Designer: Eliana Myhal
The popular reality TV-show “Dancing With The Stars” returns for its 35th season this year with an exciting new cast that has fans wondering who will have what it takes to win the mirrorball trophy.
This season brings out celebrities from various backgrounds, for example, athletes, influencers and actors. Paralympic gold medalist Ezra Frech, actress Julia Stiles and Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn are just some of the many diverse talents brought in this year.
“I am most looking forward to seeing so much talent this season. It is a stacked cast that has so much potential since it is the 35th season, and they went all out,” long-time fan senior Isabel Francisco said.
Fans are asked to vote each week for the couple they think should progress to the next round. The judges decide the couples’ scores each week, but fan-assistance also helps couples immensely because it is a big factor in progressing as well.
“‘Dancing With the Stars’ is different from other shows because there is so much audience participation as well as entertaining performances,” long-time viewer senior Addie Schwind said.
The dancers are given a specific style of dancing each week that they have to choreograph and practice. This is very challenging because they have to perfect a new style of dancing every week.
“A performance is memorable to me when there is so much emotion and hard work put into it. It makes it easier to connect with, and you can always tell when they gave it their all,” Schwind said.
One contestant who is catching a lot of fan attention is Frech, the Paralympian who is paired with Daniella Karagach, one of the professionals. Frech brings some experience by being an athlete but has no previous experience dancing.
“I am most excited to watch Ezra dance. By being a Paralympian, he has shown that anything is possible with hard work and determination. Whether the fans share his disabilities or not, he has inspired so many people by joining ‘Dancing With The Stars’,” Francisco said.
However, impressive back stories are not the only thing voters are watching for. Judges may only focus on the dances, but fans really try to focus on that as well as the attitudes.
“A celebrity is a good fit for ‘Dancing With the Stars’ if they have a positive mindset and really connect with the audience. They could be an amazing dancer but have a poor attitude, and most viewers won’t even consider them. When contestants are open-minded and have a good learning capability, it shows they are ready to do whatever it takes to win that trophy,” Francisco said.
Most times, there are a few contestants that actually surprise fans as the season progresses. It’s important and also exciting to see how they’ve improved since week one.
“I’m super excited and surprised about Julia Stiles, and I’ve loved watching her so far. Her willingness to accept criticism and feedback will hopefully take her far into the season,” Schwind said.
Whether it’s an actor or an influencer, there are often times when contestants don’t have any previous experience in the dancing field, and they’re just brought on for their fame. One contestant who shocked Francisco was podcaster and comedian Connor Wood, who is paired up with professional Rylee Arnold.
“The contestant who honestly surprised me the most was Connor. He is so enjoyable to watch, but at the beginning, I was unsure if I’d like him and how he’d be at dancing due to his attitude. But, seeing how he works so hard every week and tries to correct his mistakes, I know I was wrong and I love to watch him,” Francisco said.
An official date for the Season 35 finale has not yet been announced by ABC, but the show continues to air live on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. With the competition still pushing, there is no doubt that each of these competitive contestants will work their hardest to win that Mirrorball trophy. The question is, which star can step onto the floor and give the audience a reason to vote for them?
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