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As Season 33 of “Dancing with the Stars” approaches its climax, the remaining couples brace themselves for the pivotal “Semi-Finals.” After a challenging week of instant dance routines, where they had to learn new music and styles in a matter of minutes, this week’s performers can take a breath as they have had a full week of rehearsal to prepare two dances. However, the pressure remains high as they compete for a coveted spot in the grand finale. Readers can follow along with minute-by-minute commentary as the night unfolds.
Following the elimination of NBA player Dwight Howard and his partner Danielle Karagach during last week’s milestone “500th Episode,” only five couples remain in the running for the Len Goodman Mirror Ball Trophy. The couples include Super Bowl champion Danny Amendola with pro partner Witney Carson, “The Bachelor” contestant Joey Graziadei paired with Jenna Johnson, TV personality Chandler Kinney and pro Brandon Armstrong, Olympic rugby star Ilona Maher teamed with Alan Bersten, and Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik with pro Rylee Arnold.
This evening, each couple will perform a ballroom dance and a Latin style routine, showcasing their skills to solidify their chances of competing for the trophy next week. The show will also feature performances by professional dancers, including a special number to Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night,” choreographed by Sasha Farber and Ezra Sosa, along with a promotional dance to “Greedy (Acoustic)” by Tate McRae, choreographed by Mandy Moore. Notably, scores from judges will not be a factor this week. Viewers can join in from 8:00 PM Eastern Time.
ROUND ONE
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong (Salsa)
Clock Check, 8:04 PM — Chandler is the first to take the stage. Let’s see how she handles the opening spotlight.
Energy Tracker, 8:04 PM — Starting with a Latin dance for Chandler. Hopefully, her performance can earn her a strong score despite going first.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Carrie Ann Inaba was impressed, noting Chandler displayed a new dimension to her dancing. Derek Hough mentioned her performance felt like a finalist’s preview, though he wished for more salsa elements. Bruno Tonioli likened her performance to a flavorful cocktail, starting smooth and then intensifying beautifully.
Response, 8:09 PM — The last lift was slightly off, but overall, it was a strong salsa.
Enthusiast, 8:09 PM — An exciting start to the evening.
Feedback, 8:09 PM — A commendable job by Chandler, establishing the evening’s tone with her confidence.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (10), Derek (9), Bruno (10) — 29 out of 30
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson (Foxtrot)
Initial Thoughts, 8:14 PM — Joey and Jenna seem in sync, but Jenna mentions that this will be a jazz-influenced foxtrot.
Anticipation, 8:15 PM — I predict Joey will achieve a perfect score tonight.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Derek praised the performance as a master class, with flawless frame. Bruno recognized it as an homage to classic Hollywood, deeming Joey a matinee idol. Carrie Ann remarked on the fierce competition, calling it fabulous.
General Consensus, 8:19 PM — There were no visible flaws in that smooth foxtrot.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (10), Derek (10), Bruno (10) — 30 out of 30
Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten (Paso Doble)
Initial Anxiety, 8:24 PM — Ilona needs a standout performance to avoid elimination, but she’s proven clutch in past weeks.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Bruno suggested more flamenco flair, but praised the overall performance. Carrie Ann acknowledged her growth, while Derek stood to applaud her sharp execution.
Assessment, 8:28 PM — From a technique perspective, Ilona is among the top three dancers in this competition.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (9), Derek (10), Bruno (9) — 28 out of 30
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson (Viennese Waltz)
Expectations, 8:34 PM — Danny needs to deliver a strong performance, with Witney emphasizing the importance of emotional connection.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Carrie Ann praised his authenticity, complimenting their chemistry. Derek saw improvement in his frame, while Bruno found it heartfelt despite some form limitations.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (9), Derek (9), Bruno (9) — 27 out of 30
Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold (Cha Cha)
Concerns, 8:47 PM — The cha cha could challenge Stephen’s timing, but Rylee aims to highlight his strong presence.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Derek offered support but acknowledged difficulties with keeping time. Bruno remarked on the dance’s ‘feel,’ while Carrie Ann noted a lack of musicality.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (8), Derek (8), Bruno (9) — 25 out of 30
ROUND TWO
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong (Foxtrot)
Expectations, 8:57 PM — Chandler has potential to win the Mirror Ball but must ensure she advances to the finale.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Bruno praised the technical level, while Carrie Ann noted her ongoing development. Derek commended Brandon’s growth, recognizing it as a phenomenal performance.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (9), Derek (10), Bruno (10) — 29 out of 30
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson (Paso Doble)
Analysis, 9:09 PM — Joey is looking to secure another high score, possibly tying with Chandler.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Carrie Ann admired the intensity, though pointed out a slight timing issue. Both Derek and Bruno praised the performance highly.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (9), Derek (10), Bruno (9) — 28 out of 30
Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten (Viennese Waltz)
Reflections, 9:21 PM — Ilona appears to be finding her stride and is capable of stunning performances.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Derek celebrated its elegance, while Bruno highlighted the dance’s conveyance of emotional depth. Carrie Ann expressed gratitude for witnessing such an impressive display.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (10), Derek (9), Bruno (10) — 29 out of 30
Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold (Tango)
Analysis, 9:33 PM — Stephen aims for redemption after his prior performance.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Bruno noticed improved timing, while Carrie Ann acknowledged the challenges faced. Derek felt it was a marked improvement from earlier routines.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (10), Derek (9), Bruno (9) — 28 out of 30
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson (Salsa)
Final Moments, 9:45 PM — The pressure mounts for Danny as he aims to secure a leading score.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS — Carrie Ann noted well-executed lifts, while Derek expressed enthusiasm for their performance. However, Bruno mentioned something felt missing.
SCORES — Carrie Ann (9), Derek (9), Bruno (9) — 27 out of 30
JUDGES’ LEADERBOARD
1. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson — 30 + 28 = 58
1. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong — 29 + 29 = 58
3. Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten — 28 + 29 = 57
4. Danny Amendola and Witney Carson — 27 + 27 = 54
5. Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold — 25 + 28 = 53
RESULTS
Anticipation, 9:54 PM — The moment of truth is here.
Observations, 9:58 PM — Advancing to the finale are Danny, Joey, and Chandler, leaving some tension in the air for the bottom two.
Final Results, 10:00 PM — In a surprising turn, NO ONE ELIMINATED. While not entirely unexpected, it is a relief for fans hoping not to lose beloved competitors.
Reactions, 10:01 PM — A shared moment of astonishment among fans and commentators.
Source
www.goldderby.com