RHAP: We Know Dancing With The Stars

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 4 Recap Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 4 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Return to the ballroom with the latest round of Dancing with the Stars Season 35, Episode 4, as Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph break down Yacht Rock Night. Sentiments run high from the get-go, with heated reactions to Britt Stewart’s unexpected early exit, her fifth within seven seasons. As the co-hosts sort through surprise eliminations, mixed theme choices, and clashing fan bases, this episode dives deep into the strategies, production decisions, and personalities shaping the season.

The conversation focused on the emotional reactions around elimination night, particularly regarding Britt’s recurring early exits and the broader implications for the show’s pro dancers. Judges’ scoring inconsistencies, the puzzling selection of Yacht Rock as a theme, and fan engagement online become central topics. The discussion explored the efforts of contestants attempting to merge their personal talents, like Amber Glenn’s blend of ballroom and figure skating or Ciara’s transformation into her iconic onscreen persona. Several points were raised, including the role of social media in voting, the pressures faced by pros who juggle DWTS with outside commitments, and the evolving landscape of themed nights.

Strong debate over Britt Stewart’s repeated early eliminations and its impact on pro participation
Close look at mismatched themes, from a confusing Yacht Rock Night to anticipation (and anxiety) for upcoming Mariah Carey and potential NFL-themed episodes
Observations about scoring disparities, with attention to how some dances receive higher ratings despite visible missteps
The spotlight on certain celebrities’ journeys, from Amber Glenn’s standout performances to the unique pairing-based fan dynamics
Behind-the-scenes talk on how travel, outside gigs, and social media presence factor into rehearsals and performance quality

Can future themes deliver on energy and music, or will song choices keep throwing off dancers and fans alike? Will the pros get more say in their celebrity partners—or do recurring elimination patterns signal deeper issues in casting and production?

Catch the full episode to follow the drama, dance breakdowns, and real-time fan reactions as Dancing with the Stars navigates a pivotal stage of the competition.

00:00 Yacht Rock Night Kicks Off
06:48 Britt Stewart’s Early Elimination Outrage
13:30 Yacht Rock Theme Critique
19:31 Sexiest Pro Nominees Revealed
25:39 Amber Glenn Tops Leaderboard
35:11 Guillermo’s Surprising Fan Power
41:47 Tatyana’s Breakthrough Performance
46:07 Glee Cast Supports Harry Shum
51:21 Taylor Hanson’s Painful Exit
58:00 Maura and Mark’s Dynamic Chemistry
01:03:31 Ciara Miller Finds Confidence
01:08:41 Jackson Olsen’s Stalled Progress
01:12:03 Connor Wood’s Questionable High Scores
01:16:24 Jenna Dewan’s Samba Overdrive
01:21:05 Tyler Cameron Struggles Despite Sharna
01:26:04 Ezra’s Foxtrot Stuns Judges
01:31:24 Britt’s Exit Sparks Frustration

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 3 Recap Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 3 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Chart a course for reality TV drama with Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph as they break down week 2, episode 3 of Dancing with the Stars: Viral Hits Night. Fourteen couples light up the ballroom with viral songs, but only thirteen make it to the next round. Judges dish out one-word critiques, sometimes breaking their own rule, and an elimination leaves everyone talking.

Matt and Sasha recap the standout dances, offbeat themes, and celebrity journeys of the week. They weigh in on Giada and Alan’s exit, the viral song choices that didn’t always hit the mark, and the mounting pressure as live TV nerves sink in. Sizzling lifts, bold choreography, and a few wardrobe malfunctions keep the commentary lively, as the hosts examine how connection, or lack thereof, impacts voting and scoring. Discussion turns to Julianne Hough’s nostalgic look, record-breaking “hype” for the season, and the ever-present influence of Bachelor Nation as the celebrities try to win over America (and the judges).

Listen for insights on:

The judges’ one-word critiques, rule-breaking, and how it shaped the evening’s feedback
Giada’s tough night, her apparent discomfort on stage, and the hosts’ speculation about her and Alan’s partnership
The top leaderboard results and why certain performances felt emotionally flat or lacked genuine connection
Breakout dances highlighted by lifts, technical risks, or unexpected song-to-dance pairings
Wardrobe choices, both hits and misses, including Julianne’s throwback outfit and a handful of questionable celebrity ensembles

The episode spotlights big questions: Can charisma and confidence beat technical skills? Which partnerships will connect enough to survive? As Yacht Rock Night approaches, tune in for predictions, critical breakdowns, and spirited chat about the season’s next moves.

Dive into this week’s Dancing with the Stars discussion for sharp takes, memorable moments, and reality-TV analysis you’ll only find here.

00:00 Viral Hits Night Kicks Off
06:57 Giada and Alan Eliminated
13:01 Underwhelming Start for Jenna & Val
20:50 Ciara Miller's Reality TV Journey
25:04 Tyler Cameron's Shirtless Salsa Gamble
32:47 Julia Stiles Struggles With Scores
38:01 Jackson Olsen Balances Baseball, Dancing
44:20 Giada and Alan's Final Dance
49:15 Conner and Riley Stumble After Highs
52:27 Ezra and Daniella's Showstopping Cha-Cha
1:04:00 Amber Glenn's Powerful Tango Moment
1:09:37 Guillermo Surprises With Rihanna Paso
1:14:33 Taylor Hanson Falters With Cha-Cha
1:17:08 Harry Shum Jr.'s Emotional Waltz
1:22:57 Maura Higgins Overthinks Her Cha-Cha
1:29:33 Looking Ahead: Yacht Rock Night

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 2 Recap Sep 17, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Premiere Night 2 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Dancing with the Stars returns for the second night of its 35th season, and Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph break down every glittery step as the women make their ballroom debut. With five hours of content in the opening week and a jam-packed cast, the co-hosts dive into routines, judge banter, and the latest elimination, all while balancing the chaos of a two-night premiere. Among the laughter and technical critiques, they spotlight standout performances and evaluate what’s working—and what’s holding some celebs back.

This jam-packed episode examines the women’s performances, from Tatyana Ali’s early fumble and hopeful redemption to Maura Higgins' show-stealing cha-cha with Mark Ballas. Sasha Joseph and Matt compare the energy and nerves between nights, highlighting the troupe’s moment in the spotlight and Derek Hough’s fiery duet with wife Hayley. The discussion also touches on the season’s same-sex pairing with Sarah Jane and Haley, tracing fan support, voting quirks, and representation. Emotional storylines come front and center, especially for Summer House’s Ciara Miller, while wardrobe choices, judge commentary, and the afterparty coverage round out the night's drama and fun.

Dissecting Tatyana Ali’s jittery opener and the struggle to regain momentum after a major slip
Analyzing Maura Higgins’ performance as a surprising early highlight and the chemistry with Mark Ballas
Exploring Ciara Miller’s emotionally charged routine and what it tells us about her state of mind
Comparing judge critiques across the board, including Carrie Ann’s “lift police” moment with Jenna Dewan and Val
Questioning the impact of same-sex pairings and how fan bases shape who makes it through the first eliminations
Reviewing Derek and Hayley’s dynamic ballroom performance and the production’s shift with more elaborate troupe features

Amidst wardrobe debates, fierce competition, and emotional reveals, who is primed to break out in the coming weeks and who’s hanging by a thread in the leaderboard shuffle? Find out how the cast stacks up and the moves that spark the most debate by catching the full episode for your latest dose of Dancing with the Stars insight and analysis.

00:00 Premiere Night 2: Women's Turn
06:42 Afterparty Co-Hosts: Dylan and Robert
09:16 Derek and Hayley's Powerful Performance
13:16 Tatyana Ali's Slip and Recovery
18:14 Ciara Miller's Emotional Dedication
26:51 Ciara Holds Back, Judges React
33:10 Giada De Laurentiis' Struggles Revealed
37:34 Julia Stiles' Dolly Tribute Dance
43:26 Maura Higgins Stuns Judges
51:26 Sarah Jane and Hayley Eliminated
56:51 Jenna Dewan Scores With Val
01:01:25 Combined Leaderboard, Top Scores
01:04:19 Preview: All Couples Next Week

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Premiere Recap Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Premiere Night 1 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Dancing with the Stars returns for its 35th season, and Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph are back in the ballroom to break down the drama, missteps, and memorable performances from night one. With a two-night premiere, male celebrities compete while fan voting crashes and an early elimination sets the tone for a packed season. The hosts dig into the impact of new pros, burst pipes in the voting system, and the range of personalities on stage, setting the scene for what’s to come as the women get ready to take the floor.

From surprising eliminations to judging quirks, Matt and Sasha explore each routine, giving special attention to standout performances, unexpected slip-ups, and how dancers juggle life on and off the show. They dive into production choices, like song selections celebrating the year of birth, and highlight the chatter among fans and guests throughout the live coverage. The hosts share candid reactions on the fairness of first-night eliminations, the fate of new pros like Adele, and the ongoing quest for the next big DWTS star. Plus, the duo discuss after-show developments and speculate about long-term favorites in the competition.

Highlights from the discussion include:

The voting site collapse and its ripple effect on eliminations and fan engagement.
First-night elimination, including the impact on Adele and thoughts on fairness for new pros.
Dissection of each male contestant’s strengths, Ezra’s inspiring debut, Jackson’s entertainer energy, and Harry’s pro-level skills.
Judges’ grading strategies, from Carrie Ann’s “Lift Police” to Derek’s surprising name mix-ups.
The behind-the-scenes look at the social media presence and family dynamics that boost (or hinder) stars with devoted fan bases.

As DWTS sets the stage for a stacked cast and fast-paced season, the pressure is on for both pros and contestants. Who adapts best to the format’s curveballs, and can the newest faces shake up the predicted leaderboard? Which performances left room for growth, and who already stands out as a favorite?

Catch the full episode for sharp takes on routines, early season predictions, and all the offstage drama you won’t see on the dance floor.

00:00 Season 35 Begins, First Elimination
06:28 Voting Crash and Technical Chaos
13:08 Conner Leavitt Eliminated Night One
18:32 Judges’ Critique Style and Score Reset
23:00 Jackson Olson’s Performance Dissected
29:17 Sharna’s Return, Tyler’s Surprising Start
33:16 Adele’s Early Exit as New Pro
40:46 Guillermo’s Comedy Amid Low Scores
44:17 Ezra and Daniella’s Standout Dance
51:05 Connor Wood’s Upbeat Debut with Rylee Arnold
56:14 Taylor Hanson’s Quickstep Impresses
59:33 Harry Shum Jr. Dominates the Night
01:05:16 Female Celebrities Set for Night Two
01:09:32 Afterparty Plans and Next Steps

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Cast Preview Sep 09, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Cast Preview

Also available on YouTube.

Dancing with the Stars returns for its milestone Season 35, and the panel is ready to break down this star-packed cast. Matt Liguori, Sasha Joseph, and Brandon Donlon, as they preview all 16 pairs, dive into the revamped premiere format, and draft the celebrities most and least likely to take home the Mirrorball Trophy. With a mix of nostalgia, dance experience debates, and social media strategy, this episode sets the stage for a memorable new season.

The discussion kicks off with the Season 35 cast reveal, addressing the unusual two-night premiere and speculation over separate nights for male and female celebrities. The hosts analyze leaked format details, guest casting surprises, and the impact of popular reality TV personalities on fan voting. Casting choices for pros come under scrutiny, with attention to Britt Stewart's partner and the much-discussed absence of Gleb. The must-lose draft format provides a fresh angle, as each host selects the pairings they believe will fall short of winning, sparking spirited debate over social followings, dance history, and reality TV crossover appeal.

Highlights include:

Lively reactions to food network star Giada De Laurentiis’ inclusion and injury storyline
The strategic impact of same-sex pairings, notably Sarah Jane Nader and Hailey Bills, and what it means for new pros
Analysis on Conner Leavitt’s Broadway background versus fandom strength for the Levitt siblings
Britt Stewart’s continued search for a finale-worthy partner, this year with Taylor Hanson
Debates on dancers versus celebs, as Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Dewan take slots with high dance credentials

As the panel weighs nostalgia, social trends, and on-the-dancefloor abilities, the path to the finale is anything but set. Will fan bases or technical prowess decide the next Mirrorball champion? How will the new format and casting shake up classic show dynamics?

Jump in for a season preview that mixes roster deep-dives, reality TV cross-pollination, and sharp takes on everything from TikTok strategy to surprising early injuries. Listen now for DWTS Season 35 insights you won’t find anywhere else.

00:00 DWTS 35 Season Launch
06:06 Hosts Debate Casting Strength
12:18 "Must Lose" Draft Explained
15:00 Giada De Laurentiis Chosen First
20:12 Same-Sex Pairing Picked Early
28:07 Conner Leavitt Draft Doubts
34:13 Tatyana Ali Picked for Elimination
41:00 Taylor Hanson and Britt Drafted
48:16 Guillermo and Whitney Discussed
52:36 Connor Wood’s TikTok Stans Noted
56:48 Amber Glenn: Dark Horse Debate
1:02:18 Tyler Cameron’s Relevance Questioned
1:06:34 Ciara Miller’s Vote Concerns
1:11:27 Maura Higgins’ High Variance Team
1:15:21 Dancers Harry and Jenna Risked
1:21:18 Finale Contenders: Jenna vs. Harry
1:28:50 Julia Stiles Versus Jackson Olson
1:35:01 Jackson Olson Moves to Audience
1:41:56 Weekly Coverage Plans Outlined

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Finale Recap Sep 01, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Finale Recap

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro wraps its first season as Matt and Sasha Joseph break down the dramatic finale and what it means for season 35. Adele claims victory and a spot in the pro lineup, but questions remain—did the judges know all along, and what happens when backstage drama spills onto the dance floor? Join the hosts as they dig into the performances, cast dynamics, and the biggest stories heading into a new season.

From rehearsals filled with travel chaos to emotional reactions on finale night, Matt and Sasha Joseph give a thorough rundown of the final three: Adele, AJ, and Selena. They discuss how the show's pacing, editing, and choice of returning celebrity partners (including Charli D’Amelio, Nev Schulman, and Adam Rippon) shaped the outcome. The conversation turns to how social media drama—especially involving AJ’s fiancée—might affect pros' futures, and why some feel Adele’s introverted style brings something new to the DWTS cast. Looking back, the hosts debate changes they’d want to see if the pro search returns and preview the upcoming cast for season 35.

Highlights from the discussion include:

Adele’s consistent performance and why her win felt nearly inevitable after Alan’s exit
The impact of pairing finalists with high-profile celebrity dancers and how partner chemistry played into the judges’ decisions
AJ’s intense drive, public disappointment, and how ongoing drama may affect his future with the franchise
The role of editing and show format in shaping audience perception and whether the outcome might have been predetermined
Calls for tweaks in future seasons: more behind-the-scenes content, less predictability, and maximizing new pro integration

With DWTS season 35 on the horizon, which new and familiar faces will rise, and can Adele’s standout skill as a new pro translate into lasting success? Listen for a complete finale breakdown, cast speculation, and the latest on DWTS’s ever-evolving dance floor drama.

Chapters:
0:00 Season Finale: Adele Crowned Winner
6:35 AJ’s Disappointment After Loss
12:05 Judges, Pros, and Audience Unite
16:15 Selena’s Freestyle Impresses Judges
24:02 AJ Teams With Charli D’Amelio
31:14 AJ’s Controversy Sparks Pro Backlash
38:43 Adele and Nev’s Showdown Begins
43:29 Adele’s Winning Freestyle Performance
46:53 Show Critique and Future Hopes
54:06 Anticipating Season 35 Reveal

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 7 Recap Aug 25, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 7 Recap

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RHAP dives into Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, Season 35, as hosts Matt and Sasha Joseph break down the penultimate episode. Sporting hoodies and ski goggles in the spirit of the show's signature preseason anonymity, they dig into the week’s dramatic elimination, shifting alliances, and speculation about which pros will make it onto next season's main roster. Guest judge Kim Johnson brings extra insight and nostalgia, while surprise appearances from Dancing with the Stars veterans stir up new energy in the ballroom.

The discussion centers on the multi-round structure, where contestants first pair with returning DWTS pros like Whitney Carson, Gleb Savchenko, Jan, and Riley Arnold, followed by a fiercely competitive round of paired routines. Each duo’s dynamic is unpacked—from Alan’s challenge to bring out Whitney’s sparkle without receiving feedback, to Salina’s chemistry with Jan and bold choreography choices. The importance of “wow moments” is debated, with judges demanding stand-out performances, while the hosts question if this focus truly fits the skills being tested.

Highlights from this episode include:

Alan and Whitney’s jive performance struggles with chemistry and the tension of a hands-off rehearsal process
Salina impresses alongside Jan, blending commercial dance with salsa and earning high praise for creativity and energy
Adele and Gleb’s partnership stands out for technical prowess and seamless connection, drawing comparisons to top series pros
AJ’s intensity with Riley in rehearsals sparks talk on whether drive outweighs approachability in a potential new pro
Rumor mill churns about next season’s casting, possible judge panel changes, and the return of fan favorite Sharna Burgess

With the DWTS: Next Pro finale and Season 35 just ahead, will technical mastery or show-stopping flair carry the day? How will shifting dynamics and rumored cast shakeups shape the upcoming season? Dive into the episode for a detailed strategy discussion, candid opinions, and all the latest ballroom buzz.

Catch the full podcast for insider analysis, bold predictions, and the latest on your DWTS favorites.

Chapters:
0:00 Masked Entrances and Preseason Rituals
6:31 Pros Return, Challenge Format Revealed
9:00 Alan and Whitney’s Choreography Struggles
12:26 Judges Critique Alan’s Partnership
14:47 Wow Moments Debate Intensifies
16:41 Selena and Yan’s Viral Salsa
18:42 Adele and Gleb’s Ballroom Chemistry
21:24 Riley and AJ Clash Over Intensity
26:10 Selena Outshines Alan in Quickstep
34:41 Adele and AJ Deliver Top Foxtrot
37:36 Alan’s Emotional Elimination Announced
41:28 Finale Predictions and Partnerships
44:45 Season 35 Casting Rumors Detailed
50:11 Same-Sex Pairing Returns
54:22 Holiday Special and Finale Preview

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 6 Recap Aug 18, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 6 Recap

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro rolls into episode 6, as Matt and Sasha Joseph break down the remaining contestants’ journey toward the coveted pro spot. With two episodes left in the season, the stakes climb as the dancers face their toughest challenge yet: teaching and performing with influencer amateurs—all with just two days to prepare. The duo explores pregnancy buzz, cast shuffles, and the decisions that could shape the future of DWTS.

Matt and Sasha Joseph dive into the PR whirlwind around Whitney Carson’s pregnancy announcement, discussing implications for the upcoming DWTS season 35 and the unique pairing with celebrity favorite Guillermo. The episode digs into this week’s competition twist, where the final five dancers must step into the teacher’s shoes and pull off routines with influencer partners, revealing new sides of their skills and adaptability. The hosts examine each pairing’s coaching style, the tension between technical perfection and performance, and how the rapid timeline exposes strengths and missteps. They also discuss fan comments, feedback from the judges, and how variables like partner experience and dance draw can tip the scales.

Highlights from the episode include:

The ripple effects of early DWTS season 35 casting news, including Whitney’s headline-making pregnancy and speculation on her strategy for the season
Sharp observations on the influencer amateur challenge, from the strategic advantages of influencer backgrounds to the realities of shaping a routine in 48 hours
Comparing coaching approaches among the remaining dancers—who adapts best, who gets caught on details, and how it plays out on the floor
Candid takes on bottom-two dynamics, partner chemistry, and what the judges’ lack of rehearsal feedback signals for the competition
A look forward at the upcoming semi-finals, potential pro-troupe futures, and how rumored celebrity contestants could shake up the main show

Which coaching style leads to success when time is short and pressure is high? With the semifinal pairings revealed and a two-dance challenge looming, will ballroom basics or creative risk earn a spot in the main DWTS cast?

Catch the full episode for deep dives into competition strategy, cast rumors, and which hopefuls are coming up roses—or running out of time—on the Dancing with the Stars stage.

Chapters:
0:00 Season 35 Casting News Drops
6:12 Whitney Announces Pregnancy, Partners Guillermo
12:20 Influencers Join Pro Training Challenge
17:43 Nina Falters in Teaching Role
24:44 Adele and Anthony’s Tango Triumph
31:13 Alan and Zyra Nail Choreography
38:32 Selena Adapts for Jeremy’s Style
44:33 Judges Critique Selena’s Quickstep Choices
50:50 Next Pro Pairings Announced
54:02 Rumored Season 35 Contestants Revealed
59:18 Bachelor Star Tyler Cameron Rumored
1:04:02 Ratings and Summer Season Reflection

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 5 Recap Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 5 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Get ready for a close-up look at Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, episode 5! Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph break down the latest elimination, behind-the-scenes drama, and a guest judge shakeup as Daniella Karagach takes a seat at the panel. With only five dancers left, tensions rise as competitors face the challenge of creating a viral “wow moment” that could make or break their spot in the competition.

This episode spotlights the intense rehearsal schedules and limited prep time the dancers endure, contrasting Dancing with the Stars' usual polished packages with raw, real moments from training boot camp. Matt and Sasha Joseph debate the fairness and purpose of assigning a “viral moment” challenge, especially when dancers must recreate past iconic moves while also innovating on the fly. The hosts also highlight an emotional elimination that shakes their expectations, as this week’s boot sends home a surprising contender. Discussions touch on partnership choices, with Game-like “Love Island” selection mechanics, how chemistry and style matchups can help or hinder, and what it means to be ready to lead as a pro on the main show.

Key moments and themes:

A behind-the-scenes wish: Matt and Sasha brainstorm about the value of a dedicated behind-the-scenes reality show, capturing the highs and lows between performances.
The viral “wow moment” challenge: Dancers must pull off showstopping stunts and incorporate flashbacks to iconic routines, sparking debate about originality vs. replication.
Partnership selection drama: The boys pick their partners with some left on the outs, highlighting strategy, perceived strengths, and emotional stakes.
Limited rehearsal time: New insights emerge about just how little time each pair has to create and polish routines, changing how their performances are judged.
Animal inspiration: A trip to the zoo and a surprisingly heartfelt koala hug inspire an inventive and memorable dance move.

As the road to becoming the next Dancing with the Stars pro narrows, will versatility or specialization be the deciding factor for these hopefuls? Catch every twist, dance critique, and partnership shuffle—listen now for in-depth analysis of who rises, who stumbles, and what it takes to claim the spotlight on DWTS: The Next Pro!

0:00 Six Contestants, One Surprising Elimination
6:25 Contestant Skills and Pro Potential
10:17 Daniella’s “Wow Moment” Challenge
13:43 Viral Moves Prompt Questioned
16:56 Pairs Formed, Nina Isolated
19:39 Robert Irwin’s Zoo Inspires Dance
23:39 AJ and Nina Deliver Koala Moment
32:02 Allen and Adele’s Caveman Entrance

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 4 Recap Aug 04, 2026

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Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Ep 4 Recap

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Put on your dancing shoes because Matt Liguori and Sasha Joseph are here every week to break down Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.

Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro heats up as Matt and Sasha tackle episode 4, the much-anticipated Chemistry Week. With season 35 just around the corner, the duo breaks down all the electrifying dances, partner picks, and behind-the-scenes tension as the competition narrows from eight to six. Guest judge Jenna Johnson brings her expertise, offering balanced critiques and hands-on guidance that reshapes the trajectory for several contestants.

The conversation spotlights how pairing strategy and dancer compatibility play out, especially as the cast navigates Love Island-style partner selections. Matt and Sasha dig into the impact of the judges' focus on “teachability,” not just pure dance skills, and consider how partnerships like Stephanie and Tristan face real challenges with chemistry, both on and off the dance floor. Listeners get to hear about the subtle moments and decisions that push some dancers ahead while putting others at risk, all wrapped up in candid behind-the-scenes stories and cast insights.

Highlights from this episode include:

Jenna Johnson’s guest judging and her direct approach to chemistry, including her starring performance and advice for the dancers
The effect of Love Island-inspired partner picking, resulting in Stephanie and Tristan’s tough pairing and the fallout that follows
Group discussions around teachability versus dance prowess, especially with Alan and Nina’s critiques about performing with future celebrities
Observations on how Eric seizes the spotlight, emerging as a new contender alongside Alan after a standout Argentine tango
Insights into production choices, including the implications of eliminations, social dynamics, and speculation about future casting and the dance industry’s pressures

With Chemistry Week shaking up the competition and fan favorites facing elimination, which dancer will be able to combine talent, connection, and adaptability to stay in the game? Will production find a place for rising stars like Adele, or is the troupe their next stop?

Dive in to hear the full breakdown of strategies, drama, and dance moves that could shape Dancing with the Stars’ next pro lineup—listen now for the complete competition analysis!

Chapters:
0:00 Jenna Johnson Joins as Judge
6:31 Double Elimination Twist Revealed
11:38 Love Island-Style Partner Selection
14:31 Stephanie and Tristan Tension Builds
21:16 Judges Critique Stephanie and Tristan
31:39 Adele’s Talent Outshines AJ
34:53 Eric and Selena’s Breakout Performance
43:47 Alan and Nina Miss the Brief
54:13 Dancing With the Stars Con Drama

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