Original subtitles

Live from Hollywood, this is Dancing with the Stars.

Welcome to the very first episode of Dancing with the Stars. Tonight, we've

two pivotal words, ballroom dancing.

The number one show of the summer.

pure, unquestionable excellence.

The most wonderful, wonderful dancing.

Yeah. Tom.

Yes. Would you do the honors?

I would love to, my friend.

Live from Hollywood, it's the 20th birthday party of Dancing with the

Please welcome your host, Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hart, and your

host and guest judge, Tom Bergeron.

And congratulations to the seven couples who have made it this far.

And let's also give a big welcome to our honorary guest judge

for the night, Mr. Tom Bergeron. Hi, sweetheart.

I am thrilled to be here tonight. It's such a rush. Absolutely. Now, you're

for a special night that began with our spectacular opening number.

So great to see you all. And we have a number of familiar faces from past

seasons in the ballroom tonight. This is great. And later, some other familiar

faces will be back on the floor.

Now voting is open. Hold on, hold on. I know this one by heart.

is available to the U .S., its territories, and Canada at ABC .com.

Plus, subscribers on participating U .S. wireless phone carriers can type the

first name of their favorite star to the number 21523.

Message and data rates may apply. You get 10 votes per couple per voting

Remarkable retention right here.

That was impressive.

Yes, it was.

There are two rounds of competition tonight. First, our couples will perform

their routines to unforgettable songs.

from iconic freestyle dances. Then it's the relay dance round. For the first

time ever, our stars will compete without their pros.

Instead, they've been paired with former mirror ball champions.

Yes.

Now, Tom, before you join our judges, what are you hoping to see tonight?

Well, look, you're a week away from the semifinals, so I'm looking for the type

of dance that induces goosebumps, but...

Since I'm sitting next to Bruno, I'm also trying to avoid a concussion.

Yeah, yeah, I can tell. I can already tell this is going to be a lot of fun

tonight. Oh, yeah. Well, we'll start this big night of competition with the

and TV actress who last week earned her first ten of the season. It is my

friend, Elaine Hendricks, and her partner, Alan Burstyn.

The way that you dance is just like a breath of fresh air.

Last week had a great dance, great scores, and this week I'm full steam

Elaine, it's the 20th year anniversary of Dancing with the Stars.

Yeah, I've been coming to the show since it first started with Tom Bergeron,

Louis Van Amstel, so I've been a fan for a long time.

We're dancing a salsa inspired by Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff's freestyle.

He's a real showman.

You can see how good their partnership is together. Yeah. We have such a great

connection. Yeah. So our salsa is going to be a fun party. Yeah, let's do it.

Ready? Yes.

And eight. Wait for me. Mario and Karina have this electric chemistry together.

And Alan and I have a really strong bond.

Great connection.

The salsa is really challenging.

Does that make sense? Yeah, it's fast. And we are not holding back on any

choreography. Does that hurt you at all? No. We're doing lifts because a little

rib injury is not going to stop me.

And I plan on going the whole way. By far your best dance.

Good job.

Dancing the salsa with her partner, Alan Burstyn. It's Elaine Hendricks.

I hate to get down. I'm not internationally known. But I'm known to

microphone because I get stupid. I mean outrageous.

They'll win for me if you're contagious.

Because I'm a winner. No, not a loser.

To be an MC is what I choose. The ladies love me. Girls adore me. I'll be even

the ones that never saw me. Like the way that I ride Minnesota.

The reason why I'm mad.

We're going to start with you. I guess you're coming over here. He doesn't want

to sit there.

Now look, Elaine's a friend, but I have to stoically assess your dance, and I

just want to say, that was really good.

All right, Bruno.

Well, that's how you get the party started. You got him going.

I thought we lost him for a moment.

Bright -eyed and bushy -tailed.

and literally very, very bushy there.

Oh, yes!

But listen, there is a quality of you.

It's something very special.

Whatever you do, you're like the best champagne.

It always goes down a treat.

All right.

All right, carry on.

Elaine, that was a fantastic way to start this night. You know, I look at

and I just think, resilience. Two weeks ago, you couldn't even dance, and here

you are.

are just like a sizzling salsa queen here.

I love it. The way we start the show is truly a celebration. Those continuous

spins, by the way. Yeah. That is incredible.

Truly incredible.

I'll just say, we are in the quarterfinals, right? We have two weeks

So that's all I'm going to say.

That's all you're going to say? That's all you're going to say. You have a lot

more you have to say. And you guys head on up to the skybox.

One of the couples who tied for the middle of last week's leaderboard is on

way. Robert Irwin and Whitney Carson will be out on the floor soon to perform

foxtrot. Juliette. Thanks, Alfonso. All right, Elaine Allen.

There is just two weeks left in this competition. Everybody is making

to be here. How much would it mean for you to make it to the semifinals? Oh, my

God, it would mean everything to me. I'm so grateful to be here for the 20th

anniversary of Dancing with the Stars.

I know some people didn't think I would make it this far.

heart and soul into everything.

to start the night. Let's get their scores.

All

right.

Thanks, Julianne. We're off to a great start.

Great start.

Up next, our wildlife conservationist performs a foxtrot with a special

It's Robert Irwin and his partner, Whitney Carson.

We want to do the foxtrot justice.

You have to keep this open still.

Yep. Oh, my goodness.

Wow.

That's me.

That's her. She won. Yeah.

I am so proud of you guys.

I never thought I would get to this point. You know how I was supposed to be

Brazil? Yes.

Doing the Earthshot Prize. And I told Prince William, sorry, I can't make it.

I'm still here.

It's so exciting. And I'm just so grateful.

So this week we're doing the Foxtrot to your freestyle dance, to Footprints in

the Sand.

This performance is so meaningful because my sister originally dedicated

my dad and his legacy. So there's a lot of weight because I really want it to be

our best dance yet, to be honest.

How did you go into this dance? What was your mindset?

It was just letting the emotion be real.

A part of me healed that day. So now I hope that Robert gets that same

experience. I am so excited. Let's do this.

Apparently we have a special call.

I don't know who it is. Let's see.

Oh my goodness, how are you?

Hey, Robert, how are you doing?

How was Rio?

Going really well. The finalists this year, we're really going to go on and

the world. We're missing you, Robert.

Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here.

Oh my goodness.

Whitney, you need to get him in as much glitter as you can.

Listen, I'm trying. Okay, well, well, well. Guys, you've got a seriously good

chance of winning it, so just the best of luck on the show.

Means the absolute world. Thank you so much. See you soon. Bye -bye.

What? I can't believe he just said my name. We are doing this dance for Bindi

and we're doing this dance for Prince William. Oh my goodness. So let's not

this up.

Dancing the Foxtrot with his partner Whitney Carson, it's Robert Irwin.

You walked with me, footprint in the sand,

and helped me understand where I'm going.

Come on over here, guys.

Bruno. My darling, that was so beautiful. It was a poetic, touching

that really touched all of us. I mean, I could not take my eyes off of you.

Listen, you've got the royal seal of approval.

Now you've got America's seal of approval as well.

Carry on.

I know we all saw that foot come off the ground, but I have to say that

sometimes, no, listen, sometimes there are moments that make us change the way

we do things.

This dance was so powerful, so profound. You have come from being a charismatic,

you were so charismatic that first episode, and now you have turned into a

beautiful storyteller with your heart open.

Who cares about this?

You know, I feel so honored to be entangled in the Irwin story, just even

little bit.

It means the world to me. And one thing I loved about your father was that he

lived life with so much enthusiasm.

And you, my friend, are this generation's beacon of joy and

enthusiasm.

And you're not just walking the path that he set, my friend. You are dancing

And you're dancing it beautifully.

You know what annoyed me about that dance?

I am doing my best not to get choked up tonight, and that didn't help. The last

time we saw each other, you were 11.

You have grown into a star, Robert. You really have.

All right, you guys.

Head on up to the skybox.

The man who has been dubbed the people's princess is on the way.

Andy Richter and Emma Slater will be out on the dance floor soon with their

quick step.

Julianne. Thanks, Alfonso.

All right.

It's definitely an emotional night already.

Robert, can we hold up for one second and can we just go back to the fact that

the future king of England zoomed you?

Is he texting Robert to 21523 or what? I sure hope so.

I don't know if you can text him in Britain, but, mate, that was just

Tonight, to me, was about this wildlife conservation legacy I represent.

I mean, I didn't know that footage was going to be there at the end, but every

time that I step onto that floor, I represent my dad,

his message and what he stood for, and I just want to make him proud. He's my

hero.

I bet these scores will make him proud. Let's get them, shall we?

Carrie -Anne Inave.

You've made us all proud.

Ken.

Derek Hutt.

Ken!

Tom Bergeron. A no -brainer!

Ken! Bruno Tomioka. What do you think? A royal...

Alfonso, we're coming right back live.

Welcome back to our 20th birthday party. Next up, the star who once again has

returned to dance with the help of your vote.

It's comedian Andy Richter and his partner Emma Slater.

You're relatable.

That's why you're becoming a people's champion.

Seven.

Nice to get a nine.

And now I'm going to keep my foot on the gas.

So this week we're going to be dancing a quick step. Oh.

I remember in like week two, you pointed at a dance. I was like, what is that?

I don't want to do that. And you were like, it's a quick step. Well.

Now's the time. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. We're taking inspiration from the

freestyle for Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold.

Oh, wow. He is such a performer.

Yeah, he's great. He looks like a pro. Yeah, very sharp, very precise.

Want to raise that level of performance.

And I think that that will come with the confidence of knowing the steps. Okay.

No, no, no. Cross in front first.

This is an intimidating dance for sure. No, no, no, no, no. Don't take that.

Because it's right there in the name. It's quick.

Turn the other way.

Jordan and Lindsay's Freestyle.

Bomba. It's Salesmanship.

Oh, it looks good. Yes.

And I happen to be a salesman, so get ready to buy, America.

Get a load of me. Get a load of me.

Dancing the Quick Step with his partner, Emma Slater.

It's Andy Richter.

Have you seen the well -to -do up on Lenox Avenue?

On that famous thoroughfare with their noses in the air.

High hat and narrow collar, white spat, $15.

Spending every dime for a wonderful time.

If you're blue and you don't know where to go to, why don't you go where fashion

says?

Putting on the red.

Bangle gowns upon the bevy of high frowns down the levee. All misted,

putting on the wrist.

And that's where each and every Lulu Belle goes.

Every Tuesday evening with her swell bow.

Rubbing elbows on with me and we'll attend their jubilee.

See them spin their last two bits.

Putting on the wrist.

Princess.

Carry on.

There is no greater honor or privilege than to watch somebody show up week

week, giving it his best, even when it may not seem like you're going to be up

here. That is the courage that you display every week. This is why our

out to you. And on top of that, this little man is turning into a dancer. Did

you see that? Fancy little boy.

I'm so proud of you. I just love watching you grow every week. Thank you.

you. All right, Jared.

Andy, in the package, you said, I don't want to do that. Well, you did it, man.

You did it. Thank you very much. And the chassis across the floor, the skipping

across. You were moving.

Amazing. The fence, the flair, the old high was strong.

It was fun. By the way, a question.

We're like the fans, sort of symbolic as the Fandies.

Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

Exactly.

I want one. I want one. All right, Tom.

Andy, the only time I ever danced on a show, season two, a result show, I did a

quick step, and Len Goodman said to me it was better suited for America's

Funniest Videos.

He would have loved yours.

Good job. Thank you so much.

Yeah. All right, Bruno.

Nicole and Andy, you did it. Thank you. It's a quick step. It was quick.

And you've had plenty of steps.

What more do you want?

What more do you want? Oh,

hey, goodbye. You go ahead. Goodbye, goodbye.

Tickets are selling fast for our all -new live tour directed by the

Mandy Moore.

Go to dwtstour .com for your tickets and information on the recently added

shows. Julianne.

And Emma, the co -host of the tour, has just arrived with Andy. Hi. And is

seeming very, very happy, by the way.

I know you didn't really want to do this quick step.

Well, by this time, I actually did. It was really fun, and we had fun. And I

really appreciate what Carrie Ann said.

But, like, it's less courage and more just, like, now it's fun.

Now I'm really loving being out there. Well, not only are you loving it, you're

also doing it. It's so good.

You know what? Let's get to your scores.

All right, let's.

Carrie -Anne Inabe.

Eight.

Derek Hunt.

Seven.

Tom Bergeron.

Seven.

Bruno Tognoli.

Seven.

29, and also an 8 from Carrie Ann. They could earn more points from the judges

if they win their relay dance with a former champion, but they still want

from you now. Voting closes shortly after the final competitive dance.

All right. Thanks, Julianne.

Next up in the first round, we've got an Argentine tango from Dylan Efron and

Daniela Katagach, plus a special tribute to Remember the Stars We've Lost. We're

live, and we're coming right back.

As we celebrate this 20th birthday party, let's remember the members of our

ballroom family who are no longer with us. They will live forever in our

And the dead won't lay.

I'll always remember us this way.

And the band won't play.

I'll always remember us

this way.

who brought so much joy to the ballroom. And that was the perfect way to

remember them. Absolutely.

All right, we'll get back into our first round with our reality TV star and

content creator.

It's Dylan Efron and his partner, Daniela Karagach.

Overall, a little bit more energy, but that was fantastic.

Eight! Nine!

Thank you for the play!

The scores really reflect how I felt inside.

It was all over the place, messed up a little bit. Hopefully this week it all

comes together.

Okay, so this week we're dancing Argentine tango, inspired by Whitney and

freestyle. I feel like Milo was one of the best performers because he's so

engaged into whatever he's doing.

But he's performing, he's acting.

It's going to be a good chance for you to show the character of the dance.

Boom, boom, boom, attack.

Milo just looks like a dancer, which is really impressive.

He owns that stage, but he is an actor. I'm not.

Be a little bit stronger.

I know I am getting better at being in character.

Dramatic. We've been working so hard each week, and it feels like a

is imminent. Like, we're right there.

He was moving the whole time.

And I'm excited to see if we can do it this week. He's a dancer.

Dancing the Argentine Tango.

With his partner, Daniela Karagoc, it's Dylan Atheron.

Hold my gaze.

That was your breakthrough moment by a long shot.

When people ask me who I'm surprised about, I say Dylan. Your improvement

has been astonishing.

The lifts were effortless. That routine was insane, Daniela. Well done.

Well done. Tom, I got to tell you, anybody watching this show for the very

time, first time would go why are two pros dancing i don't get that and let me

tell you let me tell you i know your brother's the actor you're a leading man

yeah oh yeah oh yeah bruno the argentinian idol excuse

me mr rudolf valentino you were not dancing tonight you were starring there

big difference about that's what i always say is not what you do is the way

But you do it, and you did it rightly, perfectly.

Your journey has been

outstanding. And there has always been. Gilles Marini, I have to point you out,

because up until tonight, the man who held the crown for the Argentine tango

me, the best performance was Gilles Marini.

Tonight, my friend, it now...

see Jordan Childs and Ezra Sosa getting ready for their dance live on TikTok at

official DWTS.

Brandon and Britt are bringing you all the behind -the -scenes action tonight.

Julianne. Thanks, Alfonso.

Dylan and Daniela. By the way, I saw that cheeky little smile that you guys

shared after you nailed that lift. I saw it. All right, so now the relay dance

is coming up. You are going to be dancing with not your partner, but

champion. How are you feeling about that?

excited because a lot of people don't see a male celebrity leading a lot of

time because they have a female pro. But this time around, if you guys see how

Dylan leads his partner right now, it's so impressive.

I wanted to cry when I watched it. All right. Well, we're going to see that

coming up. But first, let's get your scores when we come back.

Before the break, Dylan and Daniela performed an Argentine tango that Derek

was his breakthrough moment.

Let's get their scores.

That's the first time I feel really proud after a duel.

Absolutely should feel proud. Well, even though they will compete again for more

points in the relay dance round, you don't have to wait to send them to the

semifinals. You can vote by text and online right now.

Alfonso. Thanks, Julianne. I love that. I love that. Next up, the Olympic gold

medalist whose energetic Tina Turner -inspired routine landed her just one

behind the leaders. It's Jordan Childs and her partner, Ezra Sosa.

Take the risk, and this one delivers.

I'm so proud of you. You did so good.

I was so happy that I got two 9s and two 10s, but we only have three more weeks

left, and this is grind time.

Happy birthday.

Happy birthday.

Growing up, watching Dancing with the Stars, I used to recreate a lot of the

different moods. So I'm really excited for this week.

We will be doing a cha -cha -cha to Ciara's get -up inspired by Wayne

freestyle from season 31.

Period! He's got style. He's got finesse. That's exactly what our cha

needs. A little all -out. Wayne Brady brought that spicy, hot energy, and that

is so great because that is another, you know, side of me that I really want to

dive deeper into.

We're getting spicy.

When I was younger, I told myself if I had to learn any dance on Dancing with

the Stars, I hoped it would be the cha -cha. Because as gymnasts, we like to be

very up and joyful.

So I want to kill this cha -cha so bad.

Please, please, please do us justice.

Okay, show off.

Dancing the cha -cha with her partner, Ezra Sosa.

It's Jordan Childs.

He said, hi, my name is so -and -so, baby, can you tell me, don't you know

you came to do? I said, I started on the left, then I had to take him to the

right. He was not a friend, but he kept on dancing all night. He tried,

admitted, but he kept it still and he died. You know it, and I can't.

is listening, could you turn up the air conditioning? It got really hot in here.

All right, Bruno.

Oh, what's going on, you bad, bad, bad girl?

Does your mama know you're doing this?

Oh, my.

Excuse me. It looks better when she does it. Definitely.

You definitely brought sexy back into the cha -cha -cha.

times, and the one note I want to tell you is your shoulders are coming up when

you're turning. And it happened numerous times in this, so I really want you to

work on that because you have been outstanding in your growth and your

and I love it, and I want you to continue this way.

All right, Derek, lock in your score.

You know what?

It's celebration tonight. I want to say and point something out.

In the rumba a couple weeks ago, you did something. You had quality in your

body. Tonight, you did an overturn.

You settled your weight. You had texture in your body. You had resistance in

your body. It's those small things that I see as a dancer. I have to close my

eyes because I'm visualizing it.

It's what I appreciate.

You see the flips like last week, all these things? I think it's amazing.

I love that stuff. You know what I love even more?

I love the texture in the body, and I saw that tonight. Jordan, give it to me.

Let's go.

All right. We love that. Head on up to the sky box.

Let's take a look at where our first four couples stand on the leaderboard.

Currently tied at the top with perfect 40s are Dylan and Daniela and Robert and

Whitney. And currently at the bottom are Andy and Emma with 29.

There are more scores to come in this first round.

Julianne. And Alfonso, I think these two just want to hear their scores.

All right, Jordan, you have been a fan of this show and have been watching it

for many years. How does it feel to be a part of such a milestone season?

It's honestly been such a remarkable experience. I mean, when the show first

came out, I was only four years old.

So to be a part of this, to be a part of this, honestly has been such an

amazing, you know, experience. And I really just want to say thank you to

for everything.

All right, let's get your scores.

Derek Huff. You know what, Jordan?

Ten!

Tom Bergeron.

Nine!

Bruno Tom Yogan. Nine!

All right, 37 out of 40 for Jordan and Ezra so far. Your first ten from Derek.

All right, well, look, they've got a chance to win more points in the relay

dance round, but no one will get into next week's semifinals without judges'

scores alone. You have to vote. You get ten of them per couple per voting

method. Alfonso.

Yeah, thanks, Julianne. That's a great dance. I like the point dance.

All right, the couple who finished last week just one point behind Jordan and

Ezra are up next.

Alex Earl and Val Smirkowski will dance a foxtrot when we come back live.

Welcome back to our 20th birthday party.

Next up, we have a foxtrot to a cinema classic from the star who last week

earned a near -perfect score.

It's social media personality Alex Earle and her partner, Val Smirkovsky.

That was the first time I felt confidence in this space. You're the

want to take that energy into this week's dance.

So, Alex, this week we celebrate 20 years of Dancing with the Stars. That's

crazy. My brother and I joined the show season two, and it just changed our

entire life. I remember watching this with, like, my grandma when I was

so I want to be able to put out a killer dance.

That's great, because we're doing the fox shots to Sing It in the Rain,

by Neve Shulman's and Jenna Johnson's freestyle.

They just look like they're having fun. And getting lost in someone's joy,

that's the key. Yeah. We're going to show it.

There's a certain level of excellence Alex demands from herself.

What am I doing wrong? But now she needs to surrender out there and really enjoy

the moment. You're good enough.

Part of me always held back, but I realized that, like, at this point in

competition, you can't care about being embarrassed. Yes.

So we have to put out a timeless dance that all the Dancing with the Stars.

fans are going to love. Beautiful, just like that.

Dancing the Foxtrot with her partner Val Jemekowski, it's Alex Earle.

I'm singing in the rain Just singing in the rain

What a glorious feeling

And I'm happy again.

I'm laughing at clouds so dark up above.

The sun's in my heart.

And I am ready for love.

Let the stormy clouds take everyone from the place.

Come on with the rain. I have a smile.

I'm dancing singing in the rain

Beautiful.

Oh, you two together.

Loved it. Bruno, take it away. I think I've entered ballroom heaven. And yes,

Len, I know. This is how you do it.

This is how you do it. You really captured the essence, the class, the

the glamour, the sophistication of Hollywood golden age.

Yes. Yes. The slow clap. The slow clap.

Carrie Ann.

Yeah, adding, because I agree absolutely with what Bruno said, but what I really

noticed about you, Alex, is you're letting go completely now. And there's

something so joyous. I'm really seeing it, and that is the heart and soul of

this show. So you've brought everything to the table, the beautiful lines, the

beautiful elegance, the smooth moves, and you're bringing yourself.

Thank you. Love it. Derek.

Yes. I mean, listen, Gene Kelly, he's my guy. He's like my biggest inspiration,

so I love that song.

Clean, classic, smooth, sophisticated, stylish.

This Foxtrot was flawless.

Flawless. Flawless. I think I said at the top of the show I wanted to see

bump -inducing dances. Thank you for that.

By the way, that was more than a dance. It was a chemistry class.

Oh, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

Head on up to the skybox.

All right.

This week on the Dancing with the Stars official podcast, Joey Basaday's guests

are Derek and Tom.

The podcast is available Thursday mornings on Disney Plus and Hulu or

you get your podcasts. And if you keep your eyes open, you might see Joey again

later in the show.

Julianne. Okay. Well, we'll find out what that means soon. Thanks, Alfonso.

my gosh. You just are so gorgeous. Wow. Okay.

Semifinals are coming up next week. How intense is everybody feeling behind the

scenes? You know, it is very intense. But I will say, like, the amount of

friendship we all have on this cast is so nice. Like, I think we...

all just lift each other up, and it is, like, a hard time, and we're going

through such a niche experience right now together, but I think just, like,

being in it with everyone and all these new friends is so amazing, and I'm

excited if we make it.

Well, speaking of friends, Val, you've been on, you had an appearance on season

two. What has this show meant to you?

Yeah, it means a lot, you know.

And I don't just speak for myself, I speak for a lot of pros here. You know,

pursued a craft that had no end goal in mind.

We just did something that we were passionate about. There was no future.

the show came around and gave us a career, gave us impact, gave us

And it just means the world. I think we're all very grateful for the show.

Let's get your score.

Carrie -Anne Inabe.

It's a 10!

Derek Huff. Well -deserved 10!

Tom Bergeron.

Duh!

Bruno Tognoli. It's a 10!

to get into next week's semifinals. Voting closes shortly after the final

competitive dance of the night. Alfonso. Thanks, Julianne. This is a great

quarterfinal birthday.

All right, the relay dance round with returning champions is on the way. But

first, we'll see the couple who last week won immunity from the relays.

Leavitt and Mark Ballas are up next.

Bye.

Welcome back to our 20th birthday party. We'll close out this first round with

the star who topped last week's leaderboard and won immunity from

relay dance round. From the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, it's Whitney Leavitt

and her partner, Mark Ballas.

A few stumbles with your foot, but you are amazing.

Whitney and Mark have immunity from next week's relay dances.

Getting immunity is a blessing, but I know we're going to be put under a

microscope, so we really got to deliver.

So this week it's the 20th birthday party.

And I'm going to be a part of that. It's pretty cool. It's so cool. I've done

the show now for 18 years. I've just learned so much being a teacher and a

friend and a coach.

20 years ago, that's why I would have been in sixth grade. On the monkey bars.

Being a pest.

Being a pest.

Nothing's changed.

So this week we are dancing an Argentine tango inspired by Gabby and Val's

restyle from season 31. She shows, like, so much passion in this dance. It'll be

nice to see passion, seduction, intensity from you. We've not seen that

you hold it? Whoa.

I need to find that passion that Gabby had. Come on. Act.

The really fast kicks and flick, I can't figure it out. I feel like this is

harder than the samba.

Yeah. I have to lock in. Almost. And give the performance of a lifetime.

Woo!

Yeah, did you feel that? That was fun.

Dancing the Argentine tango with her partner Mark Ballas, it's Whitney

Wish.

Uh -uh.

Visceral.

He had it coming.

He had it coming.

He only had himself to blame.

If you'd have been there, if you'd have seen it, I bet you you would have done

the same.

I met Ezekiel Young from Salt Lake City about two years ago, and he told me he

was single.

Single my ass.

He had six wives.

One of those Mormons, you know.

Some guys just can't hold their arsenic.

He hadn't come, he hadn't come, he hadn't come, he hadn't come. He only had

himself to blame.

If you'd have been there, if you'd have seen it, if you'd have seen it, I just

think you would have done the same.

Oh, Whitney and Mark.

Argentine Tango.

Yes, Team Chicago in the place to be.

Oh, yeah.

Now that's Team Chicago.

Yeah, girl.

Crush this.

Okay, carry on.

Whitney, what are you doing after this show? Because whatever it is...

Precise dance. The way you stuck that foot. Thank you, girl. You were sticking

that. Landon, and you nailed it! Nailed it!

Good job.

All right, Derek. I mean, it was just dripping in elegance and control. I

it was smooth, silky, precise.

The cicadas, right? The displacement of the legs and the feet. The ganchos, the

hooks. It was so filled. It was the artistry.

The musicality.

The theatrics.

It had it.

All right, Tom.

I have to tell you, I was so swept away, Derek had to go, enter your score, Tom.

I do want to say, the host part of my brain, you got immunity.

That's the good news. But the bad news is, you're not dancing again.

So I'm a side out of mind, right? You're still in the competition. You know what

I mean? It's like...

Don't vote for them.

Leave them on a high.

Leave them on a high. Bruno.

I knew you were a ruthless killer.

Razor sharp focus.

Driven by passion.

Now, your legwork and what you did today really is worthy of C -Sheriff.

Especially from the drop to the leg to the split.

Excuse me, honey.

Best dancer tonight in my eyes. All right.

Head on up to the skybox.

If you want an exclusive live sneak peek at the stars in tonight's first relay

dance matchup, head to TikTok at official DWTF.

Brandon and Britt have the couples and all of the inside secrets.

Yeah, Julianne. Oh, I love juicy, juicy secrets.

And speaking of secrets, I love that Mormon part of the dance. It was so

perfect. We had to have it.

Yes, it did. Okay, you know what? Tom is right.

You actually are going to be skipping the relay dance.

What do you feel about that? I'm not going to lie. I have major FOMO. Major

FOMO. This whole week.

But I'm going to be on the sidelines rooting them on. Yeah.

All right. Well, you know what? Let's get your scores.

Carrie -Anne Inaba.

Yeah, to ten.

Derek Hough.

To ten.

Tom Bergeron. We're going to get hit with confetti again.

It's a ten.

40 out of 40 for Whitney and Mark, your perfect score.

It's the first one. Since they won immunity last week, they won't have to

compete in tonight's relay dances.

They'll also win two bonus points from the judges. However, it doesn't mean

are immune from tonight's elimination. They are still just as likely to go home

as any of our stars. They definitely need your votes to dance in the

Alfonso. All right. Thanks, Julianne. The stars are getting ready to dance

without their pros and for the first time ever with returning champions.

The relay dances are next.

Now.

Let's get the inside perspective of the people who have been watching all of the

dances since day one, our judges.

I remember the very first day when I walked onto set with Len and Bruno. It

like something a little magical is happening here.

When I first met Len, it's like meeting a brother.

Bruno, he's such a star.

I want to dance with you.

Terryann, he just was love at first sight. You're a sexy guy.

That's focus.

I'm trying.

She always judged from her heart, and I always loved that about her.

I'm Derek Huff, and I'm deadly when I hit that dance floor.

Being a pro dancer on the show for so many years, facing the judges, then to

being a judge, it's a really special experience.

It was like going from teaching somebody for six hours a day to teaching

somebody within ten seconds.

Start from the bottom. Keep those turned out. Well done.

I'm getting it. I'm doing it.

Derek and Bruno have the realest bromance I've ever seen. Oh, my

You've got us both.

My first impression of Terri -Ann was like, yo, can this woman stay in her

I have fallen out of my chair twice.

Why are you looking at me? Did I do three?

30 seconds, everybody!

To be a good judge on a TV show, you have to be entertaining.

You married a murderer!

You have to make valid points.

Watch the frame.

You have to communicate.

Just be aware of your whole body. What people might not know is that we have to

lock in our scores from the moment they finish their dance to they get to

Alfonso. There's a pause, a pause, a pause, two seconds, about three to five

seconds, so they walk over, and then we've got to score, and we've got to

deliver. Our commentary.

We work as a team and also individually.

So if Derek's already said, like, the positive part... The shaping! You hit

thing and you kind of went... And I know that there's something that they still

need to work on. There were a few stumbles with your foot. I'm going to

out.

Well, none of this would have been possible without Len.

I've known Len since I was 15 years old. I think falling's going to really suit

you. So, to sit in his seat. Because it will forever be his seat.

It's an honor.

His presence will always be a part of Dancing with the Stars.

May it continue.

Amazing.

Welcome back.

Before we start the second round, let's take a look at the leaderboard with

Whitney and Mark's two bonus points added in. Currently at the top are

and Mark with 42, and at the bottom are Andy and Emma with 29.

Now, Whitney and Mark won't compete in this round, but they still need your

votes. The relay dance round could shake things up. This is the last chance for

our couples to get into next week's semifinals.

They've been divided into three relay groups. The winner of each group will be

awarded two bonus points.

For the first time ever, the stars won't be dancing with their pros. Instead,

they've been paired with past Mirrorball champions.

Up first, it's Jordan and Ezra versus Elaine and Alan.

And replacing those pros are the champions of season four and

season 24, Olympic gold medalist Apollo.

Rashad Jennings. Let's see how our first two couples and their champions trained

for this round.

For the relay, you're actually not dancing with me.

What? It's going to be a little weird, but I'm very excited.

Okay, so, like, who's our partner?

It's pretty cool that I have, you know, a former Olympian and former mirrorball

winner. This is like a good speed skating position.

That low?

And in dance, you want to be tall.

I wonder who it is.

Yeah!

Rashad Jennings! We're here!

Rashad runs a 4 .59 40 -yard dash, so he's quick.

It's been a while, but hey, you know, we get these shoulders back, I give you a

nice frame to get in. I haven't danced in 13 years.

Are you ready to know your style and song?

Quick step. Do I get a kick out of you by Michael Bublé?

Are you ready to get that stamina?

We have no choice. You did the quick step. We got tens.

Oh, yeah.

Jordan Childs and Apollo Antonono.

Two Olympians. That's some talent.

Elaine Hendricks and Rashad Jennings. Oh.

Actress -athlete against two athletes.

We got to turn it up. Did you bring your jockstrap? I got two of them in case,

you know, I mess up one.

When you go into frame, you're going to think of pulling your elbow back. Jordan

is a technician.

And step, and step. But our advantage is how we can fill the room with our joy.

If it's not me dancing, I'm glad it's Rashad.

This is weird. I'm not doing anything.

The most challenging part. Oh, shoot.

Is someone shorter than I'm used to. I can give you some of my inches,

That would be amazing. You're a big guy.

So you're going to have to bend those knees a little bit. And ah.

I'm very rusty. But getting these two points, this is critical for her. So

there's a lot of pressure here.

You're getting flashbacks?

Miss Elaine, Elaine, Elaine.

May the quickest quick step win.

Pivot. Perfect.

Last time I was in frame, I was in somebody's picture.

It's a lot of pressure on me, but I'm going to get it, and we're going to get

those two points. Great pardon.

I have had some big highs and some big lows, which makes me all the more

determined to see it to the semifinals.

It was fast.

Yeah. I want to.

way into the semifinals so bad.

Chasse, you slay. We gotta take it all in the ballroom and leave it there.

Dancing the quick -step relay.

It's Jordan Childs and Apollo Anton Ono versus Elaine Hendricks and Rashad

Jennings.

I get no kick from champagne.

Mere alcohol doesn't thrill me at all Tell me why should it

be true That I get a kick out of you

I get a kick every time I see you

Standing there before me I get a kick

Though it's clear to see, you obviously do not adore

me.

I get no kick in a plane.

Flying too high with some girl in the sky is my idea of

nothing to do.

But I get a kick out of you.

Well, a quick step relay.

All right, let's bring in the pros.

Come on, y 'all. Great job.

Great job, y 'all. All right, Derek, you up first.

Well, first of all, Ezra and Alan, y 'all better look out. They're coming for

your jobs right now.

Apollo, how long has it been? Dude, that was incredible.

That was incredible.

The shot?

Amazing. Jordan, your guys' was, like, elegant. It was classy. The control, the

quality of that quick step was so impressive. Elaine, the bounciness, the

brightness, the fun.

Fantastic, both of you. This was very hard. Well done. Yeah.

Good job.

You know, look, it's an interesting thing in these relays. If the couples

kind of equally matched and we had athleticism and elegant and it's like a

Reese's peanut butter. Are they sponsors?

All kinds of fun.

Nice job, everybody.

All right, Bruno. I know, he's great. He's like, you know, diamond and pearl.

Glamour, panache, dexterous footwork, wonderful, wonderful movement.

You'll have to wait and see.

Okay, carry on.

Just bravo to the returning champs, because not only did you have to

how to dance, you also had to lead again.

Very impressive. Both of you have not lost a step. Very entertaining, very

smooth as silk. Oh, I don't know what we're going to do.

Okay.

You guys, head on up to the skybox with Julianne. The six couples who survived

tonight's elimination will compete next Tuesday night in the semifinals, where

we'll be celebrating the music of Grammy and Oscar winner Prince.

That's right. And all of the routines will be performed to his incredible

catalog of songs.

Julianne, they're almost there. It's going to be an amazing night of music,

Alfonso. I cannot wait.

All right.

Jordan, let's just start with you.

How much fun was it to partner with my first champion, Apollo?

I do have to say he is pretty sweet.

But I definitely thank you, Julian, for allowing me to take him.

I do feel territorial.

All right. Now, Elaine, Rashad got a 10 in his quick step the first time. So how

did that go into it? Did you have confidence?

I have confidence with him.

That's right. All right. Well, Derek, which couple gets the judge's bonus

points?

The winner.

of the relay dance is Jordan and Apollo.

So that means that Jordan and Ezra will have two bonus points added to their

total for the night. What does that mean to you, Jordan? It means everything.

And honestly, thank you guys so much. This was an honor. So Team USA.

You still have to vote to send your favorite to next week's semifinals.

Alfonso. All right. Thanks, Julianne.

Next up in the relay dance round, Dylan and Daniela versus Andy and Emma. We'll

reveal their champion partners when we come back live.

Oh, the cup. in his fears tonight. We've already seen one exciting relay dance.

Let's welcome the couples in this next matchup. Dylan and Daniela versus Andy

and Emma.

And replacing those pros are the champions of season 20 and season 29,

actor and singer Rumor Willis and the Bachelorette star Caitlin Bristow.

Here's how they train.

You've got to be on your best behavior because the first time you're dancing

with somebody else. You're the one that's leaving me with a sitter.

I'm Andy.

It's a little intimidating.

You know, somebody didn't want a mirror ball.

How long has it been since your season? That was five years ago.

Have you danced since? No.

Hello.

This is going to be epic.

I love rumor.

You're friends with my brother. Yeah. I feel like I have a head start.

When did you do this show?

Ten years ago.

We are dancing a Viennese waltz to Earns It by The Weeknd.

Sexy! She won't let me be sexy. Yes. Well, I will. She says America can't

it. I did that song to a Viennese waltz. Did you really? Yes. It's Dylan Efron

and Ruma Willis. Ruma Willis. Wow.

We got Andy.

And Caitlin Bristow. She's really good.

Gotta do some cardio.

It's been a minute.

The hunkiness category, Dylan and Rumor have us beat.

Yoink.

What's that?

Yoink. But I can sell it better than he does, so we'll see what wins out.

We've got to find that right hand. Yeah.

Danny's short. As soon as Rumor's there, it's like, oh, I can bring my chest up,

and it feels really natural.

Yeah. I don't think I've danced competitively since season 20, but what

changed is I'm going to win.

No biscuit feet, baby.

One, two. Oh, sorry, sorry. I would like to win this relay. I want to do it for

America, and I want to do it for Andy. Game on.

Yes! This is the dance to get to the semifinals. I'm leaving it all out

Good. You're going to kill it, Dylan.

Wheelie, rotate, yes!

I don't want to go.

I want to stick around.

You are killing it. Oh, thank you.

Dancing the Viennese Wolf Relay.

It's Dylan Ephron and Ruma Willis.

versus Andy Richter and Caitlin Bristow.

You make it look like magic on you.

I see nobody, nobody but you, you, you.

I'm never confused.

Hey, I'm so used to being you.

You're perfect.

Always worth it.

You deserve it.

just like that. Close it up. All right.

Tom, you're up first.

Well,

first of all, Andy, that was Ab Fab. It was.

And Rumor, it's so great to see you. I have to tell you, one of the highlights

for me of your season was meeting your dad.

And I just want to send my warm wishes to you, your dad, and your whole family.

You guys, it was like a massive entertainment experience. That was

I mean, rumor, Dylan, you two literally, you were making music.

There were like two finely tuned instruments in perfect harmony. I don't

who the tuner is, by the way.

Andy! You wanted to distract me, you succeeded.

This is going to go viral.

It really is.

All right, carry on.

You two, they're magic. I mean, magic. There's just the poetry, the way you

dance, the chemistry, all of that was fantastic.

And you, sir, what's up with the sex appeal today?

You're a give it, give it, give it.

But, Terry, and I'm not joking. Like, okay, forget the shirt. No, seriously.

I'm not speaking from a woman's point of view. No, wait, hold on. I've got to

say this because you deserve this. You are sexy tonight.

You are sexy beast.

Go ahead, go ahead. No, I just, I've never seen abdominal.

muscles wrinkled before but there you go something new i can say that they

haven't already said you know dylan and rumor you guys look like you've been

dancing together forever it looked beautiful and andy my friend that was so

and entertaining but again but you you were doing it you know what i mean like

you were like ah And, yeah, it was fun, but it was good.

It was good.

Well done.

And, Caitlin, it was great to see you out there killing it, too. All right.

giving you the love. Head on up to Julianne in the skybox.

It wouldn't be a party without the best musicians in the business, our band, our

singers, and our music director.

It's Ray 2 Live.

Happy 20th birthday, Ray.

Julianne. And Ray does not like a day over 19, Alfonso.

Get over here with those abs, Andy.

Oh, come on. Get in there. All right, Dylan, rumor first of all. How did it

to dance with the iconic rumor?

Oh, she picked up right where she left off. She learned it so much faster than

would have. It was insane.

You're amazing.

And Andy, how do you think America is going to react to your sexy Andy abs?

I think it's going to sell a lot of T -shirts. Yes.

And it was so good to see you out there. You absolutely crushed it.

Daniela, how hard is it on the sidelines?

I love it because I literally am like a proud mom standing on the side. I was so

proud tonight. Like, it made me want to cry, honestly.

Amazing. All right. Well, Bruno, which couple gets the judge's bonus points?

Well, the winner of the relay dance.

is... Dylan and Roma!

All right, so that means that Dylan and Daniela will have two bonus points added

to their scores for the night. Of course, each couple wants both from you.

Voting closes shortly after the final competitive dance. Alfonso. All right.

Thanks, Julianne. There's one more relay dance to go before tonight's

elimination. Robert and Whitney and Alex and Val will vie for the bonus points

with their returning champions next live.

Welcome back to our 20th birthday. Here are the couples in the final relay

dance. It's Robert and Whitney versus Alex and Val. And replacing those

pros are the champions of season 32 and season 33, Marvel star Sochi

Gomez and Bachelor star Joey Grazade.

All right, let's see our final couple in training.

You want to see who your dance partner is? So badly.

He brings so much energy.

It's been like two years.

I'm a little rusty. I'm nervous.

This guy just won't leave.

Joey was just on last season, so he's pretty fresh off the dance floor. This

going to be a good partnership.

Dance with me tonight by Olly Murs. I've never danced to Jive before.

I did a backflip. Do you want to flip me? I'm willing to be flipped. I'm

All right. Robert Irwin with Sochi Gomez.

Your old partner.

Alex Earl and Joey Grazadeh. Girl, we got to bring it. Yeah, we got to bring

Down up.

Down up. The advantage that we have is 100 % energy.

Down,

toss. How does your foot not hit me in the face?

It won't. I am willing to take whatever risk.

Here we go.

Oh. Did he hit your face?

A little.

She'll survive.

Four, five, six. Yes. Good, good, good. I hope to never be the reason that

Robert does not win.

That would stop.

Here, there. I want Alex and Val to get into the semifinals. You guys look great

together. I just need to make sure I stop hitting Alex in the face.

You okay?

This is the last dance before the semifinals, so I want to prove I can

my own and do it without Val.

I don't like that. I don't want to keep doing that. This is our ticket to the

semifinals. All right, Robert, we get it. We have no other option but to get

this right.

Oh! Oh.

Are you okay?

Yep. I'm fine. There's just, like, blood dripping down my throat.

Dancing the Jive Relay.

It's Robert Irwin and Sochi Gomez versus Alex Earl and Joey Grazabel.

On the floor, up and close, getting lost in it. I won't give up without a fight.

I just wanna, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, baby.

I just want you to dance with me tonight.

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, baby. Getting sweaty, hot and heavy in the crowd now.

Loosen up and let your hands go downtown.

Go with it, girl. Yeah, just blow your eyes.

I just want you to dance with me tonight.

Everybody, everybody come on now.

I just want you to dance with me tonight.

Yes!

Robert and Sochi and Alice and Joey with a dive relay.

Wow, the pros are in here. That was the final dance. Voting will be closing

soon.

Okay, you guys.

Wow, Bruno. I'm sorry, I have to say.

The standard this season is outstanding.

It's not really like watching F1, Ferrari versus McLaren, because

did was very good in very different ways. I cannot fault anything. It's

question of taste, really, because what you did was brilliant.

Absolutely, absolutely.

Carrie Anne.

Okay, you know what? Does anyone else love this challenge?

Oh, yeah.

I love seeing you guys, like, the little birdies floating the nest and on your

own doing well. You both did really good. Sochi looks so serious.

I was like, I'm going to kiss someone else. You both did great. This is a

hard one, especially because it's boy and girl opposite. And, yeah, it's hard

compare. So we'll see. Yeah, yeah. That's called a champion stare right

It was a champion stare. All right, Derek.

Well, first of all, I love the irony of the fact that Val trained both of these

ladies. I think it's incredible. You did a great job, Val. Well done, Val. You

did a great job.

Well done.

Echoing what they said. It was amazing. By the way, Robert and Xochitl, the

chemistry? Excuse me.

Excuse me.

It was so wonderful. It was so pure. It was so fun, joyful.

Alex and Joey.

This is a hard one, guys. I have no idea.

All right, Tom. All right, you guys were great. But in my last comments as a

judge, I want to talk to the network.

This show is setting ratings records again. So next season, bring back the

results show. Let the whole country vote.

Let everyone vote. Let everybody vote.

Our nation observes Veteran Day. We want to give our sincere thanks to all those

past and present who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. We appreciate your

service. Julianne.

Thanks, Alfonso, and thank you, veterans.

Wow, wow, wow. Come on up here.

All right, let's start with Alex.

How different was it dancing with Joey versus Val?

it was a little different at first definitely got a few punches to the face

but it was it was great hi um and yeah i mean it's crazy i

didn't mean to hit her in the face okay i didn't mean to i'm sorry I think it

turned out great. It was great. It was worth it.

But seriously, I feel like Val really has taught me so much this season and

really prepared me to go out there and know what I should or shouldn't be

So it was weird, but it felt good. It felt good. And Robert, you know Sochi

Val's partner. So did this bring out some competition knowing that you were

against Alex?

It was wild. It's really crazy. But honestly, we just had too much fun in

rehearsal.

I mean, I kind of felt bad. Whitney, you really had your work cut out for you.

I love it. Well, you know what? Let's get to it. Carrie Ann, which couple gets

the judges' points tonight?

Okay, well, I honestly think this one was the toughest one to decide.

So the winner of the relay dance is Robert and Sochi.

So that means that Robert and Whitney will have two bonus points added to

first round scores.

All of our couples still need votes from you to dance in the semifinals.

Wow.

Thanks, Julianne. Let's take a look at the final leaderboard with the bonus

points added in. At the top.

It's a three -way tie with Dylan and Daniela, Robert and Whitney, Whitney and

Mark with 42, and at the bottom, it's Andy and Emma with 29.

Now, here are all the voting details for all of our couples. Complete voting

information can be found on ABC .com. Even with the bonus points, no one is

guaranteed a place in the semifinals. There are only two weeks left in the

competition, and your votes mean the most ever.

We will combine... the judges' scores with your votes and reveal who is going

the semifinals and who is not when we come back live.

Welcome back.

Okay, you at home gave us the best birthday present ever. Tonight we

the most votes.

now closed, and here are the results.

Good luck to all of you.

We've combined the judges' scores from tonight with your live votes. Now, in no

particular order, let's find out which couples will dance in the semifinals and

who will be going home tonight.

The first couple who is dancing in the semifinals is...

Whitney and Mark!

The next semifinalists are... Dylan

and Daniela!

And joining them in the semifinals are...

No particular order. The next couple who has made it to the semifinals is...

Robert and Whitney.

Well, not necessarily the bottom three. Two of these remaining couples are safe.

The other had the lowest combined total of judges' scores and viewer votes from

tonight and will be leaving right now. It's time for the final result.

Elaine and Alan.

Andy and Emma.

Jordan and Ezra. Based on the combination of the judges' scores and

votes, the couple going home is...

Andy and Emma.

Andy, Emma, please join us for a final moment.

We did.

Come on down.

The people's princess.

The people's princess.

Andy.

What has this competition meant to you?

I've said it. I've said it a bunch. It's changed my life. I'm a different person

because of this show and because of this woman right here.

None of this would have happened without her.

She knew how to use me. We created a thing together, and it was just TikToks

dancing.

And, you know, and it exploded. It's crazy. So it's been wonderful. And I

certainly feel like a winner. So I'm not worried. Absolutely. We love you, Andy.

We love you guys.

And special thanks to Tom Bergeron. It was wonderful having you back in the

ballroom. We love you, Tom.

Let's have another hand.

For Andy and Emma, you can hear their exclusive first full interview Thursday

our official podcast.

We'll be back next Tuesday with the semifinals and Prince Night. We'll see

on ABC and Disney+. Starting right now on ABC, the Golden Girls' 40 Years of

Laughter and Friendship. And our thoughts are with the friends at Jimmy

Live. Rest in peace, Lito. Good night!