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« Dancing With the Stars
April 30, 2007: Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Fun
Remember that episode of 90210 where Steve entered a dance competition and Brandon, Kelly and Donna cheered him on? No? OK, it never happened, but it sort of felt like such an episode last night when founding members of what Tom dubbed the “90210 Alumni Association” were in the audience supporting Ian. I don’t know if it was their cheers or Billy Ray’s tutoring, but whatever it was, it worked. Ian finally came alive on the dance floor! His first dance was good and showed marked improvement from last week; his second dance was even better. For weeks now, Ian’s had the moves down but has been unable to sell his performances. Last night that all changed and the judges took notice, telling him he finally had fun out there and was authentic and “enjoyable to watch.” Most importantly, they pointed out that he and Cheryl had some real chemistry for the first time.
Perhaps this means Joey will no longer be able to say, “If you become too serious, you become Ian Ziering.” Ouch! Yes, the competition is definitely on now, with the celebs going on the attack both on the dance floor and behind the scenes (all in good fun, of course). Formerly third-place Joey had his sights set on “taking the gold from Apolo,” and he did just that with a perfect 30 jive and a near-perfect 29 fox trot. Joey didn’t just talk a good game, he upped his game by incorporating more tricks demonstrating surprising flexibility, as Carrie Ann observed. Nevertheless, Len had to complain about “too much razzle dazzle” in his performances. Personally, I liked the showmanship in both of his dances. Thankfully, Len reined in his crankiness for Joey’s second dance and complimented that “it had freedom, but was not wild.”
As good as Joey was, he did not sit at the top of the scoreboard alone. He tied with Laila, who finally got the 10 from Carrie Ann that she was striving for. Carrie Ann was full of praise for her, pointing out that Laila showed more confidence with her dancing by no longer being so small with her movements. Indeed, Laila looked very comfortable on the ballroom floor with her big smile, fast feet, graceful hands and smooth hip action. She and Max seemed to have found a great rhythm together. She’s tied for first place for two weeks in a row now, making her not only good, but consistent.
Speaking of consistency, Apolo said that he “wants to see more consistency from the judges.” A valid point. I’m sure he was referring to the fact that his performances get scrutinized, while celebrities who lack technical ability (Billy Ray, John) get heaps of praise such as “I love your determination” and “the fun you have out there is contagious.” However, Apolo should realize that he’s like the straight-A student who’s now expected to bring home A's and nothing less. As Len said flat out, “You were good, but I expect great from you.” His two dances were both good this week and a lot of fun to watch. But it’s hard living up to that terrific samba he had two weeks ago, as well as another great performance last week — all of his work will be compared to those. An A- or B+ performance from him is now considered disappointing. Meanwhile, C students Billy Ray and John do one right thing and the judges are ready to celebrate. Is this fair? No. But it is what often happens in life. (And if we can’t look to reality shows for life lessons, where can we look?)
So let’s move on to the C students. John received heaps of praise last night, and deservedly so. Bruno said it was like he had been to “dance rehab.” I think this was especially true with his fox trot, which seemed to really showcase his personality and had a few fun, quirky moves that we hadn’t seem before from him. Carrie Ann also crowned him “the best older gentleman dancer” (or as John translated, “geriatric”) in all four seasons of this show. I agree with her on this — John doesn’t overly rely on his charm and he does more actual dancing than past older performers. I would have liked to have seen more such movement from Billy Ray in his waltz. He claimed that he wanted to step aside and showcase Karina. I half believe that. Sure, he feels he takes her down and he wanted to give her an opportunity to shine. But I think doing two dances scared him a little, so he chose to rest up during dance No. 1 so he could focus solely on dance No. 2. And like Len said, his samba was better than his waltz. Of course, this was mostly because he actually moved during the samba while he just stayed still through most of the waltz. Bruno described Billy Ray’s waltz best when he compared him to Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune. Also amusing was Bruno’s bafflement at his own reaction to Billy Ray’s samba: “Somehow, we watch it and enjoy it.”
I think it’s safe to say that either John or Billy Ray will be dancing his last dance on Tuesday night. Based on this week’s performances, John is outshining Billy Ray. But when you factor in the voting from their fan bases, the results may be different. Yet John has narrowly escaped elimination before, so... it could go either way.
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May 1, 2007 1:08 AM
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I have voted for Billy Ray in the past, because there were others that I liked less than him, or because he pulled off a good dance (I liked his jive, even though it wasn't completely jive-like) and even because my daughter is a fan of Hannah Montana. But, I'm sorry to say, it's time for him to go. I wish that he could have gotten that coveted 8 (couldn't one of the judges have given him a pity 8 on that last dance?) but if he goes before John, it'll be a travesty.
OK, not really, but John deserves to stay another week. He really stepped it up, and he's enjoyable to watch while actually dancing.
Len's a cranky-pants; I enjoyed Joey's foxtrot, "razzle-dazzle" and all. Maybe they should have danced to America's "You Can Do Magic"...only that's not really a foxtrot dance, which is one of my major peeves about the show: dance-appropriate music, or lack thereof.
I think that it's kind of unfair for them to say that Apolo's dances could be better. At one point, Len told him that he couldn't give him the score that his dancing deserves...but if his dancing deserves a good score, then why can't he give it to him? At least they finally lightened up on Ian, since he did smile during his routines.
This year, it's going to be hard to pick a top two, since there are four who could take it all. I'd love to see Joey and Ian in the finals, although Apolo is so light on his feet and seems like a natural. Then again, Laila has done really well, and it would be nice to see a woman win the gaudy mirror ball trophy again.
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May 1, 2007 1:44 AM
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Let me just say that I LOVED last night's show. This season has just been kicked up a few notches and is the BEST season ever!! There are so many great dancers this year and I am have no idea who I will be rooting for the first time ever. I love Joey, Laila, Apolo, and Ian. After last week, I thought the final three would be definitely be Laila, Apolo, and Joey. However, Ian finally showed the judges and audience that he is ready to put everything into delivering the kind of performances that he is more than capable of doing.
Laila - She is by far the best female dancer that the show has ever had. She is simply spectacular and I always love her dances. She is graceful, elegant, and floats across the dance floor. I think she will make it to the final three, if she continues to dance the way she has thus far.
John- I was impressed with his dances this week. I agree with Carrie Ann about him being the best older gentlemen dancer of all the of the seasons. He surprises me every week and I always have a smile on my face when he is dancing. I hope he can continue for another week.
Ian- Ian finally let loose and had some fun on the dance floor. I hope he continues to have fun and improve on his performances. He needs to pull out all the stops if he is going to make it to the final three.
Billy Ray- I was not as impressed with Billy Ray's dances. I get the distinct impression that he would not be too upset if he was sent home tonight.
Apolo- I agree with the majority of what the judges said about Apolo's dances last night. I thought the first dance was good, but not great. I like the second dance better than the first, but some of the movements were not as smooth as I thought they should have been. I hope they step up their game next week because their competition is not going to give them any breaks.
Joey- If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Joey!! He and his partner have continuously put everything into their dances. I love watching them dance and hope they make it all the way to the final two.
Based on last night show, here's my ratings list:
1. Joey
2. Laila
3. Ian
4. Apolo
5. John
6. Billy Ray
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May 1, 2007 2:25 AM
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I don't know why Len says he expects GREAT from Apolo. Why would that be? He's not a pro dancer. He's an athlete who is still competing and training. Why should he have to be better than the others? Why would Len give him a 9 instead of a 10 because he thinks he could be better, though he admits he's good? Inconsistency would be putting it mildly.
I've voted for Laila all along and still really enjoy her, but gotta say, I thought Joey was super tonight! So I was torn, but I would still like to see Laila take it all.
I missed Billy Ray's "coaching" of Ian. Can anyone tell me about it?
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May 1, 2007 2:31 AM
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I thought everyone looked good. And a few looked great. Since I'm not a professional dancer, I can't tell if there are flubs or not. I would like the judges to actually point out the mistakes.
I missed the last dance by Joey. Didn't know it was going to be a 2 hour show and didn't set my VCR accordingly. 
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May 1, 2007 6:39 AM
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As much as I like John, I can't agree with Carrie Ann that he's the best older gentleman dancer. Have we all forgotten about John O'Hurley? Elegance, showmanship, humor, and grace all in one package! I think he's the best "geriatric dancer"!
I LOVE Laila!!! She's not afraid to be powerful and sexy while at the same time showing grace and beauty, something that many female athletes have a hard time achieving. She does it very well! You go girl!!!
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May 1, 2007 6:59 AM
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I am going to have to get some one to show me how to tape one show and watch another and I forgot to call my cable company like it was suggested by another blogger last week. Family Drama.
That being said I LOVED both of Laila's dances (from what I saw of the 2nd one). I was surprised by her 2nd costume I know she is basically a reserved person, but she is in it to win it. I got a little anxious about Joey's first dance because I was worried that it was too much and not serious enough. I didn't like it as much because to me it was a little to much 'razzle, dazzle' like Len said but it was good. I am going to have to go on abc.com and review the dances again for what I missed. Also I need to get my votes in.
I am so dissappointed in Billy Ray, he basically WAS Vanna White. It is like he is not even trying anymore.
I thought John's first dance was very sweet. The way he incorporated his dance to fit the song was really cute.
And I was ECSTATIC that Ian finally loosend up!! Finally! I do worry that it may be too little too late.
Watching Maksim when both of their scores came out was so funny. As Laila said he never made it that far in the competition before and I am glad both of their hard work paid off. Laila is staying calm, probably because she knows it ain't over 'till the fat lady sings. I am keeping my fingers crossed.
And I agree the judges were a little harsh w/Apolo and Julianne. I hope it does not discourage them.
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May 1, 2007 8:30 AM
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Laila was on point last night. I just love watching her move across the dance floor. She's lost a lot of weight doing this show. I voted for her last night. Apolo was also great to watch. Didn't get the judge's (Len) comment about him last night. I thought he deserved a 10. Ian finally got to smile last night during the judge's comments. I thought he was great last week and this week. Cheryl is still my favorite choreographer.
I thought John was good last night. Does Edyna (sp) own any clothes? Or does all of her clothes look like bed sheets  Very nice body. Okay Billy Raythe first number was awful. Bruno was right. It did look like Vanna White doing all the work. I rather see you go home first before John. Joey dance was okay. He can get cocky sometimes and over do it. We get it, you were in In Sync and can dance.
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May 1, 2007 8:38 AM
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Have we all forgotten about John O'Hurley? Elegance, showmanship, humor, and grace all in one package! I think he's the best "geriatric dancer"!
fsufutbol4, John O'Hurley was 50 when he started DWTS. Please don't tell me that 50 is "geriatric"! I'm closer to 50 than 30 (just barely), and I still consider myself young. 
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May 1, 2007 8:53 AM
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I did not get to see the first dances but I was very upset on the ones I did see. Unlike everyone else I did not think Laila second dance was that good. Her hands and arms were all over the place. If you did your hands they way she did last night in a professional arena they would count off points. She moves her hips well but I would not say she is at the top. I usually turn when Joey is on because it does not really matter how he dances the judges are always praising him. I find he is a little too much for me. I love Apolo from day 1 and feel they were way to hard on him last night. If they expect more from him then they should expect more from Joey. Who is probably a great person and his dancing is probably good but he is too over the top for me. There has been times when his dancing was not that great and they would be all over him telling him how good he has done. I think even in the group dance Apolo was step per step with his partner..I also like John. Of course being older he is not going to be able to make some of the moves the younger people make. In this I think the scoring is unfair because an older contesant does not really ever have a chance to win and so I do not understand why they add them to competition and then always point out that they are older. But I have always enjoyed watching the older gentlemen and women. With Leeza she always looked really good. I would like to see Tom Sellect next year!!!
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May 1, 2007 8:54 AM
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I really loved what the band did with Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make Me Feel." That was the first time that I had heard the "Paul Anka" version. It really worked for Joey and Kym's foxtrot.
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May 1, 2007 9:18 AM
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I would love to see this season come down to Apolo and Joey with Joey taking the paperweight.
I was most surprised this morning to see someone compliment the band. To me this band is the worst I have ever heard. The singers are painful to listen to. It's become a game around my house to try and figure out what song they are butchering for each dance. It would be hard to pick whom to give the unbearable award to between the 'musicians' on this show and Samantha Harris.
Thank goodness the dancing is so good and Tom and the judges are so charming!
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May 1, 2007 9:37 AM
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I completely agree with Apolo's comment that there should be more consistency in the judging. Len is way too harsh on Apolo. Before his comments it seemed that the other judges were prepared to rave for Apolo, and afterwards they moderated their praise. On the other hand, John and Billy Ray get praised (and higher marks?) for their heart and work ethic. At this point EVERYONE deserves praise for those elements.
I also feel it is Billy Ray's time to go, with John not far behind - and I am pretty sure they would both be OK with this. Sadly, Billy Ray does not DESERVE an 8 and mabye never will.
Generally I think Laila is awesome and I definitely have her in the finals, but I don't think this was her best night. Her choreography didn't seem as complicated as the other dancers'. Clearly the judges saw something I didn't.
I do think with Ian it is probably a case of too little too late, as the other poster said. I didn't realize it till Carrie Ann mentioned it last night, but the chemistry in the dances was lacking between Ian and Cheryl. They seem to have plenty of chemistry in their practices, but Ian is so intense in the dances that he doesn't relate to Cheryl. Also, dare I say it, perhaps Cheryl's choreography isn't as clever as Kym's of Julianne's.
Finally Joey. Everyone's goofy big brother. I think he goes overboard with the mugging sometimes. He is not my favorite. He is talented and deserves to be in the final but not as much as Apolo and Laila IMO. Still 3 weeks left. We'll see.
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May 1, 2007 10:16 AM
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To me it's a tie between Apollo, Joey, and Laila. At this point I could see any of them winning and would be happy with any of them. Laila is just WOW, Apollo is so smooth, and Joey is just having such fun that you have fun watching him. Ian is close and getting closer but he's not quite there.
I must be in the minority but I really enjoyed Billy Ray's first "dance", and I use that term loosely. I felt a lot of emotion from him and I thought she was beautiful and he showcased her well. Sure, it was a cop out, he couldn't learn two dances, but it was pretty.
Len and Bruno are such so funny when the argue amongst themselves. I just wish the audince would give them all a chance to talk before booing or cheering.
Billy Ray should go tonight but who knows for sure.
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May 1, 2007 10:23 AM
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Did anyone else notice Julianne's problem with her costume while talking with Tom after their dance? It seemed like it had fallen apart and was falling off.
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May 1, 2007 11:40 AM
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