Dancing With the Stars Season 21- Week 2 (Hometown Glory) Review

Two nights of dances?! And in week two?! This has never been done before, and must have put a lot of pressure on the couples! I guess it was a good thing for the audience, though, since we got 25 dances in two nights, along with 2 opening numbers! It was Hometown Glory week on Dancing With the Stars, and the couples were ready to compete! On night one, we learned about the contestants' hometowns and had our first elimination of the season. On night two, for the first time ever, we learned about the pros' hometowns, and had the second elimination of the season. There was a lot to watch, so I better get to it! Here are my thoughts from the week:

Night 1- The Celebrities' Homes

Opening Number

I Lived by OneRepublic

My first thought when hearing this song was Noah Galloway-- he is amazing! I loved the simple opening, even though it didn't have any dancing. There were some time constraints, so I let this one slide.

Nick Carter and Sharna Burgess (#TeamSharNick)

Jive- Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy by The Andrews Sisters

Score: 7, 7, 7 (21/30)

Nick's Home: Florida

It's too bad that Nick had that slip up with the shoes. It turns out that he was also off the music at the beginning because he couldn't hear the music. This was the first time that I saw Nick not comfortable on the dance floor. All in all, he still recovered well. I give Nick and Sharna's Jive a 7.

Paula Deen and Louis van Amstel (#TeamButtercup)

Rumba- Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips

Score: 7, 6, 6 (19/30)

Paula's Home: Georgia

This was a big comeback from last week for Paula. She has rhythm, which is really helping her out. She does need to complete her movements with slower, fluid motion. I noticed some minor mess ups but she pretty much nailed that dance. I give Paula and Louis's Rumba a 6.

Hayes Grier and Emma Slater (#TeamSlayes)

Foxtrot- This is How We Roll by Florida Georgia Lin featuring Luke Bryan

Score: 8, 7, 7 (22/30)

Hayes's Home: North Carolina

I'm not alone when I say I was not a fan of the motor bike at the beginning. For the dance, though, I think I was in the minority because I was not too impressed with it. It was okay, but I do not completely agree with this dance being a huge improvement from last week. He did not let loose enough for my taste. I give Hayes and Emma's Foxtrot a 7.

Chaka Khan and Keoikantse Motsepe (#TeamChaKeo)- Eliminated- 13th Place

Foxtrot- Chicago (That Toddlin' Town) by Frank Sinatra

Score: 5, 5, 5 (15/30) Bottom of the Leaderboard

Chaka's Home: Illinois

Once again, Chaka forgot her steps, but not as many as last week. Due to the very noticable height difference, they were at a disadvantage for the hold, but Keo was very creative with the choreography. I can't say I didn't expect for them to be eliminated, but I do think that this season is filled with competitors, and it will will be hard for everyone to reach the finals. I give Chaka and Keo's Foxtrot a 5.

Andy Grammer and Allison Holker (#TeamAndison)

Jive- Only the Good Die Young by Billy Joel

Score: 7, 7, 7 (21/30)

Andy's Home: New York

First off, I loved the whole production for this dance. The New York stand and the

yellow color were some good touches. Andy was off time on and off, which made him rush a little bit. Despite that, I would be lying if I said that this Jive didn't put a smile on my face! I give Andy and Allison's Jive a 7.

 

Kim Zolciak-Biermann and Tony Dovolani (#TeamTKO)

Quickstep- Queen Bee by Rochelle Diamante

Score: 7, 6, 6 (19/30)

Kim's Home: Georgia

This was the comeback that I was really hoping for. Kim looks so much more vibrant and confident now; I like this new Kim! I would have preferred to see some more Quickstep content, but this was still a major improvement, despite her side kicks being less than par. I give Kim and Tony's Quickstep a 7.

Alek Skarlatos and Lindsay Arnold (#TeamTakedown)

Jazz- Don't Stop Believin' by Journey

Score: 8, 7, 8 (23/30)

Alek's Home: California

If I didn't see the word "Jazz" on the corner of my screen, I would have thought that this was a Contemporary. Do I really care, though? No, not really. Alek nailed those lifts, but I would have liked to have seen less lifts, and more steps. What he did do was actually very technical, and that really impressed me. I give Alek and Lindsay's Jazz an 8.

Alexa PenaVega and Mark Ballas (#TeamBAEga)

Salsa- Que Es Lo Que Quiere Esa Nena by El General

Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30)

Alexa's Home: Florida

I always love Mark's production and choreographhy-- this was no exception! Alexa was hot, hot, hot in that costume, and moved really well to go along with it. Every movement she makes, she puts an emphasis on it. That in itself can get her really far in this competition. I give Alexa and Mark's Salsa an 8.

Victor Espinoza and Karina Smirnoff (#TeamEspinoff)

Jive- La Bamba by Ritchie Valens

Score: 6, 5, 6 (17/30)

Victor's Home: Mexico

Obviously this Jive was extremely comical, but when you take that away, the while dance was very lackluster. Karina pretty much danced around him, and the few steps that Victor did were all technically wrong. On the bright side, I love the fact that this was a Mexican-themed Jive; it's a very unique concept. I give Victor and Karina's Jive a 5.

Tamar Braxton and Valentin Chmerkovskiy (#TeamValenTay)

Cha-Cha-Cha- We Are Family by Sister Sledge

Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30)

Tamar's Home: Maryland

I think Tamar and Alexa were competing with who was sexier last night because, well, look at them! Just like Alexa, Tamar also had lots of good hip action. As the judges said, I think she was better out of hold than in hold. But hey, it was still pretty great when she was dancing with Val. I give Tamar and Val's Cha-Cha-Cha an 8.

Gary Busey and Anna Trebunskaya (#TeamGaryAnna)

Foxtrot- Wouldn't It Be Nice by The Beach Boys

Score: 6, 6, 6 (18/30)

Gary's Home: Oklahoma

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw Gary and Anna actually get to the Foxtrot content. Gary had such spectacular moments, especially with his feet, both those moments would come and go. I'm just glad that Gary never lost his personality in this dance. I give Gary and Anna's Foxtrot a 6.

Carlos PenaVega and Witney Carson (#TeamBrownSugar)

Foxtrot- Home by Blake Shelton

Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30)

Carlos's Home: Missouri

There was a special presence that this Foxtrot casted. Carlos is very smooth and elegant, which helped him really feel the dance. He is a true performer, and I think that that will really help him get the votes. Sometimes his lines are not from the core, so in essence, the movements feel like they stop for a split second. I give Carlos and Witney's Foxtrot an 8.

Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough (#TeamCrikey)

Tango- You Shook Me All Night Long by AC/DC

Score: 9, 8, 8 (25/30) Top of the Leaderboard

Bindi's Home: Australia

Is there anything this girl can't do?! Bindi was on point from start to finish, but I do have to say that she hit each move with a little too much uncontrolled energy. If she could calm that down a bit, she will be golden. I give Bindi and Derek's Tango an 8.

Night 2- The Pros' Homes

Opening Number

Take Me Home by Cash Cash featuring Bebe Rexha

Once when you think the show will probably run out of ideas soon, they keep bringing in some new and exciting openings! I loved the homemade videos and pictures! The fact that this was all shot with one camera amazes me. Great job, Dancing With the Stars crew!

Hayes Grier and Emma Slater (#TeamSlayes)

Quickstep- Are You Gonna Be My Girl by Jet

Score: 8, 7, 8 (23/30)

Emma's Home: England

Unlike his Foxtrot, I found Hayes's Quickstep to be much more technical. This, to me, was Hayes's breakthrough dance. One side note, though, is that he needs to close his mouth. He looks very uncomfortable when he does that. Also, he needs to fix his heel placement. I give Hayes and Emma's Quickstep an 8.

Carlos PenaVega and Witney Carson (#TeamBrownSugar)

Cha-Cha-Cha- Hound Dog by Big Mama Thornton

Score: 7, 7, 7 (21/30)

Witney's Home: Utah

I could not stop looking at Witney in this set, which is both a good and a bad thing. I would have really liked to see Carlos shine in this Cha-Cha-Cha, but instead, it felt a bit small. Don't get me wrong, his technique was great. I just want to see him own that dance floor. I give Carlos and Witney's Cha-Cha-Cha a 7.

Gary Busey and Anna Trebunskaya (#TeamGaryAnna)

Paso Doble- 1812 Overture by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Score: 5, 5, 5 (15/30) Bottom of the Leaderboard

Anna's Home: Russia

I surprisingly find my self to love this partnership. The fact that Gary calls Anna "Russia with Love" cracks me up! As for the Paso Doble, there was not much of one, but what are going to do? I give Gary and Anna's Paso Doble a 5.

Andy Grammer and Allison Holker (#TeamAndison)

Contemporary- Heaven Is a Place on Earth by Belinds Carlisle

Score: 8, 8, 7 (23/30)

Allison's Home: Utah

Doesn't it seem like most of the pros are from Utah?! Huh, weird. I know that Andy had some stability problems, but I was really impressed with this dance. Andy always knew what to do with every part of his body, which is probably thanks to the amazing Allision! I give Andy and Allison's Contemporary an 8.

Alexa PenaVega and Mark Ballas (#TeamBAEga)

Rumba- "Somewhere in Time" Theme by John Barry

Score: 7, 7, 8 (22/30)

Mark's Home: England

Mark did a superb job in channeling Shirley Ballas through Alexa. It was very moving, especially with Shirley's signature move at the end. However, it seemed like Alexa was under a great deal of pressure, because her lines were not as spectacular as they were the night before. Overall, it seemed a bit clumsy. I give Alexa and Mark's Rumba a 7.

Paula Deen and Louis van Amstel (#TeamButtercup)

Tango- Get Ready by The Temptations

Score: 6, 6, 6 (18/30)

Louis's Home: Amsterdam

Paula was on fire in this Tango! She had some sharp turns, and a pretty sexy leg raise. A few critiques, though, is that she needs to fully place her feet when traveling, as well as carry a tighter hold. I give Paula and Louis's Tango a 7.

Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough (#TeamCrikey)

Waltz- Only a Man by Jonny Lang

Score: 7, 8, 8 (23/30)

Derek's Home: Utah and England

I was really glad to see Bindi's vulnerable side this week on DWTS. She has great rise and fall, and professional-like turns. Her arms could use some work, but I think Derek will be able to help with that. Oh, and the whole "illegal lift" thing from Carrie Ann, to me, was unjustified. Carrie Ann is very inconsistent with her judging. I give Bindi and Derek's Waltz and 8.

Kim Zolciak-Biermann and Tony Dovolani (#TeamTKO)

Foxtrot- Come Home by OneRepublic featuring Sara Bareilles

Score: 6, 6, 6 (18/30)

Tony's Home: Kosovo

I think the nerves came back to Kim on Tuesday. I think Kim was holding back on what she is truly capable of, but it was a beautiful piece. Tony's story really made this dance stick out to me, and made it very special for the audience. I give Kim and Tony's Foxtrot a 7.

Alek Skarlatos and Lindsay Arnold (#TeamTakedown)

Quickstep- American Girl by Elle King

Score: 7, 7, 8 (22/30)

Lindsay's Home: Utah

It's a good thing that Lindsay is a creative choreographer, because the music had such long low points for a Quickstep. Although Alek almost couldn't keep up, he still had a lot of awareness and control in his feet. I give Alek and Lindsay's Quickstep a 7.

Victor Espinoza and Karina Smirnoff (#TeamEspinoff)- Eliminated- 12th Place

Rumba- Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

Score: 7, 6, 7 (20/30)

Karina's Home: Ukraine

Right when I saw this Rumba, it automatically made me think of Rumer and Val's Rumba from last season. Victor had the same problems in this dance that he did in his other dances, but he did improve on them. He actually framed Karina really well. This was another elimination that I could see coming, but I wanted to see him for a little while longer since he has such a unique and likable personality. I give Victor and Karina's Rumba a 6.

Nick Carter and Sharna Burgess (#TeamSharNick)

Foxtrot- Coming Home, Pt. II by Skylar Grey

Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30)

Sharna's Home: Australia

Sharna's story was so emotional-- there was not a dry eye in that room! Nick really matched the incredibly powerful music with such grace and elegance. He and Sharna filled the room with all of that emotion. I could tell that Nick could feel the music in a way that translated beautifully on the dance floor. This was tied for my favorite routine of the night! I give Nick and Sharna's Forxtrot an 8.

Tamar Braxton and Valentin Chmerkovskiy (#TeamValenTay)

Charleston- Living in New York City by Robin Thicke

Score: 8, 8, 9 (25/30) Top of the Leaderboard

Val's Home: New York

This was my other favorite dance of the night! It looked like this was the only couple that was not significantly affected by the fact that they had two dances to perform in one week. This was by far the most energetic and technical performance I saw for Hometown Week! I give Tamar and Val's Charleston a 9.

Hometown Glory week is over, and the show will go back to only one round of dances per week. Next week is TV Night on Dancing With the Stars, with season 19 champion Alfonso Ribeiro as a guest judge!

What did you think of Hometwon Glory week on Dancing With the Stars? Which hometown story was your favorite? What was your favorite performance from each night?

Follow me on Twitter at @DWTS2015 for DWTS news, updates, and more!

Dancing With the Stars Season 21- Week 1 (Premiere) Review

The season premiere of season 21 of Dancing With the Stars had a lot of great dancers! It is going to be a tough journey for the celebrities to make it to the finals since so many seem to work it like there is no tomorrow! Here are my thoughts on the show:

Opening Number
Emergency (Remix) by Icona Pop

What a way to start the season! I actually thought that this was a more explosive opening number than last year's anniversary debut. I could tell that a lot of the celebrities forgot most of the choreography for the opening number, but what can you expect? Not all of them are natural-born dancers. I can't wait to see the new contestants, along with the familiar pros this season on the dance floor!

Jockey Victor Espinoza and his partner Karina Smirnoff (#TeamEspinoff)
Salsa- G.D.F.R. by Flo Rida featuring Sage the Gemini and Lookas
Score: 5, 5, 5 (15/30)

This was something, alright! To start off, the fact that the song was barely even a Salsa song, really put Victor and Karina at a disadvantage. I mean, there could have been a whole lot more Salsa content, though. I guess it is challenging for both Victor and Karina because of Victor's VERY short term memory. However, I thought that both Victor's mirror ball hat along with that ridiculous hip movement kinda made up for everything. Kinda. I give Victor and Karina's Salsa a 4. I wanted much more content. It is hard going first, but I want to see him really sell it!

Reality Star Tamar Braxton and her partner Valentin Chmerkovskiy (#TeamValenTay)
Quickstep- Do Your Thing by Basement Jaxx
Score: 8, 7, 8 (23/30)

Quickstep week one? I am a bit conflicted about that. It does give a wider variety of dance styles for week one, but since the dances were barely even a minute long, I personally think that that amount of time is enough for a solid Quickstep. Tamar did great with the dance, though. I remember Amber Riley singing this song on the show a few seasons back, and thinking how awesome that could be for a Lindy Hop, Jazz, Quickstep, Charleston, Swing, Jitterbug, etc, dance. Val did not make it easy for Tamar this week, which I appreciate, because most dances this week had barely any content. Tamar has lots of potential! I give Tamar and Val's Quickstep a 7. Tamar needs to keep her frame steady, and not rush the music.

Singer Chaka Khan and her partner Keoikantse Motsepe (#TeamChaKeo)
Cha-Cha-Cha- I Feel for You by Chaka Khan
Score: 5, 4, 4 (13/30)

This couple's safety is already not looking good. There was so much that went wrong with this dance. Of course I want to see Keo go far for once, but I think that he really needs to drill the choreography into Chaka's head in order to well next week. Chaka really needs to pick up feet, and find something to do with her arms. It would be really beneficial if they did more steps in hold because Chaka clearly could not have remembered the steps. I give Chaka and Keo's Cha-Cha-Cha a 4. I want to see more hold, bigger movements, and much sharper lines.

Vine Star Hayes Grier and his partner Emma Slater (#TeamSlayes)
Cha-Cha-Cha- Cheerleader by OMI
Score: 7, 7, 7 (21/30)

One thing that really stuck out to me during the premiere was the fact that everything was very sexualized during both the package and the dance. I don't have anything wrong with sexy movements, but some of the things said and suggested were a bit much for Hayes. Besides that, Hayes did okay. I want to see some more confident steps from him, and more hip movements, surprisingly enough. I really want to see him enjoy the dance, and I'm just not getting that from him. . . yet. I give Hayes and Emma's Cha-Cha-Cha a 6. I need some more technique from him. He needs to feel the dance more.

Singer Andy Grammer and his partner Allison Holker (#TeamAndison)
Foxtrot- Marvin Gaye by Marvin Puth featuring Meghan Trainor
Score: 7, 7, 7 (21/30)

Just like I said with Hayes, Andy needs to be more technical as well. The whole dance was pretty much unstable. Andy and Allison were enjoyable to watch, but a few moments made me cringe. I love the fact that Andy is dancing for his mother, and I think that Allison is gradually bringing out the best in him so Andy can make it far for her. I give Andy and Allison's Foxtrot a 6. Andy needs to loosen up his shoulders. He also needs to get a better control of Allison.

TV Chef Paula Deen and her partner Louis van Amstel (#TeamButtercup)
Quickstep- Hey, Good Lookin' by Carl Welsman
Score: 5, 5, 5 (15/30)

First of all, the video package was hilarious! This is going to be interesting seeing more of Paula's actions and behaviors on the show. For the dance, it was pretty much what I expected. I do give her props for keeping up with this difficult dance, but she did not deliver. She was far off the music, as well as all over the place in her movements. The nerves did seem to get to her, but that is not excuse for this show. I give Paula and Louis's Quickstep a 4. Paula needs to keep up with Louis. She needs to pay attention more attention to the beat, and not pay any attention to her nerves, which were clearly noticeable.

Singer/Actor Carlos PenaVega and his partner Witney Carson (#TeamBrownSugar)
Jive- I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown
Score: 8, 8, 7 (23/30)

Husband vs. Wife! I think it's going to be really odd when the first of the spouses get eliminated. However, I think that both of them are here to stay for a while! Carlos seems like a complete natural. His kicks and flicks were on point. I got a bit of a flashback from Alfonso and Witney's Jive from season 19, because it had the same essence of style as this dance. Although I think that Carlos was cleaner than Alexa, I think that Carlos had limited full body motion compared to his wife. I give Carlos and Witney's Jive an 8.

Actress Alexa PenaVega and her partner Mark Ballas (#TeamBAEga)
Jive- Whistle (While You Work It) by Katy Tiz
Score: 7, 7, 8 (22/30)

What I saw from Alexa that nobody else had during the premiere was the electric sexiness that radiated throughout the dance floor. This, to me, was one of the most technical dances of the night. She did need to kicker stronger and higher, but she performed it well. Despite some of the flaws, I prefer Alexa's Jive over Carlos's. She had more content and more personality than him. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out in the long run; Alexa and Carlos are a couple to beat! I give Alexa and Mark's Jive an 8. I would really like to see the kicks nailed more, as well as higher knees.

Reality Star Kim Zolciak-Biermann and her partner Tony Dovilani (#TeamTKO)
Salsa- Hey Mama by David Guetta featuring Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha, and Afrojack
Score: 4, 4, 4 (12/30) Bottom of the Leader Board

As the judges said, this was like watching a Salsa in slow motion. Not only that, but the few Salsa moves that she did do, they were done without precision. Even the several hip rolls that were spread throughout the dance were lackluster. From the look of her face, I think it had to do with stage freight. I have a strong feeling that this pair will be eliminated next week, but there are still two dances for her to perform next week. I give Kim and Tony's Salsa a 3. There has to be more everything- steps, technique, stability, etc.

Wildlife Activist Bindi Irwin and her partner Derek Hough (#TeamCrikey)
Jive- Crocodile Rock by Elton John
Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30) Top of the Leader Board

Bindi and Derek had my favorite dance of the night! Bindi is a girl ready to compete, and it will be hard to stop her! Her excitement shined through the dance floor! She actually matched with Derek's steps really well, despite her little flub with the side-by-side rushed kicks.She looks like a natural, and that will definitely help her in the future. I give Bindi and Derek's Jive an 8. The kicks and flicks were nailed. Just as a side note, I think that Bindi needs to make her stance a little bit less wide just so the movements don't seem very bulky.

Actor Gary Busey and his partner Anna Trebunskaya (#TeamGaryAnna)
Cha-Cha-Cha- Dancing in the Street by David Bowie and Mick Jagger
Score: 5, 5, 5 (15/30)

This was yet another dance without much content. Gary is comedy gold, but now I want to see actually get into the music. Anna did well with him, but I am wanting a breakthrough from these two. One part of me thinks that they might be eliminated next week, but another part of me is saying that they have the votes to make it a few more weeks into the show. At least Gary remembered most of his steps, unlike some other celebrities. I give Gary and Anna's Cha-Cha-Cha a 4. His arms needed to be more extended, and he needed to flex his knees more.

American Soldier Alek Skarlatos and his partner Lindsay Arnold (#TeamTakedown)
Foxtrot- Ten Feet Tall by Afrojack featuring Wrabel
Score:8, 7, 7 (22/30)

I was so happy when I saw this dance. I am so glad that Alek did well since he made such a subtle appearance on Good Morning America. Not only that, but who wouldn't want to root for a hero?  This Foxtrot actually reminded me a lot of Andy and Allison's Foxtrot, but this one made a better impression on me. He was very fluid, and had some pretty good rise and fall. I give Alek and Lindsay's Foxtrot a 7. He needs to space out his hands some more. A few of his moments were a little bit robotic, but I think that Lindsay can fix that.

Backstreet Boy Nick Carter and his partner Sharna Burgess (#TeamSharNick)
Cha-Cha-Cha- I Don't Like It, I Love It by Flo Rida featuring Robin Thicke and Verdine White
Score: 8, 8, 8 (24/30) Top of the Leader Board

This Cha-Cha-Cha was a bit too Hip-Hop for my liking, but Nick's suave movements made up for that. This is another natural dancer, so he did not miss a beat. What I was really impressed with in this dance was that I was only paying attention to Nick, and not Sharna. Since Sharna is such a fierce dancer, that really showed to me how much a performer Nick is. I give Nick and Sharna's Cha-Cha-Cha an 8. Just like with Alek, I want to see more flexible hands, but that was very minor compared his extraordinary footwork.

So what was your favorite dance from the DWTS season 21 premiere? WHo are you rooting for this season? Who do you think will eliminated next week?
Next week on Dancing With the Stars, the couples will dance two dances for "Hometown Glory Week". We will learn all about both the celebrities and the pros' hometowns on Monday, September 21, 2015! Also, there will be two eliminations, so nobody is safe!

For more Dancing With the Stars updates, live tweets, opinions, and more, follow me on Twitter at @DWTS2015!

DWTS Season 21 Cast- First Thoughts

Dancing With the Stars is quickly approaching with its twenty-first season on Monday, September 14, and this season has probably the best cast I have seen in a long time. The main reason, though, is because I know more names in this season than most. There were four names that I did not know, and those were Tamar, Hayes, Alek (although I did know about the train incident), and Kim. However, that does not mean that I am not excited to see how they will perform on the dance floor!

Now, a before I give my first views about the cast this season, I do want to address the last-minute changes that DWTS did with the cast. Peta Murgatroyd (paired with Michael Sam last season) had to drop out of the competition due to a foot injury. She was allegedly supposed to be paired with Andy Grammer, but Allison Holker took over for her. Also, despite an announcement from August, Artem Chigvintsev (paired with Patti LaBelle from last season) will not be competing either. However, Louis van Amstel (last apperance in season 15), Anna Trebunskaya (last appearance in season 15), Karina Smirnoff (last appearance in season 19), and Lindsay Arnold (last apperance in season 16) will all be back in the ballroom this season!

Reality Star Tamar Braxton and her partner Valentin Chmerkovskiy

As I have stated earlier,I had no clue who Tamar was, but I am interested in to getting to know her through the TV. I feel like the Good Morning America cast reveal didn't show me enough of Tamar for me to have any sort of clear first impression about her. As for Val, I, of course, think that he is awesome. As we all know, he was paired with Rumer Willis last season, and ended up winning the Mirror Ball Trophy. So will Val be able to get his second trophy in a row? Personally, I'm not too sure about that.

Actor Gary Busey and his partner Anna Trebunskaya

I literally jumped up from my seat and cheered when I heard that Anna will be on DWTS this season. I LOVE Anna, and I never thought that I would see her back on the show as a pro. I am so glad that she has returned! If you don't know already, Anna hosted on the Afterbuzz TV Aftershow podcast for Dancing With the Stars for a few seasons, and she always drew my attention with her amazing commentary! Now that Gary is her partner, I am worried for her. Gary is a funny person, but he could barely walk when he was on Celebrity Big Brother, so how will he be able to dance? I guess that we have seen some incredible things on this show with Marlie, Noah, Amy, etc., so you never know! Gary is in good hands with Anna.

Singer Nick Carter and his partner Sharna Burgess

I already predict that Nick and Sharna will make it to the finals. Just a hunch? Maybe it's because he does have some sort of musical background. Maybe it's because he has it, but I don't now what it is. If so, I would be very happy for Sharna to finally win a Mirror Ball Trophy! I hope that Nick's dancing lives up to my expectations, because I really want to see Sharna make it really far again!

Butter Enthusiast Paula Deen and her partner Louis van Amstel

Paula Deen? I didn't actually believe the rumors at first, but they are true! I am actually really excited to see her on the dance floor. Paula being paired with Louis is a bit odd, but I think she is in good hands. Paula seems like a really nice person, and I think that the show will help her prove that.

Jockey Victor Espinoza and his partner Karina Smirnoff

I'm tired of all the comments about Victor being short, so I probably won't ever say anything about his height again. He seems to be a really genuine guy, and I actually want to see him do well on the show. I'm also glad that Karina is back, especially because seasons 18 and 19 were not too good for her. Let's hope the best for this couple!

Singer/Songwriter Andy Grammer and his partner Allison Holker

Right when I get the song Honey, I'm Good out of my head, Andy has to make it stuck right back in my head! I like Andy Grammer, and I think that his energy will match well with Allison. Despite my original thoughts about Allison in season 19, I actually think that Allison has become one of my favorite pros on the show! She has really redeemed herself with Riker, and I am excited to see what kind of stuff she will do with Andy. I know that this team was a last-second pairing, so I am just curious about who Allison was originally paired with. But that's okay, because this duo seems to be a perfect match!

Social Media Personality Hayes Grier and his partner Emma Slater

People say that Hayes is not an actual "star", but I completely disagree. First of all, we have learned from the show that "stars" can be actual average people who do extraordinary things, such as Noah Galloway, J.R. Martinez, and Alek Skarlatos. We have also learned that "stars" do not have to be people with a large following, such as Charlotte McKinney, Diana Nyad, and Bethany Mota. Besides, I think that Hayes does have a large following, considering that he has over two million followers on social media! I wonder how he will do with Emma, because Emma usually gets the "struggling" dancers. I do know that Emma is practically a kid herself (just like Hayes), so I am thinking that they are having a blast in rehearsals!

"Jungle Girl" Bindi Irwin and her partner Derek Hough

I love Bindi! I remember watching she and her father on TV, and seeing their true personalities shine. Bindi seems like a mature and kind young girl, and I appreciate that on this show. Of course, since she is paired with Derek, she will do great on the show. Derek can turn anyone into a dancer!

Singer Chaka Khan and her partner Keoikantse Motsepe

I am glad that Chaka has some dance background, because I want to see Keo make it on this show past week three! I am hoping and expecting to see this couple until at least week six! Fingers crossed! Chaka is being compared to Patti LaBelle by a lot of people, but for some reason, I think that Chaka will do better than her. Let's just hope she has what it takes to make it at least halfway!

Actress Alexa PenaVega and her partner Mark Ballas

I find it interesting that there is a married couple on this season, but it seems like a flawed concept. It seems like the votes will be split between them, and one of them will become the sacrificial lamb. I have a feeling, though, that Alexa will make it further than her husband, though. I'm just glad that Mark has her because I have been wanting to see Mark with a different type of "personality" for a long time now.

Actor/Singer Carlos PenaVega and his partner Witney Carson

This is the spouse that I think will be the sacrificial lamb. It seems like Carlos has less talk about him than his wife, but you never know! I have a feeling that he was paired with Witney to make Alexa jealous, but I thought that will happen; they both seem totally cool about the whole thing. I also find it really funny how Alexa wants Carlos to go further than her, and Carlos wants Alexa to go further than him. You have got to love married couples!

American Hero Alek Skarlatos and his partner Lindsay Arnold

I love when DWTS casts people like this. I loved watching Noah last season, so I am excited to see Alek this season! I am wondering, though, how he will perform with Lindsay. We have seen Lindsay briefly in season 16, and in the troupe for seasons after, but I don't think I have really seen her "signature" moves yet. That is what I am waiting to see with this couple.

Reality Star Kim Zolciak-Biermann and her partner Tony Dovilani

I have not had a good or a bad impression about Kim yet. Nothing really jumps out at me yet; that just makes it more fun for me to watch the show! She is paired with Tony, which I am happy about because Tony has been getting the same "types" of partners lately, and I think that this is a totally new personality for him!



Thank you for reading! Updates will come to my blog and Twitter soon! :D

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My Favorite Performances From Season 20 of DWTS

Although my favorites change by the minute, here are my top 16 (because it is my favorite number) favorite performances from season 20 of Dancing With the Stars!

16. Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- Jive (Week 1)

15. Patti LaBelle and Artem Chigvintsev- Salsa (Week 2)

14. Michael Sam and Peta Murgatroyd- Foxtrot (Week 2)

13. Nastia Liukin and Derek Hough- Foxtrot (Week 1)

12. Riker and Allison vs Willow and Mark- Salsa Battle (Week 7)

11. Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- Paso Doble (Week 10)

10. Nastia Liukin and Sasha Farber- Modern Charleston (Week 7)

9. Riker Lynch and Allison Holker (Julianne Hough)- Argentine Tango (Week 9)

8. Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy- Freestyle (Week 10)

7. Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy- Samba (Week 5)

6. Willow Shields and Mark Ballas- Contemporary (Week 4)

5. Riker Lynch, Allison Holker, and Brittany Cherry- Jazz (Week 8)

4. Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- 1920s Quickstep (Week 7)

3.Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess- Freestyle (Week 10)

2. Nastia Liukin and Derek Hough- Viennese Waltz (Week 9)

1. Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess- Viennese Waltz (Week 9)

What were your favorite performances from season 20 of Dancing With the Stars?

Make sure you follow me on Twitter @DWTS2015 for more DWTS news and updates! Also, make sure you follow my NEW Twitter @BBSeason17 for updates on season 17 of Big Brother!

Final Thoughts on the DWTS 20 Couples

To be honest, I think that season 20 of Dancing With the Stars flew by, but it did not fly by as fast as some other seasons. It was a great season, but it was not my favorite (It might be my second or third favorite.) I do love the entire cast, and I really love a lot of the performances. Congratulations to Rumer and Val on their win for this season! I just can't wait for season 21 to come!

Here are some of my opinions on the couples this season. These are just my thoughts, and what I thought of their journeys. What did you think of the cast this season? XD

Redfoo and Emma Slater #TeamFooma (12th)

Favorite Dance: Jive (Week 2)

Although this pair couple was only on the show for two week, I do think that RedFoo made a huge improvement. He was actually very entertaining, and I wanted him to stay longer than he did. He seemed like he really wanted this. Emma was the perfect partner, of course, because she always has fun and crazy ideas. Even though these two left so early, I feel like they accomplished something on Dancing With the Stars.

Charlotte McKinney and Keoikantse Motsepe #TeamKeolette (11th)

Favorite Dance: Cha-Cha-Cha (Week 2)

There is a lot to talk about with this couple! In the three short weeks they were on the show, there has been a lot of controversies and discussions. First of all, I feel as though she held back a little bit, and could have done a little bit better if maybe there were not as many distractions as she had. She is a beautiful person, but she needed to translate that into dance, which did not work out so well. She did improve, and I think that Keo did do a good job with her. Overall, I was not surprised by her elimination at all.

Michael Sam and Peta Murgatroyd #TeamSambatroyd (10th)

Favorite Dance: Foxtrot (Week 2)

I'm so glad that Michael was able to make it to week four of the show. He seems like such a likable person, and he seems like a hard-worker as well. Unfortunately, he did not improve as much as well as others, but I am glad he was able to do the Most Memorable Year Night dance. Peta was such a fierce partner with him, but I feel like Michael had to hold back a bit because of him being used to being on a football field rather than a dance floor.

Suzanne Somers and Tony Dovilani #TeamTwosCompany (9th)

Favorite Dance: Foxtrot (Week 4)

I really don't have much to say about these two. I liked Suzanne on Three's Company, and she had some good weeks on DWTS. Some weeks were better than others, and I feel like Tony really made her shine. She was not bad, yet she was not a professional either. She was just not very talked about at all.

Patti LaBelle and Artem Chigvintsev #TeamBelleArt (8th)

Favorite Dance: Jazz (Week 4)

Who doesn't love Patti LaBelle? Patti's great personality really showed through all of her dances, but I would like it if Artem gave her some more content with some of the dances. Although Patti was not the most technical, I do think that she was one of the most entertaining contestants this season. She really seemed thrilled to be on the show, I am glad that she was able to have this experience.

Willow Shields and Mark Ballas #TeamMarkingjay (7th)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Argentine Tango (Week 2), 2- Foxtrot (Week 5), 1- Contemporary (Week 4)

This was the number one couple that I looked forward to each and every week on the show. Willow is only fourteen, but I always forget that when she performs. I think that Mark deserves an Emmy or something because his choreography was outstanding this season! He is by far my favorite choreographer on the show! Willow really brought something special to Dancing With the Stars, and I felt disappointed when she was eliminated week seven. I really hoped for her to make it to the finals, but her journey was amazing, so that was all that mattered! :D

Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson #TeamSharkaroo (6th)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Rumba (Week 3), 2- Foxtrot (Week 2), 1- Waltz (Week 4)

Alright, I do admit that I didn't want to get into the business of this couple's relationship, but they have perfect chemistry! I want them to get married so bad! XD Robert was charming the entire season, but I think he eventually reached a breaking point. I am glad, though, that he did it with a smile, and he was able to meet Kym. I'm glad that they made it as far as they did because they were really like a storybook on that dance floor.

Chris Soules and Witney Carson #TeamSoulShakers (5th)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Contemporary (Week 8), 2- Viennese Waltz (Week 6), 1- Jive (Week 1)

I'm not going to lie- this was an odd pairing. I do not think that these two matched each other well, and that might be one of the many reasons why Chris struggled through this competition. He did improve, but he did not improve as much as I would like him to. I feel as though Witney should have focused on both quantity and quality for Chris, because both seemed to lack for me. Overall. Chris did the best that he could, and I cannot complain about that.

Nastia Liukin and Derek Hough #TeamHoughkin (4th)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Tango (Week 6), 2- Paso Doble (Week 8), 3- Charleston (Week 7)

Nastia is amazing! She handled the situations with the switching between partners very well. I think that the judges were harsh on her, but she eventually had a breakthrough week. That being said, I feel as though I could not connect with her until the later weeks of competition. I was not shocked by her elimination, but I would have loved to see a freestyle from her. She is a phenomenal dancer, so I would like to have seen Derek's creative choreography for it. I really wish there was a four-person finale!

Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess #TeamShway (3rd)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Argentine Tango (Week 3), 2- Paso Doble (Week 9), 3- Viennese Waltz (Week 9)

From episode one, I fell in love with this couple. Even with one arm and one leg, he did some incredible things on the show. Sharna really progressed well with him this season on expanding their opportunities for choreography. To me, I think that he was constantly underscored. I would have at least wanted explanations for the low marks that the judges gave him. However, I can't complain about how he made it to the finals. He is truly my hero! :D

Riker Lynch and Allison Holker #TeamRallison (2nd)

Top 3 Dances: 3- Paso Doble (Week 10), 2- Argentine Tango (Week 9), 1- Quickstep (Week 7)

This was by far the most energetic and entertaining duo of the season! I really underestimated both Riker and Allison this season, but they proved me wrong! Sure, there was a week or two when I feel as though they did not do their best, but that was foreshadowed by all of their other amazing performances that made me want to be inside of my TV when they were live. I do, deep down inside, wish that they would have won the Mirror Ball Trophy.

Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy #TeamValenRue (1st) WINNERS!

Top 3 Dances: 3- Rumba (Week 8), 2- Freestyle (Week 10), 1- Samba (Week 5)

The winners of season 20 of Dancing With the Stars absolutely deserved that Mirror Ball! Rumer is so sexy on that dance floor! Val really pushed her hard, and Rumer did not slow down one bit! She, like Rikerm had a few weeks that were not her best, but she did really amazing overall. Some of the performances seemed a little repetitive, but they were done with perfection. I am no upset that these two won the trophy at all! I am also really glad that Val's ever first Mirror Ball was a gold one! XD

Well, those are my opinions! What did you think of this season of Dancing With the Stars?

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DWTS 20 Week 10 (Finals)- Stats and Opinions

I loved the finals so much on Dancing With the Stars! Monday Night went by really quick, and Tuesday Night was really exciting! The scores were great, and I think all of the finalists deserved to win. Rumer and Val won, which marks Val's first ever Mirror Ball Trophy win- a golden one to be exact)! I will have a few more blogs about season 20 of Dancing With the Stars, including my final thoughts on the contestants and my favorite dances from the season. For the Summer, I will be tweeting about season seventeen of Big Brother (link below). I loved season 20, but I am already eager for season 21! :D

Thank you for following me on Twitter and reading my blogs for season twenty of Dancing With the Stars! I reached one thousand followers on my DWTS Twitter (link below), so thank you for that as well! Make sure you come back in September for my reviews and updates of season twenty-one of Dancing With the Stars! XD

Night One- Redo Dances

Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess-Argentine Tango 3rd Place

Redo dance from Week 3 (Latin Night)

Rather Be by Clean Bandit featuring Jess Glynne

Score: 8, 8, 8, 8 (32) Lowest Redo Dance Score of the Night

My Score: 9

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This was a bit hard to watch, but this Argentine Tango was not terrible at all. It was not as bad as the scores gave in my opinion. He only made three slight mistakes, and he quickly got back on track. I can definitely see some improvements, especially in his stability and stature. I loved this dance when Noah and Sharna originally did it, and I loved it even better the second time.

Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- Paso Doble 2nd Place

Redo dance from Week 5 (Disney Night)

He's a Pirate by Klaus Badelt

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT REDO DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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I gave Riker's original Paso Doble a ten, and I wish I could give this dance an eleven! I did not think at first that this dance had much room for improvement because it will so well-executed the first time. However, I was wrong. Riker was so much more stable, and brought even more energy without losing too much control. This is definitely one of my favorite dances of the season!

Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy- Foxtrot WINNER

Redo dance from Week 1 (Pemiere)

Take Me to Church by Hozier

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT REDO DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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This was another dance that I thought was pretty much perfected the first time, but Rumer did even better the second time. He lines were more fluid, her frame was more natural, and her confidence was through the roof! This dance really shows why she has been a true contender on this season of Dancing With the Stars.

Night One- Freestyle Dances

Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess- Freestyle 3rd Place

Titanium by David Guetta featuring Sia/ Fix You by Coldplay

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT FREESTYLE DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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I did not think that any dance could be more emotional than Noah's contemporary routine from week four, but his vulnerability in this freestyle displayed emotion in a way that i have never seen before. The flip that he did on the floor was amazing, as well as the one-arm lift at the end. I loved the mash-up of these two emotional dances, and it fit Noah perfectly.

Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- Freestyle Encore 2nd Place

I Won't Dance (Step Up 3D Remix) by Fred Astaire

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT FREESTYLE DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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This Freestyle was very jam-packed! I think that by watching it on TV, it made the performance look a little too indulgent, but I can tell what they were going for. If I was in studio, I would have probably been yelling and cheering for Riker and Allison just like everybody else. There were some great risks, and it clearly paid off because he got the encore on Tuesday!

Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy- Freestyle WINNER

Toxic by Britney Spears

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT FREESTYLE DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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This pair has shown us their true talents for dancing, so I thought that it was refreshing to be exposed to their other talents. Rumer's voice was amazing, and the music as a whole really suited the theme of the dance. I loved the Argentine Tango feel of it, but I feel like it was a little bit safe, which might be why they did not win the encore. However, I thought that this dance was pure emotion and perfection.

Night 2- 24-Hour Fusion Dance Challenge

Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess- Argentine Tango/ Cha Cha Fusion 3rd Place

Surrender by Cash Cash featuring Julia Michaels

Score: 9, 9, 9, 9 (36) Lowest Fusion Dance Score of the Night

My Score: 10

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I do admit that there could have been more content, but there was limited time to rehearse this (just like with everyone else). I think that because he is in such a unique situation, he has to  learn dances slower, causing his Fusion dance to seem a bit lack-luster. Overall, it was clean and proper, so I would give it a ten. I know that Noah and Sharna came in third, but I know that they have had an incredible time on the show. Although this season has come to an end, I really want to see Noah dance some more!

Riker Lynch and Allison Holker- Salsa/ Quickstep Fusion 2nd Place

Classic by MTKO

Score: 10, 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT FUSION DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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Although I thought that these two dance styles together would be a bit odd, I do think that this has been my favorite fusion dance ever on Dancing With the Stars! Riker and Allison's performance looked like they have been practicing that dance for weeks because of how clean and unique it was. Allison's choreography is really amazing, and Riker's style is very high-energy, so it is a perfect combination. I hope that Riker and Allison walk away from this competition with smiles on their faces because they should be proud of their incredible journey.

Rumer Willis and Valentin Chmerkovskiy- Foxtrot/ Paso Doble Fusion WINNER

Big Jet Plane by Angus & Julia Stone

Score: 10. 10, 10, 10 (40) PERFECT FUSION DANCE SCORE

My Score: 10

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Both Rumer and Val are the best when doing ballroom dances, so I am glad that they got these two dances styles for the Fusion to end the season. I would have liked to have seen the styles blended with each other more, but there was very limited time for them to rehearse. I think that all of the finalists deserved to win, but I am glad that Rumer and Val won because they have shown a steady progression along with a great chemistry this entire season of Dancing With the Stars.

So what did you think of the Finals? What was your favorite performance? Who had the best Freestyle dance? Who do you want to see next season on Dancing With the Stars?

Make sure you follow me on Twitter @DWTS2015 for more DWTS news and updates! Also, make sure you follow my NEW Twitter @BBSeason17 for updates on season 17 of Big Brother!