Fans across Canada tuning into Dancing With the Stars caught a major milestone this week as the competition shifted to a special Monday broadcast to accommodate election coverage. Amid high stakes and a Broadway-inspired theme night, veteran competitor Jenna Dewan delivered a standout performance that captured top marks and kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Why Everyone Is Talking About Them
Season 35 of the hit reality dance competition has reached its crucial midpoint, raising the pressure on every remaining celebrity. Dewan has consistently drawn praise for her technical precision and performance quality, building on her extensive dance background. Her recent partnership with pro dancer Val Chmerkovskiy has become a focal point of public attention as the pair push for a spot in the grand finale.
What Happened
During the special Monday episode, the ballroom transformed into a celebration of Broadway adaptations of beloved Disney stories. Dewan and Chmerkovskiy took on a quickstep routine to Be Our Guest
from Beauty and the Beast, with Dewan portraying Belle and Chmerkovskiy stepping into the role of the Beast. The routine earned rave reviews from the judging panel, resulting in a flawless 40/40 score. This tied them at the top of the individual leaderboard alongside Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson.
What They Said
It’s been an incredible experience. I pulled things out of myself that I didn’t realize were there.
While Dewan let her performance speak for itself, fellow competitor Julia Stiles reflected on her own journey after being eliminated at the end of the night following a paso doble to Satisfied
from Hamilton. Guest judge Cynthia Erivo also praised the high caliber of talent on stage, calling the opening routines some of the most joyful moments of the season.
The Reaction
Social media and entertainment outlets buzzed with commentary over the fierce competition at the top of the leaderboard. Viewers praised the seamless integration of Broadway staging into the ballroom choreography. However, the evening also brought dramatic tension, as tight margins in combined scores determined who maintained immunity from upcoming dance-offs and who faced elimination.
What Happens Next
The competition continues as the surviving celebrity couples prepare for the next round of intense elimination challenges. With immunity rules shifting weekly based on cumulative leaderboard standings, every rehearsal counts as contenders fight to secure the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Dancing With the Stars air?
New episodes normally air on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, though schedule adjustments occur for special broadcast events.
How are couples scored?
Judges award up to 40 points per individual routine, which are then combined with live viewer votes submitted during the broadcast.
Who was eliminated on Disney Night?
Julia Stiles and her professional partner Ezra Sosa were eliminated at the end of the Disney Night episode.