(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

” First, and foremost, the next time someone mentions that variety is dead in prime time, remind that person of Dancing With the Stars, which is now the true definition of that genre. On that note, ABC danced its way to another Wednesday victory, with a first-place finish in the overnights, total viewers and adults 18-49. The live Dancing With the Stars Results Show (so long, Joey Lawrence) kicked-off the evening for ABC with a 14.3 rating/21 share in the overnights, 20.64 million viewers and a 5.2 rating/15 share among adults 18-49 -- a time period high….”

• Source: Nielsen Media Research data
http://pifeedback.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/63310451/m/97010691

(From Marc Berman’)
”First, and foremost, the next time someone mentions that variety is dead in prime time, remind that person of Dancing With the Stars, which is now the true definition of that genre."I like the post in his forum:
But is it really a variety show? Let me know when they add some jugglers and dog acts. Oh, and what's Topo Gigio doing these days? ;)

Topo Gigio? Now there's a name I haven't heard in a few decades! For those who don't have the foggiest idea, Topo was a puppet mouse who occasionally appeared on the old Ed Sullivan show.

Here's a wikipedia link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topo_Gigio

Tonight's the last performance night!!

Topo Gigio? Now there's a name I haven't heard in a few decades! For those who don't have the foggiest idea, Topo was a puppet mouse who occasionally appeared on the old Ed Sullivan show.

Here's a wikipedia link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topo_Gigio

Goood Night, Eddie!

Looking forward to Cheryl's performance!

nc

Not a chance. Joey is a far better dancer than Emmitt. He's far more flexable, far more graceful, and has a dancer's "carriage". Emmitt is a football player who's only been dancing a few months but who has actually done pretty well, certainly far better than the hapless Jerry Rice from last year. Emmitt is entertaining and certainly seems to be enjoying himself, but he's not even close to being as good a dancer as Joey is/was.


I agree that Joey would beat Emmitt in a "real" ballroom dance competitiion but this show is designed to be decided by the entertainment value to the masses, with guidance from the professionals. The tie votes by the judges assured that the result would be from the viewers. Emmitt beats Joey hands down in that category. Besides, I always considered Joey to be "Mario Light." The contrasting styles of Emmitt vs. Mario is one of the things that is going to make these finals entertaining.

Goood Night, Eddie!If Ed was still around, he'd tell us that tonight's dancing will be a really big shoe.

The problem with Joey was that he made dancing look like a lot of work while Emmitt looked like he was having the time of his life.

Rick R

I don't know about that. If hanging out with the stunning Edyta locked in dance embrace for hours a day for months is work, then please sign me up for that chain gang! :p

Go Mario! :D

I flipped the channel a few minutes in, but later found out the local affiliate (WRTV6-HD) totally dropped coverage due to some technical glitch. They're gonna try & replay it tomorrow night.

Wow, how they all have gotten anything but a "10"? Great dances. Mario was crazy like I thiought he'd be, and Cheryl & Emmit got funky!

My vote - Cheryl & Emmit.

Hooray for the variety show!

nc

And who did not see a "tie" coming from the judges? :rolleyes: This was going to come down to the popular vote all along. Both teams are great...It could go either way for me. Great show!

Mike

If the judges are just going to intentionally issue tie votes then maybe they just shouldn't vote at all from the semi-finals to the end.

BTW, I can't believe that somebody hasn't already mentioned that Stacy was in the audience last night. They only had two really short shots of her, one at the very start of the show and one at the very end. They usually do audience comments on the elimantion shows, so maybe she'll be in one of the comment segments tonight.

Are you people joking?????

Jerry Springer should win

Are you people joking?????

You watch this crap?

I guess your all finished watching all the reruns of Jerry Springer.


The ladies are HOT and my wife enjoys me watching the show with her. It's a win,win.

Mike :D

(From Marc Berman’s Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2006, Programming Insider blog at Mediaweek.com )

“….ABC, as expected, kept its Tuesday winning streak intact courtesy of Mario Lopez vs. Emmitt Smith on Dancing With the Stars at a mammoth (and season-high) 26.72 million viewers with a 7.5 rating/20 share among adults 18-49 from 8-9:30 p.m. Comparably, that bested the second most-watched program of the evening, NBC’s Law & Order: SVU (Viewers: 14.67 million at 10 p.m.) by a whopping 12.05 million viewers. Take a look at Dancing With the Stars by half hour:

Dancing With the Stars
8:00 p.m. Viewers: 23.99 million, A18-49: 6.3/18
8:30 p.m. Viewers: 27.56 million, A18-49: 7.8/20
9:00 p.m. Viewers: 28.60 million, A18-49: 8.4/21

The first hour of Dancing With the Stars (Viewers: 25.78 million; A18-49: 7.1/19 from 8-9 p.m.) also outdelivered the No. 2 occupant in the time period, CBS’ potent NCIS (Viewers: 15.78; Viewers: 4.2/11), by 10 million viewers and 69 percent among adults 18-49. As for my prediction who will win, I have to go with the better dancer, and that is Mario Lopez.
….”

http://pifeedback.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/63310451/m/30510202

Are you people joking?????

You watch this crap?

I guess your all finished watching all the reruns of Jerry Springer.

It is always nice to have a member of the "I Know What People Should Be Watching" cultural police drop by.

Personall I am not a viewer of this show, but pray tell us all, what should intelligent, cultured, non Joe-Six-Pack Americans (like yourself, obviouly) be doing rather than being entertained by an enjoyable, non-violent, fun show?

(Which by the way, shares nothing in common with the crass, screaming, freak-show, dumbed-down program you compared it with.)

(Which by the way, shares nothing in common with the crass, screaming, freak-show, dumbed-down program you compared it with.)

Um, well, to be fair, they do have Jerry Springer in common. :D

Actually, I was one of those pleasantly surprised at what a genuinely nice, humble guy he is once he's out of the element of his show. He so won over the viewers that even when he literally begged to be cut, they kept voting him back in. I'm not the type to actually call in and vote but I found myself doing so for Jerry several times because he's just such a good guy and was clearly trying so hard, and for such a good purpose (to learn to dance with his handicapped daughter at her wedding). Kudos to him.

Are you people joking?????

You watch this crap?

I guess your all finished watching all the reruns of Jerry Springer.
I watch it 'cause it's not a crime drama, forensics show, dumb-ass sitcom, or game show. (I already have my favorites in those genres...LOL).

nc

I heard host Tom Bergeron refer to Mario Lopez as hunky. I have heard or read male writers refer to certain men as hunky. I don't know about you, but I think that's just a little too gay for me. I think my friends would do a double take if I referred to a particular man and commented that I thought he was hunky.

Perhaps I'm behind on the lexicon, but do you use the word hunky when referring to other men?

Perhaps I'm behind on the lexicon, but do you use the word hunky when referring to other men?You might if you were reading the teleprompter like he is.

Now that Emmitt has won, I wonder how that will play on the NFL games this week / weekend?

We really enjoy the show. I think it's refreshing to see some good people work hard at something they're not comfortable with and have a great time. I never would have guessed that Emmitt was such a humble and kind person, same for Jerry Springer.

I thought Emmitt's speech to Cheryl about how much she meant to him was very eloquent and touching. We all know Mario is the better dancer, but it was good to see Emmitt win.

I thought it was interesting how they kept Sarah and her divorce situation very low-key. Here in Nashville, there isn't much news at all anymore about sarah Evans.
At any rate, it was nice to see her on the show, dancing, and also commenting what DWTS meant to her. Great job, Sarah, and good luck!

(also, what's the deal with Mario and his partner? Are they an item?)

nc

I thought it was interesting how they kept Sarah and her divorce situation very low-key. Here in Nashville, there isn't much news at all anymore about sarah Evans.
At any rate, it was nice to see her on the show, dancing, and also commenting what DWTS meant to her. Great job, Sarah, and good luck!

(also, what's the deal with Mario and his partner? Are they an item?)

nc

She looked good last night.

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/2096/1115212310nc0.th.jpg (http://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1115212310nc0.jpg)http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/1619/1115212316vp5.th.jpg (http://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1115212316vp5.jpg)http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/3409/1115212344hg6.th.jpg (http://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1115212344hg6.jpg)

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, Nov. 16, 2006, Programming Insider blog at Mediaweek.com )

“…ABC sailed past midweek with another Wednesday victory courtesy of Dancing With the Stars….The season-finale of Dancing With the Stars kicked up its heels with a mammoth 27.22 million viewers and a 7.0 rating/18 share among adults 18-49 from 8-9 p.m. Comparably, that almost beat the four competing networks combined in total viewers…"

http://pifeedback.com/eve/?cdra=Y&s=32410241

We all know Mario is the better dancer, but it was good to see Emmitt win.

I agree but I am not a professional judge. Since the three professional judges had Mario and Emmitt equal the last two weeks (5 dances) it make you wonder. If Mario was doing better from a technical standpoint, the judges' score should have reflected that. Then allow the audience to determine whether Emmitt's entertainment value was more than enough to offset the difference.

I agree but I am not a professional judge. Since the three professional judges had Mario and Emmitt equal the last two weeks (5 dances) it make you wonder. If Mario was doing better from a technical standpoint, the judges' score should have reflected that. Then allow the audience to determine whether Emmitt's entertainment value was more than enough to offset the difference.

Considering the judges' scores were identical over the last 2 weeks, it seems pretty clear to me that it was "fixed" to ensure that the audience made the final choice. Because of that, the poorer dancer won. You could see the look on Corina's face (Mario was predictably diplomatic/resigned). That hot, latin temper; she knew they had just been robbed.

Wonder who the lucky stiff is who'll be getting Cheryl Burke (far and away the best female pro) as a partner come the new season in March? Maybe they'll be bidding for her. :)

Wonder who the lucky stiff is who'll be getting Cheryl Burke (far and away the best female pro) as a partner come the new season in March? Maybe they'll be bidding for her. :)
From People (http://people.aol.com/people/article/0,26334,1560071,00.html):

'Runners up Lopez, 33, and partner Karina Smirnoff couldn't hide their disappointment about coming in second place. Tears streamed down Smirnoff's face as she reluctantly talked to reporters and the usually jovial Lopez tried to console her.

"Apparently world-class dancing wasn't enough. That wasn't the criteria it was based on," a dejected Lopez told PEOPLE. "I don't really care about the trophy. I just wanted to win for Karina. She is honestly the best dancer in the world. No disrespect to the other girls on this show, but they don't hold a candle to her."'

"Apparently world-class dancing wasn't enough. That wasn't the criteria it was based on," a dejected Lopez told PEOPLE. "I don't really care about the trophy. I just wanted to win for Karina. She is honestly the best dancer in the world. No disrespect to the other girls on this show, but they don't hold a candle to her."'

Well, he's not really being objective about it, and he didn't dance with anyone but Karina. Most observers, not to mention our own "unofficial" tally here on this thread, easily give the best dancer award to Cheryl. Karina was good, sure, but she's no Cheryl Burke.

It would seem that this show is nothing more than a popularity contest not a true 'judgement' of the dancers skills. Earlier in the season when Mario was marked down for not staying within the 'rules' I thought the judges actually used rules to judge them by until they started marking Emmit up for being a regular guy who learned how to dance and got better as the show progressed. Mario came into the competition at a disadvantage since he already knew how to dance and was held to a higher standard. The professional partners also are key since they choreograph each routine and some do a better job than others. In the end the public decided who was the better dancer and as such it was nothing more than a popularity contest. I think they need to get rid of the judges since they don't really judge in the strict sense but only offer opinions on what they see and toss in showmanship and entertainment value as ways to mark up or down. The show is wildly popular and the final pulled huge ratings so I doubt the format will change but maybe it should.

If this show is following true to form from the British version (and both Len and Bruno are judges there as well), everything here is (and should be) the same in terms of how the show is run. Judging of this is still pretty much, subjective.

In another forum somebody mentioned that the judges shuld each give two scores. One on technical merit and one on artistic merit like ice skating.

The problem is they will never do anything that gives one performer much of a lead over another. For example if they revealed the audience votes each night it would probably have been apparent Emmit had been in the lead since day one no matter how good the other dancers were. People would then turn off the show like a taped sports game they heard the final score on.

The big rating numbers shows this technique works well and will last for a while.
It does disenfranchise anybody who ever took dance training because they are more critical and look at technical merit. My daughter took Dance for 10 years and shakes her head at the bogus scoring.

From what I've seen of the UK version, the US scores seem inflated. Interesting as two of the three judges are from the UK's version. Of course we get more flamboyant Bruno 10s ! It also seems we get more female skin too.

If this show is following true to form from the British version (and both Len and Bruno are judges there as well), everything here is (and should be) the same in terms of how the show is run. Judging of this is still pretty much, subjective.

You make perfect sense except that the attitude of the British towards ballroom dancing is far different from that of Americans. As I'm sure most if not all of you know, dancing is taken much more seriously in England than it is here and it is quite possible that the UK audience would not be amused with the judging "standards" Len and the others employed on this side of the pond. I'm pretty sure that the UK version used International Standard dances (Foxtrot, Waltz, etc.) while we do the smooth versions. So despite the fact the "judges" are the same the standards used could easily be vastly different.

And ursa99, I couldn't have said it better myself.

=NLK=

You make perfect sense except that the attitude of the British towards ballroom dancing is far different from that of Americans. As I'm sure most if not all of you know, dancing is taken much more seriously in England than it is here and it is quite possible that the UK audience would not be amused with the judging "standards" Len and the others employed on this side of the pond. I'm pretty sure that the UK version used International Standard dances (Foxtrot, Waltz, etc.) while we do the smooth versions. So despite the fact the "judges" are the same the standards used could easily be vastly different.

And ursa99, I couldn't have said it better myself.

=NLK=

I'm not an expert - but I think we run standard ballroom Foxtrot and Waltz. They introduced the American Smooth as a separate dance when the series was extended after the relatively short launch season, to allow for more variety of dances over the run.

This year the UK competition has seen some really good celebrity dancers - the standard seems to be higher than previous years - though there have also been some shock exits. (A guy tipped as a finalist contender was eliminated last week - leaving the judges visibly shocked)

From what I've seen of the UK version, the US scores seem inflated. Interesting as two of the three judges are from the UK's version. Of course we get more flamboyant Bruno 10s ! It also seems we get more female skin too.

I think you get more female celebrity skin - I think our female expert dancers are showing quite lot at times though (though on the Latin dances mainly).

Partially this may be because our celebrities are from a wider base - we've had at least two over 60 year old women dancing in previous years, and quite a few the other side of 40. I'm not saying these ladies are unattractive, but understandably some of them are more covered up!

Partially this may be because our celebrities are from a wider base - we've had at least two over 60 year old women dancing in previous years, and quite a few the other side of 40. I'm not saying these ladies are unattractive, but understandably some of them are more covered up!

That will soooo not happen here. It's okay for some of the men to be all the way up into their fifties and Jerry may have been older than that, but the women top out in their mid-30's, and not many of those. Vivica Fox was the oldest gal this time, I believe.

A guy tipped as a finalist contender was eliminated last week - leaving the judges visibly shockedPardon my ignorance - tipped?

...(also, what's the deal with Mario and his partner? Are they an item?)...Based on how they responded to questions, I'd say Karina wants more out of the relationship than Mario does.

Pardon my ignorance - tipped?Kinda like we use "touted" in the US.

Okay...this may sound nuts..but what about a more risque version of this show.

Lap dancing with the stars. Think about it........

Okay...this may sound nuts..but what about a more risque version of this show.

Lap dancing with the stars. Think about it........

No, I don't think so. The family friendly nature of this show (in a world as frakked as ours is right now) is what keeps the ratings high. OK, some of the ladies costumes are somewhat skimpy, but if you were to attend a real ballroom dance competition, the ladies there wear about as much (or maybe less).

It's not a "sex" thing; it's about the judges needing to see posture, positioning and movement of arms and legs.

Vast Audience for 'Dancing' Leaves ABC Calling for More
By Lisa de Moraes The Washington Post Friday, November 17, 2006

Emmitt Smith's waltz past Mario Lopez in ballroom dancing competition has scored the biggest audience of any television broadcast so far this season.

Which is very sweet, really.

Nearly 28 million watched Wednesday's hour-and-change finale of "Dancing With the Stars" at the end of which the three-time Super Bowl champ was crowned best amateur ballroom dancer. That's the show's biggest audience ever.

The series's penultimate episode on Tuesday and Wednesday's finale performed so well, ABC now claims the two most-watched broadcasts on TV this season.

So strong was this third edition of the dance competition, the network has decided to broadcast another round this TV season.

Speaking this week at a TV industry event in New York, ABC's scheduling guru Jeff Bader said the network hopes to bring back "Dancing" in March -- around the time "American Idol" has winnowed its wannabes down to the 12 finalists.

He told attendees ABC is still trying to figure out whether to put "Dancing" on against Fox's ratings "tsunami" or schedule it in non-"Idol" time slots, according to published reports. Good luck on that, given how his counterpart at Fox, Preston Beckman, loves to use "Idol" like a heat-seeking missile.

Wednesday night, Smith took home the Cheesetastic Disco Ball Trophy after 10 grueling weeks of mamboing, sambaing and pasodobling for the show's three judges and the voting viewers, who clearly were smitten with the charming Mr. Smith from the get-go.

During the first half of the finale, when Smith and Lopez were performing one last time for the crowd, about 26 million viewers were watching.

In the second half-hour, when this edition's first eliminated contestant, Tucker Carlson, reprised his impression of the rusty Tin Man, and Sara Evans -- who abruptly left the competition when she filed for divorce from her Republican operative husband -- was kicking up her cowboy-booted heels to "These Boots Are Made for Walking" and, we're guessing, hoping her soon-to-be-ex was getting the "one of these days these boots are gonna walk all over you" message, the audience swelled to more than 29 million viewers.

The show ran two minutes past the hour -- which translates to one more ad break at "Dancing With the Stars" prices for ABC. So by the time Smith was crowned winner of the Cheesetastic Disco Ball Trophy, about 32 million were tuned in.

"Dancing" topped the combined audiences of CBS, NBC and Fox in the Wednesday hour by about 4 million viewers and delivered ABC's biggest non-sports audience in the time period in nearly seven years.

Meanwhile, Sarah Ferguson, the duchess of York, has told celebrity suck-up show "Inside Edition" she hopes she's invited to be one of the celebs for the next round of competition.

"I'd like to go on 'Dancing With the Stars,' " she said in an interview taped to air last night, the Associated Press reported. She said she was turned on to the romantic tango dance style while visiting Buenos Aires.

Grievously, Ferguson seems destined for disappointment. She is, after all, the spokeswoman for Weight Watchers and "Dancing" is sponsored by competitor Slim-Fast.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/11/16/AR2006111601739_pf.html

DWTS in March? They will not only be network neighbors with American Idol, they'll literally be neighbors. The two studios used for these shows are next to each other in the same building. They both did air live at the same time one night in February 2006.

Great news. This is one of the very few shows I'm watching regularly since the writers for DH and GA have ruined those shows.

Fergie might be an interesting competitor, but I'm still hoping they try for a bunch of the female sports celebs.



IMO, Mario should lighten up a little bit about not winning. DWTS is the equivalent of going to a Fantasy Baseball Camp. It's a lot of fun and you get to perform with some true champions, but just because you're the best of the amateurs doesn't mean you're as good as Barry Bonds (or even as good as the worst big league player).

Actually I sort of consider it a tie. Both Mario and Emmit danced the same number of shows and are making the circuit together. Other than the plastic trophy what did Emmit get that Mario didnt.

Pardon my ignorance - tipped?

Tipped kind of comes from UK horse racing - where a horse is "tipped" as a good "tip" to bet (wager) on at the bookies (bookmakers) when it is suggested that it is going to win.

If someone is a "tip for the top" - they are a good "bet".

Touted over here has a more derogatory connotation - as it links it with "ticket touts" who are the characters who buy tickets for events and then sell them at a significant price increase - often outside venues.


If someone is "touted" as something over here it has a negative feeling - where as "tipping" can be seen as quite a positive thing.

Actually I sort of consider it a tie. Both Mario and Emmit danced the same number of shows and are making the circuit together. Other than the plastic trophy what did Emmit get that Mario didnt.

Bragging rights, FWIW. Actually, this show may actually do a lot more for Mario in that he's "in the business" and may get some more work out of the exposure. Emmitt was just in it for a lark, basically. He's already got a lot of irons in various fires.

That will soooo not happen here. It's okay for some of the men to be all the way up into their fifties and Jerry may have been older than that, but the women top out in their mid-30's, and not many of those. Vivica Fox was the oldest gal this time, I believe.

Yep - it is interesting how the two shows differ.

The winner of our series one is the 30-something female anchor of the main BBC One Six O'Clock Newscast daily over here - and at the time she won she was the main presenter of the BBC Breakfast programme. She is now a major "BBC face" - and since winning has presented the annual five+ hour Children In Need Telethon - which last year raised aroun £33million for charity (around US$60 million?)

In every season - pretty much - there has been a well known Newscaster - which I don't think is the case with the US version?

The over-60 lady contestants were Esther Rantzen (a well known TV presenter who specialised in consumer journalism - exposing con men, poor customer service etc.) and Gloria Hunniford (a well loved presenter of afternoon chat shows and religious shows)

They didn't make it past the early rounds - and this year there wasn't an "older" lady - but there have been "older" gents - though this year the older male competitor had to pull out under doctors orders.

In every season - pretty much - there has been a well known Newscaster - which I don't think is the case with the US version?This season we had Tucker Carlson - MSNBC talk show host - and he was first to be eliminated. He sat on a chair for the first 30 seconds of the performance while his partner danced around him. Bruno said he looked like he was sitting on a toilet. Last season we had Kenny Mayne - ESPN sports anchorman - who was also first to be eliminated. Also last season we had Giselle Fernández - LA news anchor - 45 yrs old at the time of the competition and eliminated third. Many thought Fernández was unfairly eliminated too early, especially with Master P (easily the worst contestant in the 3 seasons here so far) still in the contest. He was next to go. To be fair he was a last minute replacement as the original contestant, his son Lil' Romeo, was injured before the season began.

The show ran two minutes past the hour -- which translates to one more ad break at "Dancing With the Stars" prices for ABC. So by the time Smith was crowned winner of the Cheesetastic Disco Ball Trophy, about 32 million were tuned in.32 million viewers, I wonder how many in HD.

This year we had Tucker Carlson - MSNBC talk show host - and he was first to be eliminated. He sat on a chair for the first 30 seconds of the performance while his partner danced around him. Bruno said he looked like he was sitting on a toilet. Last season we had Kenny Mayne - ESPN sports anchorman - who was also first to be eliminated. Also last season we had Giselle Fernández - LA news anchor - 45 yrs old at the time of the competition and eliminated third. Many thought Fernández was unfairly eliminated too early, especially with Master P (easily the worst contestant in of 3 seasons here so far) still in the contest. He was next to go. To be fair he was a last minute replacement as the original contestant, his son Lil' Romeo, was injured before the season began.

Ah - interesting differences again.

I was trying to think of a US equivalent for our newscasters who featured in the show - two BBC Breakfast anchors (one female - who now anchors the Six, and one male who still anchors Breakfast, but stands in on the Six) and an ITV News anchor (who most recently hosted their lunchtime newscast).

I guess Diane Sawyer on GMA, and Katie Couric when she was on Today, along with Matt Lauer at Today would be equivalent in programme time-slot terms - but our anchors aren't as big "stars" as Diane, Katie and Matt are in the US - and Diane and Katie are both a bit older.

I guess the clever bit of the ABC and BBC Worldwide production of Dancing with the Stars has been to tailor it properly for the market it broadcasts in - retaining the core charm of the show, and the main elements of the format, but realising that "casting" the show might need to be different in different territories.

The current BBC Strictly Come Dancing season was scheduled head to head against "The X Factor" on ITV - which is Simon Cowell's main reality show in the UK (produced by his own production company) and has replaced "Pop Idol" (aka American Idol) over here.

Head-to-head the BBC show was beating ITV - so much so that ITV have now re-scheduled their evening to avoid direct competition. Audiences for both shows have benefited - though I think Strictly is still winning.

If ABC DO schedule DWTS agains American Idol - it will be interesting to see if the same thing happens. However AIUI American Idol is even more popular, relatively, than Pop Idol and X Factor are here.

If ABC DO schedule DWTS agains American Idol - it will be interesting to see if the same thing happens. However AIUI American Idol is even more popular, relatively, than Pop Idol and X Factor are here.This season DWTS was on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the same nights that American Idol has been on for several seasons during it's January to May run. If I were to guess, ABC might schedule DWTS on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7p. American Idols's result show has been on at 9/8p on Wednesdays and is 30 minutes long. DWTS is 90 minutes long and would overlap during the last 30 minutes. Results shows (excluding the finale) typically have fewer viewers, and this strategy might leave American Idol venerable that night. Fox is known for changing thier schedule quickly and could move the American Idol results show earlier. Mind you this is pure speculation on my part as neither ABC or Fox have called for my advice yet.

This season DWTS was on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the same nights that American Idol has been on for several seasons during it's January to May run. If I were to guess, ABC might schedule DWTS on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7p. American Idols's result show has been on at 9/8p on Wednesdays and is 30 minutes long. DWTS is 90 minutes long and would overlap during the last 30 minutes. Results shows (excluding the finale) typically have fewer viewers, and this strategy might leave American Idol venerable that night. Fox is known for changing thier schedule quickly and could move the American Idol results show earlier. Mind you this is pure speculation on my part as neither ABC or Fox have called for my advice yet.

In the UK our results shows often get slightly lower shares and audiences than the original competition show - though this might be because they are on later the same evening - usually with an hour or two between shows. (No timezone issues to worry about - and the phones stay live during the results show until just a few mins before the result is announced - building the tension and increasing the viewer participation aspect I guess)

This week Strictly got 41%/9million share in its early evening slot, with X Factor getting 40%/9.2million in its slightly later slot. Results shows were Strictly 35%/8.4million and X Factor (slightly later again) 33%/7.7million.

I thought it was about time to resurrect this thread since the new season starts on March 19th. And since we're in the middle of _America's Ballroom Challenge_ on PBS (and since it is also in HD this season) we could talk about that until the new season starts.

Tony Dovolani won his second American Rhythm title, but I don't know if he'll be back on DWTS. I checked the DWTS web page, but they haven't updated the bios from last season.

so any news on who the celebraties are this yr.?

The new celebs will be announced (by Jerry Springer!) on "Good Morning America" Wednesday morning.

I posted a story in the "Hot Off The Press" sticky on that the other day.

I thought it was about time to resurrect this thread since the new season starts on March 19th. And since we're in the middle of _America's Ballroom Challenge_ on PBS (and since it is also in HD this season) we could talk about that until the new season starts.

Tony Dovolani won his second American Rhythm title, but I don't know if he'll be back on DWTS. I checked the DWTS web page, but they haven't updated the bios from last season.

Ahhh, for PBS in HD (I have E* so no go there).

Speaking of ABC, they finally got to the Standard style and, I've got to tell you, for the LIFE of me I can't figure out where they get this "music" from. I used to complain about the selection on DWTS, but is there ANY REASON ON EARTH they can't use decent music; I mean, are they afraid they'll actually ATTRACT viewership?

Wifey thinks it's because the dancers are afraid people will concentrate more on the music than the dancing, but what's the big deal? The judges are the only ones who need to concentrate on the actual dancing anyway (speaking of that, Bill Davies is still around????).

On the topic of DWTS, some of the celebs have already been announced (probably posted elsewhere on this site).


=NLK=

...

Speaking of ABC, they finally got to the Standard style and, I've got to tell you, for the LIFE of me I can't figure out where they get this "music" from. I used to complain about the selection on DWTS, but is there ANY REASON ON EARTH they can't use decent music; I mean, are they afraid they'll actually ATTRACT viewership?

....
=NLK=

I guessing that the music that they use for the group dances is pretty lame because they pick stuff that does not require ASCAP "performance fees".

Which makes me wonder how they deal with the fees issue when one of the couples uses something like Nirvana's _Smells Like Teen Spirit_ in their show dance, since that song almost certainly requires a performance fee.

Heather Mills is confirmed as a contestant for S4 and the first to compete with an artificial limb. The curiosity factor should be much higher than season 1's Evander Holyfield. I can see the comments coming. Will she dance to music from Footloose?

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2001320029-2007080575,00.html

Nice to see the thread that I started :D come back out of hibernation! 300+ articles and almost 10K views.

Let's see how far this goes this season with this crop of performers! :D

And the Lineup is:

Paulina Porizkova & Alec [The supermodel who's fiancee died in the tsunami?]
Heather Mills & Jonathan
Clyde "the glide" Drexler & Elena
Leeza Gibbons & Tony
Joey Fatone & Kym [from Insync]
Apolo Ono & Julianne Hough [the short track skater and a new pro this season]
Vincent Pastore & Edyta [Sopranos star]
Billy Ray Cyrus & Karina
Shandi Finnessey & Brian Fortuna [Miss USA 2004 and a new pro this season]
Ian Ziering & Cheryl [90210 star]
Laila Ali & Maksim [pro boxing daughter of M. Ali]

Well looks like we'll find out if Clyde really deserves that nickname.

And it looks like Edyta drew another loser this season (which really bums me out since I think Edyta is really hot and she wears some of the skimpiest outfits).

It looks like Cheryl might have a chance to 3peat. I have a theory that Cheryl's wins aren't flukes. I think there's something about her personality that really makes the guys try hard to please her, even when the don't think they're going to get any. So anytime she's partnered with a halfway decent dancer, they will be competative.

And it looks like Edyta drew another loser this season (which really bums me out since I think Edyta is really hot and she wears some of the skimpiest outfits).

Agree with that. Smoking hot.

It looks like Cheryl might have a chance to 3peat. I have a theory that Cheryl's wins aren't flukes. I think there's something about her personality that really makes the guys try hard to please her, even when the don't think they're going to get any. So anytime she's partnered with a halfway decent dancer, they will be competative.

No doubt. She definitely gets the most out of her partners and does excellent work in choreography. I also think she's smoking hot, but in a more non-typical (i.e. less skinny) way. Her great personality has a lot to do with it, but she has a beautiful, slightly-thick bod.

This is one show that I don't mind one bit having the wife talk me into watching. :D

And the Lineup is:

Paulina Porizkova & Alec [The supermodel who's fiancee died in the tsunami?]


errr...no.

Paulina was the Supermodel from the 80s that smokes like an old, badly tuned disel car, never works out and has never worried about what she eats - thus this will be interesting to see how she holds up.

She is married to Ric Ocasek from the Cars and was in the Cars Video You Might Think in the 80s.

Though both have been on the cover of the SI Sportsuit Issue (though 20+ years apart), Petra was the one who lost her fiancee.

It'll be interesting to see how Paulina aged. I remember having a lot of pictures from her when I was in college, more than 10 years ago :)

... Petra was the one who lost her fiancee.

Thanks for the correction on that. I knew it started with a P. All these eastern european names really screw me up. I just don't see them often enough to remember all of them.

Well, I was a little disappointed that Max and Yulia didn't win the overall title in the International Latin division this week. I really prefer Yulia's speed and precision over Elena's grace.

But, at least I won't have to decide whether to cheer for Tony D. or for Yulia next week.

I mostly remember Paulina from "Her Alibi" with Tom Selleck. The only thing I can remember from that movie at the moment is that she shot Magnum with an arrow in the buttocks.

http://imdb.com/title/tt0097500/

It'll be interesting to see how Paulina aged.

You are in for a major disappointment. Think of how you remember Cheryl Ladd from Charlie's Angels and then look at her on Vegas - or Bo Derek from 10 and how she looks today.

About the same change.

Well, I was a little disappointed that Max and Yulia didn't win the overall title in the International Latin division this week. I really prefer Yulia's speed and precision over Elena's grace.

-snip-



Granted the make-up was heavy, but as soon as Yulia strutted onto the floor she was MY choice. :) Wow!

I could be wrong buy my impression is that, while they might LIKE to win the ShowDance and overall titles, all the couples REALLY care about is the Int'l. Latin competition championship. The rest is window dressing. In fact, AFAIK this "ABC" thingie is simply a creation of PBS, makes no sense (even to my wife who will watch almost ANYTHING dance-related).

=NLK=

Granted the make-up was heavy, but as soon as Yulia strutted onto the floor she was MY choice. :) Wow!

I could be wrong buy my impression is that, while they might LIKE to win the ShowDance and overall titles, all the couples REALLY care about is the Int'l. Latin competition championship. The rest is window dressing. In fact, AFAIK this "ABC" thingie is simply a creation of PBS, makes no sense (even to my wife who will watch almost ANYTHING dance-related).

=NLK=

Yeah, I agree with all the above except perhaps the last sentence. The real title, of course, is the group dance title since it is what makes a pro more valuable to their students.

Unfortunately, I find the group dance very frustrating to watch since which couple the director finds interesting and which one I find interesting rarely matches up. So I prefer the show dances, since I can actually watch each couple all the way through. At least from that perspective, the show dances makes some sense to me.

BTW, did you see Yulie's show dance last season? :eek:
It was so hot I had to take a cold shower after watching it (it made a lot of sense to me why they would want to televise it). :D

Actually, I'm not sure what Yulie and Max were thinking this year on their show dance. The dance seemed to be mostly Paso and the slower dances which are their weaker dances instead of the faster Jive and Cha Cha which are their stonger dances.

Whoa!
Isn't Haylee Mills a bit long in the tooth for the dancing? Maybe appealing to a different demographic?
Heh!

Whoa!
Isn't Haylee Mills a bit long in the tooth for the dancing? Maybe appealing to a different demographic?
Heh!

Do you mean Hayley Mills (actress from the various Parent Trap movies - and daughter of Sir John Mills, famous British actor)?

It is Heather Mills (aka Heather Mills-McCartney - soon to be ex-wife of Beatle Paul McCartney) - who is in Dancing with the Stars... (The first person with a "disability" to compete AIUI - though whether Heather considers her prosthetic lower leg a disability I don't know)

The age range of the US Dancing with the Starts shows seems to be a bit narrower than the UK original - Strictly Come Dancing. We have had female competitors well into their 60s, and quite a few in their 40s, as well as a couple of 60 something blokes as well. The "family appeal" factor may be a bit more significant for the UK version - as both shows (the long show and the results show) are on-air on Saturday evening - a traditional "family watching TV together" schedule position in the UK.

Do you mean Hayley Mills (actress from the various Parent Trap movies - and daughter of Sir John Mills, famous British actor)?
-snip-


You're probably right, he did (though of course I can't answer for philw).

I got a good laugh out of that post, though. Reminds me of the time Mark Gastineau (the NY Jets player) was dating Brigit Nilsson (spelling?) and I kept thinking "what does a pro football player have in common with an old overweight opera singer"?

BTW, I saw Hayley Mills some (many years) back as a grown up and, I've got to tell you, she looked waaaay hot! Of course now, well,.......

=NLK=

...

The age range of the US Dancing with the Starts shows seems to be a bit narrower than the UK original - Strictly Come Dancing. We have had female competitors well into their 60s, and quite a few in their 40s, as well as a couple of 60 something blokes as well. .....

The age range seems a bit narrower this season. In previous seasons we've had George Hamilton, Jerry Springer and Harry Hamlin (who's a little younger than the others).

The oldest man this year is Vincent Pastore who, I'm guessing, is late 40's or early 50's. The big difference between the USA and UK seems to be the women. IIRC, the oldest woman on the USA show has been Vivica Fox (late 40's?).

This season, Leeza Gibbons might be in her late 40's. Her pairing up with Tony might make for an interesting couple if it turns out she can dance.

But what I'm really curious to see is if Apolo Ono can dance.

The oldest man this year is Vincent Pastore who, I'm guessing, is late 40's or early 50's.
Big Pussy is 60 years old.

For anyone who hasn't watched the final episode of ABC, make sure you catch a replay of it. And make sure you keep a fire extinguisher handy. You'll need it to put out the fires after Tony and Elena's dances!

I'm not going to say anything else so that I won't spoil it for those who haven't seen it yet.

Are we still talking about Dancing with the Stars here, or something else? I don't know what to make of "the final episode of ABC." ABC as in the network?

No Dancing for Big Pussy[ :D ]

by Sarah Hall
Wed, 28 Feb 2007 02:40:00 PM PST

Unable to take the Dancing heat, Vincent Pastore has bowed out of the competition.

Pastore, best known for playing Big Pussy on The Sopranos, withdrew from the reality show Wednesday after finding the first week of training too rigorous.

"When I initially committed to joining Dancing with the Stars, I didn't realize just how physically demanding it would be for me," the 60-year-old actor said in a statement. "Unable to put forth my best effort, I felt it appropriate to step aside and give someone else the opportunity."

"I'd like to thank ABC and the show's producers for inviting me to participate," he added. "I wish my partner, Edyta, and the other dancers the best of luck."

Pastore's short-lived tenure on Dancing wasn't his first experience with reality television. He also appeared as a contestant on the last season of VH1's Celebrity Fit Club, during which he lost 29 pounds.

Apparently, it wasn't enough.

"We're sad that Vincent felt he was unable to continue in the competition, as he would have been great on the show, but we appreciate him standing aside now rather than having to withdraw later," executive producer Conrad Green said in a statement. "Dancing with the Stars is physically demanding and it pays to know your limits. We respect his decision."

There was no word on whether the show planned to replace Pastore.

Meanwhile, the first week of dance training proved to be no problem for Paul McCartney's estranged wife, Heather Mills, despite the prosthetic leg she wears as the result of a 1993 motorcycle accident.

In an interview with Extra, Mills addressed the unasked question on many minds, saying it was "very unlikely [her] leg is going to fly off" during dance routines, but admitting it "would be quite funny" if it did.

"I'll have a strap on which I wouldn't normally in every day life," Mills said of her plans to ensure her limb stays attached. (At least, that's what we think she was talking about.)

Mills said she would take criticism from judges Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli in stride, while acknowledging the competition could prove challenging for her.

"I've got no dancing background and with my leg I can't push it," she said, adding that she was looking at the experience as a much-needed break from her "mad, crazy life."

Given some of the recent events in Mills' life, it's no surprise she's ready to cut loose and shake a leg.

In the months since she and McCartney announced their plans to divorce, Mills has been raked over the coals by the British press and has even complained of receiving death threats.

Last month, Mills' sister lashed out at McCartney in a message posted on Mills' official Website, accusing him of failing to provide adequate security for his soon-to-be ex-wife.

Earlier this month, Mills paid a visit to a police station near her home in Hove, England to discuss unspecified issues believed to relate to her concerns about personal security.

Because she and McCartney had no prenuptial agreement, Mills stands to walk away from the split with a sizable chunk of the ex-Beatle's $1.6 billion fortune. So far, the couple has yet to reach a settlement.

http://www.eonline.com/news/article/index.jsp?uuid=3b122109-6351-4136-8ae9-9b752393ceff

Are we still talking about Dancing with the Stars here, or something else? I don't know what to make of "the final episode of ABC." ABC as in the network?

ABC = America's Ballroom Challenge on PBS (and apparently some cable channels too). If you look back a few posts you'll see a handful of references to it.

ABC was only 5 episode long and has a lot less viewers than DWTS, so I felt it didn't really justify having it's own thread and since we needed something to talk about in this thread until the new season of DWTS starts, this seemed like a good place to talk about it.

No problem, thanks. I was mostly confused since I tied ABC to the network and not the show.

Reportedly John Ratzenberger ("Cliff" in "Cheers") has been signed to take Pastore's place.

No Dancing for Big Pussy[ :D ]

...

There was no word on whether the show planned to replace Pastore.

...

http://www.eonline.com/news/article/index.jsp?uuid=3b122109-6351-4136-8ae9-9b752393ceff

ARRRGH. If he would have stayed in we would have gotten at least two weeks of Edyta, but now we might not get to see Edyta at all this season. :mad:

Reportedly John Ratzenberger ("Cliff" in "Cheers") has been signed to take Pastore's place.

You snuck that in while I was typing up my ARRRGH post. That's good to hear, I need my Edyta fix. ;)

Edyta is definitely among the top shelf of visual talent on this show.

Personally, I put Cheryl on one rung above her though.

My favorite DWTS "looker" is Kim, who partnered with Jerry Springer last year. Gads, what a figure - nearly perfect. But there's just something about Cheryl; the girl simply drips sex appeal when she's dancing. But afterwards she's like the cute girl next door. Amazing performer.

I wonder if they held a raffle among the male contestants to see who was going to get her as a partner? Certainly that gives that lucky guy a big head start on the field. You'd have to be pretty crummy to lose this competition with Cheryl Burke as a partner.

I was actually trying to remember her name during my post above, but yes, Kim is definitely on that top shelf with Edyta. She was new last year if I remember correctly. Absolutely dynamite.

I used to have a soft spot in my heart for the girl that danced with Harry Hamlin last year and with Master P the year before. She's another looker that's slightly on the chunky side.

I used to have a soft spot in my heart for the girl that danced with Harry Hamlin last year and with Master P the year before. She's another looker that's slightly on the chunky side.

Ashley, I belive. Very pretty face but a bit chunky, as you say. I really felt sorry for her drawing Master P that season. He was ridiculously disinterested. At least Harry was a gamer (but not nearly as good a dancer as his wife the previous season who really should have gone further in the competition. She was jobbed.).

No Dancing for Big Pussy[ :D ]

by Sarah Hall
Wed, 28 Feb 2007 02:40:00 PM PST

Unable to take the Dancing heat, Vincent Pastore has bowed out of the competition.

Pastore, best known for playing Big Pussy on The Sopranos, withdrew from the reality show Wednesday after finding the first week of training too rigorous.

"When I initially committed to joining Dancing with the Stars, I didn't realize just how physically demanding it would be for me," the 60-year-old actor said in a statement. "Unable to put forth my best effort, I felt it appropriate to step aside and give someone else the opportunity."


Something similar happened on the last season of Strictly Come Dancing over here. Jimmy Tarbuck, an aging comedian, started the competition, but was soon advised by doctors that he was putting too much stress on his heart, and he had to bow out. Because it happened after the series had started he wasn't replaced - and I think that gave us a week with no eliminations. (His partner had to bow out of the competition as well - but still took part in the group dances and the other opportunities the pros have to strut their stuff without their celeb partners)

Ashley, I belive. Very pretty face but a bit chunky, as you say. I really felt sorry for her drawing Master P that season. He was ridiculously disinterested. At least Harry was a gamer (but not nearly as good a dancer as his wife the previous season who really should have gone further in the competition. She was jobbed.).

Like Cheryl, it was more her personality than actual looks. She was so perky and optimistic, even when she got stuck with Master P, that you just had to like her.

She did much better the season she was teamed with the former Backstreet Boy from Boston.

Doesn't have quite the choreography skills nor looks that Cheryl has though.

Like Cheryl, it was more her personality than actual looks. She was so perky and optimistic, even when she got stuck with Master P, that you just had to like her.
.

If I was picking one to date, it would definately be Cheryl due to her personality and girl next door looks. But, Edyta tends to wear skimpier costumes than either Cheryl or Kym (who has the best body of the three) which is why I need my Edyta fix. :D



[Ashely] did much better the season she was teamed with the former Backstreet Boy from Boston.

Doesn't have quite the choreography skills nor looks that Cheryl has though.

Hmmm. the only two partners that I recall with Ashely were Master P. and Harry H. I must be having a senior moment. I was hoping that Harry was going to be halfway decent since Ashely really got shafted with Master P. and yet she handled it extremely well.


Looks like the new girl [Julianne Hough] that is dancing with Apolo is a hottie and only 18:
http://www.ohnozone.net/archives/dancing_with_the_stars/

and look at the article that says she was on that Delta jet that slid off the runway in Cleveland.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/wews/20070221/lo_wews/11073655


edit:
Here's a better picture of Julianne dancing Joey McIntyre during one of the DWTS road shows:
http://www.telegram.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070206/NEWS/702060487/1102/FEATURES01

Hmmm. the only two partners that I recall with Ashely were Master P. and Harry H. I must be having a senior moment. I was hoping that Harry was going to be halfway decent since Ashely really got shafted with Master P. and yet she handled it extremely well.



She was partnered with Joey Mcintyre (your link later in your post reminded me of his name - thanks for the pics too) in the first season. She was a little slimmer then, but still had that thickness about her.

Master P was her only bad partner, she got lucky with Joey (pretty boys always do well in this) and probably should've done better with Harry, but he was admittedly kind of a boring guy.

Speaking of pretty boys, I just realized that Cheryl got paired with Ian Ziering from 90210. I gotta think she's the odds-on favorite to get the 3-peat now.

Has anyone realized the DVR related problems that will occur on Mondays, starting on March 19? You have DWTS at 8:00 PM running to 10:00 PM the first night, 9:30 PM for the following weeks. AT 9:00 PM, you can only record one of these two programs: Heroes or 24, since DVRs usually have at most, two tuners (you got more than that? lucky you!).

Which program will get the choice? For me my priority is: 1) Dancing with the Stars (ABC), 2) Heroes (NBC), 3) 24 (Fox). So 24 will lose out, right in the middle of the season.

Anyone else have anything to say about this?

I watch Heroes, but not 24, so it appears I'm safe. I'm assuming the results show is on Tuesday then? Still no problems if so.

....

Speaking of pretty boys, I just realized that Cheryl got paired with Ian Ziering from 90210. I gotta think she's the odds-on favorite to get the 3-peat now.

That's what I'm thinking, although there's a lot of variables out there this season. For example, we don't know much about Julianna and Apolo, but they're both very young and very athletic. Will Apolo's fast feet be able to dance?

Then there's Joey Fatone & Kym, that's sounds like a potentially strong couple too.

Plus Shandi Finnessey & Brian Fortuna who we also don't know much about. Did the former Miss USA ever take dance classes?

Looks like an interesting season to me.

That's what I'm thinking, although there's a lot of variables out there this season. For example, we don't know much about Julianna and Apolo, but they're both very young and very athletic. Will Apolo's fast feet be able to dance?

Then there's Joey Fatone & Kym, that's sounds like a potentially strong couple too.

Plus Shandi Finnessey & Brian Fortuna who we also don't know much about. Did the former Miss USA ever take dance classes?

Looks like an interesting season to me.

I don't know about the other 2 pairs, but I'm not expecting much from Fatone. Sure, he was in a boy band and all but he's always come across as kind of clumsy and oafish to me. I'd be surprised if he's a good dancer, though Kym seemed to eke out whatever was possible from Springer last year.

Has anyone realized the DVR related problems that will occur on Mondays, starting on March 19? You have DWTS at 8:00 PM running to 10:00 PM the first night, 9:30 PM for the following weeks. AT 9:00 PM, you can only record one of these two programs: Heroes or 24, since DVRs usually have at most, two tuners (you got more than that? lucky you!).

Which program will get the choice? For me my priority is: 1) Dancing with the Stars (ABC), 2) Heroes (NBC), 3) 24 (Fox). So 24 will lose out, right in the middle of the season.

Anyone else have anything to say about this?

You can relax for awhile. Heroes goes on a 6 week hiatus after tonight's show. There are only 5 episodes left, after tonight, and May sweeps will have 4 of them. When it comes back, however, something's going to have to give for you. Me, I've got 4 DVR tuners. ;)

Anyone see the ABC promo where Heather Mills says her biggest problem is making sure her leg doesn't come off ? I wonder if the nasty divorce is and will interfere with her preparation for the show. From the news reports it doesn't sound like things are going her way in court. Maybe she expects to be an early castoff. Will she be another Sara Evans?

Has anyone realized the DVR related problems that will occur on Mondays, starting on March 19? You have DWTS at 8:00 PM running to 10:00 PM the first night, 9:30 PM for the following weeks. AT 9:00 PM, you can only record one of these two programs: Heroes or 24, since DVRs usually have at most, two tuners (you got more than that? lucky you!).

Which program will get the choice? For me my priority is: 1) Dancing with the Stars (ABC), 2) Heroes (NBC), 3) 24 (Fox). So 24 will lose out, right in the middle of the season.

Anyone else have anything to say about this?

I just solved this problem by installing a new ATSC tuner card in my PC and an indoor HDTV antenna. Now I can record Heroes and 24 on the DVR, and DWTS on the PC via OTA HD. Fortunately, ABC is one of my more robust OTA HD channels.

Anyone see the ABC promo where Heather Mills says her biggest problem is making sure her leg doesn't come off ? I wonder if the nasty divorce is and will interfere with her preparation for the show. From the news reports it doesn't sound like things are going her way in court. Maybe she expects to be an early castoff. Will she be another Sara Evans?

I sure hope not. IMO, the whole Sara Evans thing was a bad distraction last season.

Really looking forward to this one. Can't wait to see Cheryl!

nc

It could get worse with Heather. Her divorce proceedings against Paul McCartney have taken a nasty turn. How is she going to have time to practice her paso doble when she's spending hours in court doing the dose-e-do with Sir Paul?

The program is live - no stunt doubles.

Anyone want to take bets on when she is forced to withdraw due to her ongoing ocurt battles?

Why not get Sarah Evans back again for a re-do!

I hope Mills gets out of it anyway. I can't stand her. What with all the crap she pulled with Sir Paul, I hope she doesn't even participate!

nc

I'm still floored by the selection of Heather Mills to be in the cast, regardless of whether or not she's a golddigger (and Sir Paul has only himself to blame for entering into a marriage, any marriage, without a pre-nup. Dumb, dumb, dumb. :rolleyes: ) No, the fact that she has a prosthetic leg means she won't be able to do all the dances! She simply won't. My dad lost a leg below the knee in his later years and, while he could still walk around pretty well with the prosthetic leg, he sure as heck couldn't have done any dancing other than, maybe, a slow waltz. What, are they going to allow her to pass on the more demanding ones, like the quick-step? I'm sorry, and I certainly don't want to denigrate the accomplishments of the disabled which I often admire, but her selection for this show is just....nuts. I'd say it "jumped the shark", but with the boffo ratings it gets, that's not it, either. I just think the casting directors lost their minds.

It adds interest and thus viewers, and her subsequent, sure departure for medical and/or court-related reasons will only enhance that interest.

...

No, the fact that she has a prosthetic leg means she won't be able to do all the dances! She simply won't. My dad lost a leg below the knee in his later years and, while he could still walk around pretty well with the prosthetic leg, he sure as heck couldn't have done any dancing other than, maybe, a slow waltz. What, are they going to allow her to pass on the more demanding ones, like the quick-step? I'm sorry, and I certainly don't want to denigrate the accomplishments of the disabled which I often admire, but her selection for this show is just....nuts.
...

Yep, even if she can do all the dances, how do the judges score her? Can they tell if she's doing heel leads where required, or on the balls of her feet when required, or has her toes pointed down in the jive kicks?



...

I'd say it "jumped the shark", but with the boffo ratings it gets, that's not it, either. I just think the casting directors lost their minds.

They haven't lost their minds, they know exactly what they are doing, which is being social activists. And you'll know they jumped the shark when they have a same sex couple.

And you'll know they jumped the shark when they have a same sex couple.Two hot women and I'll watch :D

A couple of the tabloid TV shows had a very short clip of Ian and Cheryl on yesterday.

He did a couple of cha-cha steps and based on the short slip I'd say he's not a natural. If there's a Stacy Keebler or Mario Lopez again this season he's beatable. He didn't really have any hip action and he wasn't really extending his lines, but he has potential.

They certainly made a good looking couple, much better than Drew who was too short and Emmitt who was too big. He's perhaps a inch or two taller than being the perfect heighth for Cheryl (I didn't see what type of heels she was wearing, so it might be even closer to perfect when she's wearing 3 inch heels).

And he has a good dancing body, long and lean and very flexible. He actually bent over was able to touch his face to his knees with his legs perfectly straight. Cheryl actually said that he's more limber than she is. It'll be interesting to see if Cheryl gives him any fan kicks to do. With his body type and flexibility, he has potential of having a fan kick that would even make the female pros envious.

And he has a good dancing body, long and lean and very flexible. He actually bent over was able to touch his face to his knees with his legs perfectly straight.

That's quite difficult. Color me impressed.

I'm just looking forward to seeing Cheryl again. She could dance with James Brown's decaying body and I'd still watch. Of course with Ian, we have a better chance of seeing her around longer. :)

She could dance with James Brown's decaying body and I'd still watch.Hardest working corpse in show business.

Hardest working corpse in show business.

Is that ever dead on!! :D :D

Yep, Cheryl can start me up cuz she can make a dead man ;)

Yep, Cheryl can start me up cuz she can make a dead man ;)

Didn't one of the couples dance to the Rolling Stone's _Start Me Up_ ? I seem to recall hearing a Stone's song, but perhaps it was a different song.

I think ELVIS would be a better choice !

jl

I know there's a lot of Stacy Keibler fans in this thread, so I thought I'd mention that they've been announcing that Stacy has a part on _What About Brian_ this Monday after DWTS.

So if you're a fan of Stacy's don't forget to set your DVR to record both shows.

Tonight, we get to finally see the show! Cannot wait to see what Cheryl looks like :)

nc

Tonight, we get to finally see the show! Cannot wait to see what Cheryl looks like :)

nc

We've seen Cheryl for two years now. The new lady I'm waiting to see in HD: Shandi Finnessey (Miss USA 2004 - better known as co-host/judge on GSN's Lingo). :D

I don't think the HD on this show looks that great, its good, but not spectacular.

I'm a huge Cheryl fan too but I'm looking forward to watching Shandi.

Looks like my local station (KOCO-TV OTA, Oklahoma City) forgot to flip the switch after the first commercial break. Its been in SD ever since. :(

Edit: HD is back!

I don't think the HD on this show looks that great, its good, but not spectacular.One issue is that there's lots of smoke in the studio for the lighting effects. It also has the effect of raising the black level and lowering the contrast. Aside from that, the cameras look good to me.

Well, Heather Mills was surprisingly good! But, of course, the Foxtrot, along with the Waltz, are the dances she'd logically have the most success with. I can't see her doing the quick-step or paso double (however that's spelled...). But she's a trooper for trying, for sure. And after seeing Edyta, Kim, and Shandi, I needed a long, cold shower. :p

You judges suck!

I believe John Ratzenberger gave the best dance of the night. (Ok, so I'm partial to Edyta :) ) But most, if not all but John and Edyta and Cheryl B., were very stiff. And with only 2 weeks to prepare! They should have been given a higher score.

Clyde is a very likable character (a la Emmit). Even though Clyde may not dance devinely, he will be given a through to the last couple of weeks.

BTW, what was that thing John did to Edyta at the very start of the dance?

Also, could that lady announcer slide that dress a down any lower lol.

In any case, PURE ENTERTAINMENT!

nc

MMMM, Julianne Hough. (drool)

Decoration:

Well, I was wild about Paulina when I was younger and I see no reason to change now (although her dancing s*cked). Shandi was absolutely gorgeous (again, though, not too good a dancer). The one thing I was wondering about was the hairdo style. I love the 40s look but all of them save Shandi's were weird. For those of you who ever watched Blow-Out my wife and I were wondering if Jonathan was responsible.

Dancing:

Of course things are clearer in retrospect but Laila Ali's very good performance could have been expected. As a boxer she needs to be quick on her feet but even more important she has to have muscular legs. If you're dancing a slow dance (less so for the smooth style they were doing but even in that style when you're in hold) the one thing you need is muscle strength and control in your legs. That's why the International Foxtrot (slow foxtrot) is the hardest of ALL the dances to master. Aside from the fact they should never have dressed her in orange I was really happy for her.

I think it would have been better to get Leeza Gibbons a female partner and let her lead.

=NLK=

Mmmmm....Kym Johnson (the Fatone's partner)

I feel much better now that I've had my Edyta fix. :D
And Edyta really came through with that costume! It was skimpy even by Edyta's standards. With that skimpy outfit, how is it that her microphone pack stayed in place while Joey's fell out?

Anyway, I didn't see any natural talent like Mario or Stacy this season, but it looks to me like it's probably going to be another boy that wins since Ian, Joey and Apolo all probably have bigger fan bases than Shandi, Laila or Paulina.

I think I have to give a slight edge to Joey at this point, since he seemed a little more comfortable and IMHO it's easier for him to learn just enough of the technical stuff to keep the judges happy than it is for the others to reach their comfort level.

One interesting thing I noticed was that Heather, by far, did the best throwaway of the women (although Shandi didn't do one). I wonder if that was because all the other male pros are really latin specialists but Jonathon is more of a 10 dance pro.

And then there's Jullianne. Man I wish I was 18 and fearless again. There are probably a thousand thing that could go wrong when you have four guys trying to toss you straight up and have a fifth guy catch you. And then to do a on hand, overhead lift at the top of a staircase! That girl must not have any sense of self preservation at all.

Julianne and Apollo will have a huge fan base. Did you see how she looks at him. Is there a crush going on or what?

I am starting to think that the professional dancers are the real stars of this show.
It doesn't matter who they book, as long as Kym, Cheryl, Karina, Edyta, and Julianne are on the show. Some of these dancers are becoming more recognizable than the B-listers they are paired with.

Maybe nobody else agrees, but I thought Apolo looked as good as any celebrity ever has in a first week dance. I'm a little worried about how good the choreography might be, though, with how young and starstruck Julianne appears to be.

I've gotta admit that as impressed as I was with Heather's dance, I was quite distracted by the thought of what it's going to be like when that leg decides not to cooperate. I'm not sure if this is the right venue for something like that as it definitely makes for an uneven playing field. And how would you like to be one of the ones who get beat out by someone with a prosthetic leg, anyway?

And how would you like to be one of the ones who get beat out by someone with a prosthetic leg, anyway?

Totally off topic, but I once got thrown out on what was a clean hit over second base by a one-armed center fielder. Never recovered from that one :o Seriously, I think anybody who lost to her will just give her credit for giving it a go.

This is the first season I've seen this show ... looking forward to it.

Wow, Cheryl looked as good as ever. Her personality comes through so well when she dances. What a knockout. Still my favorite.

Edyta, while stunningly beautiful and "smokin' hot," always falls flat in the interviews to me. I don't know if it's her halting english or if she's just not all that interesting. I love her choice in outfits though. :D

I liked Kim a lot, and the newcomer that danced with Ono. She's such a cutie for 18 years old.

Still do not like Karina Smirnoff at all. There's just something about her that repulses me.

Who else was getting a distinct gay vibe from Shandi's Professional partner? Despite all his pronouncements at how "hot" Shandi was. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

I agree with the above poster in that the pro dancers are becoming the "stars" of this show...

I can't believe no one's commented on the GIGANTIC implants that Karina obviously got since the last season. They're huge, she must have gotten them right after the last show wrapped.

This thread needs many screencaps, doesn't it?

Who else was getting a distinct gay vibe from Shandi's Professional partner? Despite all his pronouncements at how "hot" Shandi was. Not that there's anything wrong with that.His smiley looks reminds me of Ted Haggard. If he is, he could go through the same 3 weeks of counseling to be "cured". :D

What year is this again?

I can't believe no one's commented on the GIGANTIC implants that Karina obviously got since the last season. They're huge, she must have gotten them right after the last show wrapped.
I sorta noticed she had implants even last season,she does have an otherwise smoking,pretty much perfect physique.Both her and Edyta have very sexy,lean and defined bodies,much more "real" and appealing than a typical fitness model type physique.

I can't believe no one's commented on the GIGANTIC implants that Karina obviously got since the last season. They're huge, she must have gotten them right after the last show wrapped.

I thought she appeared fairly well-endowed last season, but then I might've been distracted by that gargoyle face of hers.

....

BTW, what was that thing John did to Edyta at the very start of the dance?

Also, could that lady announcer slide that dress a down any lower lol.

...

nc

John was doing a little air guitar, miming the opening bass line of the song.

AFA Samatha's dress, it's a good thing she has HUGE hooters or that strapless dress would never stay on. Actually, one of my pet peeves is when a woman wears a strapless dress and then spends the entire night pulling it up every couple of minutes. It makes me want pull out a staple gun and staple it to their chest. ;)

Maybe nobody else agrees, but I thought Apolo looked as good as any celebrity ever has in a first week dance. I'm a little worried about how good the choreography might be, though, with how young and starstruck Julianne appears to be.
...


I thought Stacy and Mario looked a little better on the first night, but Apolo was close to as good. IMO, he seemed like he was having to think about it rather than just dance it.

I have similar concerns about Julianne. Since she's so young and since he's a big star, I'm concerned she'll have problems being confident and forceful enough to jump on his errors and whip him into shape.

I have to agree with the other posters that the Pros are becoming as recognizable as the celebs.

It makes me wonder how much they pay the Pros. I would think that someone like Tony, who is now the two time, reigning America Style Latin champion, would be in very high demand as a teaching pro and could command very high prices for his time. So DWTS must be paying some serious scratch to keep him around.

I thought she appeared fairly well-endowed last season, but then I might've been distracted by that gargoyle face of hers.
No way, they showed her in a bikini last year, she had nothing. Now she's got monsters, like water balloons glued to her chest. I preferred her natural, but yes, her face is a little rough compared to the others.

I have to agree with the other posters that the Pros are becoming as recognizable as the celebs.

It makes me wonder how much they pay the Pros. I would think that someone like Tony, who is now the two time, reigning America Style Latin champion, would be in very high demand as a teaching pro and could command very high prices for his time. So DWTS must be paying some serious scratch to keep him around.

This is incredible exposure and advertising for him, and all the others that are working as instructors.

Plus, you have the added allure of becoming a "star" that's no small factor.

ABC officially announced today it is picking another season of "Dancing With The Stars".

I am starting to think that the professional dancers are the real stars of this show.
It doesn't matter who they book, as long as Kym, Cheryl, Karina, Edyta, and Julianne are on the show. Some of these dancers are becoming more recognizable than the B-listers they are paired with.This is why I think a female celeb will never win. The female pros are so gorgeous and so talented you can't take your eyes off of them. Who cares if the "star" is Clyde Drexler or Manute Bol? The female pros ARE the stars!

I had a feeling Apolo would do well. The training for most of the stars is gruelling. The dance training for Apolo is a walk in the park compared to his normal training.

Stacy Kiebler could have/should have won. The reason a female celeb will never win is because female fans won't have it. They're not going to vote for another woman.

ABC officially announced today it is picking another season of "Dancing With The Stars".My guess is season 5 starts mid September 2007.

ABC officially announced today it is picking another season of "Dancing With The Stars".

That decision was a no-brainer. IIRC, they said on the news that the first night of DWTS this season drew 25M viewers. :eek:

Stacy Kiebler could have/should have won. The reason a female celeb will never win is because female fans won't have it. They're not going to vote for another woman.


That's basically my take on it too. Kelly Monaco won the original vote in the first season and then O'Hurley won the rematch. But that's because Kelly is a big soap star with a huge female fan base. If they ever want to have another female win, they'll have to find someone with a similarly large female fan base. Former Miss USA's, Supermodels and female boxers are not going to cut it, even if they're great dancers.


I'd also like to see if one of the female golf pros, such as Annika Sorenstam or Natalie Gulbis (sp?), would be competitive by peeling off enough male golf fans from one the male sports stars, like Clyde, who has a relatively weak male fan base. Obviously, this wouldn't work with someone like Emmitt Smith in the lineup.

Kelly Monaco won the original vote in the first season and then O'Hurley won the rematch. But that's because Kelly is a big soap star with a huge female fan base.. Kelly really was spectacular in that first season.
She had the female support, as you said, because of her soap opera and she had the male support because of, well let’s just say guys liked her too, :cool: especially those that remembered her from her Playboy days. :p

I have to chuckle when I remember my wife watching the first episode and forced me :rolleyes: to watch it with her. I immediately picked Kelly for the win. :D

I think this cast is the best to date. There aren’t any real clinkers in the bunch. Though I am looking forward to the ex Mrs. McCartney getting the boot. (pun intended) :cool:

I really thought O'Hurley was the better dancer in the first season. I actually had suspicions that he got shafted from the "win" because of Monaco's ABC connections (her soap airs on ABC).

Speaking of, I have a problem with their method of eliminating contestants. They say it's equal part judge's rating, and voting results. Well, what happens if that results in a tie? Someone could get the lowest score, but the second lowest voting result...then someone else could get the second lowest score, but the lowest voting result. Would that not result in a tie? They've never addressed this scenario so how do they determine the result?

Btw, Kelly Monaco is featured in one of the older episodes of Bikini Destinations, that re-aired in last year's rotation. I have that one saved to my DVR. ;) It was apparently shot prior to her Soap Opera career, based on her interview answers.

Btw, Kelly Monaco is featured in one of the older episodes of Bikini Destinations, that re-aired in last year's rotation. I have that one saved to my DVR. ;) It was apparently shot prior to her Soap Opera career, based on her interview answers.
Y'all also know she did a Playboy shoot as well, right?

Y'all also know she did a Playboy shoot as well, right?

Yeah, I think someone else mentioned it above, I didn't see mention of her Bikini Destinations episode so that's why I brought it up.

Yeah, I think someone else mentioned it above, I didn't see mention of her Bikini Destinations episode so that's why I brought it up.Thanks, at least you read my post. :)

Just to be more specific, :p she was Miss April 1997, therefore she was also in the year end Playmate of the Year review issue and also was in a pictorial for the Babes of Baywatch, June 1998. ;) I was just going through a milk crate to verify. :cool:

Thanks, at least you read my post. :)

Just to be more specific, :p she was Miss April 1997, therefore she was also in the year end Playmate of the Year review issue and also was in a pictorial for the Babes of Baywatch, June 1998. ;) I was just going through a milk crate to verify. :cool:
Sorry, I did read your post, but my ADD cut off the end of that paragraph. :o

Sorry, I did read your post, but my ADD cut off the end of that paragraph. :o :cool: I have that effect. :D

Speaking of, I have a problem with their method of eliminating contestants. They say it's equal part judge's rating, and voting results. Well, what happens if that results in a tie? Someone could get the lowest score, but the second lowest voting result...then someone else could get the second lowest score, but the lowest voting result. Would that not result in a tie? They've never addressed this scenario so how do they determine the result?


The rule has always been that in case of a tie on the judges scores, the determining factor would be the audience vote. Team with the lower audience vote percentage (originally, ordinal) loses.

The more I think about it, the more I'm wondering if Laila can get a huge block of her father's fans to vote for her. He still has a huge following (both male and female) so if she can attract a large chunk of votes from those fans perhaps she'll have a chance at winning this thing.

The more I think about it, the more I'm wondering if Laila can get a huge block of her father's fans to vote for her. He still has a huge following (both male and female) so if she can attract a large chunk of votes from those fans perhaps she'll have a chance at winning this thing.I understand why you would make this assertion (one of the most recognizable athletes of all time, worldwide) but the demo that votes has no clue who her father is.

Bump.

Second round with all 11 dance couples tonight. Recap and first elimination show tomorrow.

My guess... Bye Bye, Billy Ray.

Bump.

...

My guess... Bye Bye, Billy Ray.

That's what I'm hoping for since I want to keep Edyta around for a couple of more weeks. :D

But I won't complain if Clyde or Leeza go in the first round instead of Billy Ray.

Speaking of Billy Ray, when he tried to rip Katarina's wig off, I couldn't figure out what was going on. :confused: I thought they were singing "I want my MONEY back", not "I want my MULLET back". It wasn't until Tom made the crack about mullets that I figured out what was going on. :o

I can't decide which is worse, his mullet or his Jennifer Aniston hairdo. I agree, I'm hoping Billy Ray is singing achy breaky in an Indian Casino next week.

I can't decide which is worse, his mullet or his Jennifer Aniston hairdo. I agree, I'm hoping Billy Ray is singing achy breaky in an Indian Casino next week.


Billy Ray's daugther is raking in more cash than her dad ever did. He's set for life :)

That decision was a no-brainer. IIRC, they said on the news that the first night of DWTS this season drew 25M viewers. :eek:

Wierd.

ABC ran a promo that 32M (maybe higher - I remember doing a double take when I heard it) viewers saw it. I was blown away by the number - and know it was at least 32M - but then again - I wonder how they counted that number.

Donald Trump also said he had the #1 program on TV during Sunday Night's Apprentice :rolleyes:

Wow, too many damn commercials. I think 2 hours is too long.

nc

Wow, too many damn commercials. I think 2 hours is too long.

nc

That's what makes DVRs so great. :)

Hey, can someone please post a screen cap of Edyta?

That's what makes DVRs so great. :)Exactly, I couldn’t watch it any other way and now, tonight, they’re milking it for two separate shows. I don’t recall the previous seasons having an hour recap show (except at the end) but I could be wrong.

So who’s getting kicked off?
There are no sure things this year, either for the top tier or bottom tier.

Wow. The people at the bottom really stepped up their game last night and shook up the leader board. Judging from the audience reaction to Billy Ray, I no longer think he's going home tonight. Now I'm thinking it might be Leeza or Paulina.

I thought Paulina got off a couple of good cracks. The "[my inner] Czech is polka." and the "American tourist in Havana after one too many Mohitas." cracks were pretty good.

And I have to give props to John. At least he's actually trying to dance unlike Springer and a couple of other people they've had on.

I think Apolo's quickstep was the fastest quickstep I've seen on the show. But I'm having trouble remembering what Stacy's quickstep looked like. He botched a step here and there, but that routine was far more difficult than any of the other quicksteps last night. In fact, I really don't recall any of the professional performances on America's Ballroom Challenge being significantly more difficult.

And I have to give props to John. At least he's actually trying to dance unlike Springer and a couple of other people they've had on.
I actually thought he had the best dance last week. Although, maybe I just like his partner :)

nc

actually i couldn't tell you how any of the men danced cause i don't watch them :)

This is why I think a female celeb will never win. The female pros are so gorgeous and so talented you can't take your eyes off of them. Who cares if the "star" is Clyde Drexler or Manute Bol? The female pros ARE the stars!


Interesting - over here we have an even split after 4 seasons of the BBC original show, Strictly Come Dancing.

Seasons 1 and 2 were won by women :
Natasha Kaplinsky, who is one of the main anchors of the BBC One 6pm National News - which she was promoted to from the Breakfast programme shortly after winning. (She guest hosted the beginning of season two when Tess, the main female presenter, was on maternity leave)
Jill Halfpenny, who was a character in BBC soap, EastEnders, and who went on to appear in Chicago in the West End.

Seasons 3 and 4 were won by men :
Darren Gough, professional cricketer
Mark Ramprakash, professional cricketer

However - from other quotes here - I think the "beauty contest" element of the show is bigger in the US? (I think we have a wider mix of age ranges and body types in our contestants?)

So who’s getting kicked off? Well since no one else will be so bold and make a prediction, I will.

I think that Lezza will get the boot tonight, though I hope it’s Mrs. McCartney. I doubt that it will be but I can only hope that it's her and she goes back across the pond and tends to the pig farms.

Sorry, but I think either Shandi or Billy Ray goes. Shandi looks good, but doesn't have the same talent level Staci Kiebler did in season 2.

Awwww, Paulina. I thought she was good. They had good chemistry, sort of like the good Boris and Natasha. Oh well, I guess there aren’t enough old SI swimsuit old time fans out there, or CARS fans that would lend support.

Is anyone else having issues with the sound on ABC tonight. Watching in the Bay Area of Northern Cali on KGO-HD, all I keep hearing is this annoying machine gun static that comes blaring on every 10 minutes or so. Last about 10-15 seconds then goes away. Is this just me??

Is anyone else having issues with the sound on ABC tonight. Watching in the Bay Area of Northern Cali on KGO-HD, all I keep hearing is this annoying machine gun static that comes blaring on every 10 minutes or so. Last about 10-15 seconds then goes away. Is this just me??
Same here in Alameda. Seems like it's a chronic problem with KGO-HD, but tonight was more severe

Sorry, but I think either Shandi or Billy Ray goes. Shandi looks good, but doesn't have the same talent level Staci Kiebler did in season 2.

Well both survived, but at least I was right on one of them being in the bottom two. Who goes next? I hate to say it, but unless Shandi gets her game up, she's a goner.

Notice that Chuck Woolery was interviewed about who should be eliminated and clearly did not say anything about his Lingo co-host? Don't want to jinx her, right?

Shandi is clearly the beauty on this season - followed by Apollo's partner, Juliann even though she is only 18.

Paulina clearly hasn't looked as good in the past 10-12 years as she did, but then who does? Considering she never excercised, smokes like a chimney and eats poorly, I am sure that didn't help.

She's got a great personality, but clearly she wasn't a great dancer - but would have been my #3 favorite behind the 2 above.

I'm very disappointed with this show. For starters, 4 hours of DWTS in one week is just 2 hours too many. Nort only did they devote the first hour of last nights show to absolute fluff, there are way too many commercials. I don't remember this being like this in seasons past.

Also, was Paulina told to dance at gunpoint? She wasn't even upset or surprised when she didn't make it to the next round. AND, when it got to the bottom two, who gave a crap which one of them got tossed...they were both aweful! Let's save the advertisers and the network some money, and get rid of both of them!

As an aside, althought the Ali girl dances great and has an awesome figure, her voice is that of a man.

nc

Is anyone else having issues with the sound on ABC tonight. Watching in the Bay Area of Northern Cali on KGO-HD, all I keep hearing is this annoying machine gun static that comes blaring on every 10 minutes or so. Last about 10-15 seconds then goes away. Is this just me??

Same thing in Solano County (Comcast). We DVR'ed the beginning of Dancing (after American Idol pulled that blatently obvious "extra 7 minutes" stunt last) and heard the static immediately on the playback and then when the DVR caught up to the real time broadcast. It got so bad that we switched over to the regular KGO channel for the rest of the show. Fortunately, the SD picture quality was rather good.

Shandi is clearly the beauty on this season - followed by Apollo's partner, Juliann even though she is only 18.

Paulina clearly hasn't looked as good in the past 10-12 years as she did, but then who does? Considering she never excercised, smokes like a chimney and eats poorly, I am sure that didn't help.

She's got a great personality, but clearly she wasn't a great dancer - but would have been my #3 favorite behind the 2 above.

I tend to agree (although I MIGHT flip-flop Shandi and Julianne). I was a big Paulina fan and still think she looks great (OK, I'm into older women) and was sorry to see her go.

I told my wife before the show that Shandi was in danger, simply because she's got no fan base (other than guys who can see :) ). Paulina as well. Leeza and Billy Ray (who could just as easily have been the bottom two) clearly do have popular support.

It seems among the many directives the judges receive is one that tells them to try and "even up" the scores from week to week.

=NLK=

Well since no one else will be so bold and make a prediction, I will.

....

Hey, back in post 419, I got Paulina right. But missed the second half of the final two. :p

actually i couldn't tell you how any of the men danced cause i don't watch them :)

I have that problem too... :D

That's why when I watch the show, I watch all the female pros live, in 110 inches of glorious HD on my front projector.

Then I also DVR the show in NTSC in case the HD feed craps out and so that I can go back and watch male celebs.

...

However - from other quotes here - I think the "beauty contest" element of the show is bigger in the US? (I think we have a wider mix of age ranges and body types in our contestants?)

I think there is more of beauty contest element of the US show, but we are catching up on the age issue. Leeza just turned 50 and Marilu Henner (sp?), who is over 50, has expressed interest in doing the show.

Hey, back in post 419, I got Paulina right. But missed the second half of the final two. :p :cool: Yes you did... and we do agree on Lezza. I don’t think she’ll be around much longer.

And as someone mentioned before, Apollo Ono’s partner is a gorgeous young lady. I think that he, Ali, Ian and Joey will be the 4 finalists but I’m jumping ahead.


By the way, isn’t it funny that there’s an Ono and an ex wife of a Beatle in the same show. :rolleyes: :p

As an aside, althought the Ali girl dances great and has an awesome figure, her voice is that of a man. And the arms of a man too. :D But she is good.

I'm very disappointed with this show. For starters, 4 hours of DWTS in one week is just 2 hours too many. Nort only did they devote the first hour of last nights show to absolute fluff, there are way too many commercials. I don't remember this being like this in seasons past.The other networks get out of Idol's way, especially when it's not sweeps. I think it was smart for ABC to put a recap ahead of the live show as any other show would have been a throw away. DWTS knew exactly when to really start the live show as Idol is their next door neighbor.

.. DWTS knew exactly when to really start the live show as Idol is their next door neighbor.Yeah but FOX is playing real hardball with ABC.

DWTS purposely rescheduled this season to not get into a battle with AI but FOX decided to run yesterday’s show several minutes over just to tweak ABC. The funny thing is, as you said, DWTS knew exactly when to start the show last night.

Awwwww. DWTS is trying to compete with AI. How cute!:D

The other networks get out of Idol's way, especially when it's not sweeps. I think it was smart for ABC to put a recap ahead of the live show as any other show would have been a throw away. DWTS knew exactly when to really start the live show as Idol is their next door neighbor.
Great point! I hate AI, so I didn't even think of this.

nc

DWTS is raking in the viewers, so I wasn't surprised by the "recap" show lead-in. For folks without DVRs though, they probably felt they were being jerked around a bit.

[QUOTE=LL3HD...

By the way, isn’t it funny that there’s an Ono and an ex wife of a Beatle in the same show. :rolleyes: :p[/QUOTE]

LOL. That's some pretty good free association on your part. I never would have come up with that one.

EDIT: Gaack. I somehow managed to screw up the quote tags, but I'm too lazy to fix them.

*BUMP*

New performance show tonight! Let's see how the ratings compare with tonight's Men's NCAA Basketball Championship.

*BUMP*

New performance show tonight! Let's see how the ratings compare with tonight's Men's NCAA Basketball Championship.DVRs will be in overdrive tonight. :cool:

What? No one has anything to say about last night's performances? (I'm only about half way though on my viewing of last night's show).

I do... Joey Fatone dancing to Star Wars made me laugh so hard I almost peed my pants. I have no idea how well he danced, I couldn't see through my tears.

The Ali "woman" is the best dancer.

nc

*BUMP*

New performance show tonight! Let's see how the ratings compare with tonight's Men's NCAA Basketball Championship.Not to mention "24", which is still pulling in a lot of viewers.

Good thing we have two dual-tuner HD-DVRs.

The Ali "woman" is the best dancer.

nc

She's definately one of the best of this group.

Unfortunately, Max might have gotten her kicked off tonight by breaking the hold in the middle of the tango. After the judges beat up Mario & Katrina last season, I knew Max & Laila were going to really get thumped. I'm surprized that Max didn't remember that incident and make sure to maintain the hold. Kym sure made a point of not breaking the hold with Joey.

Anyway, I guess we'll find out if Laila has a fan base tonight because she's going to need a decent size fan base to stay ahead of John, Billy Ray and Clyde.

And speaking of rules violations, did they drop the "no lifts" rule this season? I've seen a couple of lifts (e.g. Apolo lifted Julianna last night) and the judges didn't make a peep. :confused:

Speaking of Julianna, someone needs to tell her that the styling of that wig was terrible for her face shape. She looked like she gained 20lbs of weight all in her face with that hair style.

Speaking of Julianna, someone needs to tell her that the styling of that wig was terrible for her face shape. She looked like she gained 20lbs of weight all in her face with that hair style.I thought she looked great. But then again she could have a BELLO wig on and I would think that too. :D

I don’t think Ali has anything to worry about. She's still right there in (my) the top four with Ian, Ono and Joey. I hate to say it but I thought Joey was the best last night. He has better foot movement than his partner.

I’d be real surprised if Clyde survives tonight’s cut.

Speaking of Julianna, someone needs to tell her that the styling of that wig was terrible for her face shape. She looked like she gained 20lbs of weight all in her face with that hair style.I don't think the styling of the wig was built around her face shape - LOL - they were undoubtedly more concerned about the Pulp Fiction theme. You didn't like the way she looked?

How'd you like their dance? I thought it had the highest degree of difficulty of the night when Apolo rotated her through his legs.

...I’d be real surprised if Clyde survives tonight’s cut.I agree. I was a huge fan of his when he played basketball, but even I am having a hard time giving him any votes.

I thought she looked great. But then again she could have a BELLO wig on and I would think that too. :D By the way, ;) if you don't know what the heck I'm talking about... http://www.bellonock.com/ :eek: They (the circus) happen to be in town right now. :D

She's definately one of the best of this group.

Unfortunately, Max might have gotten her kicked off tonight by breaking the hold in the middle of the tango. After the judges beat up Mario & Katrina last season, I knew Max & Laila were going to really get thumped. I'm surprized that Max didn't remember that incident and make sure to maintain the hold. Kym sure made a point of not breaking the hold with Joey.

Anyway, I guess we'll find out if Laila has a fan base tonight because she's going to need a decent size fan base to stay ahead of John, Billy Ray and Clyde.

And speaking of rules violations, did they drop the "no lifts" rule this season? I've seen a couple of lifts (e.g. Apolo lifted Julianna last night) and the judges didn't make a peep. :confused:

Speaking of Julianna, someone needs to tell her that the styling of that wig was terrible for her face shape. She looked like she gained 20lbs of weight all in her face with that hair style.I hope you are wrong about Laila. I think she is the surprise of the season. I'm amazed how light she is on her feet given her size. But considering her boxer training, that must help.

I also think Julianna's wig made her look pudgy. She is such a cutie and whoever picked out that wig for her should be fired.

Juliana could put on 20 *real* pounds and she wouldn't look pudgy...

Some real beauty's on this show, no doubt. Cheryl's still my favorite, but Kym, Julianna, Edyta, and Clyde's partner are all right up there. Billy Ray's partner has an amazing body but I just can't ignore her gargoyle face.

Shandi got the boot last night. I think a lot of people hoped she might be the second coming of Staci Kiebler, but it was obvious she came up lacking dance-wise. When Clyde Drexler escaped the bottom two (Shandi and Leeza), Shandi pretty much knew it was over.

Anyone watch Lingo on GSN on Monday? They had a crawl squeezed in there asking people to vote for Shandi on DWTS. They won't be needing that anymore.

Shandi got the boot last night. I think a lot of people hoped she might be the second coming of Staci Kiebler, but it was obvious she came up lacking dance-wise.

Alas, no more Shandi. One less notch on the eye-candy scale. The show's producers really should have figured out a way to allow her to stay awhile. The Glide's a joke. :(

There's only one Stacy Kiebler, though. Wonder how her movie career is going after the boost from this show?

She looked great, but definitely didn't have the dancing moves. I found her personality a little annoying too.

Alas, no more Shandi. One less notch on the eye-candy scale. The show's producers really should have figured out a way to allow her to stay awhile. The Glide's a joke. :( It is a shame that Shandi didn’t make the cut. I think her dancing would have improved and she would have picked up more support. She appeared a bit overbearing and not very likeable in the first week’s shows. At least that’s the footage that was presented to us. Her partner also seemed a little flakey. This week however she showed a humble side and finally figured out how to work the audience in a nicer way, too late to get enough votes though.

Clod the Grind, I mean Clyde the Glide is definitely on borrowed time. I like him but he’s got to go.... Leeza bores me... and I’ve already expressed too many times my opinion of the ex Mrs. McCartney. :eek: :rolleyes:

I would love to see as a musical guest Kanye West :cool: performing that little ditty of his. :D That would bring the house down. :p Anything would be better than the musical performers so far.

Heather Mills is one homely woman.

Maybe she just hasn't aged well...

Speaking of Clyde, anybody notice that while his partner was close to shaking her dress off (that would have been cool!), Clyde looked like he wanted to be somewhere else.

Please tell me that at one point...while he had his left arm raised, was he looking at his watch???

Also his partner (her name escapes me) and Cheryl Burke won the fringe contest (as in "who had the best" and "who looked the best in") :D

I don't think the styling of the wig was built around her face shape - LOL - they were undoubtedly more concerned about the Pulp Fiction theme. You didn't like the way she looked?
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She looked great in the long shots, but the face shots were not flattering to say the least. I wonder if it would have looked better with a dark black wig? After all Uma's hair was black not blonde in Pulp Fiction (and IMO that was the sexiest Uma has ever looked and that's saying a lot since she always looks fairly sexy).



How'd you like their dance? I thought it had the highest degree of difficulty of the night when Apolo rotated her through his legs.

I liked their dance and thought that Len was a little hard on them for the intro. The intro was a little long but I think it was neccessary to set up the theme.

That rotating her through his legs move was the move I was thinking about when I mentioned the illegal lifts. If they're still banning lifts, then they should have gotten dinged by the judges for that move.

Alas, no more Shandi. One less notch on the eye-candy scale. The show's producers really should have figured out a way to allow her to stay awhile. The Glide's a joke. :(

There's only one Stacy Kiebler, though. Wonder how her movie career is going after the boost from this show?

I agree with all the above.

I was really disappointed in the judges this week. Shandi finally found some rhythm and leg action and she gets three points less then Heather who hardly moved her feet and when she did, she was kicking from the hip not the knee and didn't bother to point her toes on her real foot.

Well, at least Laila had enough fan support to save her from the middle of the pack score the judges gave her. I'm still not sure if she has enough fans to win it, but last night was a big positive for her.

Will we see her dad in the audience?

Will we see her dad in the audience?

If you're talking about the former Cassius Clay, I'm sure the show's producers would move Heaven and Earth to get him into the audience. He's still the world's most recognizable figure, I've heard.

There's only one Stacy Kiebler, though. Wonder how her movie career is going after the boost from this show?
I loved Stacy. I could watch that samba on a loop for the rest of my life. :D

I loved Stacy. I could watch that samba on a loop for the rest of my life. :D

Nicely put. :)

I loved Stacy. I could watch that samba on a loop for the rest of my life. :D

Yeah, throw me in there too. She was so totally robbed that season (Jerry Rice finishing ahead of her? Really? :eek: ).

.... You didn't like the way [Julianna] looked?

....

BTW. I thought Julianna looked great Tuesday night in that dance with Tony. At least she looked great for the little bit we actually saw of her.

I noticed a bunch of framing and/or bad camera angle choices in that dance and in a couple of dances Monday night (esp. during Ian's dance). I wonder if DWTS has some new cameramen or a new director who doesn't have a lot of experience doing live shows.

I noticed a bunch of framing and/or bad camera angle choices in that dance and in a couple of dances Monday night (esp. during Ian's dance). I wonder if DWTS has some new cameramen or a new director who doesn't have a lot of experience doing live shows.

I'm glad you mentioned that. During one of the dances, we got a view of what looked like the cameraman was running up the stairs...

I noticed a bunch of framing and/or bad camera angle choices in that dance and in a couple of dances Monday night (esp. during Ian's dance). I wonder if DWTS has some new cameramen or a new director who doesn't have a lot of experience doing live shows.
Definitely more technical flubs this year than previous seasons but that’s what you get with live TV. I’m ok with a few mishaps. It's almost expected when it’s live and in HD. I’ll take that any day over pre-recorded.

The screw ups that are the most annoying though are the ones at the end when they’re announcing who is staying and who’s leaving. Those miss cues are a real killer.

I've never participated in these threads before but since I recently got a brand-new TV and have been enjoying all the HD programs, I think I'll join in now, if you'll have me, that is. :)

It's funny reading back through this thread. Most of my guy friends wouldn't be caught within thirty feet of a TV showing Dancing with the Stars lol so it's refreshing to see so many guys enjoying the show. But you're not alone in watching it mainly for the girls ;) Although Anton is a cutie and I love watching him move, too. :D And John has a dignified grace to him and is handsome with that well-cut goatee.

Heather is somewhat hideous, though... I know, that's cruel, and she's awesome for being so gutsy and dancing so well considering the prosthetic, but still. If high-def emphasizes the natural beauty of some people, it also really shows how unattractive others are. :p

I find Clyde to be a decent dancer but I always giggle when I watch him because he looks kinda funny. I think the judges are right when they say that he dances too small for his height and should extend himself. He looks like a giant trying to tiptoe through the tulips. lol

Laila's got her dad's smooth moves but I think her masculinity works against her when she's out on the floor. I don't find her to be sexy or eye-catching. But then I'm a girl who thinks girls should be feminine and look feminine. I just don't like the overly-muscled look on women.

Anyway, just a couple thoughts. I'll post more as the show goes on.

Heather is somewhat hideous, though... I know, that's cruel, and she's awesome for being so gutsy and dancing so well considering the prosthetic, but still. If high-def emphasizes the natural beauty of some people, it also really shows how unattractive others are. :p


Thank you, yes she is really hideous.

Those close-up freeze-frames on her face are just almost unbearable. Those hard lines in her face, those chiclet teeth...all very "British." Quite a homely woman considering the fact she was once a Beatle wife.

Thank you, yes she is really hideous.

Those close-up freeze-frames on her face are just almost unbearable. Those hard lines in her face, those chiclet teeth...all very "British." Quite a homely woman considering the fact she was once a Beatle wife.

Oh, and Yoko Ono was such a babe?? :eek:

Why so hard on Heather? She's not that bad, for Heaven's sake, and she was a model before her accident after all. She's always had a pretty nice body, too. Anyway, it's likely Sir Paul was initially attracted to her because of her charity work. Her heart's in the right place, and it seems the Beatles always were able to look beyond the superficial when choosing their mates. Commendable, in my book.

And her dancing, under the circumstances, is borderline incredible. I'm rooting for her.

Oh, and Yoko Ono was such a babe?? :eek:

Why so hard on Heather? She's not that bad, for Heaven's sake, and she was a model before her accident after all. She's always had a pretty nice body, too. Anyway, it's likely Sir Paul was initially attracted to her because of her charity work. Her heart's in the right place, and it seems the Beatles always were able to look beyond the superficial when choosing their mates. Commendable, in my book.

And her dancing, under the circumstances, is borderline incredible. I'm rooting for her.

Her dancing is commendable, I agree...but I can't lie as to her appearance. She is just hideous to me. Those closeups are agonizing. But then, you and I don't often agree on women's appearances. :D

Oh, and good point about Yoko.

I noticed a bunch of framing and/or bad camera angle choices in that dance and in a couple of dances Monday night (esp. during Ian's dance). I wonder if DWTS has some new cameramen or a new director who doesn't have a lot of experience doing live shows.

If you have access to the credits still - the main DWTS director in previous seasons (and also the launch director of the BBC version Strictly Come Dancing - he didn't do the last BBC season as it overlapped with DWTS) is Alex Rudzinski.

If there was a different director credit - then there may have been a change in staffing - though the press release announcing the current season credited him as returning director.

If you have access to the credits still - the main DWTS director in previous seasons (and also the launch director of the BBC version Strictly Come Dancing - he didn't do the last BBC season as it overlapped with DWTS) is Alex Rudzinski.

If there was a different director credit - then there may have been a change in staffing - though the press release announcing the current season credited him as returning director.

I haven't erased any of this season yet, so I'll check the credits tonight when I get home.

I haven't erased any of this season yet, so I'll check the credits tonight when I get home.

Of course - even if it is Alex - it could be that a camera died mid-show (so other cameras were having to pick up more shots), or there were other issues that disrupted a normally well organised production...

I've never participated in these threads before but since I recently got a brand-new TV and have been enjoying all the HD programs, I think I'll join in now, if you'll have me, that is. :)
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Welcome to the thread. DWTS is definately a nice piece of eye candy on an HDTV.



It's funny reading back through this thread. Most of my guy friends wouldn't be caught within thirty feet of a TV showing Dancing with the Stars lol so it's refreshing to see so many guys enjoying the show.
.

Well, I certainly don't talk about DWTS at work. :o
But my female friends would never be caught on an AV equipment forum either. ;)





Laila's got her dad's smooth moves but I think her masculinity works against her when she's out on the floor. I don't find her to be sexy or eye-catching. But then I'm a girl who thinks girls should be feminine and look feminine. I just don't like the overly-muscled look on women.

Anyway, just a couple thoughts. I'll post more as the show goes on.

When I saw the first publicity photo that DWTS put out for Laila, I thought "That is one homely woman". Whoever picked that photo sure didn't do Laila any favors. I think she actually has above average looks when she's made up. But that body is really intimidating. Even Max, who has a great body, was trying to bulk up to match her size. Although she's really big, she's still nicely proportional. So I bet she'd actually look fairly normal if they had her dance with someone as big as Clyde.

Oh, and speaking of Clyde, if he has to dance the waltz instead of the paso this week he'll really be in trouble. He's just way to tall to have a proper hold with his partner. So he'll be all bent over, with his elbows down and not get any body contact again.

Of course - even if it is Alex - it could be that a camera died mid-show (so other cameras were having to pick up more shots), or there were other issues that disrupted a normally well organised production...No dead cameras AFAIK, even the HD wireless is doing well. There's at least 10 cameras on this show - all Sony 1500s. AI is also using all Sony 1500s.

Well, Alex was the director of credit for episode #3. I didn't check the others. Hopefullly they were just having a bad week and it isn't the start of a trend. Maybe the dress rehearsals didn't go well this week and they didn't get all the camera moves worked out.

BTW, the audio has been superb this season. Last season, between the combination of DWTS audio problems and my local affilliates audio problems and all the rap music they played, I had the audio muted about half the time. I haven't muted at all this season.

My one minor nit about the audio this season is that they seem to be using a boom mike instead of the body mikes for the opening segment because the opening segment always sounds like Tom and Samantha are standing at the end of a tunnel.

I don't think any booms are used on this show.

Looking back at my wording, I see I really didn't word that right. I meant to say it "sounds like" not it "seems like". Anyway, I'm not sure what they are doing different on the opening segment, but it sure makes Tom and Sam sound like they are a long ways away from the mike. Perhaps they're using whatever mike they use for the audience noise for everthing in that opening segment instead of using the body mikes.

I've noticed the strange lead in too, Mac. It's as if the center channel is turned way, way down.

No dead cameras AFAIK, even the HD wireless is doing well. There's at least 10 cameras on this show - all Sony 1500s. AI is also using all Sony 1500s.

Yep - Strictly was HDC 1500s for the last season over here - though I don't know if the radio Steadicam was an HDC1500 running SD or HD, or an SD BVPE30 (the other current SD camera at BBC TV Centre) running radio.

Performance week 4 (or is it 5?) is now over...

1) Clyde - you are gliding your way out of the competition.
2) John - same for you...
3) Edyta! Edyta! Edyta! Nice dress you're almost wearing!! We've been waiting for that all season! Almost makes up for John's bad dancing.
4) Joey - the first 10 of the competition, and the highest total judge score of the night! No gimmicks and your bum was tucked in. :D
5) Heather - continues to stun us with how good she is (she has to be the surprise of the season).
6) Top three (to me) - Joey, Apolo, Heather (Ian is close behind, but cut the clowning in practice!)
7) Judges are coming down hard on the competitors (about time!). 13 hours a week practicing vs. 19 hours a week for the prior season? Shameful!
8) Billy Ray - how could you bring Karina to tears? You cad!

Edyta! Edyta! Edyta! Nice dress you're almost wearing!! We've been waiting for that all season!
Pics? I don't watch this show, but maybe I could be convinced to support it...

I was very disappointed with Ali Jr. She certainly doesn’t float like a butterfly or sting like a bee. I think it would’ve been better for her last night if she played the role of the bullfighter. :p
I hope she gets it together, I still feel she’ll be in the top 4 at the end. :cool:

And what’s up with Apollo and his cute partner? I don’t buy into this, brother and sister nonsense they fed us last night. :rolleyes: Are they playing for the same team? :p Not that there’s anything wrong with that. And speaking of Seinfeld references, what’s up with Leeza? :eek: She makes Elaine look like Ginger Rogers. She’s very stiff, no flexibility no rhythm whatsoever.

Clyde, with his long lanky arms raised to the sky, looked like he was ready to change light bulbs in the ceiling. :D He’s bad but a tad better than Leeaza.

Poor Cliff with his Maaaw there in the audience, seeing him dissed big time by the judges.

Ian was very good. Boy oh boy, Cheryl’s forehead is huge. No wonder she goes with the bangs.

Joey is still leading the pack.

The production value for ABC was much improved this week. I really enjoyed the lighting for the ex Beatle :rolleyes: wife dance. That green lighting dressing the set looked fantastic. :cool:
And by the way—how is she considered a “star”? :mad: I’m sick of hearing how brave, courageous, etc. she is. Take a hike.
Let me see some Rose McGowan type action with that stub. :cool: That’ll impress me.

Let me see some Rose McGowan type action with that stub. :cool: That’ll impress me.

I was just about to challenge you to a duel due to your diss of the lovely Cheryl Burke, but that line above saved your post. :D

I was just about to challenge you to a duel due to your diss of the lovely Cheryl Burke, but that line above saved your post. :D
:D Don’t get me wrong, Cheryl is still my favorite professional... but she has many different looks... and they're all good. :cool:

I was very disappointed with Ali Jr. She certainly doesn’t float like a butterfly or sting like a bee. I think it would’ve been better for her last night if she played the role of the bullfighter. :p
I hope she gets it together, I still feel she’ll be in the top 4 at the end. :cool:

Yup. Couldn't agree more. I don't know whether she didn't have time to practice or was just taking things for granted. Paso IS a weird dance, though. :)

Ian was very good.
Frankly, I thought he was awful last night. Don't know WHAT the judges, especially Len, were looking at. But, again, I'm not a judge and besides, we don't know how much influence the producers had on their scoring. But, hey, different strokes for different judges. ;)
Boy oh boy, Cheryl’s forehead is huge. No wonder she goes with the bangs.

EXACTLY what wifey said. Just goes to show you how much difference a good hair style can make.

And by the way—how is she considered a “star”? :mad: I’m sick of hearing how brave, courageous, etc. she is. Take a hike.
Well, to be fair, NONE of the contestants have been real "stars". Even Jay Leno has a running joke going with how the show should bear a disclaimer: "WARNING! This show contains no real stars.". :) I also understand where you're coming from with the brave and courageous stuff but, frankly, it IS quite amazing what she manages to do. As long as she doesn't go on feeling sorry for herself I'm willing to root for her.

=NLK=

The production value for ABC was much improved this week. I really enjoyed the lighting for the ex Beatle :rolleyes: wife dance. That green lighting dressing the set looked fantastic. :cool:
And by the way—how is she considered a “star”? :mad: I’m sick of hearing how brave, courageous, etc. she is. Take a hike.
Let me see some Rose McGowan type action with that stub. :cool: That’ll impress me.

What the hell is wrong with you? My father lost a leg in the same place as Heather and he just struggled to walk afterwards, not to mention all the problems he had with the stump, ill-fitting protheses, the chronic phantom pain, etc. The fact is that what Heather is doing is flat-out amazing. She's no more or less a "star" than any of them, and was once a top model in the U.K.

What's more likely the object of your ire is that she focuses her "charity campaigning" on what are generally considered liberal causes, all of which you view with the utmost distain and contempt. I'd like to see how you would manage with her disability. Probably lie on your back and call for your momma 24/7. :rolleyes:

[pointless verbiage deleted by original poster] To me, anyone dancing competitively on a prosthetic limb is by definition impressive.

I was very disappointed with Ali Jr. She certainly doesn’t float like a butterfly or sting like a bee.
.

I was surprized with how stiff she looked last night. Her Mamba was very good, so I thought her Paso would be really good too.



I think it would’ve been better for her last night if she played the role of the bullfighter. :p
I hope she gets it together, I still feel she’ll be in the top 4 at the end. :cool:
.

Or she could have been one of those rare bulls that actually win the match. :D
It would have been pretty funny if they had finished off with Laila dragging Max across the floor by the hair, similar to the floor drag that Joey and Kym ended with.




And what’s up with Apollo and his cute partner? I don’t buy into this, brother and sister nonsense they fed us last night. :rolleyes: Are they playing for the same team? :p ...

What I don't understand is why women think that the "brother" BS is actually a softer letdown than just telling the guy you aren't interested. All the guys I know hate getting the "brother and sister" line.

But holy cow did Julianna ever look stunning last night. Now that hair style was much more flattering than that wig last week. DWTS should also have a new rule that Julianna is required to wear backless gowns from now on. :D





Ian was very good. Boy oh boy, Cheryl’s forehead is huge. No wonder she goes with the bangs.

Joey is still leading the pack.

....


Yeah Cheryl has a really high hair line. She's definately better off with the bangs. Although I think she looked better without her bangs than Julianna looked in that wig last week.




Anyway, I think Leeza is gone tonight. I thought she improved a tiny bit last night (she actually showed some foot speed in that one run) but it wasn't enough to save her.

What the hell is wrong with you? My father lost a leg in the same place as Heather and he just struggled to walk afterwards, not to mention all the problems he had with the stump, ill-fitting protheses, the chronic phantom pain, etc. The fact is that what Heather is doing is flat-out amazing. She's no more or less a "star" than any of them, and was once a top model in the U.K.

What's more likely the object of your ire is that she focuses her "charity campaigning" on what are generally considered liberal causes, all of which you view with the utmost distain and contempt. I'd like to see how you would manage with her disability. Probably lie on your back and call for your momma 24/7. :rolleyes: :D :D


Who’s talking about your father or people’s politics or what I can or can not do? :rolleyes:
I’m specifically talking about this gold digger.

American audiences never heard about her until she married Paul.

No one ever knew of her charities or her modeling. :rolleyes:

At least all of the other “stars” had or have some kind of following.
Her misfortune should not be part of the show.

At least all of the other “stars” had or have some kind of following.
Her misfortune should not be part of the show.

So, you're saying that nobody with a disability should be allowed on this show? Maybe they should just keep their broken little bodies out of sight so as not to offend you...? Fact is, she's dancing rings around several of the able-bodied competitors, and is an inspiration to others suffering similar disabilities. She's getting high scores on merit and I, for one, hope she makes the finals. Nobody's beating Joey this season, that's pretty clear, but she's the class of the rest of 'em, IMO.

To me, anyone dancing competitively on a prosthetic limb is by definition impressive.Of course this is true. :cool:
I sympathize, respect and I am in awe of her abilities. I just don’t like her being on the show, as I’ve said repeatedly. This is because I feel that her “star” status is due to her current legal situation.

I’m specifically talking about this gold digger.Her settlement was quite in line with the couple's earning during the time they were together. Paul sent her flowers and a good luck card at the beginning of the contest. It's amazing how some Macca fans are more emotional about this than they are.
Her misfortune should not be part of the show.It's actually a significant element to this season. I don't think she'll win, but she'll be long remembered for her ambition to participate with such a challenge. While dancing is the central to the show, the human element also plays a large part. Rumor has it that she will appear on Strictly Come Dancing, the original show in the UK.

So, you're saying that nobody with a disability should be allowed on this show? Maybe they should just keep their broken little bodies out of sight so as not to offend you...? Fact is, she's dancing rings around several of the able-bodied competitors, and is an inspiration to others suffering similar disabilities. She's getting high scores on merit and I, for one, hope she makes the finals. Nobody's beating Joey this season, that's pretty clear, but she's the class of the rest of 'em, IMO.I obviously hit a nerve with you since you continue to steer this towards me.

I would love to have the show open to anybody.

If anything her disability is being exploited.
Why does it have to be continuously brought up?
She obviously is a strong person, emotionally and physically.

It’s brought up because this is her "celebrity" and that is not right.