Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars kicked off with a mixture of excitement and controversy as the first couples took to the stage on Tuesday night. The season started positively with the announcement that a popular Olympic gymnast would be competing this year. However, things took a turn when former pro dancer Artem Chigvintsev was arrested following a domestic violence incident, casting a shadow over the show. Additionally, the casting of Anna Delvey, the notorious fake heiress and convicted fraudster, sparked backlash, particularly from The View, which questioned her financial accountability.
Despite these challenges, the season has begun anew, with Chigvintsev absent, and some hosts from The View seemingly softening their remarks regarding Delvey. The contentious past is now behind, allowing the contestants to take center stage.
The night’s performances featured a range of dancing skills, starting with actor Eric Roberts and his partner Britt Stewart, who attempted a cha cha to “Old Time Rock and Roll” but struggled, earning a score of 15 out of 30. Tori Spelling was next with partner Pasha Pashkov, showcasing her crowd charisma in a foxtrot that earned her 17 points.
Reginald VelJohnson, paired with Emma Slater, brought charm despite his limited salsa moves, receiving a score of 16. Model Brooks Nader, performing a tango with Gleb Savchenko, impressed with her style but faced criticism for her balance, scoring 18.
Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher entered the stage with energy, but still has room for improvement, scoring 18 for her cha cha. Anna Delvey, dancing with Ezra Sosa, aimed to show a different side of herself despite her previous criminal background, also earning 18 points.
Jenn Tran, fresh from her stint on The Bachelorette, delivered a delightful cha cha that garnered her 19 points. Phaedra Parks’ joyous performance with Val Chmerkovskiy earned her 19 as well. Super Bowl Champion Danny Amendola, dancing with Witney Carson, impressed the judges with his energetic tango, scoring 20.
The Bachelor star Joey Graziadei opened the show impressively with a cha cha, receiving a score of 21. NBA Champion Dwight Howard showcased his impressive height with partner Daniella Karagach, earning a score of 22 for their salsa.
Stephen Nedoroscik, known for his agility, wowed the audience and judges with his jive and scored 21, while Chandler Kinney’s spectacular tango set a high standard for the season, earning her 23 points.
The show reportedly attracted more votes than last season’s premiere, and there will be no eliminations this week, allowing all contestants to revel in their performances as the competition heats up.