Julianne Hough is a familiar face on “Dancing With the Stars,” having been a part of the show for many years in various roles. From starting as a pro dancer in Season 4 to returning as a guest judge and eventually becoming a co-host, Hough has grown up with the show and feels a deep connection to it.
Reflecting on her journey with the series, Hough acknowledges that ballroom dancing has always been a significant part of her life. She has been able to use her experience to help both celebrities and professional dancers feel comfortable and navigate the competition. With a deep understanding of what the judges are looking for, Hough has been a valuable asset to the show.
This season of “Dancing With the Stars” has been particularly successful, breaking records for votes and viewership. Hough attributes this success to a diverse cast that appeals to multiple age groups and the influence of platforms like TikTok and social media in general.
Hough also recognizes the impact of social media on the perception of reality stars and celebrities. She notes that authenticity and vulnerability are key components of the show’s appeal, as it encourages contestants to show their true selves and their journey of growth and progress.
While the show has brought Hough a sense of consistency and challenge amidst life’s uncertainties, she is not immune to the negative aspects of fame. Criticism and online bullying have been prevalent, leading many participants to speak out against the harmful comments they receive. Hough emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between sharing opinions and being respectful, as negativity can breed more negativity.
Despite facing personal mean comments this season, Hough remains resilient and chooses to either play along or ignore them. She understands that constructive feedback is essential for growth, but there is a fine line between criticism and harmful remarks. Hough also acknowledges the toll that constant scrutiny can take on the dancers, who pour their energy into the competition day after day.
As “Dancing With the Stars” continues to entertain audiences with its dazzling performances and heartfelt moments, Hough remains a guiding presence on the show, bringing her expertise and passion for dance to each episode. Her journey with the series is a testament to her dedication to the art form and her commitment to helping others shine on the dance floor. When your body is exhausted, you are so much more vulnerable and emotionally raw, making you susceptible to getting your feelings hurt. This sentiment was evident in a recent episode of “Dancing With the Stars,” where contestant Whitney Leavitt faced backlash and bullying after revealing her ambitions to audition for the show.
Whitney Leavitt, known for her role in “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” was considered one of the best celebrity dancers of the season. However, when it was revealed that she returned to the reality show to pursue her dream of being on “DWTS,” audiences seemed to turn against her, leading to her elimination that week. Leavitt and her partner, Mark Ballas, later opened up about the hurtful bullying they experienced on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast.
The host of the podcast expressed shock at Leavitt’s elimination and defended her ambition, stating that she should not be criticized for following her dreams. She emphasized that Leavitt is a star and should be supported in her pursuit of success. The host also expressed empathy for all the cast members of the show and criticized those who complained about the judges’ feedback, reminding viewers that judging is part of the judges’ job.
Despite the challenges and negativity, the host acknowledged that the current season of “Dancing With the Stars” is one of the most competitive in years, a fact that she is thrilled about. She praised the camaraderie among the cast members, highlighting that competition and respect can coexist. The host noted that in past seasons, the show may have leaned more towards a non-competitive atmosphere, but now there is a healthy balance of supporting each other while striving for victory.
The host emphasized that winning is not about making others lose but about giving your best effort and feeling proud of your performance. She celebrated the return of a competitive energy on the show while maintaining a supportive environment among the contestants. The message was clear: it is possible to root for others while also pushing yourself to be the best you can be.
In conclusion, the “Dancing With the Stars” holiday special is set to air on Tuesday, Dec. 2, on ABC and Disney+, with streaming available on Hulu the following day. The season has been filled with drama, competition, and camaraderie, showcasing the resilience and determination of the contestants. Despite the challenges they face, the cast members continue to give their all and support each other in their quest for victory.
