By Amanda Castro
Associate News Editor
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Whitney Leavitt’s journey on Dancing with the Stars came to an emotional close Tuesday night, as she was eliminated ahead of the finals. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star reflected on her growth through dance and answered a pointed question from co-host Julianne Hough about why she wanted to be on the show.
What to Know:
- Whitney and partner Mark Ballas performed a Cha Cha to “1999” and a Viennese Waltz to “Slow Love”
- Judges praised her Cha Cha as “saucy” and “literal perfection,” though Carrie Ann noted moments of stiffness
- Julianne asked Whitney directly why she wanted to be on DWTS, referencing her past comments on SLOMW
- Whitney gave an emotional response. “After two seasons of SLOMW, I wanted to take a break, but once I found out this [DWTS] would be an opportunity for all of the girls to be able to go after this, I wanted to take that chance,” she said. “I will forever be so grateful for [executive producer] Deena Katz because this changed my life and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
- Her Viennese Waltz drew emotional praise, with Carrie Ann calling it her “absolute favorite” and Bruno labeling it “impeccable”
- Whitney grew tearful in the skybox, admitting she “didn’t think I’d make it this far” and even let slip a curse word that Julianne joked would need to be bleeped
- This all came before the reality star was shockingly eliminated from the show just ahead of the finale next week.
This live blog is now closed but tune in with Newsweek next week to get the best updates on the Dancing with the Stars Season 34 finale at 8 p.m. ET.
Nov 18, 2025 at 10:15 PM EST
Whitney Leavitt exits DWTS ahead of finals despite strong scores
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Despite earning the third-highest score of the night, Whitney Leavitt and partner Mark Ballas were eliminated from Dancing with the Stars during the Prince-themed semi-finals on Nov. 18. Their cha cha to “1999” and Viennese waltz to “Slow Love” earned 58 points. Still, the pair fell short of advancing to the finale.
“I already feel like a winner,” Leavitt said after the results. “This show has meant the absolute world for me. It’s changed my life and I’ll forever be so grateful to have this experience.” Ballas added, “I had the best time. I love this show.”
The night was emotional across the ballroom. Alix Earle broke down in tears after receiving praise, while Jordan Chiles celebrated her first perfect score of 30, telling cohost Julianne Hough, “That little girl in me should be very, very proud.” Dylan Efron also had family support, with his brother, Zac Efron, attending his first DWTS taping to cheer him on.
The semi-finals followed a string of notable eliminations, including Andy Richter and Emma Slater during the Nov. 11 anniversary show. Richter later reflected that the pros made him feel he belonged, despite outside criticism.
With Leavitt’s exit, five stars remain in contention for the Mirrorball trophy: Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Robert Irwin, Elaine Hendrix and Dylan Efron. The season 34 finale airs Nov. 25.
Nov 18, 2025 at 10:07 PM EST
Whitney Leavitt goes home
Whitney Leavitt and her partner Mark Ballas will be going home tonight after high-scoring dances.
Nov 18, 2025 at 10:05 PM EST
The couples advancing to the finale are
- Elaine and Alan
- Alix and Val
- Robert and Witney
- Dylan and Daniella
- Jordan and Ezra
Nov 18, 2025 at 10:03 PM EST
Daniella Karagach’s historic DWTS win with Iman Shumpert
Professional dancer Daniella Karagach made Dancing With the Stars history in 2021 when she and NBA player Iman Shumpert captured the Season 30 Mirrorball Trophy. Their victory marked the first time a professional basketball player had won the competition.
Shumpert, a former shooting guard, and Karagach impressed throughout the season with their chemistry and creativity, ultimately earning the judges’ praise and fan support that carried them to the finale. Their win underscored Karagach’s reputation as one of the show’s standout pros, while cementing Shumpert’s place in DWTS history.
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Nov 18, 2025 at 09:59 PM EST
Robert Irwin delivers ‘ferocious’ Viennese Waltz on DWTS
Robert Irwin and partner Witney Carson impressed with a Viennese waltz to Prince’s “WOW” during the Dancing With the Stars semi-finals, earning near-perfect scores.
Bruno Tonioli likened Irwin’s streak of strong performances to “Tom Cruise; one blockbuster after another.” Carrie Ann Inaba praised his consistency, saying, “You always deliver such fun, strong performances… this is the evolution of dance that I love watching in our contestants.” Derek Hough called the routine “a ferocious Viennese waltz” and told Irwin, “I can’t wait to see what you do in the final, buddy.”
The pair scored 10, 9, and 10, keeping Irwin firmly positioned as a frontrunner heading into the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:53 PM EST
Bindi Irwin was crowned DWTS Season 21 champion—Will the winning run in the family?
Bindi Irwin won Season 21 of Dancing With the Stars alongside professional partner Derek Hough, with the pair crowned champions in November 2015.
Irwin’s performances throughout the season were praised for their joyous spirit and dedication, culminating in perfect scores from the judges during the finale. Her victory marked a standout moment in the competition, showcasing her growth and connection to the ballroom.
Nick Carter and partner Sharna Burgess finished in second place that season.
Now, as the semi-finals of Season 34 progress, fans are voting for Bindi's brother, Robert.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:50 PM EST
Jordan Chiles earns first perfect score with Argentine tango
Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles and partner Ezra Sosa delivered a striking Argentine tango to Prince’s “U Got the Look” during the Dancing With the Stars semi-finals, earning their first perfect score of the season.
The judges praised Chiles’ commanding presence and artistry. Derek Hough called it “a top performance” and congratulated her with a “well done.” Bruno Tonioli described the routine as “beautiful, powerful, focused,” adding that Chiles was “the leading lady of the dance.” Carrie Ann Inaba declared, “You stand out. You’re in a class of your own… tonight, that was the bomb.”
Chiles grew emotional as she received her scores — three 10s — though Hough lightened the moment by jokingly holding up a 6 and a 4 before revealing his perfect mark. The milestone solidified Chiles and Sosa as strong contenders heading into the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:44 PM EST
Was Simone Biles on Dancing with the Stars and did she win?
Olympic champion Simone Biles was eliminated from Dancing With the Stars in Season 24, finishing in fourth place with professional partner Sasha Farber. The cut came as a shock to viewers, as the pair had earned two perfect scores on the night they were sent home.
Despite her strong performances, fan voting determined the outcome, ending Biles’ run just before the finals. The elimination underscored the unpredictability of the competition, where audience support can outweigh judges’ scores.
Biles reflected on her journey with gratitude, saying she felt like she had already won by accomplishing new challenges, including dancing in heels and performing with a partner. Her exit remains one of the most talked-about moments in the show’s history.
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Nov 18, 2025 at 09:43 PM EST
How old is Witney Carson?
Witney Carson, an American professional dancer and choreographer, is 32 years old. Born October 17, 1993, in American Fork, Utah, Carson first rose to prominence as a contestant on Season 9 of So You Think You Can Dance.
She later joined Dancing With the Stars as a troupe member before being promoted to a professional in 2014.
Carson has built a career as one of the show’s most recognizable pros, balancing her work in the ballroom with family life. She married Carson McAllister in 2016, and the couple shares two children.
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Nov 18, 2025 at 09:41 PM EST
Whitney Leavitt moves judges with emotional waltz
Whitney Leavitt and partner Mark Ballas delivered a Viennese waltz to Prince’s “Slow Love” that left both the ballroom and the judges moved.
Carrie Ann Inaba called it her favorite of Leavitt’s performances this season, noting only a slight hop but praising the overall artistry. Derek Hough thanked Leavitt for “sharing your ambitions and sharing your dreams,” commending her commitment to showing up and dancing. Bruno Tonioli summed up the routine in one word: “Impeccable.”
Leavitt grew emotional as she listened to the feedback, underscoring how much the performance meant to her. The pair earned near-perfect scores of 9, 10, and 10, keeping them firmly in contention for the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:33 PM EST
Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov’s dance partnership extends beyond the ballroom
Dancing With the Stars pro Daniella Karagach shares both her personal and professional life with fellow dancer and choreographer Pasha Pashkov. The couple married in 2014 and welcomed their first child, daughter Nikita, in May 2023.
Pashkov, a Russian-American dancer, has built his own career alongside Karagach, appearing with her on shows such as World of Dance before joining her on DWTS. Together, they’ve become one of ballroom’s most recognizable duos, balancing family life with the demands of live television competition.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:30 PM EST
Dylan Efron impresses with cha cha on DWTS
Dylan Efron and pro partner Daniella Karagach delivered a lively cha cha to Prince’s “Kiss” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars.
The judges praised his progress while offering fine-tuned critiques. Bruno Tonioli called him a “sexy beast” and applauded the work he’s put in, noting the difference in his performance. Carrie Ann Inaba encouraged him to strengthen his arm movements, while Derek Hough highlighted the precision of his routine, saying, “The details, man. It was so, so impressive. You should be so proud.”
The pair earned scores of 9, 9, and 10, keeping them in strong contention as the competition heads toward the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:23 PM EST
Alix Earle earns perfect score with emotional waltz on DWTS
Alix Earle and partner Val Chmerkovskiy delivered a moving Viennese waltz to Prince’s “Purple Rain” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars, earning a perfect score.
Earle grew emotional after the performance, telling the audience that the experience had meant the most to her this season. The judges echoed that sentiment with glowing reviews. Derek Hough praised her transformation, saying, “We’ve seen you blossom into a beautiful, beautiful dancer,” and predicted she would reach the finals. Bruno Tonioli highlighted her deep connection to the music, while Carrie Ann Inaba called the routine “so powerful,” applauding her growth and passion.
The pair received straight 10s, cementing their place as frontrunners heading into the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:10 PM EST
Elaine Hendrix brings power to Paso doble on DWTS
Elaine Hendrix and partner Alan Bersten delivered a commanding paso doble to Prince’s “When Doves Cry” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars.
The performance drew strong reactions from the judges. Carrie Ann Inaba hugged Hendrix after calling the routine “amazing.” Derek Hough praised her intensity, saying, “You came with that fight… you fought for that dance.” Bruno Tonioli likened her presence to a “regal bird of prey, commanding everything in its sights,” and applauded the authenticity of the paso doble.
They got their first perfect score in the competition.
Nov 18, 2025 at 09:04 PM EST
Robert Irwin earns perfect score with Jive on DWTS
Robert Irwin and partner Witney Carson electrified the ballroom with a jive to Prince’s “Baby I’m a Star,” drawing unanimous praise from the judges during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars.
Bruno Tonioli called the routine “so energized and at the same time in control,” adding that Irwin “never put a foot wrong” and delivered a “superstar jive.” Carrie Ann Inaba said the performance proved Irwin “demand[s] to be in the finale,” while Derek Hough declared, “That jive had it all. That was incredible.”
The pair earned a perfect score of 30, solidifying their status as frontrunners heading into the final stretch of the competition.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:57 PM EST
‘What about those heel leads?’ — The story behind Derek Hough’s meme
A viral meme featuring Derek Hough has resurfaced from Dancing With the Stars Season 6 in 2008, when he was partnered with actress Shannon Elizabeth. In the clip, Hough vents during a confessional, criticizing the judges for overlooking technical missteps while docking points for hip action.
“They’re coming at our hip action? What about the heel leads happening out there?” Hough exclaimed, as Elizabeth dabbed her eyes with a tissue. He continued, “What about the heel leads, the feet coming off the floor, the horrific, demented lines people are making out there? And you’re giving them 9s and 10s. Are you kidding me?”
The moment has become a fan-favorite meme, highlighting Hough’s passion for ballroom technique.
But what are heel leads? Heel leads are a fundamental ballroom footwork technique in which the heel first makes contact with the floor when stepping forward, similar to a natural walk. They are essential in smooth dances like the foxtrot, waltz, and tango, creating balance and a gliding motion.
- Forward steps: Heel touches first, then roll through to the ball and toe.
- Backward steps: The toe pushes off first, with the heel leaving last.
- Purpose: Promotes stability, flow, and elegance across the floor.
The term “heel lead” also appears outside dance, such as in dog training (short leads for heel position) and driving (“heel-toe” downshifting).
@codedebyt Replying to @CodeDeb Derek Hough’s DWTS rant about Heel Leads! #derekhough #dwts #dancingwiththestars #fyp ♬ Dancing with the Stars - TV Theme Players
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:54 PM EST
Jordan Chiles delivers high-energy jive on DWTS
Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles and partner Ezra Sosa lit up the ballroom with a jive to Prince’s “Raspberry Beret” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars. Ahead of the performance, Chiles compared the stakes to her athletic career, saying, “Making the finals is like making the Olympic trials.”
The judges praised her energy and improvement. Derek Hough called the routine “pure Prince funky fun,” though he urged her to add more attack and movement. Bruno Tonioli noted the speed caused slight timing issues but still deemed the dance “brilliant.” Carrie Ann Inaba went further, declaring it “the best performance of the night.”
The pair earned straight 9s, keeping them firmly in contention as the competition heads toward the finale, making a score of 27.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:46 PM EST
Inside Zac and Dylan Efron’s family support system: meet their parents
Zac Efron may have been the first in his family to break into Hollywood, but his younger brother Dylan has followed with his own career pursuits — both backed by the steady support of their parents.
The brothers grew up in Arroyo Grande, California, where their mother, Starla Baskett, worked in administration and their father, David Efron, was an engineer at the same power plant. Together they raised Zac, born in 1987, and Dylan, born in 1992. The couple divorced in 2016, and David later remarried, welcoming two more children, Olivia and Henry.
Though their parents have largely stayed out of the spotlight, they’ve remained central to their sons’ lives. Zac has often credited them for instilling discipline and belief in his talent, recalling how his father built a basketball hoop so he could practice free throws after school. Both parents were present when Zac received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023, where he publicly thanked them for their sacrifices.
Dylan has also leaned on family support, most recently from his younger sister Olivia, who joined him on Dancing With the Stars during dedication night in November 2025. Together they performed “Rewrite the Stars” from The Greatest Showman — a nod to Zac’s film career.
From their early days in Arroyo Grande to their children’s success in entertainment, Starla and David Efron have remained a quiet but influential force behind their family’s achievements.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:43 PM EST
Zac Efron has been spotted!
After weeks of people begging for his presence, Zac Efron is in the audience to support his brother Dylan Efron, and fans are loving it.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:42 PM EST
Dylan Efron earns solid scores with tango on DWTS
Dylan Efron and pro partner Daniella Karagach performed a tango to Prince’s “I Would Die 4 U” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars.
The judges praised Efron’s progress while noting areas for improvement. Carrie Ann Inaba urged him to “feel this music,” pointing out footwork issues. Derek Hough commended his strong frame and growth throughout the season but reminded him of the importance of heel leads. Bruno Tonioli applauded the routine as “clean, clear, sharp,” calling Efron “very, very much improved.”
The pair earned straight 9s from the panel, keeping them competitive as the ballroom heads toward the finale, totaling 27.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:35 PM EST
What did Whitney Leavitt say about her real reason for returning to ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ ahead of ‘DWTS’ casting?
Whitney Leavitt has opened up about her decision to rejoin The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives after initially stepping away ahead of the Hulu reality show’s third season. While she publicly cited a move to another town in Utah as a way to distance herself from the group, Leavitt later admitted her true motivation: The chance to audition for Dancing With the Stars.
“I just found out if I came back to film, I can audition for Dancing With the Stars,” she told friends in one episode. In a confessional, she added that while she needed a break from filming, she never left MomTok, the social media collective at the center of the series.
Producers also addressed rumors about her return, including speculation that she demanded Oscars tickets, which she denied, and that she requested a scripted role, which she confirmed.
Leavitt ultimately joined DWTS Season 34 alongside fellow castmate Jen Affleck, following interviews with casting director Deena Katz. She was paired with three-time Mirrorball champion Mark Ballas, while Affleck partnered with newcomer Jan Ravnik.
Despite criticism over her prior dance background—Leavitt studied dance at Brigham Young University and once competed against current pro Witney Carson—she and Ballas have consistently ranked near the top of the leaderboard. The duo remains in contention and will perform two Prince-themed routines in the semifinals.
In tonight's episode of Dancing with the Stars, Julianne Hough asked Leavitt about this revelation following the reality star's dance with partner Mark Ballas, and Leavitt spilled over with gratitude about how much this opportunity has meant to her.
"After two season of SLOMW, I wanted to take a break, but once I found out this [DWTS] would be an opportunity for all of the girls to be able to go after this, I wanted to take that chance. I will forever be so grateful for [DWTS executive producer] Deena Katz because this changed my life and I couldn't be more grateful."
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:32 PM EST
Whitney Leavitt shines with cha cha to “1999”
Whitney Leavitt and partner Mark Ballas brought energy to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom with a cha cha set to Prince’s “1999.” In her pre-dance package, Leavitt reflected on her journey, admitting, “I didn’t think I would make it this far.”
The judges praised her performance. Bruno Tonioli called it “incredible,” saying it had everything expected from a cha cha. Carrie Ann Inaba described it as “a wonderful dance,” though she noted moments where Leavitt appeared focused on technique. Derek Hough disagreed, declaring the routine “literal perfection” and “awesome.”
They received a score of 29.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:26 PM EST
How did Prince die?
Music legend Prince died on April 21, 2016, at the age of 57 from an accidental fentanyl overdose.
The artist was found at his Paisley Park home and recording studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota.
Authorities determined that Prince had ingested counterfeit pain pills disguised as hydrocodone or paracetamol, which contained the powerful synthetic opioid.
The drug’s potency led to a fatal overdose, cutting short the life of one of the most influential musicians of his era.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:25 PM EST
Quick! Get to voting for your DWTS favorites before it’s too late
Here is a quick reminder of how to vote for your favorite stars on DWTS tonight:
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:22 PM EST
Alix Earle impresses with Argentine tango on DWTS
Alix Earle and partner Val Chmerkovskiy delivered a striking Argentine tango to Prince’s “Little Red Corvette” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars. In her pre-dance package, Earle reflected on her growth this season, saying, “I just want to unlock a different version of what I ever thought I was capable of.”
The judges praised her transformation. Derek Hough declared, “I didn’t like it. I loved it,” adding that she has the potential to reach the finale. Bruno Tonioli highlighted her “top-notch” lines and bodywork, calling her the most improved contestant. At the same time, Carrie Ann Inaba emphasized that Earle has shown the most growth of anyone in the competition.
The routine earned scores of 9, 10, and 9, keeping Earle and Chmerkovskiy firmly in contention for the mirrorball trophy, and totaling 28.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:15 PM EST
When was Elaine Hendrix injured and what happened to her?
Elaine Hendrix faced a setback on Dancing With the Stars after sustaining a rib injury during rehearsals for the Halloween episode on October 28, 2025. While practicing an Argentine Tango with partner Alan Bersten, Hendrix’s ribs seized, leaving her unable to move or breathe. She was taken from rehearsals on a stretcher and hospitalized for evaluation.
Doctors performed X-rays, an EKG, and an MRI, ultimately diagnosing a strained or pinched intercostal muscle. Though the injury forced Hendrix to miss the live Halloween performance, producers judged her on a pre-recorded rehearsal routine.
After several days of rest and pain management, Hendrix was cleared to return to the ballroom. Now back in the competition, she says she is focused on “dancing through the pain” as she and Bersten continue their push toward the finale.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:12 PM EST
Elaine Hendrix earns praise for foxtrot on DWTS
Elaine Hendrix and pro partner Alan Bersten delivered a foxtrot to Prince’s “I Wanna Be Your Lover” during the semi-finals of Dancing With the Stars. In her pre-dance package, Hendrix admitted the challenge ahead: “This performance has to be worthy of Prince, and that is no easy task. This is our chance to bring our scores up.”
The judges responded warmly to her performance. Carrie Ann Inaba called it “solid” and told Hendrix she “deserve[s] this spot so much,” while Derek Hough described the routine as “truly incredible” but encouraged her to show “a little bit more fight.” Bruno Tonioli praised her stage presence, noting she was “very flirty tonight” and commending her ability to sell the character of the dance.
The pair earned straight 9s from the panel, keeping them firmly in contention for a place in the finale with a total of 27.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:06 PM EST
Who was Prince? ‘Dancing with the Stars’ honors an icon
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Dancing with the Stars is dedicating its semi-finals episode to late singer Prince, with the couples dancing to his songs in chronological order.
Prince Rogers Nelson (1958–2016), known simply as Prince, was one of the most influential artists in modern music. Born and raised in Minneapolis, he pioneered the “Minneapolis sound,” blending funk, rock, pop, and R&B into a style that reshaped the industry.
Signing with Warner Bros. Records at 18, Prince released his debut For You in 1978, followed by critically acclaimed albums Dirty Mind, Controversy, and 1999. His breakthrough came in 1984 with Purple Rain, a cultural phenomenon that simultaneously topped the film, album, and singles charts in the U.S. The soundtrack spent six months at No. 1 and earned him an Academy Award.
Prince’s career was marked by innovation and independence. In 1993, amid disputes with Warner Bros., he famously changed his name to the “Love Symbol,” before reclaiming “Prince” in 2000. Over his lifetime, he released 39 albums, including the Grammy-winning Musicology in 2004, and left behind a vast archive of unreleased material.
His impact extended far beyond sales—though he sold over 100 million records worldwide. Prince earned Grammys, American Music Awards, a Golden Globe, and the Billboard Icon Award. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and later honored by the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame.
Prince died in 2016 at age 57, but his artistry, boundary-pushing vision, and cultural influence continue to resonate across generations.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:02 PM EST
DWTS opens with a number to Prince’s ‘Let’s Go Crazy’
Tonight's episode kicked off with a number to Prince's "Let's Go Crazy," a song that is still a defining anthem.
Released in 1984, Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy” opened both the Purple Rain album and film, cementing its place as one of the artist’s most iconic tracks. Backed by The Revolution, the song quickly became a concert staple, often serving as a gateway into other hits during live performances.
The single marked Prince’s second No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and also topped the R&B/Hip-Hop and Dance Club charts, while reaching the Top 10 in the U.K. Its B-side, “Erotic City,” stirred controversy, and in Britain the track was paired as a double A-side with “Take Me With U.”
Musically, “Let’s Go Crazy” is distinguished by its dramatic organ introduction, driving guitar solos, and the use of the Linn LM-1 drum machine. Critics praised its fusion of rock and synth, with Cash Box calling it “one of the finest fusions of jump rock and synth pump.”
The song’s lyrics, including the metaphorical “De-elevator,” have been interpreted as a call to resist temptation and embrace spiritual values. Following Prince’s death in 2016, the track re-entered the Billboard Hot 100, underscoring its enduring influence.
Nov 18, 2025 at 08:00 PM EST
New ‘Dancing with the Stars’ kicks off now
The third episode of Dancing with the Stars Season 34 is kicking off right now on ABC.
You can also watch it on Disney+ and follow updates on Newsweek's live blog.
Nov 18, 2025 at 07:58 PM EST
Watch the remaining couples prepare for Prince Night on ‘DWTS’
The official DWTS X account shared a video of the remaining couples preparing for tonight's dances.
Nov 18, 2025 at 07:50 PM EST
Jen Affleck balances Mormon wives and dancing with the Stars, predicts ‘landslide’ winner
Season three of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has returned to Hulu, but fans have already seen plenty of Jen Affleck on television this fall thanks to her run on Dancing With the Stars Season 34.
Affleck, a member of the MomTok community, had long expressed her dream of joining the ballroom competition. That opportunity came just two months after she gave birth to her third child, when casting director Deena Katz selected both Affleck and fellow Mormon Wives star Whitney Leavitt to join the show.
Though Affleck has since been eliminated, her journey is spotlighted in the latest season of Mormon Wives. She has spoken candidly about competing postpartum, sharing that while the experience was challenging, it allowed her to connect with mothers facing postpartum and prenatal depression. Affleck also credited her partnership with newcomer Jan Ravnik as one of the highlights of her time on the series.
Reflecting on her DWTS journey, Affleck said she wouldn’t trade the experience “for anything” and even predicted that fellow contestant Robert Irwin would take home the mirrorball trophy. "He’s gonna win it by a landslide," she said.
All 10 episodes of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 3 are now streaming on Hulu. Dancing With the Stars Season 34 continues Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+.
Nov 18, 2025 at 07:37 PM EST
Dancing with the Stars scores ratings boost with ‘Wicked’ integration
Dancing With the Stars delivered one of its biggest nights of Season 34 with a special “Wicked Night” on Oct. 21, marking the first time the long-running competition formally partnered with a film studio for a themed episode. The collaboration with Universal’s upcoming Wicked: For Good brought high production values, a choreographed opening number by Christopher Scott, and franchise music woven into contestants’ routines.
Executive Producer Conrad Green said the financial support from the integration allowed the show to stage a larger production and reinvest in other episodes. BBC Studios Chief Ryan O’Dowd added that while partnerships like this are becoming more common, they will only be pursued when they fit naturally with the show’s creative vision.
The gamble paid off: the episode drew 6.63 million viewers, an 11 percent increase from the prior week and the highest audience of the season. It also marked the fifth consecutive week of ratings growth, outperforming NBC’s NBA broadcast the same night.
With the semi-finals airing tonight, the success of “Wicked Night” suggests that future collaborations could further elevate the ballroom while benefiting both the show and its partners.
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Nov 18, 2025 at 07:24 PM EST
How Dancing with the Stars scoring works
Dancing With the Stars relies on a 50/50 scoring system that balances judges’ scores with audience votes. Each week, the regular panel—Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli—joined by a guest judge, evaluates every performance. Judges award scores from 1 to 10, with a maximum of 40 points possible per dance.
Those scores are then converted into a percentage based on the total points awarded across the night. Audience votes are also tallied and converted into a percentage of the overall vote count. The two percentages are combined to determine each couple’s weekly ranking.
This system ensures that both technical skill and fan support play equal roles in determining who advances in the competition.
Nov 18, 2025 at 07:11 PM EST
‘Dancing with the Stars’ eliminations so far
Less than half of the original cast remains as Dancing With the Stars moves into its semi-final round. Actor and comedian Andy Richter was the latest to be eliminated in Episode 9, leaving the competition after landing in the bottom two alongside Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles and actress Elaine Hendrix.
Richter’s departure follows weeks of eliminations that have steadily reduced the Season 34 lineup. The contestants sent home so far include:
- Episode 2: Corey Feldman and Baron Davis
- Episode 3: Lauren Jauregui
- Episode 4: Hilaria Baldwin
- Episode 6: Scott Hoying
- Episode 7: Jen Affleck
- Episode 8: Danielle Fishel
- Episode 9: Andy Richter
Nov 18, 2025 at 06:58 PM EST
How many more episodes are there of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 34?
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars is down to its final two episodes. The semi-finals air tonight, Tuesday, November 18, 2025, with a “Prince Night” theme, followed by the grand finale on Tuesday, November 25.
The season began with 11 episodes, each built around weekly themes, and now only the semi-finals and finale remain. Episode 10 will showcase the remaining couples performing to Prince’s iconic hits, while Episode 11 will crown the champion of the season.
Nov 18, 2025 at 06:53 PM EST
How to vote for your favorite couples on ‘Dancing with the Stars’?
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars kicks off Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, at 8/7c with a live simulcast on ABC and Disney+. Episodes will continue weekly through Nov. 25, with Disney+ streaming the show live alongside local ABC broadcasts.
For viewers who miss the live airing, episodes will be available on demand shortly after the simulcast for Disney+ subscribers, and the next day on ABC.com and Hulu.
Fans can also participate in the competition by voting for their favorite couples. Voting is open during the live simulcast in the Eastern and Central time zones, either online at dwtsvote.abc.com or via SMS text. Each viewer can cast up to 10 votes per couple per method, for a total of 20 votes. Online votes can be adjusted during the window, while SMS votes are final once submitted.
Voting eligibility requires participants to be at least 18 years old and located in the U.S., its territories, or Canada (SMS voting is limited to the U.S. and its territories).
Nov 18, 2025 at 06:45 PM EST
How to watch ‘Dancing with the Stars’
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Fans who want to catch Dancing With the Stars or other ABC programming online have several streaming options. DirecTV and FuboTV both offer free trial periods, making them popular choices for viewers who want to record or stream live episodes.
Sling TV provides extensive customization, though it currently does not include a free trial. Hulu will also carry the series on demand, giving subscribers flexibility to watch at their convenience.
For audiences outside the United States, a VPN can help access these services by setting a location to a U.S. server. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are among the most reliable options, offering discounted plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Nov 18, 2025 at 06:39 PM EST
How many people are going home on ‘Dancing With the Stars’?
In past years, Dancing with the Stars has not eliminated couples during its semi-finals.
All six remaining couples will likely advance to the finale, though there is no confirmation.
Nov 18, 2025 at 06:33 PM EST
Who is left on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 34?
The ballroom is set to shine in purple as Dancing with the Stars enters Week 10 with a tribute to Prince. Six couples remain in the competition, each hoping to secure a spot in the finale by performing two routines to the late icon’s greatest hits.
The night begins with an ensemble dance to “Let’s Go Crazy,” before the contestants take on individual performances. Each pair will showcase one new style and revisit a previous one to highlight their growth this season.
- Robert Irwin and Witney Carson: Jive to “Baby I’m a Star” and Viennese waltz to “WOW.”
- Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa: Jive to “Raspberry Beret” and Argentine tango to “U Got the Look.”
- Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas: Cha cha to “1999” and Viennese waltz to “Slow Love.”
- Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten: Foxtrot to “I Wanna Be Your Lover” and paso doble to “When Doves Cry.”
- Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy: Argentine tango to “Little Red Corvette” and Viennese waltz to “Purple Rain.”
- Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach: Tango to “I Would Die 4 U” and cha cha to “Kiss.”
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