Nancy Grace left the dance floor on “Dancing with the Stars” last night, with words of praise for her partner and teacher, Tristan MacManus. After weeks of bickering in practice, she was mellow and thankful in her farewell words. She showed a lot of grit and energy, but it was her time to leave.
DWTS has resumed more predictable outcomes after a few shocker dismissals in the middle of the season. Monday night had some wonderful moments, with J.R. and Karina receiving two perfect scores, a moving waltz from Ricki and Derek, and a rocking jive from Hope and Maks. It was good to see Hope throw it all out there after the criticism she has received from Head Judge Len Goodman.
And now we await the semi-finals on Monday night. It seems highly likely that J.R. and Ricki will progress to the final freestyle. The unknown factor is who will be the third couple to join them. Rob Kardashian probably came to the competition with less natural talent than Hope, but he has shown great improvement throughout the season. Hope has had her ups and downs, and her fate may depend on the dance and music that are assigned to her next week. Competitors seem to take to some dance styles more easily than others.
I would not want to have to take on Ricki and Derek or J.R. and Karina in the finals. Derek’s choreography is edgy and stellar, and J.R. has such a natural talent for dance. The freestyle dances should be among the best the show has offered. The slots in the finals are up for grabs on Monday night——and I know I’ll be watching.