Dancing with the Stars Season 29, THE FINALE – LIVE BLOG
Would you believe that I just NOW realized that I forgot to do a “Who’s Dancing What” post this week?? Well, it’s true. That was the state of my work life all of last week until Thursday night when I just went to bed exhausted. I realized it even more when I read Courtney’s Power Rankings post and realized it was one I hadn’t read before. Good news is…deadline is past and I’m on vacation all week. 🙂
T-minus…whatever. 🙂
Forgot to mention for anyone not paying attention. Derek’s deal with ABC is clearly paying off – he’s hosting a Thanksgiving Day Xmas special with Julianne and it doing TWO songs with Hayley on Disney’s Holiday Family Singalong. And he’s once again in People’s Sexiest Man issue, looking fine, I might add. 🙂
Love the opening number! Kinda pissed that the shafted Daniella and Pasha on camera time. Two best dancers on the show right now. Not counting Derek of course.
I see we’ve reverted to the Tyrant walk out while the judges applaud her. Ridiculous.
Clearly wardrobe has run out of the correct flesh tone on the costumes of all the women. Geez.
Kaitlyn going first with her favorite dance. She picked the Argentine Tango. Pretty good choice, I think.
I love that bead curtain. Pull your butt in, girl. Gorgeous dress. Still a bit soft, lack of attack. Great dance, that is my only complain – the lack of attack that is.
All the judges standing, Derek calls her a true contender. She met the high standard they’ve held her to. Bruno is panting. Literally. Says it was sensuous. Says it was better this time – I would agree with that. CAI says she’s an unforgettable, exquisite dancer, she challenged herself. Spare me on the BS of that being one of her top three dances of all time. She says that every fucking season and it’s always BS. Nothing against Kaitlyn – love her – but please cut the crap.
Scores: After the break. BTW…Artem has the cutest baby in the world. No lie. So extremely cute it’s almost not fair to all the other babies in the world. 🙂
Scores: 10 10, 10 for a total of 30.
It used to be (in the good old days), that they would put the potential winners of the show dancing first and last. That changed with the new producers, to a degree, but I think Nelly going second makes it more likely he won’t win the show. No guarantees though.
I really like Nelly, and I’ve voted for him in the past (although not last week because you should only vote for ONE person at this point), but I don’t think he SHOULD win. I think he could, though. That’s the nature of the show. Anyway, he’s doing is samba, which is a good choice for him, as he tends to do well with those dances that allow groove.
I dare say he’s still not a great dancer, but he’s doing much better this time than he did the first time. And hell, he’s having a ball. There’s a lot to be said for that. He’s just so engaging. And daniella has been my girl crush since I saw her on Derek’s tour.
Bruno says he has spontaneity and a natural feel and is engaging to watch. Watching him is fun. Agreed. CAI says his journey has been fascinating, reminds her that dance is more than just technique, but about the joy of life. Derek agrees with CAI, says the show is about moments and he is a moment maker. He makes people feel good.
Scores: 9, 9, 9 for a total of 27.
So the scores for the remaining contestants will be interesting. If everyone else gets tens, the judges are at least trying to give the better dancers a better shot at the trophy. I expect them to do this. I also expect Nelly to get tens on his freestyle, figuring if the other contestants can’t overcome the three points, then Nelly deserves to win. He’d be the people’s champion. Not the worst person to ever win – that is still reserved for Bones. By a mile.
Happy to see Jeannie Mai in the ballroom!
Nev is up next. He’s redoing the Swan Lake dance. Pretty good choice, but it will depend on what he does for his freestyle.
He took manscaping to an extreme it appears. :-)He didn’t scape, he shaved. His arms are still a bit weird at times, but I think he’s the best dancer in the group. That’s a great dance. No obvious mistakes. Great job.
CAI says that was perfection once again. Loves that watching him is a treat. Technically and artistically amazing. Derek loves the change at the beginning, says it was so fantastic. He can dance. Bruno was flying. Created dramatic structure, more dramatic and he killed it.
Are those abs or ribs?? 🙂
Scores: 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30.
Justina going last. Wonder if she goes last on the second round. She picked her cha cha from week one. Good choice – right in her wheel house.
Gah, still hate the stairs. So much time wasted. Other than that, this is a fun dance. She’s not the accomplished dancer that Nev is, but then she’s not got the experience he does. This is a fun dance, well done, but not a revelation.
Derek says she explodes with charisma, so sensational. Bruno says she’s a diva latina. Almost too hot to trot. Extra spicy sauces. CAI says she knows how to bring it, she has something – fire. She loves the fire.
Scores: 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30.
And there you have it. Nelly is three points behind everyone else, meaning it would be really interesting if he were to win.
Derek next!! Whoo Hoo. I won’t be typing my thoughts during this dance. I want to watch and enjoy.
I forgot how much I enjoy these retrospectives of the season. Not. 😉 At least it appears we’re only getting one of them instead of four or five.
That was wonderful. And why did it have to end?? Far too short. Note, for those not paying attention, Derek also took the track and altered it like he has so many times in the past. Dang. Why was it so short?? I wanted MORE!! And there is no higher compliment. He is the Gene/Fred of his generation.
Nelly’s freestyle is up first and it’s designed for him in a great way. Look, extra dancers. Daniella…so amazing. Nelly doing well on the lifts. I really enjoyed this dance. Well done!!
Bruno says Nelly is the king of swag and the king of bling. Empire the musical. Pitched it just right for you. CAI says the partnership is outstanding. Dance was a hybrid and it gives her hope. Derek says it felt like a grammy performance, the ending move was amazing. Ended strong.
Scores: 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30. This time I agree with the judges on those scores.
Mama Mai!! Love her. I like this little skit with the celebs. Actually forgot that Jesse was on the show, so there’s that.
Another thing that has happened in the past, but not necessarily since the new producers arrived a few seasons ago, is that they final dance is in the reverse order of the finish. So, we’ll see.
Kaitlyn is up next with her freestyle.
Love the entrance. Finally a ramp!! I love this song too. I like that she’s going Charleston. Bit messy exit from one of the lifts and she’ almost got off time afterward but the pulled it together. I liked how they ended it too.
CAI says that movie is her all time favorite. And Kaitlyn met her expectation. Derek remembers the zoom call and now she’s ascending down from the ceiling. Well done. Bruno loves that she captured the feel of Baz Lurhman. Dazzling.
I like how humble Kaitlyn is. I’ve always liked her.
Scores; 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30. No surprises.
Numbers Update: Right now, there is only about 12.7k votes between Nelly and everyone else, assuming that Justina and Nev both get 30’s, which I believe they will. That is very few votes. So, for anyone NOT named Nelly to win, they need for Nelly to not get 12.8k more votes per million votes cast than them, and they need ONE more vote per million votes cast than everyone else (besides Nelly). For Nelly to win, he will have to get 12.8k more votes per million votes cast than all of the other three.
Nev up with Singing in the Rain. He’ll have a hard time impressing me since I’ve seen Derek doing this several times. Oof, got off time there. This transition is interesting. Water has been done many times as well. Um, okay. It was good. But as freestyles go, I’m underwhelmed. What was the point of that last bit.
Derek says you can’t pull off SITR unless you’re a leading man and you are. He compliments Jenna. Bruno says you’re aiming very high, but they were successful. It was inspired. CAI says it was three routines in one.
I was hoping for more but I was rather underwhelmed. That’s the danger in doing a routine like this one – the standard is soooo high. Not to mention that Derek evoked Gene Kelly without even using the music shortly before this one. Yes, Nev is not a pro…but you take a real risk in using that music. That said, Jenna is a rock star. I’ve always appreciated her choreo and this didn’t change that.
Scores: 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30.
That little judges bit was funny. Weird that Tyra mentioned “very unpredictable” season just now. Makes me worried. Well, not really. I don’t really have a horse in this race.
Justina already off to a better start than Nev. Dancing alone and owning it. Cameras doing her no favor with the distance. Oh that lever move was amazing. Okay that was really good, but extremely short. Maybe that’s a sign of how good it was?
Oddly, I found all the freestyles underwhelming except for Nelly’s. I don’t think that the pandemic prevents them from choreographing exciting routines, so what’s the problem?? I think Nelly and Justina were the best.
The judges are raving. Derek says it was the best freestyle to end the season. They crushed it.
Scores: 10, 10, 10 for a total of 30. Not surprisingly. 🙂
Derek spinning in his chair is giving me life. 🙂
Nelly is actually singing, and he’s doing quite well, once you get used to someone actually singing (see AMAs). Derek said dancing with Daniella is like dancing with a ferrari and she is finally getting a chance to show it.
Hell, it’s almost time!! Where did the hour go??
Tyra is so fucking dramatic. Fail.
Fourth Place: Justina and Sasha.
Third Place: Nelly and Daniella
The winners are: Kaitlyn and Artem.
Think Tyra was shocked, by that gasp? Well. ON the one hand I’m happy for Artem, but I’m bummed for Jenna. I’m torn.
Sad this season is over, as its been a good one. Except having Tyrant and her grand entrances every week. I really hope she is a one and done host, but I’m assuming that won’t be likely. Considering ratings are pretty much average to any other season, and she added nothing but her own ego, I still don’t know what they thought she’d bring.
Onto the show-I’ve missed the pro numbers! Can we get rid of Val before next season?
Thinking the order will be: Nelly, Kaitlyn, Nev, Justina
Great opening number!
A live group number! Yay. Tyra looking like a giant loufa. Ew.
Also, I was seriously asking who the new blonde pro was-turns out it was just Sharna. She needs to go back to being a red head.
Tyrant has to be in on the joke about how horrendous her dresses are. I can’t believe she really thinks that looks good. Wonder how many wardrobe changes she’ll have since it’s finale night.
I don’t know if Kaitlyn did any better on that dance, but it was good. I feel like her journey is similar to Hannah’s last season, including having CAI rag on her. I hate that version of Toxic. Unless they want to purposely throw someone under the bus, I’m guessing it’ll be a love and 10 fest from the judges tonight.
What is on Tyrant’s head?
Does anyone else just wish Tyra would fall down the stairs next season? Maybe then she will realize how stupid she looks!
Kaitlyn chose her best dance for the repeat. Nailed it. I am not surprised. Easily a ten. Saying that, somehow it also reminded me how Tyra can annoy me so much when asking questions. What a lovely new outfit btw we went from loofa to bath bomb.
Tyra looks like a fuzzy blue elephant in that outfit. Please put her on a rocket to Mars and end the nightmare on ABC. I can’t be tactful, she is horrid.
Kaitlyn and Artem were so far apart at times. A very good but not great Argentine tango.
The group number was so well done a great opening to the finale. Tyra looks over the top in both outfits and I’m even not crazy about CAI outfit either.
Love nelly and his energy but that was a great choice for the redo but it wasn’t Perfect. I’d say an 8 or 9. Well I’d actually say 8.5 but not an option
That dress is not flattering on Tyrant and now she is wearing something just as wierd.
Daniella’s reaction to making the finals was too cute. I hope she’s cemented herself as a pro. Her and Pasha have been two amazing additions. I love Nelly because he takes this show for what it is-a cheesy, fun, dance competition. I’d be fine if he won. If Nelly doesn’t take the mirror ball (I think he’s got a good chance), I think he’ll get second.
I can’t disagree with Derek about the support Nelly has. I know people who I would never have imagined voting for Nelly that are behind him. And he does have a lot of support online.
Sadly, Tyra Banks lacks class. This is why I tape the show so I can just watch the dancers.
@Trent I’ve been fantasizing about Tyra getting pushed down the stairs by Naomi Campbell, just like in that scene from Showgirls with Nomi, Crystal and the stairs. Then maybe Naomi will take over Tyra’s part of the show.
Nev shaving his chest for the finale is the best thing I’ve seen
If there is a next season, I’d love to see Derek return. My feeling is, COVID or not, Len probably won’t be back. But Derek’s been a huge plus for this season (even when he does have to go along with the narrative).
Nev would be my third choice to win, and while I haven’t been wowed by his dances the last couple of weeks, I do think he’s put on some great, memorable performances. I absolutely loved their paso and am glad they chose to do that one again. This is one dance I will remember. I won’t be mad if he wins, I just like Nelly and Justina more. But I’m really at a loss whose going to take it.
Tyra doing a skit…..what a waste of time. Nev again just manages to make it look effortless. Also someone got another chest wax I see. Def. brave to shave off that hair that makes everyone envious. Anyways a ten out of ten easily
I just hope Melissa, I mean Hannah, I mean Kaitlyn doesn’t win. That would be so boring and predictable lol. I would love to see Justina pull off a win cause she’s so amazing and fun and a breath of fresh air.
Justina is ray of sun shine in that made 2020 so much better. That was brilliant. Easily a ten for me.
Justina just makes me so happy with her dancing and her energy! Rooting for her tonight
I love Justina for the same reasons I love Nelly-she’s just having fun with this experience. Unless the fan votes are super close, I’m not sure she can make up for being in the bottom last week to pull off a win. That was fun. I think I want this as much for her as I do for Sasha.
Derek up next-been looking forward to that almost as much as the couples themselves.
I disagree about Nelly. I think he can win, he is in the final after all, but I wouldn’t use the word “deserve”. HE HASN’T REALLY IMPROVED. HE HASN’T DONE MANY STEPS. Justina on the other hand has improved enough to give Kaitlyn a run for her money. I’m rooting for Kaitlyn and Artem, I would love to see him finally win. If Nev wins, he totally deserves it too; he’s the best male dancer. Justina would be the people’s champion and Nelly, I guess is someone people find entertaining and relatable, and they like his music? But he should come in 4th place.
Quality matters. Improvement matters. The 3 best dancers/performers should be the top 3. And I hope people will vote to reward the best, as it should be. As it used to be. The champion should be someone who can come back and dance like a champion. Not the worst dancer, even if they are the sweetest, funniest, most charismatic contestant ever.
Missing the Christmas theme to this year’s finale. Voting for Nev tonight. He’s the best dancer of the group and deserves the win. My guess is that it’s between Nelly or Kaitlyn though. Sometimes you just can’t overcome those with more popular fan bases. Definitely agree that Nelly isn’t Bones 2.0. He’s a far better dancer and more fun to watch.
I hate that Justina’s dance included two sets of stairs. One is already awkward enough.
I have been pulling from Justina from day one. She never disappoints! Love the pizzaz and joy I see in all of her performances! She is my choice for the WIN!
Is anyone else kinda underwhelmed at this season? Like I like all of the finalists and I’d be happy with any of them winning, but nobody stands out to me where I’m like ‘Oh they HAVE to win!’ Normally I have my favorite by week 3 or 4 who I just obsess over, but this season I think I’ve voted for a different person each week. Even tonight I just stared at my phone for a minute while trying to decide who to vote for.
I could have done without Tyrant in the clips from the season montage, but it has been a fun season.
I know it’d be a long shot, but if the show makes it to S30 and decides that’s going to be it (or any season) I’d love if they got some of the former pros back. Derek, for one. Some of them might be willing to return if they knew that was going to be it for the series.
love Nelly dancing to Tupac a few weeks ago and now Biggie tonight!
Derek showing everyone how it’s done :). Tyras new dress is (and I’m sorry to say this) something that reminded me of cruella deville. Like if she was obsessed with Swans instead of puppies. Anyways to the freestyle I was definitely the most curious about lol. Daniella and nelly killed it but I didn’t like the first part (cuz that song is awful) but the second song kicked in and boom here comes the fun. I’m gonna say a 9
I really loved Nelly this whole season
I think Nelly could overcome a 3 point difference and win. He’s been at the bottom of the leaderboard before and survived staying out of the bottom 2. I’ve seen some comparisons online that I think fit Nelly more than Bobby Bones-David Ross, Bill Engvall, Ty Murray, Drew Scott. I’d agree with grouping him in with those 4 than Bobby.
I feel like pros choreographing their first freestyle fall flat more often than not. Daniella is not one of those pros. That freestyle reminded me of how freestyles used to be back in the day. Nothing crazy, or flashy. Just good dancing and fun. And seeing the pros dancing in the background made me realize how I have not missed having a troupe, or every dance having back up dancers.
I’ll say it again, Daniella is too cute. I agree with the 30, although they typically score freestyles with perfect scores.
Didn’t care for Nellys freestyle at all. Not enough dancing and a lot of standing around. Overscored.
Justina got all my votes tonight. Been rooting for her since week 1 but I wouldn’t be mad if Nelly ends up winning. Nev or Kaitlyn are boring/predictable for me. Omg between Derek’s dance and Daniella making the perfect crazy freestyle for Nelly, some fun stuff tonight!!!
Having said that, if Daniella and Nelly win, she will be the 3rd woman, I believe – next to Julianne and Cheryl – to win on her 1st season. I think only women have achieved this feat.
Heidi, I totally agree with you “That was wonderful. And why did it have to end?? Far too short. Note, for those not paying attention, Derek also took the track and altered it like he has so many times in the past. Dang. Why was it so short?? I wanted MORE!! And there is no higher compliment. He is the Gene/Fred of his generation.” I grew up on so many musicals with the oldies but goodies and Derek belongs up there with the greats!
Kaitlyn chose a great song but at the same time I don’t think artem was having nearly as much fun as her at all. Saying that, that was amazing and I loved it. I’m going to say a ten easily. That was just beyond what I expected when he said the song name. Did he choose it or her though? She seemed very surprised and happy nonetheless.
Checked the overall ratings for 2020. Through 11/16/2020 season viewership is -8.46 representing an overall loss of 6.167 million viewers. Praying Tyra is a one and done and the light show will be one and done. I sort of watched the first episode, and the finale, mainly to watch Derek dance! Tyra’s outfits have been over the top and out of synch with the show concept. DANCING…as in ballroom dancing. No wonder Len bowed out. Did anyone else see Bruno give Tyra the side eye a couple of times tonight? Poor CariAnn can’t even upstage The Tyrant!
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Artem, as I have never seen him choreograph a freestyle, but I really enjoyed It! Kaitlyn could have sold the character a little more, but it will score high.
THAT freestyle. Wow. I was expecting something more Latin from him for some reason and we got gene Kelly and Fred Astaire and I loved it. Easily a ten for me
I also forgot Jesse was part of this season (and he was one of my favorites). Also, I forgot about Vernon.
I forgot this is Artem’s first freestyle over here. That was really good! Although I didn’t really like that brief pause at the end, but overall I enjoyed that (also like that they had a ramp).
I loved Jenna’s freestyle dress. I didn’t enjoy Nev’s as much as the other two, though. We’ll see how Justina closes us out.
Okay I might miss the Christmas theme but I don’t miss the stripping Santas. Haha. The filler for this episode hasn’t been as cringe as normal, and I like that the finale doesn’t seem to be dragging.
I’ve really liked the freestyle dances. I liked the concept of the water during Nev and Jenna’s dance but I’m not sure it lived up to the spectacular freestyle elements we’ve seen in the past. Mark and Derek just created unparalleled freestyles.
Somebody help me out, which previous season had that wall with ropes that they danced on? Did I make that up? Was that a freestyle?
It’s Jenna and Nev all the way for me! I was so blown away especially with the middle section when it started raining. What an electrifying modern day remix for “Singing In The Rain” too. Just excellent!!
Justina and Sasha brought me the party dance freestyle I’ve been craving all night. That was in lack of a better term: Epic. Easily a ten for me
Justina is so amazing. love her so much! that Freestyle was a blast!
Justina’s freestyle was great! I think because every dance wasn’t overloaded with dancers and gimmicks this season it’s made the freestyle round more fun. Interesting that Sasha and Jenna didn’t use any extra dancers in their freestyles. Nev’s was the weakest of the freestyle round, but not sure if that will matter.
Sticking with my prediction that Nelly or Kaitlyn will win (I think I’m leaning slightly more towards Kaitlyn-don’t know why, just a vibe), but I’d love for Justina to take it.
Nev’s freestyle was a copy of all the dances to Singing in the Rain. I was especially disappointed that the second part was a copy of Milo and Witney’s Freestyle. They were also out of sync at times. Not great..
Becca- You’re thinking of Alek & Lindsays freestyle! Gotta love a Lindsay freestyle 🙂
Oooof nelly rapping live tonight was rough. I’m sure he sounds better in concert? I mean I hope so. Only sounded good on it’s getting hot in here
I’ve been waiting for Nelly to sing just to watch Pasha/Daniella dance. And I loved Nelly, of course. Many memories with these songs (also recognized a few of them for being used on here).
I’ll be shocked if anyone other than Kaitlyn wins. this show is very predictable these days haha
I wish they’d just announce the winner and skip the other placements.
Not surprised, but sad that Justina got 4th.
Kaitlyn and Nev were a predictable but kind of boring final 2. Not surprised Kaitlyn took it, I thought it would be between her and Nelly so I was half right (also, technically this isn’t Artem’s first mirrorball, Tyrant). Congratulations to Kaitlyn and especially Artem, but I hope that’s a break on people from the Bachelor Universe for a while.
Perfect final 2. I’m so happy got her she killed it with that freestyle. Tonight’s order made perfect sense and it was tough final two but I would have been glad either way.
Although Justina is my favorite I am not at all surprised that Kaitlyn and Artem won the mirror ball. Congratulations Kaitlyn and Artem!
I am super satisfied with this ending!
Thank you Jess! That’s been one of my favorite freestyles. I hope Lindsay comes back next season!
Damn they’ve got to stop putting Bachelor Nation people on this show. Joe demonstrated how hard it is to overcome the BN votes. Kaitlyn deserves it just as much as Nev and I’m excited for Artem’s first mirrorball but my votes were for Jenna & Nev. I kind of just hate when people who clearly don’t watch the shows are voting for their favorite fandom. Whatever that may be that year.
I’ll take solace in the fact that two accomplished dancers were the final two. It was a good season. Hope DWTS is renewed.
Once again, my favorite couple ends up in second place *sigh* Why do I even bother watching this show lol? I was really hoping for Nev and Jenna to win because i think they delivered great performances week after week and I just loved their partnership. Congratulations to Kaitlyn and Artem.
For a minute there I actually thought Justina might be taking it. It’ll be a long wait until next fall, if we get a S30. Biggest change is hopefully no more Tyrant, and she can take that Andrew producer guy with her, as I feel he’s also responsible for a lot of the downfall in the past couple of seasons (especially Tom getting axed). I’d like to see the pros have more control back, and with some of the comments some of them have made about that and the judges inconsistency with the scoring, I wonder if we’ll see that. But probably not. If Tyrant stays on board, I worry there will be changes that will really reshape the show to unrecognizable.
Putting that aside, it was a really good season. Loved most of the couples, all of my favorites pros returned (and Daniella got made a pro), there were some really great and memorable dances, Derek being a judge was a huge plus, and I finally got to see some celebs that have been on my wish list for years (I loved seeing Johnny up in the balcony rocking out to Nelly). I also loved the lack of extras in the dances (especially the extra dancers). If they would get rid of the stairs it would make the dances even better!
Technically, it IS his first MBT, Kara. SCD doesn’t count – it’s apples and oranges.
Never underestimate the power of Bachelor Nation —regardless I’m thrilled for Kaitlyn she’s a sweet lady and I am thrilled Artem has a mirror ball.
This is crap!
How did Justina make it to 4th place and Nelly made it to the finals? Justina and Nev both had lots of personality. Kristyn had NONE! Is it because people kept complaining how Artem had never won before? So what? You shouldn’t give the trophy to a couple just because the pro never won before. That was one of the issues with Bobby when he won. “Sharna never won before so it’s her time!” I guess now we’ll see either Daniela, Pasha, Gleb, Sasha, Keo, Brandon or Britt win next year because none of them have won.
Justina and Nev not only were two of the best dancers but also had the best personalities. Way more personality than boring Kristyn. Guess personality doesn’t give you the trophy anymore. Just a big following. They need to quit bringing in contestants from The Bachlorette. A Bachlorette star won last season and now we have had three bachlorettes win. Starting to become obvious this show brings them in just for ratings.
I’m sorry but Justina or Nev should’ve brought it home. They were both lots of fun. Justina was way better and had more personality than Nelly so I don’t know how she got 4th and he got 3rd. It’s clear they’re bringing in people who come from really popular fanbases like The Bachlorette or the Olympics and it’s not fair to everyone else. Speaking of big fanbases, it’s no wonder Nelly made it this far who should’ve gone home weeks ago. He’s improved but he wasn’t up to par like the others as far as the whole package goes. Nelly’s a huge rap star so he had a huge fanbase who bring him this far. It’s all about who got the biggest fanbase now who also watch this show.
Sorry, one more thing. Get rid of Tyra! All of her wardrobe every week has been horrible (why does she change up to 3 times per show? Obvious she’s there just show off) and she’s so fake and not sincere at all. Why the poster with her face with that lip gloss and not with the cast? The show is about the stars, not her! Neither Tom or Erin were ever on the posters and the show always start with something involving her. It’s “Dancing With The Stars,” not “Dancing With Tyra Bank” and she’s not the star on the show. By the way, some of the rehearsal packages are too long. I felt like we saw 10 minutes of the rehearsal package of Kaitlyn and Artem tonight.
I don’t know if I’ll say it was just the voting power of Bachelor Nation (although I’m sure that was a large chunk of the success of Kaitlyn/Artem getting the mirrorball). Nikki has of course been plugging hard to her fanbase to vote for Kaitlyn/Artem, and of course, Artem has many fans who were disappointed by him being dumped last season.
Agreed Kara. I don’t think it’s just BN because she wouldn’t have made it this far if she wasn’t good. But I do think it plays a large role in how far BN contestants can go on DWTS. I’ve since stopped watching the Bachelor but I first watched DWTS because of Chris Soules. Turns out I just love watching people dance their hearts out for the MBT more than fighting over a subpar single person in their late 20s.
Loved all four finalists. Congrats again to Kaitlyn and Artem.
I’ve enjoyed all the commentary all season. In fact, I’ve been coming here and reading comments for many years.
I rarely comment myself, but I will for the finale tonight. I’m probably not the main dwts demographic, but as someone in their late 40’s, I’ve been watching the show faithfully with my mom, whose in her 70’s, since the 1st season.
While I enjoy a good dance technically, since the concept of the show, I’ve always enjoyed the journey of an actor, musician, tv host, athlete, etc. getting out of their comfort zone and learning dance. It’s fun to see recognizable celebrities, get better, or not, under the instruction of a dance pro. The celebs the last few seasons have been more and more far reaching. I enjoyed seeing Nelly and Justina, I enjoyed Johnny, and was excited to see Anne Heche and Jesse Metcalf, but most of these cable or streaming reality stars weren’t much of a draw. 2 years in a row of a Bachelor franchise winner? Technically, she may have had all the right steps, she was good, but that’s not why me or my mom watch. They might as well just pick the head cheerleader from 15 football teams and have them as the next ‘stars’. I’m sure they’ll be a bunch of really good dances, it is that why we really watch? Reality stars with dance experience doing really good dances? Personally, I would love to see a 50+ season, I think it could be inspiring. The producers just seem to be endlessly obsessed with chasing the 18-24 demographic. When in fact, their biggest demographic is probably the lifetime & hallmark crowd.
Idk, I’ll probably keep watching til it’s canceled, but I hope Tyra moves on, more importantly, that horrible producer that thinks he turn this show into this teen sensation rating blowout. They need to keep their core loyal following like my mom and aunt. But neither of them knew these ‘stars’ and they missed Tom & Erin.
So that’s my perspective, from a longtime fan of the show and Pure DWTS. For what it’s worth, I hope we can see a season 30 with some back to basics changes.
Thanks for all the great commentary guys & gals!
Overall I think this season was pretty tame, but then again we might not have had Dancing with the Stars this year. It was very nice to see Artem and Kaitlyn win. In the end there were some surprises this season, I always enjoy that, and I’m excited for next year’s DWTS. Did Tyra mention anything about season 30 btw?
Tyra starting the show off wearing a shower loofah. And Carrie Ann looked like she was wearing a failed project from her origami. I wasn’t crazy about Bruno’s shiny black tie, but the rest of his outfit looked fine. Derek looked very classy and handsome.
Tyra’s second outfit look like she picked petals up off the floor and glued them together to make a dress and I don’t even know what to say about the crown.
Caitlin was at first but I never really thought the routine was that great enter pairing or even manhandled her into position a few times. She’s just not that flexible or sharp. She just often looks awkward to me.
Nelly was much more confident and fun to watch. I thought he did the bounce much better too.
I see Nev actually shaved his chest. This routine was even more theatrical then the first time you did it. Well done.
If Justin is one thing it’s a performer.
Derek as always was simply brilliant.
Tyra’s 3rd dress was probably her best of the evening, but that’s not sayng much. Looks like she found some broken shingles added sparkles and glued them on a dress.
Not sure it’s fair to have Nelly perform on the show when he still in the competition. Not my type of music but I thought he performed well. I really enjoyed him this season. Certainly not the best dancer but probably consistently the funnest to watch.
Nelly’s freestyle was about what I expected. I didn’t like the music or the costumes. Nor did I think it his best dance.
Kaitlyn freestyle and costumes were fine if not old-fashioned. I thought she was stiff and sometimes off balance during the dance. I don’t think it’s that she lacks attack it’s just that she’s rather awkward. I didn’t care for the lame ending either. Obviously they’re just going to give everybody TENS for the freestyle.
Nev’s costume and choreography were okay but he’s no Derek Hough. I think it’s suffered a lot in comparison.
I loved justina’s costume. I didn’t find anything spectacular about the performance but it was solid.
Nev, Justina, Nelly, Kaitlyn in that order IMO.
All in all I thought it was a very disappointing season. Tyra was a horrible to watch host. Her costumes weren’t cute or clever they were just ugly and ridiculous. She has no interviewing skills either.
And the costumes were terrible this season. Very few would stand out in a positive way.
The production team definitely exerts an influence on the judges. But, all in all I think Derek did a great job and was a good influence on Carrie Ann and Bruno.
I didn’t mind the judges save in the first three or four shows but I think it should have been retired after that.
I had skipped the last three or four seasons because of lack of interest. I came back to watch again only because I heard Derek was going to be a judge.
I’m going to stick with watching Derek on YouTube. I can’t imagine sitting through another season especially with Tyra hosting. And that makes me kind of sad because I started watching this show live when Donny Osmond won.
The show is all about votes so fanbase is what it is all about. So it’s fantastic that a strong dancer brings a strong fanbase with her, because there have been too many times that a good dancer gets to go early because of a lack of fanbase. Frankly I’m thrilled that the superior dancers actually got to be the final 2, because all the justification in the world never convinced me that poor dancers get to win just because they’re so likeable.
Of all the freestyles tonight I thought Kaitlyn and Artem had the right mix. I thought they stayed true to Moulin Rouge whilst not losing the joy of DWTS. Moulin Rouge has an undercurrent of foreboding so the expression of dread to happiness from Kaitlyn at the end was a little stroke of genius. Well done Artem.
I didn’t care for the overt sexploitaion of Nellys dance, I get it, but I just find it off putting. I was let down by Justinas strong woman opener devolve into just basic Latin steps, and I just didn’t like the choreography of Nev and Jennas dance – a classic musical like singing in the rain while trying hard to morph into hip hop when all we got was a weird hang at the end to me missed the mark. Jenna was far more successful combining ballet and paso double if that was the freestyle it would have been a Freestyle for the ages.
Really great season! Love DWTS! Not crazy about Tyra, tho. All my votes went to Nelly. Disappointed for Justina/ Sasha & Nev/Jenna. Happy for Artem. Hope we see season 30. Thank you, Pure DWTS – I love reading every week!
I was glad to see Nev and Kaitlyn as the finalists. While I voted for Nev and was disappointed that he and Jenna didn’t win the MBT, I was also glad to see Kaitlyn, who really wanted to be on the show, go all the way and win the MBT. I’m also glad to see Artem win his first DWTS MBT.
I would have placed Justina third and Nelly fourth.
If there is another season, they shouldn’t cast anyone from Bachelor Nation. With Bachelorettes winning back to back seasons, it is obvious that the Bachelor Nation fan base is strong and will vote for anyone associated with The Bachelor or The Bachelorette.
Also, if there is another season, they need to replace Tyrant. Her hosting style doesn’t work for the show. One idea I have is, if Len returns as a judge, have Derek host the show. Just a thought.
That dress on Tyra was horrid!
Wow wow! Congrats to Kaitlyn and Artem! Well deserved! I have no qualms about BN and whether they win back to back mirrorballs. I did feel like Kaitlyn and Artem were truly deserving of it, and I’m glad they won! Excited to see Artem get his first mirrorball too. I kinda felt like he’s always been so nice and understated, just a DWTS pushover who gets all the older ladies or gets shafted in replacement of another pro. He got his dues. Felt Justina should have placed third and Nelly fourth, but its ok, I think it was expected. Hope there’s a season 30, and it’s the final season. DWTS, you were good while you lasted, but I think it’s time to retire.. Thank you moderators for this whole season of writing!
Very late to this, but I would like to chime in my thanks to the ladies and gent of this amazing blog! Can no longer watch live, but your site helps me catch up on everything about this DWTS season.
From the moment the finalists were determined, I knew I was okay with any of them winning, although I was lowkey rooting for Justina & Sasha to take the MBT. I just like that this finale was a feel good one for me. Agreed that Nelly’s was the best freestyle. And Daniella! That lady oozes with talent.
Loved Derek’s performance! Wish it was longer. Loved the pros’ opening number. Wish we could have more of pro dances, but yeah, covid.
Huge thanks once again, Pure Team!
Honestly loved this season. First time in a long time I didn’t sit in front of the TV knowing exactly who would win and I loved that. I’m so so happy for Kaitlyn and Artem (mostly for Artem, haha). Nev will go down on the long list of incredible second placers (along with Zendaya, James, Riker, Lindsey, I can go on and on). I’m a little sad for Nev but Val’s Instagram post after the show made me want to throw up, it’s not all about you, Val. I loved Jenna Johnson, I don’t care for Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy.
I loved Derek’s performance so so so much, could watch it over and over again. Freestyles were kinda as expected. Nelly was so much fun, Kaitlyns wowed me the most, Justina is a powerhouse, and Nev was just as clean and perfect as he always is (except the concept didn’t feel super original to me).
Thank you PureDWTS for another great season of recaps and live blogs!
Glad Kaitlyn and Artem won- well- deserved! Wish Justina would have taken second, though. The highlight of the show for me was Derek’s performance. Last night’s number, as well as his Paso with Hayley, should earn him another Emmy.
Thanks to everyone for all the kind words. 🙂
Shawn Johnson has been promoting Kaitlyn on her instagram as well – Kaitlyn lives in Nashville and apparently knows Shawn and her husband, who also live here.
I enjoyed this season as well, definitely the best since Season 25. Great cast, good dancing, it felt far more stripped back due to Covid, almost a throw back to the good old days. I think it would have proved even more popular had Tom and Erin still hosted. I managed to successfully zone out from Tyra after a couple of weeks and just focus on the dancing. Derek I thought made a good addition to the panel and I’d be more than happy if he were to return either alongside or instead of Len. If they get rid of Tyra and cast as well as they did this season then next season (should we have one) would look very promising. Was very surprised at the winner, but ultimately not upset as Kaitlyn didn’t really offend me.
I’m late as well but add me to the list of people wishing to give thanks to the runners at Pure. For many seasons now you’ve created this safe space for people to come and talk about the show and it’s very much appreciated. All of you and all posters on here stay safe, winter well and hopefully we’ll be able to do it all again next year!
This is unfair.
Why did Kaitlyn and Artem win? They weren’t even that good. I was seriously disappointed, since last season a person who could actually dance won the show, but I’m ultimately doubting that this show is actually judging the celebs. Johnny was a much better dancer than Kaitlyn and had higher scores. She won because she was voted in by her fans and by Artem’s too. Nelly beat out a majority of dancers, and he was completely stiff. Dwts has always been one of my fave shows, but they need to cut out the fan voting, or I won’t be watching….