DANCING WITH THE STARS

Flair, drama, jaw-dropping performances, all in one night

Last week’s Dancing with the Stars brought flair, drama and yes — a few eyebrow-raising surprises. But while many viewers were buzzing about Brandon and Lauren’s elimination or Robert’s shirtless salsa, I walked away convinced about one thing: the judges got it wrong when they let Hilaria survive another week — and yes, Robert’s shirt-rip moment had not only the ballroom drooling, but also me.  

Starting with Brandon and Lauren. I’ll admit, I wasn’t their biggest fan this season, especially on this particular performance. Their Cha Cha to “Work From Home” landed with all the spark of a dance rehearsal at 2 a.m. — it had moments, but it lacked the urgency or crispness that really sets DWTS performances on fire. Their score of 18/30 reflected that. And yet, their exit was shocking. To me, this proved how unpredictable, and sometimes unfair, public voting can be, especially when technical merit and audience fandom collide. Ultimately, their elimination felt like a case of underappreciated effort rather than bad dancing. 

Now, Hilaria and her partner: don’t get me wrong, props to her courage and willingness to get out there. But I have to say, I’m baffled she lasted another week. Her dance was clumsy, overly reliant on gimmicks and lacking in clean lines or musicality. In a competition as fierce as this, being safe despite visible flaws undermines competitive rigor. Had the judges or audience been more critical (or realistic,) she might’ve been sent packing in favor of someone more earned. In short: survival should be earned, and this week, I don’t think she earned it. 

On to Robert — and OH BOY that shirt-rip moment. There’s a reason so many headlines called it “jaw-dropping.” He led the salsa with full commitment, charisma and timing.

When he peeled off the shirt mid-routine, I drooled — literally. It was a calculated risk, and one he pulled off. Yes, technique matters; yes, form is essential. But star quality matters too, and Robert, with that athletic frame and bravado, showed he’s got it in spades. Judge Bruno even called him “million-dollar body.” Whether or not it was perfect, it made your heart beat a little faster, and that’s showmanship at work.  

Finally, Jordan’s dance. Her tango was the standout of the night. Emotion, precision, passion: she moved the judges and the audience. The choice of “Anxiety” by Doechii gave the piece emotional weight, and Jordan channeled that internal friction beautifully. The score of 24/30 wasn’t justified enough. However, it was the kind of affirmation that this competition remains, at its heart, about artistry. I practically held my breath watching her lean into every step, every foot placement, every expression. 

All in all, Brandon and  Lauren’s exit from the show was a shock, but I can see how arguments could be made for it. Hilaria’s continued immunity — despite dancing BELOW the bar — felt like a misstep by the judges or voters, possibly even her husband’s wealth.

Robert’s shirt-rip was a bold and sensual moment that capitalized on charisma. And Jordan? She reminded us why we watch: to see someone connect soul to movement.