It’s Dedication Night on Dancing with the Stars, and the emotions were running high as each couple poured their hearts into dances inspired by someone meaningful in their lives. With Mark Ballas joining as a guest judge, the competition heated up with personal stories, moving performances, and a little friendly competition. Let’s break down the night’s standout moments.

Chandler & Brandon: Contemporary to I Hope You Dance

Dedication: Chandler’s Mom and how she sacrificed her career for Chandler’s. Chandler’s dedication to her mom had everyone feeling the emotions. Their contemporary routine was graceful and elegant, with Chandler floating effortlessly across the dance floor. The raw emotions were palpable, though there was room for improvement in her connection with Brandon, as well as a slight mishap during the lift, noted by judge Carrie Ann Inaba.
Score: 32 (8, 8, 8, 8)

Stephen & Rylee: Argentine Tango to Seven Nation Army

Dedication: The U.S. Men’s Gymnastics Team. Stephen came out with a powerful performance that wowed the judges. His determination and commitment to character really shone through in this Argentine Tango. Carrie Ann praised the impact, Derek loved the energy, and Mark gave insightful tips on his posture. The judges were impressed by his growth, especially from a not so strong dance last week, earning him a high score for the night.
Score: 33 (8, 9, 8, 8)

Danny & Witney: Contemporary to Unsteady

Dedication: Danny’s college football coach. Danny delivered what the judges called his best performance yet, with a contemporary routine dedicated to his late college coach. From start to finish, it was nothing short of perfect, with flawless technique and an emotional depth that captivated the audience.
Score: 36 (9, 9, 9, 9)

Dwight & Daniella: Rumba to Shoot for the Stars

Dedication: Dwight’s Kids. This fun rumba to Dwight’s original song had everyone smiling as Dwight sang along to his dedication. His knee bends and hip action were noticeable, though Mark felt there could be a bit more. It was a lighthearted performance that showcased his charm, but the judges saw room for growth. There was a heartfelt hug with his kids, who came onstage immediately after the performance.
Score: 29 (7, 8, 7, 7)

Phaedra & Val: Rumba to Because You Loved Me

Dedication: Phaedra’s Mom. Phaedra’s graceful arms and strong presence carried her through this rumba with Val. The chemistry between the two was clear, but the judges noted she could trust Val more to fully release into the dance. Carrie Ann highlighted her clear communication through movement, while Mark called her “elegant and beautiful.”
Score: 32 (8, 8, 8, 8)

Derek and Hayley’s Dedication Dance to Beautiful Things

Interrupting the competition was Derek and his wife, Hayley, who underwent a significant injury and recovery from said injury and surgery. Tonight was her return to the dance floor, where she danced an emotional and heartfelt dedication dance with Derek. Tears were shed for this powerful contemporary dance.

Brooks & Gleb: Salsa to Mi Gente

Dedication: Brooks’ sisters. Brooks gave it her all with long, fluid movements that matched her song’s tempo. While her legs helped nail the steps, there was a bit of stiffness that disrupted the flow between moves. Despite the critique, the judges agreed it was a solid performance, but it lacked the smoothness to push it to the top.
Score: 32 (8, 8, 8, 8)

Joey & Jenna: Viennese Waltz to Lose Control

Dedication: Joey’s fiancée, Kelsey. In one of the sweetest performances of the night, Joey dedicated his dance to his fiancée, Kelsey. His waltz was fluid and connected, though Carrie Ann noted some roughness in the footwork. Derek and Mark praised his musicality and grace across the floor. Joey’s love for Kelsey shone through, and it was clear this was a meaningful performance for him.
Score: 36 (9, 9, 9, 9)

Ilona & Alan: Rumba to My Way

Dedication: The U.S. Women’s Rugby Team. This was Ilona’s breakthrough dance. She tapped into her femininity with powerful, graceful movements, making her rumba one to remember. Derek noted her control and fluidity, while Mark suggested exaggerating some movements to enhance her performance. This rumba felt like a true redemption for Ilona, earning her solid scores. I am very much looking forward to her next dances!
Score: 32 (8, 8, 8, 8)

Jenn & Sasha: Foxtrot to The Archer

Dedication: Taylor Swift and how she has helped Jenn come into her own during her childhood. By far, my favorite dance of the night—I mean, I write that as I wear my Taylor Swift Eras Tour merch. Taylor Swift got a tribute with Jenn and Sasha’s elegant foxtrot. Jenn embodied the emotions of the song while still maintaining the technical precision the dance required. While her frame could be a bit tighter, as the judges noted, Jenn has been steadily improving week by week.
Score: 32 (8, 8, 8, 8)

Final Scoreboard

*Note: Danny and Joey tied at first, Brooks, Chandler, Ilona, Jenn, and Phaedra all tied at fourth.

1. Danny & Witney (36)

2. Joey & Jenna (36)

3. Stephen & Rylee (33)

4. Brooks & Gleb (32)

5. Chandler & Brandon (32)

6. Illona & Alan (32)

7. Jenn & Sasha (32)

8. Phaedra & Val (32)

9. Dwight & Daniela (29)

Elimination

The journey ended for Brooks and Gleb, who were eliminated after a night full of emotional and inspiring performances.

Next week, the competition tightens as the stars take on new challenges for Disney Week!

Next Week’s Disney Night Dances:

• Danny and Witney: Jazz to “Bye Bye Bye” from Deadpool & Wolverine

• Joey and Jenna: Samba to “Trashin’ the Camp” from Tarzan

• Dwight and Daniella: Tango to “When Can I See You Again?” from Wreck It Ralph

• Chandler and Brandon: Paso Doble to “We Own the Night” from Zombies 2

• Ilona and Alan: Jazz to “Surface Pressure” from Encanto

• Stephen and Rylee: Charleston to “A Star Is Born” to Hercules

• Phaedra and Val: Jazz to “Cruella de Vil” from 101 Dalmations

• Jenn and Sasha: Rumba to “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mermaid