No Eliminations, All Emotions: Dancing With The Stars Dedication Night Leaves Us in Tears (and Cheers!)
Dancing With The Stars Season 34, Episode 5 was a night of raw emotion, stunning performances, and a surprising twist: no one went home! This week's "Dedication Night" saw the remaining 10 couples pour their hearts into routines honoring loved ones, resulting in a tissue-worthy episode filled with both joy and heartbreak.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the judges praised many performances, some viewers might argue that certain scores were a tad generous. Did the emotional weight of the dedications sway the judges' opinions? Let's dive into the recap and you be the judge!
SAFE: Jen Affleck and Jan Ravnik
Viennese Waltz to "Rescue" by Lauren Daigle
Jen Affleck's emotional connection shone through in this elegant waltz, particularly in the opening dip. However, some moves, like the pose with her mother, Maria, felt rushed. Carrie Ann Inaba's observation about Jen's emotional breakthrough was spot-on, marking a turning point in her journey. Judges' Score: 29/40
SAFE: Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa
Viennese Waltz to "Daughters" by John Mayer
Jordan Chiles continues her upward trajectory, delivering a beautiful and elegant performance. The inclusion of her father, Timothy, on the dance floor added a heartwarming layer to the routine, showcasing her strength and grace. Judges' Score: 32/40
SAFE: Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy
Contemporary to "Sparks" by Coldplay
Alix Earle transformed into a natural dancer, her movements filled with depth and feeling. While her facial expressions occasionally lacked clarity, her overall performance was stunning, leaving the judges impressed. Judges' Score: 35/40
SAFE: Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach
Contemporary to "Rewrite the Stars" by Zac Efron and Zendaya
Dylan Efron's performance was a revelation, showcasing both strength and tenderness. His connection with his adorable sister, Olivia, added a layer of sweetness, and that insane lift with Daniella Karagach left everyone breathless. Judges' Score: 36/40
SAFE: Danielle Fishel and Pasha Pashkov
Jive to "Boy Meets World" by Twenty Cent Crush feat. Phil Rosenthal
Nostalgia reigned supreme in Danielle Fishel's jive, dedicated to her on-screen mentor, Mr. Feeny (William Daniels). While the jive itself was just okay, the theme song, costumes, and Daniels' cameo made it a fun and heartwarming tribute. Judges' Score: 29/40
SAFE: Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten
Foxtrot to "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
Elaine Hendrix's foxtrot, featuring her best friend, Lisa Ann Walter, was a delightful surprise. Smooth, fun, and unexpectedly cohesive, it was a joy to watch. And let's not forget Elaine's stunning metallic outfit! Judges' Score: 30/40
SAFE: Scott Hoying and Rylee Arnold
Foxtrot to "Parallel" by Scott Hoying
Scott Hoying's foxtrot, dedicated to his husband Mark, was a beautiful celebration of love. While the judges focused on technicalities like posture, the emotion and joy radiating from the couple were undeniable. Judges' Score: 30/40
SAFE: Robert Irwin and Witney Carson
Contemporary to "You'll Be In My Heart" by Phil Collins
Robert Irwin's tribute to his late mother, Terri, was a tearjerker from the start. His emotional vulnerability, combined with Witney Carson's choreography, created a performance that was both powerful and poignant. Judges' Score: 35/40
SAFE: Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas
Contemporary to "Heal" by Jamal Roberts
Whitney Leavitt's usually polished performance stumbled slightly this week. The routine, dedicated to her husband Conner, felt disjointed, though the moments featuring just Whitney and Mark Ballas were strong. Judges' Score: 33/40
SAFE: Andy Richter and Emma Slater
Salsa to "Jump in the Line" by Harry Belafonte
Andy Richter's salsa, dedicated to his daughter Cornelia, was a heartwarming display of progress. While Cornelia's cuteness stole the show, Andy's strong opening moves showcased his growing confidence. Judges' Score: 24/40
And this is the part most people miss... Beyond the scores and the glitter, Dedication Night reminds us of the power of dance to connect us to our loved ones and express emotions that words often fail to capture.
What did you think of this week's performances? Did the judges get it right, or were they swayed by the emotional weight of the dedications? Let us know in the comments below!
