I’m thrilled to cover the epic milestone that Dancing With the Stars has just reached—its 500th episode! The long-running reality competition show lavishly celebrated this incredible achievement.
The Instant Dance Challenge
The producers introduced a new challenge to the usual lineup of stunning performances, which truly tested the celebrity dancers and their partners. The Instant Dance Challenge truly lived up to its name.
Each couple had to not only perform a regular routine but also take on a second number—with a twist. The pairs learned their assigned dance style and song just five minutes before they took the stage. Talk about thinking on your feet!
Given advance notice about four possible dance styles, the couples gained a significant advantage. Thus, they practiced choreography for each during the week. But still, having to quickly adapt and deliver a polished performance with zero preparation time is nothing short of mind-blowing.
The Results
So how did the couples fare under the pressure of the Instant Dance Challenge? Let’s break it down Jenna Johnson and Joey Graziadei’s contemporary routine had some moments of disconnect, but Joey’s confidence with the acrobatic lifts significantly improved. The judges awarded them a solid 28 out of 30.
Danny Amendola and Witney Carson: Danny finally seemed to shake off that Halloween stiffness, serving up an entertaining performance full of personality. A few synchronization issues kept their score at 27.
Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold’s dance, with its lovely lyricism and quality of movement, earned an impressive 29 points. The only thing missing was a bit more emotion on his face.
Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong: Perfection! Chandler’s Argentine tango was flawless, earning the season’s first perfect 30. Her leg sweep was a showstopping moment.
Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten: This was Ilona’s strongest showing yet, with a joyful, confident quickstep. The judges scored it 28.
Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach: Unfortunately, this duo’s journey came to an end. Dwight’s limits as a dancer were evident, and the judges awarded them a 26, leading to their elimination.
A touching tribute
As if the 500th episode milestone and the wild Instant Dance Challenge weren’t enough, the show also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late, legendary Len Goodman. The show honored the longtime head judge, who passed away earlier this year, by renaming the Mirrorball trophy to the “Len Goodman Mirrorball.”
It was a truly tearjerking moment, as the montage highlighted Len’s iconic critiques (“Spectacular!”) and the indelible mark he left on the show over nearly two decades. We felt his absence palpably, yet the tribute was a beautiful way to celebrate his lasting legacy.
Looking Ahead
With the semifinals looming, the competition is fiercer than ever. These celebrity dancers have proven their mettle time and again, but the Instant Dance Challenge raised the stakes to a whole new level. Who will emerge victorious and secure the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball? Tune in next week to find out!
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