 hours later – and somehow STILL get more attention once you’ve been eliminated than some contestants got all season long 😎 Yes, kids, this was the second installment of “The Tamar Show”, with Tom reminding us for nearly the entire first half of the show that we were going to get an update on Tamar – nevermind the fact that we had 4 celebs that were actually still competing on DWTS tonight, the people must know what’s been going on with Tamar!!! Yes, it sucks what happened, and despite my feelings about Tamar this season, I do wish her a speedy recovery – but the constant reminders of her last night? Just kinda did a disservice to Alek, Bindi, Carlos, & Nick. If next Monday is the same way – so help me god, I just might commit seppuku with a plastic knife.
Also becoming tiresome to me? The fact that Carlos still seems like he’s trying to come up with sob stories each week to compete with Bindi, Nick, & Alek. And they just sound totally disingenuous, on top of sounding a bit silly compared to the struggles of the other contestants remaining. Carlos says “I was depressed and addicted to weed!”; Nick can easily counter with “Yeah, I was pretty heavy into alcohol, cocaine, X, and prescription painkillers for awhile…failed at rehab…got a heart condition…did I mention my sister died of a drug overdose a few years ago? But please, tell me more about your crippling weed addiction.” Carlos pulls out “I haven’t spoken to my mom in 4 years!” Bindi can say “How awful! My dad died in a freak accident when I was 8 – I just wish he was still here.” Meanwhile, Nick is over in the corner, waving his hands and going “Hey, anyone want to talk about how my parents only want my money, and how I’ve had to cut ties with them as a result?” Oh wait…Carlos says he “found Jesus!” Wonder what Alek has to say about that…”Gosh, I only just found a terrorist on a train, and beat the tar out of him to protect the lives of the other people said train. Shucks.” I guess my point is this: Carlos may not have a super-compelling story to tell, but that doesn’t mean I want to see him grasp at straws to try and out-sob story everyone else. I probably would find him more likeable if I didn’t feel like he was constantly trying to one-up everyone else and just let his dancing do the talking.
As for the possible bomb Tom dropped at the end of the show about either Nick or Bindi having the lowest combined total – call me crazy, but I actually think there could have been some truth behind it. I just don’t see them lying about it – they could have very easily just called those two “in jeopardy” and not even mentioned anything about the lowest combined total, and the effect would have been the same. But they DID actually say “one of you has the lowest combined total, but you’re not going home because Tamar is out.” I don’t believe for a minute that it’s Bindi that got the lowest combined total, considering everywhere I look, people are singing her praises – but Nick? He could be in some legit trouble with votes. Now while his fans assure me that the Backstreet Boys “are HUGE around the world!” and that he is “getting tons of votes”, I feel like this is a good opportunity to remind everyone of a central tenet of being successful on DWTS: international votes aren’t likely to help much if you don’t also win over the main viewing demographic of DWTS – middle-aged, conservative-leaning American women. There hasn’t been a single DWTS champ that didn’t in some way appeal to that demographic, and in order to win, you HAVE to have them on your side. Is Nick appealing to that demographic? If so, is he making himself more appealing to that demographic than Bindi, Carlos, and Alek? Keep in mind that veterans (think J.R., Noah…and Alek) typically hold a lot of appeal for that demographic, as do those who are openly Christian (Sadie, Candace…and Carlos), and really anyone that is typically just bubbly and likable across the board (Kellie, and Bindi – particularly the latter, who seems to have enchanted just about everyone). Where do boyband members fit in? Only one has managed to win (Drew Lachey), and the rest have done ok-to-well, likely owing to their previous dance experience. One slight problem I see is this: Nick’s fans might still be a tad young to fit into the “middle aged” category – I was 13 when BSB posters covered my walls at the height of their popularity, and I’m 30 now…still 10 years shy of that “middle-aged” label. Part of me thinks his more casual fans might still be a tad young to be tuning into DWTS on the regular and actually voting – I know I’m really more of the exception than the norm. You also have to take into account what happened last week – Nick kinda got upstaged by Tamar’s drama, and Carlos likely got a bit of a boost (not a huge one, but enough) in votes from Alexa’s fans that kicked their votes over to him. Nick also dropped back down to getting mostly 9’s last week after getting a perfect score the previous week. When you take all of this into account – is it really all that far-fetched to think that maybe Nick really was the lowest combined total of votes & scores? Did his fans maybe get a bit complacent, thinking that so many people were voting for him that he would be ok if they maybe didn’t vote so hard a certain week? I just think back to Zendaya in season 16 – her fans were so sure that she was getting oodles of votes, yet she still managed to come up short in the end and Kellie took the MBT. Regardless of whether what Tom said last night was truth or a total fabrication, they likely did both Bindi & Nick a huge favor – I can only image the panic that ran through some fans at the revelation that their favorite was in danger, and the increased vigor with which they voted. Heck, even if you think Tom was lying…is that really a bluff you care to call? 😯
1.) Bindi & Derek – Once again, not left with a whole lot to say other than “She did great!” Thought her salsa was nice, although the song (like many others last night) was not ideal, and probably didn’t lend itself to the “down & dirtyness” that Julianne made up to bitch about. I said this last night on Twitter, but sorry – Julianne’s gotta go. She may have eclipsed Carrie Ann at this point as the one judge who just cannot see past a certain agenda they have in their heads…and Julianne is so dead set on NOT showing favoritism towards Derek that she’s gone too far in the other direction, where she just nitpicks his partners’ routines to death. At least one of them has gotta go – and I daresay Derek brings more to the show than she does. Thought Bindi actually slayed the dance-off – for not having done samba, I think she nailed the technique more than Nick did, and didn’t look like she was struggling to keep up or maintain the bounce. As for her trio – I know a lot of folks were gushing, and while I agree that she handled it well…I wasn’t wild about how long it seemed to take to get going, and how much time was spent having Bindi just gaze at the lightbulb. The rest of it was interesting to watch, and I liked how they incorporated the box, but it just wasn’t my favorite routine from her. But she handled the dance well, and I think she can count on at least 2nd place next week, if not 1st.
2.) Nick & Sharna – I think nerves may have gotten the better of Nick in his first two dances this week – not sure what exactly happened in his tango, but while the first 10ish seconds were strong, it seemed to fall apart pretty quickly. Did he maybe watch the rehearsal package and let it get to him? I think his own feet may have been his undoing – tango is one dance where you have to be able to place your feet very cleanly, and I think the fact that Nick’s are kinda big ended up making him look a bit bouncy & shuffle-y, as he struggled to keep them out of the way. And I think he was maybe getting a bit worked up, which is why Sharna just stopped him mid-dance to calm him down. The rest of the dance was ok, although I think the damage had kinda already been done – although I will say he looked great during the pivots. As for the dance-off – he looked really, really good, but unfortunately, Bindi looked GREAT. Thought Sharna’s choreography was more interesting and fun to watch, but Derek’s was cleaner and more of a true samba. As for his trio – he redeemed himself, for sure, as he looked confident and in control. But like some of the other trios tonight, my big complaint is that he really didn’t do a whole lot in-hold – I felt like he, Sharna, & Peta were dancing in sync, by themselves more than they were actually doing in-hold stuff. I think back to Noah’s salsa trio last season, and even though he was short one arm, Sharna still managed to throw in a bunch of arm wrapping and in-hold stuff. So I guess I felt a little let down by that – but overall, it was a fun dance to watch. Not sure the song was ideal for a salsa, but whatever. I think the scare of possibly being in the bottom 2 could give him enough of a boost to lock him into the top 2 next week.
3.) Alek & Lindsay – I’ll admit that I got a tad worried after he got his critiques and scores from the judges after his waltz – felt a bit like the Twilight Zone, as they did a complete 180 from their usual incessant nitpicking and reluctance to praise him, to suddenly gushing about how great he did and setting aside the usual 8 & 9 paddles and giving him a perfect 30. But in all seriousness, it was probably his best dance so far – he seems to have shed the last bit of stiffness he started out with, and seems to be much more at ease on the floor now, so his natural skill at the ballroom dances is really shining through. The dance-off went about like we expected – Carlos was fated to win it before they even danced. But I do give Alek a ton of credit for just letting go and really hamming it up out there – I found him far more fun to watch than Carlos, who seemed like he was trying to hard to be slick and sexy. Alek’s was more a goof, I’m-totally-kidding sexy, and I found it hilarious. And really – I felt like he moved more than Carlos, but whatever. I appreciate Carrie Ann throwing him a bone, even if he didn’t end up winning. As for his trio – I feel the need to point out that he was the only one who got a trio dance that required he do most of the dance in-hold, and didn’t allow for much of the side-by-side action we saw from the 3 other trios. So again, right off the bat – props for dealing with that, and for handling two ladies well 🙂 I found him totally believable as a leading man, and the lifts and tricks were on-point, as usual. Didn’t see the “getting winded” bullsh*t that the judges glommed onto – it was as if Julianne grabbed an excuse out of a hat, and the rest of them just parroted it at the expense of actually praising him. Yep – the praise and high score was short-lived 🙂 Also wasn’t wild about the song, and thought it was too uptempto to really be effective as an Argentine tango. But overall, I think Alek had one of his strongest nights yet, and has some good momentum going into the finale – his @ mentions on Twitter last night were blowing UP, and in a good way.
4.) Carlos & Witney – Yeeeahhh…really convinced now that Witney is not using an outside choreographer this season, and she is REALLY struggling with choreography. Sorry, but their contemporary routine was just…bizarre. I will cut them a very slight break because the song was awful, but some of the steps were just odd, and I don’t know where she got the idea that having Carlos doing tricks on a rope was a) cool, and b) unique. Not only have we already seen that before (Amy did it, and did it better, in her freestyle in season 18), but I don’t think it really fit well choreographically within the routine. I did I find it interesting that the judges touched on Carlos & Witney’s lack of connection – I feel like Witney checked out weeks ago, and Carlos is just kinda self-absorbed and not terribly aware of what’s going on around him. So I’m glad they said something to them, and hope that Carlos & Witney realize that they need to forge a quick connection before the finale. Not much more to add about the dance-off – thought Carlos was trying far too hard to be sexy and slick, and it all just looked forced. Also thought he wasted too much time walking around trying to amp up the crowd, but whatever – he got his 3 points to get past Alek. Now as for their trio samba – I mean Charleston – I’ll just repeat what I said in another post: very interesting to me that he definitely started out having a trio samba (and he even named the song & the style in an interview, so there wasn’t any confusion), and suddenly it became a different, much easier dance somewhere in the middle of last week. So far, he’s been the only celeb that’s managed to avoid samba completely…wonder if that will last through the finale. The trio was good, but I found the choreography to be very simplistic, and the three of them may as well have just danced separately the whole time – found that they didn’t interact a whole lot, and when they did a trick, it came across rather clunky. So that perfect score? Eh…I might have given it three 9’s, just for being kinda simplistic and low in difficulty, even though the execution was decent. I just think Carlos is really floundering at this point, though – the judges aren’t as taken with his dancing as they once were, and personality-wise, he’s becoming even less tolerable for me…at this point, I think the best he can hope for in the finale is 4th.
Thoughts?
I have to admit I didn’t vote last week, and fell into the Zendaya trap (although I loved Kelli). The the BSB army is in full panic and probably voted until their fingers fell off. Nick’s wife has only asked for votes a few times, and she did last night! I’m sure Bindi’s peeps voted a ton as well.
I’m a middle aged woman, although not conservative and I vote all over the board. I voted for Noah, Amy, Meryl, Alfonso, Aleka, Nick, and Michaal Sam….I really don’t have a “type”. I’m probably in the minority – I’m not going to vote for Alek because he’s a hero – the guy is the weakest dancer. It’s still a dance show right?
BTW, that break in the middle of Nick’s tango was planned per their AB interview.
I SO agree with your rankings, Court! I think your rankings should be how the couples finish next week in that order. About Nick, I really think he was in danger. He was forgettable last week, not to mention that I think he was really struggling votes wise since immunity week. I don’t know about anyone else, but Nick doesn’t do anything for me. Some of his dances are good, but the others are just eh to me. Anyways, enough about Nick.
I can’t believe how incredible Bindi was last night. When she got the 27, I was like oh crap.. she’s gonna be in last place. But boy did she pick up steam and kill it in the dance off and trio round. I am voting and hoping that she takes home the MBT next Tuesday!
Totally agree with your rankings! Thanks for doing them. At this point I don’t see how Bindi can not win (this coming from a SharNick fan) unless some major stuff goes down with the freestyle but that is unlikely.
A note about Nick and Sharna – she said in an interview that it was an arm hold or something they missed and that threw him off (when Emma was commentating on it in all access she said she thought that Nick was expecting Sharna to do two turns instead of one) and Sharna also said that moment when she spoke to him was actually choreographed in the dance already so it gave them a good chance for Nick to regain himself.
I am really hoping Carlos comes 4th. It will give him a reality check that he so desperately needs. Your recap of his “sob story” against the others’ is pretty funny.
To be completely honest I found quite a few of last night’s dances underwhelming and/or forgettable. The trios stick out in my mind, though, and I loved them all. I think I agree with your rankings, at least I HOPE Carlos will be the one leaving on Monday. Any impression he might have made in his rope dance was later overshadowed by Bindi’s trio, though I do think his Charleston was great and could get him through. I think Alek will probably get through to Tuesday but if Nick really was the lowest last night (though my guess is based on her scores and votes before her withdrawal Tamar would have been leaving last night had she still been in) he could be in some trouble on Monday.
As always, love the power rankings! Thanks!
I also thought when watching that dance that it was one of Sharna’s “moments” she likes to choreograph into her dances.
Love this! I agree completely, although it wouldn’t break my heart if Alek came in 2nd. But I don’t see that happening. Nick seems to be trying really hard and it is kind of sad he keeps getting in his own head.
Through all the packages last night, I only remember Carlos talking about winning the MBT. He’s too intense for me and still making it about the PenaVegas. How many times did they have to show Alexa’s face last night? I get it, she’s adorable, but the married couple thing is tired, and I think that’s why she was eliminated. Also, if you’re interested, the PenaVegas are selling “Lexlos” merchandise at a discount right now. I just threw up in my mouth a little as I typed that.
Are the scores/votes from last Monday being combined with this week? Or are they just going to use the semi-finals to determine the finale?
Courtney, I just want you to know that I look forward to this post every Tuesday morning! As usual, I tend to agree with your rankings. I very much hope Carlos finishes 4th place and takes his exit Monday night. Does anyone else think that Alek has a semi-decent chance of squeezing out Nick for a top two spot? Part of me thinks that if Nick really was the one on the bottom last night, and Alek delivers a really great/memorable freestyle he may be able to do it. I am interested to know what you all think. I certainly wouldn’t complain about that outcome!
Court, Great pre-rankings discussion/evaluation of all the non-dancing related drama which has (in my opinion) gotten completely out of hand.
TPTB’s fixation with Tamar’s story is (to me) such an obvious ploy for reality drama and an effort to keep their soon-to-be-ex-champ but tour headliner relevant. Of course it’s unpardonably rude to Alek, Bindi, Carlos and Nick, but I don’t think the producers give a rats hind end about courtesy.
As for Carlos and his desperate efforts to one-up everyone else’s personal back story, yeah it’s lame and I blame Carlos for not having the courage or moral fiber to take the high road. The bulk of my disgust lands on TPTB because they’ve pretty much turned this whole season into one huge “personal (sob)story”. Every week the celebs are expected to turn themselves inside out on national TV and reveal some heart-rending detail of their personal lives for the entertainment of viewers (because obviously TPTB feel dancing isn’t enough of a draw for today’s jaded audience).
DWTS used to be about the celeb’s journey on the show. Now it seems to be all about the celeb’s life journey. How well or poorly they dance has been pushed so far to the background it’s almost irrelevant. It’s how much (melo)drama you’re willing to wring out of your personal life to feed TPTB’s (and the viewers) hunger for sob-stories. So if a celeb is fortunate enough not to have a lot of trauma in their life or don’t want to expose themselves like that, they’re at a serious disadvantage when it comes to getting that all-important pity vote. TPTB paint those celebs as “boring” or “cold” and sadly it seems to have the desired effect on the sheeple.
OK, rant over.
I’ve done the math already and the margins are TINY IF they use both last week and this week’s scores and votes, which I assume they are. Which ever fanbase went to bed early – they’re in trouble.
I don’t know why I gave any credence to the judges’ comments about Alek’s Argentine tango, but I rewatched it three times to see where he lost his energy during the routine. Didn’t see any diminution in his energy during the routine and came away with an even greater appreciation of his footwork and his balance. He, Lindsay and Emma were dancing in such close quarters that one misplaced step could have caused someone to trip and fall, possibly bringing the other two with him. Also, I would imagine moving between two partners to do lifts requires fast reflexes and good balance. As for his waltz, I thought Iit deserved the tens he received. No male celebrity, unless you are Evan Lysacek or Charlie White, is going to move as fluidly across the floor leading his partner as a professional male dancer.
I didn’t feel any emotion in Carlos’ s contemporary. That said, I actually liked the use of the rope because I didn’t feel like I was watching the same-old contemporary-jazz-waltz that we’ve been hit over the head with this season.
I also liked the use of the props I Bindi’s trio, but I got to admit that I wasn’t wowed by it. I think my lack of enthusiasm for it was that it felt like they were trying too hard to be edgy and different. I think that may be due to Mark’s involvement in the dance. Derek seems to choreograph for creativity’s sake while Mark seems to choreograph with the specific goal of winning critical acclaim.
Ithought Nick’s tango was just bad. I would have given him at least one seven. Moreover, I just don’t enjoy watching him dance. He’s too intense when he dances except when he’s doing BSB choreography, and then his dancing bores me because I’ve seen it before.
“I just might commit seppuku with a plastic knife” LMFAOOOOO oh Court, you don’t know how much I rolled on the floor laughing my arse off reading that.
By the way, I was totally enchanted by Bindi’s trio and was ready to call it the best trio dance ever ever ever ever, but then I read your words about the beginning and I came into realization of how much I was irked by the amount of time she spent gazing on that light bulb. Maybe the following dance after that was so brilliant that I forgotten about it, but now I’m no longer really (like, really) loving it – not a fan of the kung fu rope action as well.
Ditto about the Witney checking out part too.
Oh please let Carlos get eliminated! Please, please, please. I can’t listen to him anymore. Courtney, you’re so right with his sob stories, always trying to one up everyone else. I don’t want to see him in the finals, in my opinion, he doesn’t deserve it.
Nick hasn’t been the dancer TPTB were assuming he would be and that is a shame, but he doesn’t deserve the win either. But he’s been the chosen one to win and then we have another pro that can stop saying I’ve never won. I like Sharna, I like her choreography, but when she said that, I thought here we go again. What’s going to happen? Will every pro that hasn’t won need to win, deserved or not, before any pro that has won is able to again? Unfortunately, I can see Rob Wade doing that.
Alek came into the show with absolutely no dance experience ever and look what he’s accomplished. No, he isn’t better than Carlos or Nick, but Carlos and Nick have both had dance experience in their boy bands. Yes, I know, that dancing is nothing like what they’re expected to learn for the show, but they have some knowledge of remembering routines and I can’t see it hurting them when learning something new. That and the fact that Alek takes criticism from the judges every week and does so in a dignified manner makes me want him in the finals.
And then there’s Bindi. A truly nice, happy, joyful person (and I give a lot of credit for that to her Mom). She’s been consistent every week, she doesn’t complain, she has the great attitude whether she’s in pain or having trouble learning the dance. Again, no dance experience at all like Alek. She deserves to be in the finals and she deserves to win. Anything short of her winning would be TPTB making sure she didn’t.
So next week, I agree with Courtney, Nick was probably in a hole and would have gone home. Now it’s just wait and see if his fans will panic and power vote to keep him in. In my opinion, Bindi is a lock for the final. Odds are it will be Bindi/Nick. It should be Bindi/Alek, but I’ll take Alek or Nick over Carlos. That I couldn’t watch.
Bindi amd derek (all 3 dances) bindi is incredible. Girl power and so bubbly. She makes me have hope in the world especially in the wake of the Paris attacks and constant terror threats to other citys / country’s. She is the light bulb of light and strength in the world of darkness right now and that is what people need to cling to and hold at this trying time in the world. Bindi is dancing for everyone in the world with her soul and heart. All 3 dances last night were a celebration of life. She makes me proud to be a 19 year old women.she is an entrepreneur. This girl is an entertainer and I’d be shocked if she hasn’t been getting any offers for tv or movies etc… this girl is a firecracker . Team crikey all th way – voting and praying for her to win.
Alek (all 3 dances) wow he is adorable and I feel like his crush on emma is adorable. All I have to say about him is that he out dances nick last night. He was strong and just fun to watch
Carlos (alll 3 dancws) – copycat (amy freestyle ) boring – and forgetful
Nick (allllmtmy 3 dances ) boring lack luster -bland – un original choreography. Executed poorly amd forgetful
Thanks Courtney for the Power Rankings! Always one of the high lights of the week for me.
Cidra, I was absolutely thinking the same thing about how much Tamar we’re still getting despite her withdrawal. Kim also withdrew suddenly for a life threatening issue and I don’t remember anything more than a reading of the rules and a “we wish her well.” But this is not only about the DRAMAZ, but about keeping their Golden Ticket around and front & center thru the end. Wouldn’t surprise me to see Tamar make an appearance at the finale too. But did anyone else think all the talk about the timing of what happened, quick, live show, we didn’t know what she had, was brought on by the HELL the legal team must have put everyone in over what they did?
Oh and was I the only one who wasn’t thrilled with Sharna and Nick’s Tango even if it had been well executed? There seemed to be both a lot of walking and still poses. Add in a stop to “talk” and it didn’t seem to have much tango. I started out this season being excited for Nick and liking her chorography. But by now, I fee like I’m kind of seeing the same dance/ character from Nick every week. And didn’t the judges kill others for this same thing every season? ‘Cept if your this season’s biggest “get”, I guess.
I agree with your rankings and had a whole post typed up then my phone ate it. In a nutshell, I hope Carlos is eliminated first next week. Even when Witney was with Alfonso sometimes she seemed to have an attitude so I’ve never been a huge fan of her but I always liked her dancing. This season she’s just been flat for me but that sometimes happens with different pros and the next season I will love them.
Random thoughts on the costumes last night. Loved Bindi’s trio dance outfit (she reminded me of a beatnik), Sharna’s dance off costume that was from week one, and Wit and Karina in the Charleston outfits (I loved the tuxedo-is look). I also loved Derek’s pink jacket with the blinged out lapels! 😉
I hit FF through the packages, the judges’ comments, and the post-dance interviews so I’ll just comment on the dances.
The first set of dances and this week’s challenge gimmick were pretty forgettable, but I really enjoyed all the Trios. My favorites were Bindi’s and Alek’s.
I’m in the camp that loved Bindi’s Jazz trio. The concept was great, the technical execution was great, and Bindi completely owned the dance and embraced the emotional requirements of the performance. I had no problem with her staring at the light bulb because I saw emotions flitting across her face. The one thing I could have done without was what Daniel aptly termed the “kung fu rope action”.
I thought Alek performed the AT beautifully. He switched seamlessly from Lindsay to Emma, gave a commanding and confident performance, and of course the lifts were effortless. He really looked like he enjoyed the dance. For me that was his best dance of the season. His waltz was very good, but the AT was better and should have gotten the 30. I hope this season cements Lindsay’s status as a pro. She’s earned it!
I agree with you Courtney, I thought Alex, Lindsay and Alex’s trio was more complicated and not just side by side separate dancing. He dud it great. I didn’t see him run out of energy
Enjoyed the trio round the most. Well I loved Bindi and Alek. The other 2 were ok. Nick’s trio was nothing new and the crotch grabbing was a turn-off for me. Carlos’s trio was just ok. I agree with it was very simplistic.
I found it amusing in their trio package that Carlos is all about being positive(trying to steal a page from Bindi?) and Whitney is almost combative in saying you can’t be positive all the time. I guess I am tired of Whitney moaning about how hard the creative process is.
The thing I loved about Bindi’s jazz trio was that the light seemed relevant and fitting for her. She is a light, really – that’s what I always think of when I see her and listen to her. I said somewhere last night that Bindi, as a 17 year old, gives me hope for the future.
I too, thought the break in the middle of their Nick and Sharna’s tango was choreographed. They were looking into each other’s eyes and singing the words of the song together. I found it rather endearing. But, I do agree it broke momentum in the dance and left itself open to the interpretation of lookin odd.
Loved seeing Peta back. Both her and Sharna look absolutely stunning without make up and wearing grungy practice clothes. It’s not fair to us mere mortal women.
Karina showed why she is the goddess of the damn ballroom.
That Witney spark has been missing since the first week of her and Carlos’ partnership. She’s on autopilot.
Bindi throughs herself into whatever dance Derek choreographs for her with complete trust and enthusiasm. It’s really a lovely thing to see. Derek look especially fine while dancing the short samba last night. I know he’s said it’s his least favorite dance to do, but he looked damn fine while doing it.
I’m so happy Alek is finally getting some positive feedback from the three stooges. I can’t wait to see what Lindsay comes up with for a freestyle.
I loved Sharna’s maroon tango dress and gold salsa dress costumes the most last night.
This should have been Tom’s lead in to reviewing all the details of Tamar’s sideshow: “Let’s now take another in depth look at how all this happened, in case someone might have missed the part where abc’s negligent mis-management put a contestant at extreme risk!!”
I love Bindi and Alek. They have both brought such a freshness to the show for me.
When I saw Bindi’s nae nae, it appeared she wasn’t going to be very good. But we know Derek has mad skills as a teacher so thought they would do okay, not necessarily as contenders. But oh my gosh, this girl is something else. It blows my mind she is 17. She carries herself with such class. I hope the Derek haters stop, just stop. This isn’t about him. Bindi has earned that mirrorball fair and square.
Alek? All American boy, All American hero. Seeing him on GMA that first day, could we have expected all we have gotten from him? Again , just so impressed with him as a person. He has handled all this goofy Hollywood stuff so very well. This is a solid young man. Going on the tour? Good for him, go, have fun, enjoy the time and take the money and run.
I credit the parents of Bindi and Alek for the stellar people they both appear to be.
I am originally from Missouri. Carlos was born and raised for a time in Missouri. I wanted to like him. I wanted to support him, Midwest roots and all. But I just can’t. I just don’t find a thing likable about him. His wife..I like her. But that’s it.
Nick? Maybe it was because my expectations were high for him but he just hasn’t had it. He’s so inconsistent. He’s great at the BSB steps which I feel like have been throughout in a lot of dances. When Alphonso was announced, I assumed he would win that year and I was okay with that because he gave us good dances week in, week out. When Nick was announced, I thought, there is the winner but gosh, I don’t feel like he had earned it. If TPTB didn’t manipulate so much, Sharna might already have a mirrorball. There was a very good chance that Charlie and Sharna could have hoisted that mirrorball. But there was master manipulation that season, so we didn’t get to really see what would happen.
Completely agree with your rankings, Courtney! I am hoping this is the way everyone places on Tuesday.
This season has felt so strange for me. I am unabashedly a Derek fan and was beyond excited to know that we would be fortunate enough to see his creativity and talent each week again. When I found out Nick was going to be part of this season, my excitement went into overdrive. Like so many others, I was (still am) a huge BSB fan and I pretty much regressed to my 16 year old self for a day after his announcement. Add to that Sharna being his pro and I was pretty sure I would be throwing a few votes their way on many occasions. And then I saw Bindi.
What this 17 year old girl has done, as a non-dancer, has been just amazing. Her unbreakable spirit, endless positivity and downright awesome dancing have completely won me over. Her partnership with Derek has been so special and to see him so joyous working with her, to see his creativity flow in a different way has been so wonderful. I always thought it would be pretty hard to beat Derek & Amy’s partnership but Bindi is definitely up there. I truly hope that she wins the MBT trophy and will be so disappointed if things pan out a different way. The stand out performances for me last night were Bindi’s jazz trio and her samba (I wanted to see more!)
I will always be a BSB and even a Nick fan but I have not connected with him on DWTS as I thought I would. He has had some great moments, like the Downton Abbey number, but he has been so much in his head, I think trying to prove how good he is, which has led to such inconsistency and a wall that comes up often. Sharna has been my favorite female pro but she has lost a little shine for me this season. I peeked at her Twitter today and saw re-tweet after re-tweet about voting for them and she seems to be bringing up never winning more and more. I completely understand wanting to win but having to bring it up so often, and taking the focus off your partner, always makes me lose some respect.
I haven’t connected with Alek the way others have, though I agree, he is quite handsome. I am impressed with how he has handled this craziness known as DWTS and have enjoyed many of his dances. I preferred his AT over the waltz, which I do not feel should have received a 30. I would have been okay if he had been eliminated earlier but I’m equally okay with him being in the top four and hopefully the top three.
Like others, I have no connection with Carlos and have found him to be more and more frustrating to watch the last few weeks. I have not been impressed with Witney this season as well. I found their contemporary to be very strange as well and thought the rope was added for the wow factor (though I was not wowed at all) without any meaning to the piece. I just about wanted to shake Bruno when he talked about it being unique. Um…no. The Charleston was better but I have such a hard time connecting to either Carlos or Witney that I couldn’t really enjoy it. I do wish Alexa had been in the finals instead.
Courtney, I’d rank them in the same way this time. I don’t get the big deal on Carlos at all! He is my least fave.
My take on Carlos. I think he has a negative mother/female issue. And that is why the female comments have been to get rid of him next. You can see it a mile away. Whitney is standing the closest. It could be a reason for the tu
it could be a reason for the turn off attitude.
Thanks for the power rankings, Court! And PH, thanks for updating the numbers post – the rehash kinda shows how improbable what they said last night about Bindi and Nick being in jeopardy was. Also watched Bindi and Derek in their AB video and Derek’s reaction to JC’s question about jeopardy was telling of how he thinks about the show’s shenanigans especially this late in the season. I loved his response on how they just concentrate on stuff that’s in their control and scores and results ain’t, but dancing is! Super attitude! Now to the dancing (warning: there will be some ranting!) I just watched all the dances again and here is what I felt:
1. Bindi & Derek: They completely overshadowed everyone last night – Bindi as the celeb and Derek as the choreographer. I felt the sheer difference in class and league both last night and last week, between Derek and Mark and everyone else. They are simply and undoubtedly in a league of their own. I agree with everyone saying that even Derek has been more phenomenal (if that’s possible at all) this season. Bindi is bringing out the best in him and I feel fortunate to watch him at his creative best – week after week! Their Salsa, IMO was filled with content, some real fun choreography and so much of Bindi’s smile and personality. It may not have been her best performance, but it was pretty darn good. That song didn’t have any salsa rhythm to it unlike Carlo’s salsa song, and I thought the only reason that song happened, was coz it fit Bindi’s personality so well. Clearly, the ‘judges’ have completely lost their marbles. My career advice to Julianne would be – never be part of a children’s movie – you are going to make it R-rated by getting ‘down and dirty’. How the hell is someone suppose to bring edge and sexy/saucy/dirty to that song for Pete’s sake! I never thought I would say it but Bruno’s critique at least made a little sense. I loved how Derek said in AB that he wanted to keep it age appropriate and Bindi just said ‘thank you for that’! And then Erin asking Robert who is like 13 that would he wanna see more hip action from his sister, in front of their mom! I mean I get it – you obviously don’t have their class but can you at least respect the sheer class of the people you’re standing with. Ugh. That was just disgusting. This season between Julianne and Carianne and Erin – I have seen just too many low blows and I am so done with their idiocy. Moving on to the dance off – Bindi’s samba was the first real samba of this season and its a dance I actually enjoy. I really liked Amber’s samba in Season 17 and Bindi’s was another content filled, true to the technique samba and boy was it fun to watch. And her hips didn’t lie! She was bang on with the spirit and then style of the dance. And I was delighted to see TPTB’s well made plans getting ruined with Bindi winning the dance off. Dont think they could have afforded another dance off debacle after the last one 😉 And now the trio! Phew it was a big night! First of all watching Derek and Mark together week after week – if for nothing else – I have to thank DWTS for that – its a treat like none other for dance fans. I loved PH’s comment on how its scary to watch Derek and Mark together! So true. You start getting goosebumps. This was my favorite trio – the most impactful and it had a story to tell. Again it was all about Bindi – i wasn’t looking at anything but her and that to me is something Derek does so so well. This is how his Bethany trio was and this is how his Amber trio was. And kudos to Bindi for trustinf them with anything and being fearless. She went from bright and sunny, to sexy and fun to determined and intense all in the same night. Dont think anyone else has shown more sides of themselves than Bindi has – in a world of one tone people, she is a full rainbow. This dance was perfection. It was meaningful and taking forward a part of Bindi’s story of getting out of the dark box and finding light. I smell Emmy nominations 🙂
2. Alek and Lindsay: Alek had his best night so far. Ballroom is his jam and the form that highlights his strenght and posture best. I really liked all three of his dances, way more than either Nick or Carlos. And he got his first real good package of the season – perks of agreeing to do the tour! I mean, they couldn’t have made it more obvious – he is suddenly back in the game a d the judges can’t stop themselves from giving him a perfect score! If that dance was perfect, then Bindi’s salsa should have so gotten the same score! Either way, it was surely one of his best dances. The dance off was a sham – totally agree the results were pre-determined. But I was happy to see Alek having fun. Coming to their trio – I am not an Alek/Emma shipper but I don’t mind a little bit of fun. Didn’t see the all access, but it sounded OTT from whatever I have read here. The package though was fun with Lindsay teasing him and then Derek picking up Emma’s pic from the wall 😛 All that was cute! I really liked the choreography of this AT, very well executed. He totally played the part. Could their have been a little more fire in this AT – yes, but I didn’t see any out of sync stuff. I really like a good hot passionate AT (think Derek and Sharna) and this didn’t have that punch for me. But that said, still very very good. And could have gotten 1-2 more points 🙂 I also felt like Bindi and Alek’s trios last night had stories, whereas the other two just danced and the stories made it easier to connect with those dances. I am happy that Alek earned that spot in the finals, by doing very well in the semis. He is not a good dancer but he is not taking it easy coz he is getting so much viewer support. He wants to dance better and that’s good to see.
3. Nick & Sharna: Nick had a strange night. After the last two weeks, I totally expected him to nail it. But it was just a low point for me. I was excited about the tango and we know how that went, and I really felt bad for him. His emotions in the package were truly heartfelt and I can’t imagine how watching that would not get to anyone. Sharna should have used Derek’s la-la-la technique 🙂 He has clearly had a stressful childhood and teen years and that’s contributed to his intense, guarded personality and I feel for that – I really really wish if nothing else, this experience teaches him to let go, relax and live a little 🙂 For the dance off, I was happy that it was judged well and both the couple were genuinely congratulating and cheering each other on. It was heartening to see some genuine smiles and camaraderie on this super political and highly produced show. Now to the trio – I was most undewhelmed by this one, despite the perfect score it got – I mean hello – with Sharna and Peta dancing together they should have set the stage on fire! But the whole routine felt like it lacked connection and creativity. I feel like Sharna experienced a creative block this week and went back to her choreography from earlier this season and last season to put together routines that looked familiar. She is one of my favourite pros on the show and I really wanna see her shine agian 🙁 I hope she is able to channel her creativity and make a phenomenal freestyle next week. On a side note, there was something different about Peta – did anyone else think something was amiss?
4. Carlos & Whitney: Let’s just say this season ended for them about five weeks ago and they have just been going on mercy votes week on week. There is no genuine connection between them and it just didn’t get highlighted all of the first half coz there was another couple with even poorer connection. Don’t think they can stand each other much. Whitney did the weakest contemporary I have seen on the show. No feelings and their was no story – at least none that I saw. That rope piece was a sham. Their dance off was just meh, with Carlos mostly being a sleazeball – no surprise that worked just fine for the judges given their penchant for down and dirty. The Charleston was definitely the most fun they seemed to have last night – good to see Karina. Whitney as usual making stank faces when judges gave them a 9. The 10s were so over scored. All in all let’s see them off very soon. As for Whitney maybe she needed to do a session or two in the troupe to get her bearings right and come back when she has learnt enough. I am so done with her crap attitude.
I am not even going to go into the Tamar drama and the bottom two nonsense – after last week nothing is beyond the producers, so they will continue to do what they do. I just hope and pray to see Bindi with the MBT come Tuesday next week. She has earned it and how 🙂
All I have to say is I burst out laughing whenever Carlos opened his mouth last night! He needs to go! I’m sorry my 11 year old daughter is a fan. She’s all gung ho about him and I try to play along! But in reality – please exit stage left ASAP!!!
MichLee, great story, because funny thing is I felt the same way. When I first heard the cast announcement and heard that Nick was going to be on and that he was paired with Sharna, I was thinking they were going to be untouchable and that it was Sharna’s year, even though I was excited to see Derek back again. I didn’t know how good Bindi was going to be, but was already planning on voting for Nick had Bindi left before him.
Then, week 1 and here comes Bindi with her Jive. My jaw dropped because I was NOT expecting that from her. Ever since then, I was sold. Week in and week out she came out and delivered on every dance, and Nick was just there.
I do see him and Bindi as top 2, although I do think he’s in trouble next week, but I think Bindi will edge him out and take it home. As big as his “fanbase” might seem, it looks like he was desperately needing the votes the past few weeks.
I am anxious for next because I think Bindi has a great shot at winning the whole thing and rightfully so. The girl deserves it. She nails all of Derek’s challenging choreography and has shown herself to be an amazing dancer.
* fangirling * I was just watching the samba dance off agian and oh boy that moment when Derek does the whole watch her move it baby move – that moment though! I can’t stop watching it over and over again. He is enjoying this do much and that little challenge totally made him go – you want it, you got it and I loved that! Go Team Crikey!
@Courtney, I agree 100% with your ranks and comments this week (love the discussion of Carlos’s weed addiction…still laugh about it)!
A note on my opinion of Carlos’s “contemporary”….I am still confused what was happening during that routine and can’t bring myself to watch it again because it was that much of a disaster…also Witney’s costume was um interesting. I didn’t really think it was a contemporary more a jazz…or some kind of interpretive style
Honestly I’m willing to bet his freestyle is going to be a cluster/mess as well.
Wow guys why all the hateful comments for Carlos? I think he is a nice likable guy who is one of the strongest dancers left. He won that dance off last night hands down and his trio with karina was on point. He is a great performer too. I hope he gets second or third because I do not think there is any chance of him winning with all the hate. I think Bindi will win, but I hope it is between her and Carlos in the final two spot.
:::rolls eyes::: Carlos wishes we had that much emotion for him. People like who they like and don’t care for who they don’t care for. Learn to deal with it.
Heidi, what are the margins if they only use this week’s scores/votes to eliminate someone on Monday? I personally feel it’s more likely they won’t also drag last week’s scores back into it, as someone already got eliminated – Tamar. Nick seemed to have much lower scores than everyone else.
I’m also not surprised if Nick was in the bottom – Carlos only needed 12k more votes than him, and I haven’t heard anyone all season say that Nick was their favorite. He’s been very inconsistent and not really memorable the past few weeks. Not to mention he also didn’t do well last night. To me, the only question is whether the panic the producers have caused at him being in the bottom will bring him enough votes to get him out of 4th.
Victor has a funny snapchat story up. Most of the cast are at studio tofay practicing for finale dances and they got $200 worth of chicken nuggets delivered got free from Chik – fil-a and they’re all standing around this one table stuffing their faces
Well, buttercup, the total points drop rather precipitously if you take last week out of it. The total points go from 554 back down to 231. The margin between Alek and Nick goes from 7,220 to 13k – there could be a mistake in there I did it very quickly. But if I’m right, only using this week makes the margin close to double what it is if you use last week and this week.
You might be right – because we’re not only using Tamar, but Alexa as well if we do both weeks and that just seems crazy.
Also what I wondered was since they sorta “revealed” who was in Jeopardy, does that still count as them using the votes from last week, or no because nobody went home? I don’t remember how they did it when Kim withdrew. Did they still announce who was in jeopardy then but say nobody was leaving, and combined the votes for the next week?
Okay it was actually Carlos who bought everyone the chicken nuggets ?
Discussing Witney checking out (because I think she has too), do you guys think about its because Carlos is just all about himself and she’s over it? Or what do you guys else think would be the reason?
Carlos confuses mE with his personalities but at least now we have one that’s semi likeable. Saying that I think the major issue in the Carlos and witney paring is this: he came in with a whole lotta weirdness and sob stories and only recently has shown a real competitive side and witney just seems so checked out. Hate to say it but he was a contestant that I won’t miss when this season is over.
Also I gotta add that I finally watched the video package bindi had and talk about moving. Just when you think you have her figured out her mother pulls out that fun fact about wanting to film. her brother is super nice too. I kinda think that family needs a new show now.
I have to say that I completely disagree with the power ranking. Carlos should be at the top. His trio is by far the best trio of the entire series. The lift/spin that he did with Karina and Witney itself deserves a perfect score. I highly doubt Nick, Bindi or Alek could have pulled that off. In term of votes, he is a part of one of the popular boy bands (Big Time Rush which is much more popular than backstreet whatever). He has a legion of loyal fans just from that. On top of it, all of Alexa’s fans are rooting for Carlos now so I am anticipating that he is pulling in the most votes at the moment. I wouldn’t be surprise if he is holding the trophy next Tuesday.
Oh, boy… The hate word getting thrown around again. I started out not minding Carlos, but over the weeks he’s worn on me. I just feel like he tries so hard to appeal to the audience, and it comes across a bit fake. I definitely don’t hate him, though. He just rubs me the wrong way. It’s similar to the way I felt about Rumer last season.
Oh brother…have the 10 people voting for Carlos finally come out of the woodwork to defend his honor?
BigTimeRushFan, that’s your opinion – and I wish you knew how ridiculous you sound.
I just have to comment on the line about Big Time Rush being more popular than the Backstreet Boys.. I mean… WHAT?! LOL. I think you’re serious which makes me laugh.
I’m sorry to break it to you but Big Time Rush, as much as I like them, are nowhere near the level of popularity of the Backstreet Boys.
I know we’re not supposed to comment on other people’s posts/opinions, mods, but I just found that too funny 😛
Crack is wack.
Bindi & Derek:
Unfortunately Bindi’s greatest dances had been danced before week 10. Even though her dancing was spot on (as usual) especially the Dance Off in which she nailed it and didn’t do the dance in the past. I feel that in all fairness, Bindi is this season’s total package. She has it all and her journey has made many people smile, including me. She is a great role model for young girls to follow. Hopefully, we will get to see Bindi dance the Paso Doble. It’s the only one left she hasn’t danced and the rest have danced it.
Nick & Sharna:
It has been an up and down performance all season for Nick. He actually is in music and most have rhythm that helps in dancing. I have not been moved too much through his journey. He seems to get it then he looses it.
Alek & Lindsay:
While American soldiers to me are the most honored men for me and also because of my brothers and father were military men, Alek touches a special place in my heart. He’s a well build and strong guy, and single, and that makes him ahead of the game before he even started learning dance on the show. However, to me, it’s all about the dancing and the journey to becoming a real dancer and not just carried along. I watch the show because I have always loved watching the celebs learn to dance and enjoy when they have a natural ability and knock my socks off. Alek hasn’t done that for me.
Carlos & Witney:
I was turned offish with Carlos in the beginning because of his remarks and attitude concerning his wife. Seems since she was eliminated, he’s buckled down. He absolutely doesn’t rock in the personality area; and the tearing when his wife got eliminated was pathetic. Yes, he dances well, but he is not the best of the four left.
Great rankings thanks! The more I watch Carlos the more I reflect on Shirley Ballas comment about how he “gets how the show works” and agree with that yet I don’t find him doing a very good job at it. Every year I usually go into the show having a favorite but throughout the season seem to grow an interest for all contestants. With Carlos each week that I am exposed to his various personalities it is quite the opposite. He just is oozes disingenuousness all over the place.
I’m not really sure about a 5 yr Nickelodeon boy band holding a light to a 23+ yr group is quite accurate but to each their own 🙂
I enjoyed Alek and Carlos most last night. Alek’s first dance was so filled with emotion. And the trio Charleston was amazing! I loved seeing Karina back.
Carlos doesn’t really get under my skin, I take him with a grain of salt. I think he sees everything through his Latino culture which is big on machismo. Of course Russians can be chest puffing twits too, but I digress. I remember Carlo’s father saying that Carlos should win and Alexa can be second. It struck me at the time because the diplomatic thing to say would have been that he wished them both success. Attitudes like Carlos has always start at the top. I think he has danced pretty well but he isn’t on my radar for winning.
Backstreet Boys are huge, especially in terms of longevity. I had never even heard of Big Time Rush until James was the show. Then Carlos came on and still didn’t recognize Big Time Rush! I did have an open mind about Carlos, along with all the other celebs I didn’t know. (Hayes was great!) And have probably voted for all of them at least once this season. But, Carlos just doesn’t do it for me. Like a lot have said, Witney is “off” this season. She hasn’t been at top of her game. At first I thought maybe the pro shouldn’t be younger than the celeb, but Lindsay is handling Alek like a pro (pun intended). Maybe I recognize traits of C’s personality similar to ex bf’s that were terrible. I just can’t quite put my finger on it. ~anyways~
I like to vote on actual performance and/or if I think the celeb has improved or is trying. I don’t vote for someone just because they’re popular or can do a “trick move”. And they definitely don’t get my vote if they do d!ckish things (and yes, some females have done some of these too!!). None of us are wrong in our opinions of voting. As long as we’re voting… to each their own…
That said, TEAMCRIKEY! ha
Great rankings! I’ve truly loved seeing the growth with Bindi throughout the season. Alek Has really impressed me as well I’m starting to think he may take Carlos’ spot in maybe 3rd place… I’ve really gotten into reading your rankings and posts this season so thanks for doing them. I apologize if this is inconvenient asking but if anyone else is in my shoes they have football interrupting their Monday show next week (who does that during finals?!) is there any live stream links? tried a few but no luck
Looking back at carlos and witney contemporary, it was too fast and jumbled to be a contemporary. It looked like witney was randomly throwing in moves she thought would look cool, it didnt feel cohesive. also didn’t like her costume, from the back i kept thinking i was gonna see her butt crack lol so i didn’t find it flattering, i liked her charleston costume more. Omg vin i would love for bindi and her family to have like a series of shows about their zoo on animal planet, i would totally watch it. 🙂 Lol big time rush fan, I dont think BTR was ever as famous as backstreet was in their heyday (this coming from someone who was 2 when they were popular). I think MAYBE backstreets modern day equivalent/surpasser would be one direction maybe??? I have no idea how many fans 1d has but they are definitely more famous than BTR ever was, sorry. Sorry mods if i shouldn’t talk back, the crzy statement overwhelmed me.
my power rankings would be:
1.) bindi n derek
2.) alek and lindsay
3.) nick and sharna
4.) carlos and witney
lol at how c and w are tied at the top with bindi right now
Whatever happened to put Bindi and Derek in the bottom two and the statement by Tom that one of them was in jeopardy, was a great gift to both of them. I know I voted harder and I vote pretty hard each week….lol. Bindi deserves to win this season, IMO, and I hope this throws her over the top.
I think you’re too hard on Carlos. I think he’s trying his best and he’s just a passionate somewhat immature guy who wants to win. Why shouldn’t he try to get as many votes as he possibly can? I hated the rope routine. Hated it. It was stupid and Witney’s costume was terrible. I liked his dance-off a lot and thought he did a great job, and also thought the trio went well. Witney’s having a hard time. She’s just missing something this season. But the truth is, her partner IS in the finals so that’s really all anyone can expect of her I suppose.
I don’t agree about Julianne either. She’s doing fine. I’m not sure what people expect? She DOES have to be careful about showing favoritism. That’s a genuine concern I’m sure she has. Why not be picky about Bindi and push her to be her very best? Her shoulders DID get better. She DID show more hips and sass with her samba after their comments. Good for her! So isn’t that what judges comments are for? To push for improvement? As for Alek, it did seem like the judges loved him in the beginning, suddenly turned on him (he definitely was underscored with Emma) and now are turning back to him. I’m not sure what that’s all about.
I wish Derek would drop a subtle note in his blog about how he worries that his partners won’t get a fair shake – be it his sister trying to be overly ‘fair’ or the narrative that he’s won too many times. Celebs get such an advantage with him on what he delivers week to week and his ability to teach, but they are handicapped on the ‘derek can’t win again’ mantra.
@Tina, #30 – I wonder if a lot of BSB fans are feeling the same way. I’ll always have a soft spot for Nick and the other guys but the experience of watching him on the show has been so different than I had imagined it would be. I do hope he comes in second though.
I agree with that others that Nick had a huge fan base coming into the show but unless someone knows him as Nick from the Backstreet Boys, and given how he has done on the show, I don’t think he has picked up many new fans, relatively speaking. Bindi, on the other hand, has developed such a strong fan base because of the show. I knew of Bindi before DWTS but essentially only through the story of her father. I’m now interested to see what she does a she continues to mature.
Julianne isn’t “doing fine” when she goes out of her way to look for things to criticize about her brother’s partner’s routines, Jamie. It is not constructive, nor is it fair – especially when she’s comparatively much easier on all of the other couples. At this point, she’s just fabricating things to complain about – how is that supposed to help Bindi? There was no problem with Bindi’s shoulders – complete fabrication. So how is Bindi supposed to fix this imaginary shoulder problem? Hmmm? You’re right about one thing – the judges’ comments are supposed to allow for improvement. But if they’re complete bullshit to begin with? Forget it – I stand by what I said: Julianne’s gotta go.
As for Carlos…that’s your opinion. I’m not going to apologize or redact anything I’ve said about him – he’s rubbed me the wrong way for weeks, and his dancing is not up to snuff in my book. As for Witney – she’s only made it to the finale based on Carlos’ relative talent and some dumb luck. Her choreography has not passed muster this season, and I’m not cutting her any breaks. So yeah, I do expect more of her.
Thanks, rockox 🙂 I have had the same problem twice this season, with the Colts playing Monday Night Football. It is possible to find live streams online – I usually just Google “ABC east live stream” and start with the first one, and keep going till I find one that works. It helps to start 45 min or so before showtime, so you have time to find a stream that works before showtime. Also remember: DO NOT DOWNLOAD ANYTHING!!! Some of the streams will prompt you to do so – just click the “x” that pops up and close out of any pop-ups. You do not have to download anything in order to get the stream working. Good luck!
I’m also told that a jailbroken Amazon Fire TV stick will give you a good-quality east coast ABC stream on your TV – if you’ve got a jailbroken Amazon Fire TV stick, of course.
Someone asked what made Witney check out. I don’t know but you can see it from week 1. Go look at Witney and Carlos receiving scores along with Alexa and Mark and BOTH Witney and Mark look totally checked out like they don’t want to be there. So it’s been two strange partnerships from the get-go. I can see why people here find him annoying, but I appreciate his enthusiasm. He’s got a smile. He’s gung-ho. He’s up, he’s down. Smile, laughter, tears, whatever. Some people just live life that way. Nick is so stone-faced all of the time. So as a performer he’s pretty “meh” to me. And I was a BSB fan to some degree as a teen. He just never looks like he’s having any real fun with Sharna. Maybe you all see it differently?
See I think her posture went from good to amazing from foxtrot week to Viennese waltz. They have never given her bad scores. Three 9s are good scores! I mean those 7s they gave Alek for his Rumba were the real crime. They’ve mentioned Nick’s butt sticking out many times… and it still does. I think since Julianne is a dancer she is able to “see” certain things and give genuinely helpful advice to improve the quality of their dancing. I personally am tired of all the booing. The moment CAI says ANYTHING contrary about a performance the audience erupts in boos. I want to tell the audience to just shut up sometimes. They boo CAI more than anyone else. Constantly. It’s become a sport or something.
I pretty much agree with this power ranking however I went crazy for Bindi’s trio dance. I loved it my only thing is I wish it had been maybe a little longer I wanted more, I just loved the concept & watching how in sync Derek, Bindi & Mark were like they made it all look so effortless.
I feel the urge to throw in my two cents about Carlos.
I’m not bothered by the fact that he exaggerates his life stories to gain sympathy (I’m sure we’re all a little guilty of that), it’s just that he’s SO bad at it. I mean I could come up with something better.
I kind of go back in forth with him. Sometimes I think he’s a nice guy. Other times I hope someone slashes his car tires. I feel the same way about his marriage. At times it’s relationship goals; at other times I want to slyly slide Alexa a “special” phone number.
I’ve never actually commented here before- but I’ve just been lurking around this site for a couple of years and I wanted to thank the mods for everything they’ve done. I really enjoy reading all your posts 🙂
That being said, I agree with your rankings- I was rooting for Nick since the beginning but I think that Bindi is by far the better and also more consistent dancer. Although I want Sharna to get her first MBT- this show is about dancing after all, and Nick is definitely not a better dancer than Bindi, who has pretty much killed it week after weeks and some of Nick’s routines are… Eh.
Alek has improved week after week- wouldn’t mind if he placed third instead of Carlos… Who I really can’t stand. I much preferred Alexa. And Witney’s choreo has been disappointing this season as well 🙁
The ONLY reason I knew who Big Time Rush was is because my son watched their show on Nickelodeon! And sorry but I think James was a far better dancer than Carlos. James did a Star lift with Peta to Let it Go from Frozen….Carlos could barely hoist his partner up! Carlos comes across as VERY cocky and I don’t like his attitude concerning Alexa. He’s been hot and cold ALL season long. Now that Witney doesn’t have access to a Ghost Choreographer, her routines have sucked. That rope in their contemporary, we saw it in S18 with Amy Purdy’s freestyle. Amy did it much better too AND with one hand!!!
Bindi has been the MOST consistent of the final 4. She’s pretty much killed it every week. I don’t agree that a 17 yr old should be doing a ‘down and dirty’ salsa. Plus the song didn’t really call for that either, to be honest. She found her hips for their Samba dance-off. Their trio was OFF THE HOOK!! Mark is really rooting for Bindi and Derek to win this season..honestly, if she doesn’t, I smell a rat. MANY people adore her. I’ve seen far more comments saying how they love Bindi and not as many as in years past of “Derek has won too many times”. The only negative thing on Bindi is that they’re tired of hearing about how her dad died when she was 8. SMH….
As far as Julianne goes…I defended her in the past saying she’s a good judge and gives constructive criticism. But after these last few weeks…I’m with Courtney. Julianne has gone too far in trying for it not to appear as if she’s giving Derek and his partner favoritism because it’s her brother. Overly praising Rumer last season and Janel in S19 to nit-picking on Bindi when there’s really nothing to pick at! While I DO think that this is likely Derek’s final season(at least per his contract)on the show, I can’t say for sure, because he’s said twice now he was done and then surprisingly returned. Which is why I’d LOVE to see Bindi (and Derek) win so Derek can ride off to NYC and back on Broadway where he belongs!!
Hi newbie Megan!?
Nick was my pick for the winner when the season started as well, but Bindi’s sunshine, talent and hard work have totally wom me over. You know how you feel all warm inside when you see kittens or puppies playing together, being all adorably heart melting? Bindi is the human embodiment of that. Add in the fact that the girl can dance like nobody’s business and the way Derek is so completely over the moon in awe of her.
I do still like Nick. I think Sharna’s done a wonderful job with him. He’s just naturally an intense dude and unfortunately next to Bindi he seems a bit too dour. The one thing that can hurt you on this show is being in your head too much and over-thinking the dance. When that camera turns on you and your music starts up, you gotta just let go and dance in the moment. I definitely think that’s something he’s struggled with.
If Bindi were to go on the DWTS Tour, I MIGHT consider driving to a show! That would be a real treat!
DITTO Kelly!! I hope Bindi does the tour!
Witney is the joint weakest female pro with Allison (in fact Allison edges her due to being a better teacher). I’m not just jumping the bandwagon saying it, I’ve said for a long time. It annoys me how she’s considered the golden girl of the female pros and always gets celebs that have the power to last in the competition even if they can’t dance (e.g Chris Soules) while someone like say Emma doesn’t get that chance. Lindsay has shown Witney right up this season. It’ll always frustrate me how she was the jammy one that got blessed with Alfonso as a partner when she didn’t deserve it. Hopefully her soon to be husband gets her pregnant pretty soon so she can join Allison on the sidelines.
I’ve been pleasantly surprised that there has been relatively little focus on Bindi’s loss. It’s been touched on during a couple weeks, as it should be if Bindi and her family wanted to discuss it, but it hasn’t overshadowed her own journey and achievements like I feared it might.
I’m pretty sure it’s next season that’s Derek’s last on his contract (that’s hwat he said on his blog back in the spring) but this will probably end up being his last on the show if Bindi wins (which, barring an emergency this week or a disaster on Monday) I can’t see NOT happening at this point). Unless they do end up getting Caitlin Jenner or someone similar I don’t see what else he could do to top what he’s done on DWTS. Then again he’s been saying he might leave after every season since All-Stars but his one-season break was before that so who knows. But with the Broadway thing maybe happening I do feel like this will be it for him though.
I’ve never been a fan of Witney’s because I always thought she mugged it up too much and she came across as petulant and immature – but I thought she did a good job with a stellar celeb in Alfonso – she never looked like she was coasting with him and they seemed to be a solid match, especially since she was the only female pro that could tap. Granted, we all knew Alfonso would have been great with anyone he was given, but now seeing the difference in choreography quality since her help has gone away makes me realize that how much of that season was probably dependent upon those factors rather than what she brought to the partnership.
Aww Julia, your post made me a bit sad. I have enjoyed watching Derek so much throughout the years and if it’s indeed his last season, the show will never be the same again. He’s pretty much untouchable and will be leaving behind so many accomplishments that nobody else can touch or come close to. But like you said, nothing can top this season and he has outdone himself even more than in the past. I’m so excited to see what he comes up with for this last week. It’d be wrong if anyone else but bindi to take home the trophy.
Ugh. Sorry Jamie, but when you go out of your way to find reasons to penalize your brother’s partner so you don’t appear biased (and the idiots on the internet STILL claim you are), it’s just as bad. YOU ARE biased, just against him now, instead of for him. She was doing fine last season, but now that Derek has a shot at the MBT, she’s going out of her way to be harder on him than anyone else. You’re going to tell me that the “clean” salsa should have been all 9s while Alek got 10s? Yeah, I don’t think so.
I agree with everyone regarding Whitney’s choro this season. She seems like a lost puppy. They have shown her in several packages with “creative block”, and the final product has not been that exciting.
I wonder if the reason she didn’t want Karina or Anna is she didn’t want them to see her struggles up close and personal.
Bindi is a great way for derek to go out with a bang. To leave the show on a high note. Praying bindi wins. The girl.is hope in darkness and deserves the win. She gives people a feeling of happiness and warmth on shallow cold days. Alek isn’t the only hero in the competition. Bindi is am everyday hero with the love she has for everyone and everything. It’s magic – she’s magic
I’ve been really struggling with who I want to win this season between Bindi & Nick, but I think I have to go with Bindi. I can’t let the fact that Sharna hasn’t won yet blind me. I still think her time is in the future, just not now.
Bindi’s samba in the dance-off basically sealed it for me. She absolutely killed it and had great technique. I love that we get to see how “all-in” Derek is this season …. it’s so obvious how much the show and audience loves him, but it’s great to see how much he loves it back. It’s also nice to see how much Bindi affects him, which is something I’m missing from the Nick & Sharna connection. Derek is amazing, and I think it’s time for his 6th win. Their trio w/ Mark was amazing as well.
IMO, Bindi should be declared a Global Treasure. I never thought I would have a favorite contestant that wasn’t named “Apolo”, but damn – I just hadn’t experienced Bindi yet! The girl is such a beacon of light and love and positivity, she has already won all she needs to. Glittery Mirror Ball should be hers, sure. But it doesn’t really matter, does it? *She* is what we will all remember from this season (nay, this series!) for years to come, no matter who hoists the thing next Tuesday. So say we all!
LurkerB5, that’s so true. She is the face of this season and I will definitely remember her dances and presence for seasons to come!
LurkerB5 — I’ve been having this scene play in my head where Bindi wins by acclamation. Your post fits right in!
I don’t know if everyone watched the GMA live stream or not, but to hear TONY, of all people, talk about Bindi – it’s really telling. She has an amazing, positive impact on just about everyone. Peta’s reaction when Tony said Bindi was going to win was very telling also. I love Peta – but she was actually a bit shrill in her “Nick is really good too!!” response.
I have no idea if Bindi will actually win the show – but she already wins at life.
I SO agree, Heidi! Normally Tony always picks a partner that isn’t with Derek to win, so the fact that he wants her to win says a lot. I think DWTS lucked out this season getting her, because there has never been a contestant with such a bright, positive outlook on everything and on top of that is an amazing dancer. She has already won this season for me, but her winning that MBT will be the icing on the cake to close out an amazing journey.
I rewatched some of Monday night dances and in watching Bindi and Derek going to talk to Erin, I saw Erin bend down to give Bindi a full embrace and Erin practically jumped up and down after all excited. It was cute. You’re right PH, Bindi wins at life and her spirit is infectious!
Gosh, I wish we could just clone Bindi. We could all use a Bindi in our lives.
PrincessHeidi- Then all the judges should go. ALL of them. Because they all pointed out her shoulders in the foxtrot. They have been in full scoring agreement. Don’t pick on Julianne exclusively. Pick on CAI and Bruno as well (how come Bruno gets a pass on everything?). They all wanted more sass in her salsa. And yes there is a different standard for Bindi and Alek. Honestly, I think they were just throwing him a bone with those 10s for his waltz. Because that is the very best he can do at this point and it had the full package of Alek’s best qualities.
Oh god, all these comments have me in tears. After last season I was so disillusioned with the show. Only a bright light like Bindi could have brought back my love for the show. The partnership between Bindi and Derek has been so amazing to witness. I’m grateful for the joy she brought to Derek and the rest of the viewers. I agree with everyone that I can’t think of a better partner for Derek in his final season (if that is the case). The guy has given so much to the show, and I’m sure having Bindi as a partner has been one of the biggest highlights of his 16 seasons.
We expect more of Julianne, Jamie, because she has delivered more in the past. CAI and Bruno have always been idiots. And they don’t ALWAYS side with Julianne – not even close.
I was taken aback for a moment or two when Alek got his 30. When I thought about it, I was perfectly fine with the idea that the guy deserves to get one perfect score, and there would likely not be a more appropriate time than a waltz to “America the Beautiful” which he performed conscientiously. I don’t consider it a bone, but an acknowledgement of him in the currency of DWTS. I would love it if he came in second to Bindi. Nick has been thoroughly underwhelming, Carlos has been obnoxious, and neither of them has improved as much, or comported themselves as admirably, as Alek.
Thanks for the GMA info Heidi. I’ve been watching Derek and Bindi’s videos on YouTube today and I am still utterly amazed over everything this inexperienced, non-dancing, 17-year-old girl has accomplished. The body of work that they have created together is second to none. It will stand the test of time as some of the best dances ever seen on the show. Derek has someone who is capable, determined, and fearless to choreograph for. And she’s done it all with the sweetest, most positive, most classiest, most joyous, and most thankful attitude possible to the human race. She is simply unbelievable. I can only imagine how grateful Derek feels to have had her as his partner. She would be a dream come true for any pro. I remember when Derek got Kellie and how special that season was for him. He still talks about it. And he kept saying how close he came to not coming back and being so happy he did. Well, I personally think (and he may too) that this is the best season he’s ever had with Bindi. And I am grateful that he did come back, so we could experience their incredible partnership, witness some amazing dancing, and be reintroduced to this beautiful and extraordinary young lady. I’m not persuaded that Derek will leave the show, even if he and Bindi win the mirror ball. He may take a sabbatical to do other things, but to never return as a pro, I just don’t see it. He loves it too much, especially the teaching someone how to dance. He knows better than anyone how far Bindi has come. It has been his high standard of teaching skill that has turned that little novice into the incredible performer she has become, and that must be extremely satisfying to him.
I so agree with you Suzy. Alek is remarkable in hold and has been the only male contestant left who has been consistent in his Standard dances (or well I guess his quickstep could be considered one of the weaker ones), while Nick struggled with Tango and Carlos struggled with Waltz. The only thing Carlos and Nick have going for them is their ability to groove with the music, which Alek Really lacks. Personality and journey wise? Forget the other two. I really think Alek deserves runner-up (although I’ll understand if it does end up going to Nick).
PH– you are so right. Bindi wins at life and anyone would hand her that mirrorball themselves. Such a light in this world needs to be rewarded for her tremendous efforts and outstanding personality
I hadn’t realized how many feel the same way about Bindi as I do, and reading some of these later posts have enlighten my heart. I just couldn’t see why the whole world isn’t rejoicing over this young lady for the beautiful light she shines in the world, and the world sure needs many like her these days.
I am leaning the same way as others here that Bindi has already won at life and she has been a shining, glitter ball of love all season long. She is going to have a wonderful future.
She has definitely won the hearts of the audience this season and I cannot wait to see what their Freestyle is going to be, since Derek is making it about her journey. I think we might be in for another tear jerker. Really excited and hoping to see her take home another gllittering ball on Tuesday.
Derek fans make it sound so simple for him to just go and do other things and still come back to DWTS. Sad fact is, you really can’t to much else while still doing DWTS and I would prefer he leave and grow and do other things. It’s also a risk that staying on DWTS will make people take him less seriously at some point – if they aren’t already. He’s very fortunate that he’s made a ton of great connections that could, along with his talent, take him very very far – staying on DWTS for too much longer could squander all of that. He’s capable of so much more. He’s one of the few pros that actually IS. I can totally see why Mark stays – that gives him exposure for his music and it’s much easier to do both when you choose music as your path. But that’s obviously not Derek’s path, and he won’t so easily be able to do both.
@ Tina…
I can’t wait to see Bindi & Derek’s freestyle, also.
I had watery eyes in the beginning of the season; but now no matter what is in Bindi’s package or dance, I just smile with such admiration of her. (and Derek)
I.T.A. PHeidi…As much as I enjoy watching his amazing creations and his dancing and how he is able to turn a celeb into a dancer; there’s part of me that wants to see him in movies, on the Broadway path, etc. I really hope he just finishes his contract with DWTS period.
If I were a Broadway producer with a prospective new show looking for a choreographer I would snap up Derek in a heartbeat.
He thinks about everything when he puts together a dance, angles, lighting, mood, tempo, highs and lows, impact, duet work as well as group work. He’s got the stuff.
He can’t do something like choreograph a Broadway show and still do DWTS. The gestation period is too long and too involved.
He has an opportunity to STAR in a new Broadway production, not just choreograph it. I heard the words directly from his mouth in August. Who knows if he’s still interested in doing it. He’s definitely a believer in forging his own path.
Does this show have a scheduled timeline as of yet or are they holding out for Derek? I think it’d be really cool to see him do it. I can also see him doing movies (starring, directing, producing, whatever) or several other things. Excited to find out what’ll happen next for sure.
I didn’t know that Heidi. That’s nice to hear. ?
I think I’ve said this before but when Derek does call it a day (hopefully after this season) Rob Wade would be foolish not to try and hire him as head creative director (Mandy Moore’s current position). The man is a goldmine and if given the chance to create especially with the pros then he will win more Emmys for DWTS. If he doesn’t even approach Derek with the opportunity then both him and the show will regret it. Derek might well turn him down but he’s be stupid not to at least ask.
It’s way early for this show. Not even sure if it would be 2016. Hard to say – I don’t really understand the Broadway season. I told him that he HAD to do it, he must. But he doesn’t actually take direction from me. 🙂 Perfect role – the hold up was the time commitment.
In the meantime, I’m sure there are other things. I asked him about singing and he said he had a few things he was “considering” that would involve live performance and singing. It sounded like more than just the Broadway show he was talking about – I was wondering if he was going to do one of those live broadcasts like Jules is doing Grease. I didn’t think to ask because he started talking about the Broadway show and it’s hard to think when he’s standing in front of you talking. 😀
After the horrible way Nastia was treated last season, as silly as it might sound, I sort of had to make my peace with Derek coming back. Derek has mentioned many of the reasons he finds the show rewarding. I think one of the big ones is the constant challenge to create. Derek mentioned it during the video about the Jazz piece, about constantly having to up your game. You can see it, especially with Bindi, that he is both challenged and inspired to create for her. I love that he’s figuring out his own plan for himself. I can totally understand why he would not want to commit a large chunk of time to being in one place doing one thing. I’m thrilled that he’s going on that trip in December. It will be a total break from everything, and will give him the opportunity to have great new experiences of all kinds. And of course his trip to meet his marsupial namesake in Australia. So a whole lot of new stuff will be informing his decisions about what to do next. I’ll enjoy seeing it unfold. I’m hoping that he might consider doing some kind of blog while he’s traveling.
I heard a rumour that dirty dancing will be doing a live show on tv similar to grease at some point on abc.
If grease is a hit there will defiantly be more live shows coming down the drain. Derek is just the type for those kinda shows.
Still hoping that singing in the rain does work out – that is magic waiting to happen
Plus don’t ya’ll forget that jared tweeted out a cryptic message a couple weeks ago about a project they workin on together.
Derek can’t stay on dwts forever. I’d rather him just move on after this season because I want to be a fan that dosent hold him to 1 thing. I’m calling it right now derek is gonna win a tony at some point but he needs to leave dwts in order to do that.
LOL! PHeidi…It would be totally hard for me to think too if Derek was standing right in front of me talking. 🙂 But, seriously, I am happy you got to me him.
Oh, I wish there was an edit button. correction: meet him.
What I love about Derek on DWTS is that we get to see him perform every week. People like me can’t fly to New York to see him once in Broadway. Basically, DWTS is a gift to all of us who love his art and get to enjoy it for free. I love the way seeing one of his dances for the first time makes me feel. I often get chills! And it’s great. That said, I would love for Derek to get some kind of original role that seals him in America’s heart forever. Singing in the Rain is ok, but Gene Kelly is already THE NAME. Dirty Dancing remake is ok, but Patrick Swayze is already THE NAME. I would like a project for Derek where Derek is THE NAME. And the truth is, at this point DWTS is it! But I know he’s always looking for growth and that’s great. Totally off topic, but I’d love that boy to get married and have a family too. Basically the total package. Career, family etc… I don’t even know why I care.
I think Derek’s future is very bright whenever he decides to leave. Until then, DWTS is a great spotlight for him. Who doesn’t know who Derek is and what celebrities aren’t salivating to be his partner? I think his talent surpasses the other pros so in that way I would say he has outgrown the show. Bindi is beyond description. I’ve never seen anything like her. I totally agree that this season with her will be the gold standard and is unlikely to be matched. She has been the best and most consistent dancer on the show. She really deserves this win but as we know the best doesn’t always win. Specifically, Shawn. To this day I can’t understand how Melissa and Tony “legitimately slipped by them. Neither had a fan base that comes close to the other two. That’s the fear rolling in my head as we head toward Tuesday.
@CA Kim I know what you were saying about Shawn, but unfortunately when they redid their QS, which was the one where the rules were broken, they got docked for that in points, and I think Len might’ve given them a 7 or something whereas Melissa got a 30 for her re-do dance and FS, and made it easier for her to win because Shawn had to overcome a larger margin.
# Jamie I feel exactly the same! Probably because I’m an international fan who just can’t fly to US and see him live on Broadway. That being said, I always enjoy him much more when he’s doing something on TV rather than live simply because I have an opportunity to watch it afterwards on YT or somewhere in a good quality and admire his work. And DWTS is the best option for me because I can watch his work every week and moreover, I love all his partnerships. BUT, up to now, I’ve been talking just about MY personal preferences, which doesn’t me that it’s what I think Derek should do. I get what you’re saying about his growth and that he should leave DWTS at some point rather sooner than later. When that happens, I hope he’ll still do something for TV and not just Broadway, although I know he enjoys performing in front of people the most.
Suzy, did you see where he’s going to Honduras, Australia, New Zealand…and there was another place he mentioned. I was like DAMN – lucky man. I think this is the vacation he got for his birthday, a trip with that photographer he likes, learning technique and stuff.
Jared and Derek could be co-stars in Singing in the Rain – that would be fantastic. They keep talking about the movie White Nights, with Derek as Baryshnikov and Jared as Gregory Hines – I was starting to wonder if they were serious about that as well.
But for Derek to get a role where he is “the name”, he may have to start out doing (amazing, fantastic, spectacular) stuff like Singing In the Rain. Clearly, someone believes he can step into a role originated by Gene Kelly – there is no bigger honor than that, IMO.
I will be sad to see him leave DWTS mainly due to reasons stated above.(Free access to his work etc). However, I think he needs to spread his wings and fly. The man has so much talent, I think he could be one of those rare people who could win all the awards, emmy, tony , grammy, oscar.
If Derek ever did Singin In The Rain on Broadway, I’d seriously consider going to NYC to see it. Maybe they would do previews in Chicago which is a lot closer.
Either way it would be hoot if we could have a PureDWTS’s group meet to see it.
I can’t fly to nyc to see him on broadway either but it dosent bother me because I no he getting the chance to something extrodinary and not confined to 4 walls of a dance studio and u no what he’s worth the money spent to fly out and treat urself every once a while to his future hit broadway shows.im already saving up for a graduation gift for myself – since I’m graduating in the new year
Woooohooooooooooooooooooooo yippee me lollll
Susan2, if Derek ever does Singing in the Rain (or anything else) on Broadway, I will be there right behind you! Love your idea of meeting up with others too!
Raising the mirrorball with Bindi would be a wonderful way for Derek to make an exit from what once was just a fun dancing show!
PH Hawaii for sure is one of the places; it’s where Clark Little (photog) is based. So not a coincidence that Bindi will now be a stop on that trip. The whole thing is going to be such a great experience for Derek.
As for Jared, he posted a photo with Derek on Instagram about a month ago and wrote this:
grimeystepzMy homie @derekhough is on tv #dancingwiththestars each week…. I’m in pre-production for the feature film #breakingbrooklyn and yet we are still tapping the same tune about a monster collab…?. Will you be ready for it when it hits? Aaaah the suspense? #whitenights #holidayinn #blueskies #singingintherain #sammydavisjr. #franksinatra #genekelly #donaldoconnor #jerrylewis #deanmartin #gregoryhines #baryshnikov #tap #tapdance #ballroom #dance #brothers @weinsteinco
I read CAI blog about Alek and ….finally! Thank you. If he had only been treated that way throughout the season. I thought his waltz was danced very much like many of his dances that should have been scored higher. I think the AT should have rec’d a 10. Emma & Lindsay had an original routine and kept in hold with Alek most of the time. He actually played the part (yea)! I thought it was an excellent dance & I didn’t see any mistakes.
This season was the first time that I didn’t have a favorite going into the season. I didn’t start voting for Bindi on a weekly basis until I think week 4, the way I look at it. Carlos and Nick started off really good, Carlos lost steam real fast, Nick has lost steam slowly, Bindi has gotten better every week and that is why I vote for her (also she is just a ball of sunshine) Alek has also gotten better every week (even if his scores don’t show it) he has overcomed alot of low scores. I really wish it would be between Alek and Bindi but I think Nick will slip in there but do think Bindi will win or at least I hope so.
FWIW, after watching Alek’s AT again, I *kinda* understand why the judges felt Alek was “flagging” a bit (although I disagree). It was basically a critique of the structure of the routine: I think they wouldn’t have made that criticism if, say, there had been one last lift in the last 30 seconds or so. Nevertheless, much kudos to him on the “hold” parts; that could have easily ended up a disaster.
I saw it, Suzy, that’s why I was mentioning it.
Well, Shart, Alek didn’t do 10 dances “throughout the season”. Not at all.