Mon, Mar 19, 2012
Another quest for the mirror ball is underway, and in grand fashion the new cast is announced for the 14th season. And now, with their last names included for the first and last time all season...
TV host Maria Menounos and Derek Hough
Actor and singer Jack Wagner and Anna Trebunskaya
Football player Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd
Singer Gavin DeGraw and Karina Smirnoff
Actor Roshon Fegan and Chelsie Hightower
Actress and TV host Sherri Shepherd and Val Chmerkovskiy
Actress Melissa Gilbert and Maks Chmerkovskiy
Actor William Levy and Cheryl Burke
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova and Tony Dovolani
Classical singer Katherine Jenkins and Mark Ballas
Singer Gladys Knighta and Tristan McManus
TV star Jaleel White and Kym Johnson
Maria & Derek: The Extra co-host is used to awkward situations and so shes open to the competition. Derek says he wants as many mirror ball trophies as he has chest hairs -- which is four. First thing we notice in rehearsal is Marias undescribable laugh, as Derek puts it. They get to the sexy stuff right away, with the cha cha. Head judge Len Goodman starts the season by saying Maria coped very, very well for the first dance and suggested a little more hip action. Bruno Tonioli says Maria is so curvasciously delicious, and agrees with Len that Maria has to open up the sex pot, by gyrating her hips. He urges her to think about Sofia Vergara. Carrie Ann Inaba says it was a strong, solid cha cha, but tells Maria to work on moving confidently more from one move to the next. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Jack & Anna: Jack is ready to add dancer to his list of entertainment qualifications. Anna, the Russian redhead, is ready to push Jack harder whenever hes doubting himself. Their first dance is the fox trot and its testing his insecurities. Bruno says it was beautifully acted, beautifully danced. He loves the way Jack extends his moves, and wonders what hes going to do in Week 2. Carrie Ann says Jack just took her to a happy place. Len liked the feel of the dance, but says Jacks technique is poor and his footwork is a hazard. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Donald & Peta: Donald says that of all the balls hes caught, hes never caught a mirror ball and he wants one. Peta is ready for redemption after being ousted one week into her DWTS debut last season. In rehearsal, Peta takes note of Donalds super-skinny legs. The crowd goes nuts for Donald and his groove, and even Tom says, That didnt feel like Week 1. Carrie Ann says Donald is nothing but charisma and charm for days. She says it was a crowd-pleaser and she cant wait to see him come back next week and do a quickstep. Len says Donalds flair was great, but he got a little over-excited at times. Hes also looking forward to Donalds quickstep, which will require more control and form. Bruno says Donald is a diamond in the rough, but agrees Donald got a little excited -- he was like a rooster chasing a hen. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Gavin & Karina: The singer says hes been trying to get out from behind his piano in concerts, and hes feeling more vulnerable. Karina is ready to defend her DWTS title, which she won last season. They dance a fox trot. Len says Gavin coped well with a difficult dance, but he was a little stiff in what should have been a fluid and romantic dance. He thinks the jive will suit Gavin more. Bruno says Gavin had a great charm, but needs to learn to link the moves and not stiffen up at the wrong places. Gavin adds that he sometimes stiffen(s) up at the wrong times, too. Carrie Ann says Gavin brought the story together well, but what she thinks hes hyper-extending his arm movements. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Roshon & Chelsie: This years Disney Channel star says he isnt intimidated. Chelsie says Roshon, a hip hop dancer, should have been good at the cha cha, but he looks like a lost puppy on the dance floor. The crowd goes wild and Bruno is smiling. Bruno says Roshon can go on and on and on. He says Roshons feet were laser sharp and he was unbelievable. Carrie Ann says Roshon did the coolest spin shes seen on a cha cha in all 14 seasons. She compares him to Michael Jackson. Len says theres no question Roshon can dance, but the technically, it wasnt great. He wants to see more cha cha and less hip hop. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Sherri & Val: Sherri reminds us shes an actress and comedian, and shes about to laugh her way to a mirror ball. Val refers to himself as Maks younger, better-looking brother. Sherris working on her elegance. They dance a fox trot, appropriately enough, to Frankie Vallis Sherry. Carrie Ann calls Sherri the happiest contestant theyve had in all 14 seasons, and she did a nice job. Len says Sherri brought the joy of dance into the ball room and sums his comments up in three words: Fun, fun, fun. Bruno says shes light on her feet, her timing was good, and shes lights up the room. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Melissa & Maks: After her marriage fell apart and her back broke, Melissa says shes ready to turn in her pig tails and prairie dress for sequins and high heels. She was happy to be paired with Maks because she loves to be challenged. Len says he would have liked to have seen more hip action and shape in her free arm. He says some of the lines she created were great. Bruno echos Lens comments about Melissas free hand. Carrie Ann says she sees great potential, but thinks Melissa was a bit nervous and her shoulders were held higher (in a tense way) during the dance. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
William & Cheryl: William, who Tom says is known as the Mexican Brad Pitt, which is odd because hes from Cuba, is a theater actor and is known for his roles on telenovelas. Cheryl is taken by how good looking he is, and they started a week later than everyone else. They dance a cha cha. Bruno is on the edge of his seat, and stands up to declare William and Cheryl the hottest package of the season! He tells William hes overdressed. Carrie Ann thanks ABC for her job. She says she liked Williams partnering, and control of Cheryl. Len says William was right on the edge throughout, but kept it under control, good job. Scores: 8, 8, 8. Total: 24
Martina & Tony: Martina says she decided after surviving breast cancer, she decided theres nothing to be afraid of, so shes taking on DWTS. She says she hasnt worn a dress in 20 years, so were all about to see a different side of her. Carrie Anns breath is taken away by Martinas beauty on the dance floor. She tells her to work on her turns and spots for future weeks. Len says it was close, but it wasnt quite there, saying it was a little too careful. He says she has to come out and wow it a little more. Bruno tells Martina shes never looked better and she looks stunning. He tells her to learn to extend her moves through her arms to give a greater sense of fluidity, but she did very well. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Katherine & Mark: Katherine sang on Season 12 of DWTS, but this time shes on the dance floor. She says its exciting that no one knows her in America and it makes it a whole new experience. Shes hoping people will want to support her after she throws herself into her fox trot. The performance prompts Tom to say this is his favorite premiere since the show started. Len says he liked the musicality and the details. He says she should life her rib cage when shes in hold a bit more. Bruno says it was exquisite. He says her style and quality of movement were great. Carrie Ann says she and the crowd got quiet because they felt like they were watching two pros dancing together. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Gladys & Tristan: Gladys says the Pips never let her dance in rehearsals, and now shes going to make like a Pip. Tristan says hes the hot one from DWTS. Gladys gets a massive standing ovation after the performance, including from Bruno, who says she has got the moves. He calls her a real star. Carrie Ann says Gladys made her want to get up and dance, and she says shes so honored that Gladys is on their dance floor and shaking (her) tail feather like nobodys business. Len says theres a naturalness about Gladys dancing and it oozes rhythm. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Jaleel & Kym: Jaleel knows Americas is just waiting for him to fall and says, Did I do that? in classic Urkel style, so hes going to have to make sure he doesnt do that. Kym says shes ready to take back the mirror ball after Karina took it last season. She says Jaleel is a natural. They start their fox trot with an impressive synchronized spinning jump, and the smooth moves continue through the big finish that earns big cheers from the crowd. Carrie Ann says Jaleel was the icing on the cake at the end of a great night. Len loved the way he got into hold and out with elegance and sophistication, and adds that, without a doubt, this is the best first show of any season. Bruno says he thought he was watching the great Gregory Hines, and as a compliment it couldnt get better. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 26
Jaleel & Kym: 26
William & Cheryl: 24
Jack & Anna: 23
Roshon & Chelsie: 23
Sherri & Val: 23
Gladys & Tristan: 23
Maria & Derek: 21
Donald & Peta: 21
Gavin & Karina: 20
Melissa & Maks: 20
Martina & Tony: 20
TV host Maria Menounos and Derek Hough
Actor and singer Jack Wagner and Anna Trebunskaya
Football player Donald Driver and Peta Murgatroyd
Singer Gavin DeGraw and Karina Smirnoff
Actor Roshon Fegan and Chelsie Hightower
Actress and TV host Sherri Shepherd and Val Chmerkovskiy
Actress Melissa Gilbert and Maks Chmerkovskiy
Actor William Levy and Cheryl Burke
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova and Tony Dovolani
Classical singer Katherine Jenkins and Mark Ballas
Singer Gladys Knighta and Tristan McManus
TV star Jaleel White and Kym Johnson
Maria & Derek: The Extra co-host is used to awkward situations and so shes open to the competition. Derek says he wants as many mirror ball trophies as he has chest hairs -- which is four. First thing we notice in rehearsal is Marias undescribable laugh, as Derek puts it. They get to the sexy stuff right away, with the cha cha. Head judge Len Goodman starts the season by saying Maria coped very, very well for the first dance and suggested a little more hip action. Bruno Tonioli says Maria is so curvasciously delicious, and agrees with Len that Maria has to open up the sex pot, by gyrating her hips. He urges her to think about Sofia Vergara. Carrie Ann Inaba says it was a strong, solid cha cha, but tells Maria to work on moving confidently more from one move to the next. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Jack & Anna: Jack is ready to add dancer to his list of entertainment qualifications. Anna, the Russian redhead, is ready to push Jack harder whenever hes doubting himself. Their first dance is the fox trot and its testing his insecurities. Bruno says it was beautifully acted, beautifully danced. He loves the way Jack extends his moves, and wonders what hes going to do in Week 2. Carrie Ann says Jack just took her to a happy place. Len liked the feel of the dance, but says Jacks technique is poor and his footwork is a hazard. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Donald & Peta: Donald says that of all the balls hes caught, hes never caught a mirror ball and he wants one. Peta is ready for redemption after being ousted one week into her DWTS debut last season. In rehearsal, Peta takes note of Donalds super-skinny legs. The crowd goes nuts for Donald and his groove, and even Tom says, That didnt feel like Week 1. Carrie Ann says Donald is nothing but charisma and charm for days. She says it was a crowd-pleaser and she cant wait to see him come back next week and do a quickstep. Len says Donalds flair was great, but he got a little over-excited at times. Hes also looking forward to Donalds quickstep, which will require more control and form. Bruno says Donald is a diamond in the rough, but agrees Donald got a little excited -- he was like a rooster chasing a hen. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Gavin & Karina: The singer says hes been trying to get out from behind his piano in concerts, and hes feeling more vulnerable. Karina is ready to defend her DWTS title, which she won last season. They dance a fox trot. Len says Gavin coped well with a difficult dance, but he was a little stiff in what should have been a fluid and romantic dance. He thinks the jive will suit Gavin more. Bruno says Gavin had a great charm, but needs to learn to link the moves and not stiffen up at the wrong places. Gavin adds that he sometimes stiffen(s) up at the wrong times, too. Carrie Ann says Gavin brought the story together well, but what she thinks hes hyper-extending his arm movements. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Roshon & Chelsie: This years Disney Channel star says he isnt intimidated. Chelsie says Roshon, a hip hop dancer, should have been good at the cha cha, but he looks like a lost puppy on the dance floor. The crowd goes wild and Bruno is smiling. Bruno says Roshon can go on and on and on. He says Roshons feet were laser sharp and he was unbelievable. Carrie Ann says Roshon did the coolest spin shes seen on a cha cha in all 14 seasons. She compares him to Michael Jackson. Len says theres no question Roshon can dance, but the technically, it wasnt great. He wants to see more cha cha and less hip hop. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Sherri & Val: Sherri reminds us shes an actress and comedian, and shes about to laugh her way to a mirror ball. Val refers to himself as Maks younger, better-looking brother. Sherris working on her elegance. They dance a fox trot, appropriately enough, to Frankie Vallis Sherry. Carrie Ann calls Sherri the happiest contestant theyve had in all 14 seasons, and she did a nice job. Len says Sherri brought the joy of dance into the ball room and sums his comments up in three words: Fun, fun, fun. Bruno says shes light on her feet, her timing was good, and shes lights up the room. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Melissa & Maks: After her marriage fell apart and her back broke, Melissa says shes ready to turn in her pig tails and prairie dress for sequins and high heels. She was happy to be paired with Maks because she loves to be challenged. Len says he would have liked to have seen more hip action and shape in her free arm. He says some of the lines she created were great. Bruno echos Lens comments about Melissas free hand. Carrie Ann says she sees great potential, but thinks Melissa was a bit nervous and her shoulders were held higher (in a tense way) during the dance. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
William & Cheryl: William, who Tom says is known as the Mexican Brad Pitt, which is odd because hes from Cuba, is a theater actor and is known for his roles on telenovelas. Cheryl is taken by how good looking he is, and they started a week later than everyone else. They dance a cha cha. Bruno is on the edge of his seat, and stands up to declare William and Cheryl the hottest package of the season! He tells William hes overdressed. Carrie Ann thanks ABC for her job. She says she liked Williams partnering, and control of Cheryl. Len says William was right on the edge throughout, but kept it under control, good job. Scores: 8, 8, 8. Total: 24
Martina & Tony: Martina says she decided after surviving breast cancer, she decided theres nothing to be afraid of, so shes taking on DWTS. She says she hasnt worn a dress in 20 years, so were all about to see a different side of her. Carrie Anns breath is taken away by Martinas beauty on the dance floor. She tells her to work on her turns and spots for future weeks. Len says it was close, but it wasnt quite there, saying it was a little too careful. He says she has to come out and wow it a little more. Bruno tells Martina shes never looked better and she looks stunning. He tells her to learn to extend her moves through her arms to give a greater sense of fluidity, but she did very well. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Katherine & Mark: Katherine sang on Season 12 of DWTS, but this time shes on the dance floor. She says its exciting that no one knows her in America and it makes it a whole new experience. Shes hoping people will want to support her after she throws herself into her fox trot. The performance prompts Tom to say this is his favorite premiere since the show started. Len says he liked the musicality and the details. He says she should life her rib cage when shes in hold a bit more. Bruno says it was exquisite. He says her style and quality of movement were great. Carrie Ann says she and the crowd got quiet because they felt like they were watching two pros dancing together. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Gladys & Tristan: Gladys says the Pips never let her dance in rehearsals, and now shes going to make like a Pip. Tristan says hes the hot one from DWTS. Gladys gets a massive standing ovation after the performance, including from Bruno, who says she has got the moves. He calls her a real star. Carrie Ann says Gladys made her want to get up and dance, and she says shes so honored that Gladys is on their dance floor and shaking (her) tail feather like nobodys business. Len says theres a naturalness about Gladys dancing and it oozes rhythm. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Jaleel & Kym: Jaleel knows Americas is just waiting for him to fall and says, Did I do that? in classic Urkel style, so hes going to have to make sure he doesnt do that. Kym says shes ready to take back the mirror ball after Karina took it last season. She says Jaleel is a natural. They start their fox trot with an impressive synchronized spinning jump, and the smooth moves continue through the big finish that earns big cheers from the crowd. Carrie Ann says Jaleel was the icing on the cake at the end of a great night. Len loved the way he got into hold and out with elegance and sophistication, and adds that, without a doubt, this is the best first show of any season. Bruno says he thought he was watching the great Gregory Hines, and as a compliment it couldnt get better. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 26
Jaleel & Kym: 26
William & Cheryl: 24
Jack & Anna: 23
Roshon & Chelsie: 23
Sherri & Val: 23
Gladys & Tristan: 23
Maria & Derek: 21
Donald & Peta: 21
Gavin & Karina: 20
Melissa & Maks: 20
Martina & Tony: 20
Mon, Mar 26, 2012
It's Week 2 on "Dancing with the Stars," and this time it's for real. The couples' scores from last week's performances will be combined with Monday night's scores and -- in conjunction with America's votes -- will determine the first couple eliminated on Tuesday night.
Roshon & Chelsie: After a cha cha that wowed the judges, Roshon is getting a serious ballroom challenge with the quickstep. Len Goodman says he liked it. He praises Roshon for taking the slows on his heel, which hardly anyone does correctly. Bruno Tonioli says Roshon has "more sparks than a bolt of lightning." Carrie Ann Inaba says Roshon turned his swagger "into sophistication and elegance," and she calls him a little prince. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Sherri & Val: Sherri draws the jive to "Proud Mary," and she's not really looking forward to the stamina test. "My equipment is way to heavy for all fo that bouncing around," she says. She's having tons of fun, but appears to skip a slide between Val's legs at one point. Sherri holds up quite well throughout, then collapses to the floor. Bruno shouts that Sherri knows "how to work all that magnificent equipment." Carrie Ann is screaming, too, and says she's "in love" with Sherri. "This is where confidence can take you past mistakes," she says. Len says Sherri, the audience and he felt good. "I love watching you," he tells her. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Melissa & Maks: After a cha cha that had Carrie seeing "great potential," Melissa is looking to rise up from the bottom of the rankings. Melissa gets emotional during rehearsal when Maks tells her she's done well, which makes him feel like he can't win. They dance a quickstep to Billy Idol's "Dancing with Myself," and Melissa reminds us that she dated Mr. Idol in the '80s. Carrie Ann points out a slip, but says she liked the performance better after that because Melissa started to let go of some tension at that point. Len says Melissa started with good posture and energy, but once she lost energy, the posture went with it. Bruno agrees, telling Melissa that when she's enjoying it she dances better, but when she over-thinks it, she gets tense. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Jack & Anna: Jack found himself near the top of the leader board after the first performance, and wants to keep his comfortable position after a tricky jive. Len says he liked the content, attitude and energy, but Jack lost a little control. Still, he thinks Jack's two dances are "acceptable" to get him through another week. Bruno says the kicks and flicks have to be right on in the jive, and Jack lost them at times. Carrie Ann says Jack's a really good dancer, but he "over-danced" this one, and she wants him to have a little more ease. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Gladys & Tristan: Gladys is giddy from her "extraordinary night" the week before, but the quickstep is going to bring a new challenge. She gets the crowd on its feet again after a nicely paced performance to Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke." Bruno loves Gladys' natural connection to the music and to Tristan. He reminds her to be careful about her frame. Carrie Ann agrees, saying Gladys is "extremely light" on her feet, but agrees that the frame was a little off. Len congratulates Gladys on getting through the dance because there's "a lot of technique." He says that as much as he admires Gladys, he didn't really enjoy the performance. Scores: 7, 5, 7. Total: 19
Katherine & Mark: The unknown star roared to the top of the pack last week, and she's ready to bring it. But she's not so sure she's ready to shake her "naughty bits" the way Mark wants her to. Carrie Ann is "all hot and bothered," and says she's never seen the speed and the leg extension Katherine brought. Len says the middle section wasn't really his cup of tea, but he liked it. Bruno declares, "the blonde bombshell is unleashed!" Bruno also tells everyone to take note that Katherine just showed "how you do flicks." Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Jaleel & Kym: Jaleel was "over the moon" after last week's tie-for-the-top score. This week, they're dancing a jive that Kym keeps making more difficult because she sees Jaleel's potential. Len says it lacked a little attack and speed. There were moments he enjoyed, he says, but it wasn't crisp and sharp. Bruno likes that it was quirky, slightly different, but Jaleel also needs to be sharper with his kicks and flicks. Carrie Ann says Jaleel was dancing a little flat-footed. Scores: 7, 7, 8. Total: 22
Maria & Derek: After Bruno called upon Maria to unleash her sexy side, she's going to perform a quickstep that has a "Bonnie & Clyde" theme. She hurts a rib in rehearsal, but says she's going to be a tough Greek and power through it. Maria says Maria had "a frame you can frame." He says it was nearly spotless except for one step they lost in a run. He calls it brilliant. Carrie Ann says "that is what we're looking for when we talk about frame and hold." She's also bothered by one bit where they got out of sync, but says it's a "huge improvement" from last week to this week. Len says the quickstep is about speed and control, and they had plenty of both. He says he wouldn't have been as harsh on the slip-up as the others. Scores: 8, 8, 9. Total: 25
Martina & Tony: Looking to bounce back after playing it too safe last week, Martina wants to step it up during the jive. She re-injures a problematic toe in rehearsal. Carrie Ann says it was "sad" because she loved the approach to the routine, but there were several steps complete missed. Len says it was too neat and too precise, and a bit careful. He says he didn't see her attack the dance the way she should have. Bruno says "that serve went into the net." He hopes she'll get a chance to come back and hit it harder. Scores: 6, 5, 6. Total: 17
Donald & Peta: After some disappointment last week, Peta is pushing Donald to his limits this week because she knows he can handle it. They dance a quickstep. Len says "that performance was up there with the best I've seen tonight." Len also says he re-watched last week's show and admits he "undermarked" Donald. He apologizes, and asks Donald to understand how even the referees in football games have the luxury of on-the-spot instant replay and sometimes still get the calls wrong. Donald thanks him. Bruno says it was "spot-on," and "refined and elegant." Carrie Ann tells Donald that "all those years of watching 'Dancing with the Stars' paid off." Scores: 8, 8, 8. Total: 24
Gavin & Karina: After landing tied for last, Gavin wants to climb back but has a lot of trouble picking up the jive. He's ready to quit after getting the first round of pointers from Karina. But he pulls through with a smile. Bruno says Gavin messed up a lot of his kicks and flicks, and they were not that good. Carrie Ann says Gavin was definitely on the edge and pushing his boundaries. She enjoyed hi "animated and lively performance," and admired that he went way past what he's used to. Len liked the energy and attitude, and says this was an improvement over last week. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
William & Cheryl: The squeals you heard from pretty much wherever you were on Earth on Monday night could only mean William was on the dance floor. Indeed, Cheryl tells the voters that the more votes they get, the more of William's clothes will come off. They dance a quickstep. Carrie Ann says the quickstep is not just about sexy and heat, it's about technique, and he's "like the Harry Connick Jr. of the ballroom." Len says he liked the mix of steps, movement and posture, but says William needed cleaner footwork, lacked body contact and even though his frame started great, he lost it. Bruno says Williams has the ability to dazzle. He says William reminded him of "The Artist" with his sparkle. Scores: 9, 7, 9. Total: 25
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 26 + 26 = 52
Roshon & Chelsie: 23 + 26 = 49
William & Cheryl: 24 + 25 = 49
Jaleel & Kym: 26 + 22 = 48
Sherri & Val: 23 + 23 = 46
Maria & Derek: 21 + 25 = 46
Donald & Peta: 21 + 24 = 45
Jack & Anna: 23 + 21 = 44
Gladys & Tristan: 23 + 19 = 42
Gavin & Karina: 20 + 21 = 41
Melissa & Maks: 20 + 20 = 40
Martina & Tony: 20 + 17 = 37
Roshon & Chelsie: After a cha cha that wowed the judges, Roshon is getting a serious ballroom challenge with the quickstep. Len Goodman says he liked it. He praises Roshon for taking the slows on his heel, which hardly anyone does correctly. Bruno Tonioli says Roshon has "more sparks than a bolt of lightning." Carrie Ann Inaba says Roshon turned his swagger "into sophistication and elegance," and she calls him a little prince. Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Sherri & Val: Sherri draws the jive to "Proud Mary," and she's not really looking forward to the stamina test. "My equipment is way to heavy for all fo that bouncing around," she says. She's having tons of fun, but appears to skip a slide between Val's legs at one point. Sherri holds up quite well throughout, then collapses to the floor. Bruno shouts that Sherri knows "how to work all that magnificent equipment." Carrie Ann is screaming, too, and says she's "in love" with Sherri. "This is where confidence can take you past mistakes," she says. Len says Sherri, the audience and he felt good. "I love watching you," he tells her. Scores: 8, 7, 8. Total: 23
Melissa & Maks: After a cha cha that had Carrie seeing "great potential," Melissa is looking to rise up from the bottom of the rankings. Melissa gets emotional during rehearsal when Maks tells her she's done well, which makes him feel like he can't win. They dance a quickstep to Billy Idol's "Dancing with Myself," and Melissa reminds us that she dated Mr. Idol in the '80s. Carrie Ann points out a slip, but says she liked the performance better after that because Melissa started to let go of some tension at that point. Len says Melissa started with good posture and energy, but once she lost energy, the posture went with it. Bruno agrees, telling Melissa that when she's enjoying it she dances better, but when she over-thinks it, she gets tense. Scores: 7, 6, 7. Total: 20
Jack & Anna: Jack found himself near the top of the leader board after the first performance, and wants to keep his comfortable position after a tricky jive. Len says he liked the content, attitude and energy, but Jack lost a little control. Still, he thinks Jack's two dances are "acceptable" to get him through another week. Bruno says the kicks and flicks have to be right on in the jive, and Jack lost them at times. Carrie Ann says Jack's a really good dancer, but he "over-danced" this one, and she wants him to have a little more ease. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
Gladys & Tristan: Gladys is giddy from her "extraordinary night" the week before, but the quickstep is going to bring a new challenge. She gets the crowd on its feet again after a nicely paced performance to Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke." Bruno loves Gladys' natural connection to the music and to Tristan. He reminds her to be careful about her frame. Carrie Ann agrees, saying Gladys is "extremely light" on her feet, but agrees that the frame was a little off. Len congratulates Gladys on getting through the dance because there's "a lot of technique." He says that as much as he admires Gladys, he didn't really enjoy the performance. Scores: 7, 5, 7. Total: 19
Katherine & Mark: The unknown star roared to the top of the pack last week, and she's ready to bring it. But she's not so sure she's ready to shake her "naughty bits" the way Mark wants her to. Carrie Ann is "all hot and bothered," and says she's never seen the speed and the leg extension Katherine brought. Len says the middle section wasn't really his cup of tea, but he liked it. Bruno declares, "the blonde bombshell is unleashed!" Bruno also tells everyone to take note that Katherine just showed "how you do flicks." Scores: 9, 8, 9. Total: 26
Jaleel & Kym: Jaleel was "over the moon" after last week's tie-for-the-top score. This week, they're dancing a jive that Kym keeps making more difficult because she sees Jaleel's potential. Len says it lacked a little attack and speed. There were moments he enjoyed, he says, but it wasn't crisp and sharp. Bruno likes that it was quirky, slightly different, but Jaleel also needs to be sharper with his kicks and flicks. Carrie Ann says Jaleel was dancing a little flat-footed. Scores: 7, 7, 8. Total: 22
Maria & Derek: After Bruno called upon Maria to unleash her sexy side, she's going to perform a quickstep that has a "Bonnie & Clyde" theme. She hurts a rib in rehearsal, but says she's going to be a tough Greek and power through it. Maria says Maria had "a frame you can frame." He says it was nearly spotless except for one step they lost in a run. He calls it brilliant. Carrie Ann says "that is what we're looking for when we talk about frame and hold." She's also bothered by one bit where they got out of sync, but says it's a "huge improvement" from last week to this week. Len says the quickstep is about speed and control, and they had plenty of both. He says he wouldn't have been as harsh on the slip-up as the others. Scores: 8, 8, 9. Total: 25
Martina & Tony: Looking to bounce back after playing it too safe last week, Martina wants to step it up during the jive. She re-injures a problematic toe in rehearsal. Carrie Ann says it was "sad" because she loved the approach to the routine, but there were several steps complete missed. Len says it was too neat and too precise, and a bit careful. He says he didn't see her attack the dance the way she should have. Bruno says "that serve went into the net." He hopes she'll get a chance to come back and hit it harder. Scores: 6, 5, 6. Total: 17
Donald & Peta: After some disappointment last week, Peta is pushing Donald to his limits this week because she knows he can handle it. They dance a quickstep. Len says "that performance was up there with the best I've seen tonight." Len also says he re-watched last week's show and admits he "undermarked" Donald. He apologizes, and asks Donald to understand how even the referees in football games have the luxury of on-the-spot instant replay and sometimes still get the calls wrong. Donald thanks him. Bruno says it was "spot-on," and "refined and elegant." Carrie Ann tells Donald that "all those years of watching 'Dancing with the Stars' paid off." Scores: 8, 8, 8. Total: 24
Gavin & Karina: After landing tied for last, Gavin wants to climb back but has a lot of trouble picking up the jive. He's ready to quit after getting the first round of pointers from Karina. But he pulls through with a smile. Bruno says Gavin messed up a lot of his kicks and flicks, and they were not that good. Carrie Ann says Gavin was definitely on the edge and pushing his boundaries. She enjoyed hi "animated and lively performance," and admired that he went way past what he's used to. Len liked the energy and attitude, and says this was an improvement over last week. Scores: 7, 7, 7. Total: 21
William & Cheryl: The squeals you heard from pretty much wherever you were on Earth on Monday night could only mean William was on the dance floor. Indeed, Cheryl tells the voters that the more votes they get, the more of William's clothes will come off. They dance a quickstep. Carrie Ann says the quickstep is not just about sexy and heat, it's about technique, and he's "like the Harry Connick Jr. of the ballroom." Len says he liked the mix of steps, movement and posture, but says William needed cleaner footwork, lacked body contact and even though his frame started great, he lost it. Bruno says Williams has the ability to dazzle. He says William reminded him of "The Artist" with his sparkle. Scores: 9, 7, 9. Total: 25
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 26 + 26 = 52
Roshon & Chelsie: 23 + 26 = 49
William & Cheryl: 24 + 25 = 49
Jaleel & Kym: 26 + 22 = 48
Sherri & Val: 23 + 23 = 46
Maria & Derek: 21 + 25 = 46
Donald & Peta: 21 + 24 = 45
Jack & Anna: 23 + 21 = 44
Gladys & Tristan: 23 + 19 = 42
Gavin & Karina: 20 + 21 = 41
Melissa & Maks: 20 + 20 = 40
Martina & Tony: 20 + 17 = 37
Mon, May 21, 2012
It's time for the finals on "Dancing with the Stars," which means the mirror ball will be handed to one couple Tuesday night. First, the couples will perform a dance chosen by the judges and then they'll get a chance to showcase their skills in the freestyle.
William & Cheryl: Bruno Tonioli stops by to coach William through the cha cha, and tells him his hip action is "sex on legs," but he has to keep his form throughout the dance. Head judge Len Goodman says "that's as good as I've ever seen in 14 seasons of cha cha cha." Bruno again praises William's hip action, which made him "green with envy." Carrie Ann Inaba says Williams has "grown miles, and that's what the show's about." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Katherine & Mark: Len pays a visit to give some pointers on the paso doble, which he said had a little too much aggression and not enough finesse the first time Katherine did it. Bruno says it was "full of vivid, lush, lustrous artistry." He adds it was "technical brilliance." Carrie Ann says every movement was "perfectly executed." Len says it was "very satisfying -- fabulous." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta: Carrie Ann shows up to walk Donald through his Argentine tango. She liked his first one, giving it a 10, but Len gave it an 8 and Bruno gave it a 9. She thinks what was lacking was the content and choreography, so she urges them to include more dynamic movements. Carrie Ann reminds us that she loved it the first and she "loved it again." She says there was "a new crispness" in all of Donald's moves. Len says there was far more content, the lifts were great, but he thinks it "was a tad careful." Still, he thinks it was "a vast improvement." Bruno says it was very effective and subtle. Scores: 10, 9, 10. Total: 29
William & Cheryl's freestyle: Cheryl cooks up a lift-heavy freestyle for William, and she pays the price early on when he drops her a few times. He's also worried about one sequence in which he's supposed to carry Cheryl down the steps. Fittingly, Williams' freestyle is a Latin-inspired gem that sends the crowd into hysterics. Len can't be heard over the crowd, but it's clear he liked it. He liked the lifts, changes of rhythms, but "it was too predictable." He says he didn't want a salsa with lifts. Bruno says they were "like two devils unleashed onto the Earth, into a Latin-inspired extravaganza." Carrie Ann is fired up, smiling wide and making strange hand and arm movements. She says it was exactly what a freestyle should be, but Len vocally disagrees. Scores: 10, 9, 10. Total: 29
Katherine & Mark's freestyle: Mark wants to show variety in Katherine's freestyle, so there will fast and slow dynamics, and different styles of dance. She falls hard on a trick in rehearsal, but keeps going at it. She says she's ready to give her all. Bruno says he's never seen so much content, so fast, so well executed, and says Katherine was on the money. Carrie Ann says Katherine "can do anything," and she thinks "that was the dance of a champion." Len says, "If I'm asleep and dreaming, don't wake me up; this is a freestyle." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta's freestyle: Donald sets out to surprise people with a trick-filled country-inspired dance. Things seem to be going just fine in rehearsal until Donald spins Peta around and she hits her mouth on his arm, cutting her lip. Things work out, though, and they bring the house down. Carrie Ann, who stood on the table to give her standing ovation, says "this is, by far, my favorite final and that was, by far, my favorite dance of the night." Len says it was "too hot to trot." Len says Donald took an enormous chance and it was fantastic. Bruno calls it "a country-inspired triumph." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 30 + 30 = 60
William & Cheryl: 30 + 29 = 59
Donald & Peta: 29 + 30 = 59
William & Cheryl: Bruno Tonioli stops by to coach William through the cha cha, and tells him his hip action is "sex on legs," but he has to keep his form throughout the dance. Head judge Len Goodman says "that's as good as I've ever seen in 14 seasons of cha cha cha." Bruno again praises William's hip action, which made him "green with envy." Carrie Ann Inaba says Williams has "grown miles, and that's what the show's about." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Katherine & Mark: Len pays a visit to give some pointers on the paso doble, which he said had a little too much aggression and not enough finesse the first time Katherine did it. Bruno says it was "full of vivid, lush, lustrous artistry." He adds it was "technical brilliance." Carrie Ann says every movement was "perfectly executed." Len says it was "very satisfying -- fabulous." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta: Carrie Ann shows up to walk Donald through his Argentine tango. She liked his first one, giving it a 10, but Len gave it an 8 and Bruno gave it a 9. She thinks what was lacking was the content and choreography, so she urges them to include more dynamic movements. Carrie Ann reminds us that she loved it the first and she "loved it again." She says there was "a new crispness" in all of Donald's moves. Len says there was far more content, the lifts were great, but he thinks it "was a tad careful." Still, he thinks it was "a vast improvement." Bruno says it was very effective and subtle. Scores: 10, 9, 10. Total: 29
William & Cheryl's freestyle: Cheryl cooks up a lift-heavy freestyle for William, and she pays the price early on when he drops her a few times. He's also worried about one sequence in which he's supposed to carry Cheryl down the steps. Fittingly, Williams' freestyle is a Latin-inspired gem that sends the crowd into hysterics. Len can't be heard over the crowd, but it's clear he liked it. He liked the lifts, changes of rhythms, but "it was too predictable." He says he didn't want a salsa with lifts. Bruno says they were "like two devils unleashed onto the Earth, into a Latin-inspired extravaganza." Carrie Ann is fired up, smiling wide and making strange hand and arm movements. She says it was exactly what a freestyle should be, but Len vocally disagrees. Scores: 10, 9, 10. Total: 29
Katherine & Mark's freestyle: Mark wants to show variety in Katherine's freestyle, so there will fast and slow dynamics, and different styles of dance. She falls hard on a trick in rehearsal, but keeps going at it. She says she's ready to give her all. Bruno says he's never seen so much content, so fast, so well executed, and says Katherine was on the money. Carrie Ann says Katherine "can do anything," and she thinks "that was the dance of a champion." Len says, "If I'm asleep and dreaming, don't wake me up; this is a freestyle." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta's freestyle: Donald sets out to surprise people with a trick-filled country-inspired dance. Things seem to be going just fine in rehearsal until Donald spins Peta around and she hits her mouth on his arm, cutting her lip. Things work out, though, and they bring the house down. Carrie Ann, who stood on the table to give her standing ovation, says "this is, by far, my favorite final and that was, by far, my favorite dance of the night." Len says it was "too hot to trot." Len says Donald took an enormous chance and it was fantastic. Bruno calls it "a country-inspired triumph." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 30 + 30 = 60
William & Cheryl: 30 + 29 = 59
Donald & Peta: 29 + 30 = 59
Tue, May 22, 2012
After one of the closest-ever finals, just one point separates the three remaining couples and it's time to crown a champ -- in two hours. The opening dance brings all the couples back to the floor and we're off and running.
The one remaining challenge is that the couples will have to perform one more dance to a song for which they received the music just 24 hours earlier.
In a featurette highlighting the top three, Carrie Ann Inaba calls William "a phenomenon" and she says that "every nuance of every move is telling you something." Len calls Katherine "one of the most technically advanced dancers we have ever had on 'Dancing with the Stars.'" Bruno says some of the lines Katherine produces "are so amazing they belong in the Getty museum." The judges all hope Katherine can handle the pressure. Len says "Donald's like a gladiator coming out to do battle." Bruno says what's great about Donald is that he takes the judges' comments and comes back to show improvement.
Sherri Shepherd performs with a bunch of dudes, and loves it, to "It's Raining Men."
After a video recap of the whole season, we get performances from Martina & Tony and Jack & Anna. Gavin & Karina then take the floor. After more and more filler, Gladys & Tristan perform.
Afterward, Jaleel gets a chance to perform a paso doble to the theme from "Shaft," which he says is a longtime dream. Next, Melissa and the Chmerkovskiy Brothers perform their trio dance from earlier in the season. Roshon & Chelsie get their chance to perform a freestyle. This is where Roshon feels like he can shine.
Kelly Clarkson stops by to plug her new ABC show "Duets" -- er, perform a song.
Maria & Derek reappear to perform their Argentine tango.
William & Cheryl: The couple's salsa sends the crowd crazy. Len says that if salsa were an event in the Olympics, he'd get a gold medal. Bruno says "when it comes down to hot, saucy, sexy, spicy salsa, hips don't lie -- nobody does it better than William." Carrie Ann says William has "true star quality" and declares him "The Salsa King." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Katherine & Mark: Katherine gets emotional realizing her last dance is coming up, and she sets out to do her jive. Bruno says Katherine has "versatility, great technique" and good range in her performances. Carrie Ann says Katherine is a "brilliant artist," and she thanks Katherine and Mark for setting the bar so high for the rest of the group. Len tells Katherine she is "the complete package." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta: Donald is intimidating despite the hot pink pants and pink shoes with heels, and his dancing speaks for itself. Carrie Ann says Donald is the man to beat. Len says Donald is the best "footballer" the show has had -- and that includes champion Emmitt Smith, who is in the crowd. Bruno says Donald truly had the mind of a champion and piqued at the right time. Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 90
William & Cheryl: 89
Donald & Peta: 89
Gladys Knight performs "The Way We Were" before the final results are read.
The couple coming in third place is William & Cheryl.
And the winners of "Dancing with the Stars" Season 14 are Donald & Peta.
The one remaining challenge is that the couples will have to perform one more dance to a song for which they received the music just 24 hours earlier.
In a featurette highlighting the top three, Carrie Ann Inaba calls William "a phenomenon" and she says that "every nuance of every move is telling you something." Len calls Katherine "one of the most technically advanced dancers we have ever had on 'Dancing with the Stars.'" Bruno says some of the lines Katherine produces "are so amazing they belong in the Getty museum." The judges all hope Katherine can handle the pressure. Len says "Donald's like a gladiator coming out to do battle." Bruno says what's great about Donald is that he takes the judges' comments and comes back to show improvement.
Sherri Shepherd performs with a bunch of dudes, and loves it, to "It's Raining Men."
After a video recap of the whole season, we get performances from Martina & Tony and Jack & Anna. Gavin & Karina then take the floor. After more and more filler, Gladys & Tristan perform.
Afterward, Jaleel gets a chance to perform a paso doble to the theme from "Shaft," which he says is a longtime dream. Next, Melissa and the Chmerkovskiy Brothers perform their trio dance from earlier in the season. Roshon & Chelsie get their chance to perform a freestyle. This is where Roshon feels like he can shine.
Kelly Clarkson stops by to plug her new ABC show "Duets" -- er, perform a song.
Maria & Derek reappear to perform their Argentine tango.
William & Cheryl: The couple's salsa sends the crowd crazy. Len says that if salsa were an event in the Olympics, he'd get a gold medal. Bruno says "when it comes down to hot, saucy, sexy, spicy salsa, hips don't lie -- nobody does it better than William." Carrie Ann says William has "true star quality" and declares him "The Salsa King." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Katherine & Mark: Katherine gets emotional realizing her last dance is coming up, and she sets out to do her jive. Bruno says Katherine has "versatility, great technique" and good range in her performances. Carrie Ann says Katherine is a "brilliant artist," and she thanks Katherine and Mark for setting the bar so high for the rest of the group. Len tells Katherine she is "the complete package." Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
Donald & Peta: Donald is intimidating despite the hot pink pants and pink shoes with heels, and his dancing speaks for itself. Carrie Ann says Donald is the man to beat. Len says Donald is the best "footballer" the show has had -- and that includes champion Emmitt Smith, who is in the crowd. Bruno says Donald truly had the mind of a champion and piqued at the right time. Scores: 10, 10, 10. Total: 30
LEADER BOARD:
Katherine & Mark: 90
William & Cheryl: 89
Donald & Peta: 89
Gladys Knight performs "The Way We Were" before the final results are read.
The couple coming in third place is William & Cheryl.
And the winners of "Dancing with the Stars" Season 14 are Donald & Peta.