The 500th episode of “Dancing with the Stars” brought a wave of nostalgia and excitement as dynamic performances highlighted the evening. To kick off the celebration, beloved pro Sharna Burgess returned to the stage, leading a lively routine to “Crazy in Love,” the same song used during the show’s inaugural performance in 2005.
In a special twist, the remaining six couples were tasked with reviving iconic dances from the show’s past. One notable mention was the cha-cha performed by Sean Spicer in season 28, which was humorously expected to stay in the archives.
NBA Champion Dwight Howard, paired with Daniella Karagach, delivered a spectacular Argentine tango inspired by season 23’s James Hinchcliffe and Sharna Burgess. To address their height difference, Karagach creatively utilized a platform, earning praise from Derek Hough, who remarked on the impressive trust and strength displayed throughout the performance. Their score: 26 out of 30.
Next up was Super Bowl Champion Danny Amendola and Witney Carson, who executed an upbeat quickstep inspired by season 5’s Helio Castroneves and Julianne Hough. Amendola’s performance exuded confidence, which garnered him a score of 27 out of 30.
Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher and partner Alan Bersten captivated the audience with a vibrant quickstep from season 23, impressively showcasing her growth throughout the competition. Carrie Ann Inaba celebrated their effort, awarding them 28 out of 30.
The Bachelor’s Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson painted a powerful picture with their contemporary routine reminiscent of season 20’s Riker Lynch and Allison Holker. Both the choreography and execution received high praise, resulting in a score of 28 out of 30.
Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik, partnered with Rylee Arnold, reinterpreted the Viennese waltz from season 32, earning an impressive score of 29 out of 30. Their theatrical performance featured elaborate staging elements like dry ice and confetti.
Chandler Kinney, alongside Brandon Armstrong, impressed judges with their intense Argentine tango, ultimately earning a perfect score of 30 out of 30. Derek Hough expressed his admiration, appreciating the fresh approach Kinney took compared to the original performance.
In a surprising turn, the couples engaged in an Instant Dance Round, randomly selecting dance styles to perform under time constraints. Howard and Karagach struggled with their Paso doble, resulting in a score of 22 out of 30. Maher and Bersten’s salsa performance was energetic enough to earn 24 out of 30, while Amendola and Carson’s jive showcased their enthusiasm but scored 24 out of 30 as well.
Graziadei and Johnson stole the night with a steamy rumba, which earned them 27 out of 30. Kinney and Armstrong also scored a perfect 30 with their carefree cha-cha.
As the competition heats up with the upcoming semi-finals, unfortunately, it was Howard’s turn to exit the stage. He expressed gratitude for his experience and partnership with Karagach, reflecting positively on his time in the competition.
This milestone episode of “Dancing with the Stars” not only emphasized the joy of dance but also served as a reminder of the show’s rich history and the enduring spirit of its contestants. As the semi-finals approach, audiences can look forward to even more entertaining performances as the remaining couples strive to secure their spots in the finale.