Five Dancing With The Stars Contestants Deserving A Second Chance
A look at past celebrity competitors who captivated audiences but missed the Mirrorball trophy.
1The Competitive Reality Landscape
Dancing With the Stars has aired for twenty years, creating a legacy of intense competition and shocking eliminations. While the Mirrorball trophy remains the ultimate prize, many celebrities are remembered more for their growth and dedication than their final ranking. Rehearsals are grueling, requiring contestants to master new styles weekly.
2Heather Morris's Shocking Exit
Heather Morris, known for her role on Glee, competed in Season 24 alongside professional Maks Chmerkovskiy. Despite overcoming a partner injury in Week 2, she was eliminated in Week 6. This occurred immediately after she earned a perfect score for her rumba, a performance judge Len Goodman famously called a knockout.
3Simone Biles and Public Outcry
Olympic gymnast Simone Biles brought immense determination to Season 24, consistently earning high scores from the judges. Her elimination during the semifinals sparked a viral social media campaign titled #JusticeForSimone. Fans were particularly disappointed because her departure prevented viewers from witnessing what would have likely been an impeccable freestyle dance routine.
4Milo Manheim's Narrow Defeat
Milo Manheim reached the Season 27 finals, delivering a memorable contemporary routine to Britney Spears' Toxic. Despite his technical skill and ability to maintain a proper frame, he finished in second place behind radio personality Bobby Bones. His upcoming role in the 2028 Tangled film could provide a platform for his return.
5Riker Lynch's Iconic Chemistry
Riker Lynch, a member of the band R5, showcased undeniable chemistry with partner Allison Holker during Season 20. Their Pirates of the Caribbean paso doble was so iconic that it was performed twice. Although he lost to Rumer Willis, his guest appearance in Season 27 proved he remains fully ballroom-ready today.
6Normani Kordei's Resilient Run
Fifth Harmony member Normani Kordei reached the finals in Season 24, demonstrating natural talent across various dance styles. Despite battling a significant back injury in Week 7, she achieved a perfect score. Her recent surprise appearance in Season 34 reminded fans of her technical prowess and her narrow loss of the trophy.
7The Case for All-Stars
The history of the show is defined by contestants who delivered flawless performances but ultimately walked away empty-handed. An all-star season would offer these specific celebrities a chance to redeem their past losses. Bringing back stars like Biles or Kordei would satisfy long-time viewers who still feel their initial exits were premature.
8Evolution of Viewer Engagement
With the show gaining a younger audience through platforms like TikTok, the perception of past performances continues to evolve. Previous results might play out differently if these stars competed in the current era. As the show approaches its 35th season, the demand for a return of these fan favorites remains high.
Original article: TVLine — Five Dancing With The Stars Contestants Deserving A Second Chance