“Dancing With the Stars” marked a significant milestone with its 500th episode on November 12, following a week-long break for election night. The festive occasion featured a spectacular opening number to “Crazy In Love,” which included special appearances by former contestant Sharna Burgess, judge Derek Hough, and co-host Julianne Hough. Additionally, co-host Alfonso Ribeiro paid tribute to the late judge Len Goodman, acknowledging his lasting legacy in the show’s history. “We all dearly miss our original head judge Len,” Ribeiro expressed, highlighting that Goodman’s spirit continues through the competition for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
The episode showcased the remaining six couples performing routines inspired by iconic performances from the show’s first season, each adding their personal flair to the classic songs. These performances included:
– Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson: Contemporary routine to “Work Song” by Hozier, scoring 28/30.
– Danny Amendola and Witney Carson: Quickstep to “Hey Pachuco” by Royal Crown Revue, scoring 27/30.
– Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach: Argentine Tango to “Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)” by Gotan Project, scoring 26/30.
– Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold: Viennese Waltz to “Glimpse of Us” by Joji, scoring 29/30.
– Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong: Argentine Tango to “Para Te” by Appart, scoring 30/30.
– Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten: Quickstep to “Chuck Berry” by Pharrell Williams, scoring 28/30.
The episode featured a unique Instant Dance Challenge that tested the participants’ adaptability and improvisation skills. Each celebrity drew a dance style and received a song only five minutes before performing, showcasing their quick thinking and talent. The results were exciting:
– Joey Graziadei: Rumba to “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish, scoring 27/30.
– Danny Amendola: Jive to “Good Golly, Miss Molly” by Little Richard, scoring 24/30.
– Dwight Howard: Paso Doble to “Victorious” by Panic! At The Disco, scoring 22/30.
– Stephen Nedoroscik: Jive to “Love is Embarrassing” by Olivia Rodrigo, scoring 25/30.
– Chandler Kinney: Cha Cha to “Apple” by Charli XCX, scoring an impressive perfect 30/30.
– Ilona Maher: Salsa to “Da’ Dip” by Freak Nasty, scoring 24/30.
By the end of the night, it was with heavy hearts that viewers learned Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach were eliminated. Howard reflected on his time on the show, calling Karagach an amazing partner and expressing gratitude for his experience. Karagach noted that their journey in the competition challenged expectations, stating, “A lot of people said we couldn’t do it, and we did it. And for me, that’s a win.”
As the competition continues, the remaining stars are poised to vie for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, promising exciting performances ahead.
This landmark episode not only celebrated the history of “Dancing With the Stars” but also highlighted personal growth and resilience among the contestants. With the remaining competitors showing remarkable talent and determination, fans can look forward to even more thrilling performances in the weeks to come.