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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 7 Recap Dedication Night Oct 21, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 7 Recap Dedication Night

Also available on YouTube.

Dedication Night comes to Dancing with the Stars Season 35, and Sasha Joseph and Matt Liguori return to break it all down on RHAP. This episode mixes heartfelt stories with real behind-the-scenes drama, from family tributes on the dance floor to an unprecedented pro suspension, making for an emotional and eventful night.

Sasha and Matt take listeners through the standout performances, the context behind key scores, and the week's headline drama involving Val’s online comments and suspension. Their discussion digs deep into how real-life relationships and production decisions impact not only the dances but also the wider DWTS community. Alongside emotional routines, they spotlight disagreements over judging, guest appearances, and the tension between celebrating contestants’ stories and keeping the ballroom competitive. From surprise gender reveals to subtle shade on the judging panel, the duo covers a jam-packed and revealing episode.

Highlights from their conversation include:

The fallout from Val’s online “Fresh Prince” comment, his resulting suspension, and Alan stepping in as partner for Jenna, from social media missteps to ramifications on the dance floor.
The emotional power of Amber, Pasha, and her sister Brooke’s contemporary dance, and how storytelling through movement can hit home for viewers and judges alike.
Behind the dedication routines: creative choices, judging quirks, and how family members (and even kids) join the performances this week.
Insight into the score inflation for dedication night, debates over the appropriateness of 10s and 8s, and the impact on contestants’ chances going forward.
Guest judges like Kym Johnson and forthcoming Shirley Ballas bring a different energy and critique style, with anticipation building for the next elimination.

With double elimination looming and Shirley Ballas about to take a seat at the judges’ table, can the remaining stars keep pace with rising expectations and off-set distractions? Dive into all the emotions, strategy, and spectacle from DWTS Dedication Night.

Catch the full breakdown for stories behind the scores, honest takes on the week’s controversies, and all the action leading into horror movie week.

00:00 Dedication Night Begins, No Elimination
06:30 Val Suspended After Online Drama
12:14 Guest Judge Kym Johnson Returns
16:23 Shirley Ballas Announcement Shocks Panel
23:01 Ezra and Daniella's Stunning Contemporary
29:00 Fresh Prince Tribute Brings Tears
35:15 Maura Dedicates Dance to Ireland
41:07 Jackson's Progress With His Mom
45:28 Amber and Pasha's Vulnerable Story
54:07 Jenna Dances With Alan, Not Val
01:01:03 Harry's Family Joins the Stage
01:06:32 Connor Dances for His Dad
01:12:03 Tyler's Baby Announcement, Emotional Dance
01:17:05 Julia and Ezra Honor Heath Ledger
01:22:29 Horror Movie Night and Predictions

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 6 Recap Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 4 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 heats up on Super Bowl Night as Sasha Joseph brings in Chappell, who shares his real-life halftime show experience, to break down every dance, score, and dramatic elimination. As the ballroom embraces Super Bowl themes, stars take on routines inspired by iconic halftime performances, all under the watchful eyes of special guest judge Joe Buck. With hosting shake-ups and the show’s own celebrity connections to football and pop culture, this week’s episode brings both energy and debate to the dance floor.

Sasha and Chappell dig into each performance, from Maura and Mark’s technically sharp tango set to Rihanna’s “Only Girl in the World” to the viral nostalgia of Julia and Ezra channeling “Save the Last Dance.” They debate the fairness of the judging, especially as multiple celebs receive the same score despite major differences in ability and entertainment value. The discussion also samples several stand-out production choices, including Gatorade-sponsored openings and questionable costume decisions, that shape contestants’ ability to stand out. Beyond the dances, they call out social media drama, like Brandon Donlon’s run-in with Jimmy Kimmel and how fan support shapes each star’s journey. The surprising elimination of Guillermo turns the spotlight onto Tyler and raises questions about who truly deserves to stay.

Key topics include:

Joe Buck’s presence as guest judge and his laid-back, vibes-only approach to scoring contestants
The controversial elimination of Guillermo, with passionate debate over whether Tyler should have exited instead
Performance critiques: Amber’s standout samba, Maura and Mark’s technical proficiency, and the chemistry (or lack thereof) between certain pairs
Frequent scoring inconsistencies, with men often receiving higher marks for less difficult routines
Choreography, song choices (including a lack of Beyoncé), and creative risks debated for their success and impact

How will the continued voting trends and production choices affect the contestants' chances as the season moves forward? Does the judging need a shake-up to bring more consistency and credibility? Dive into the full episode for sharp insights, lively debate, and a true fan’s perspective on all the Dance Floor drama.

0:00 Super Bowl Week: Chappell Joins
5:12 Guillermo Eliminated, Fans React
13:17 Beyoncé Snubbed, Song Choices Debated
18:39 Maura’s Tango Impresses Judges
24:02 Jackson’s Salsa Earns Mixed Reviews
32:08 Amber Delivers Standout Samba
37:25 Tyler’s Jazz Leaves Panel Cold
45:06 Connor Struggles With Samba
51:04 Julia Recreates “Save the Last Dance”
58:24 Tatyana Frustrated by Song Choice
1:07:20 Guillermo’s Final Salsa Performance
1:12:26 Jenna’s Paso Doble Wows Panel
1:19:14 Harry’s Samba Draws Critique
1:26:54 Ezra and Daniella Dominate Night
1:34:53 Elimination Twist and Finale Predictions

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 5 Recap Oct 07, 2026

Show notes

Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Ep 4 Recap

Also available on YouTube.

It's Mariah Carey night on Dancing with the Stars Season 35, and Matt Liguoi and Sasha Joseph are breaking down all the performances, the judging controversies, and the heartbreaking elimination that's leaving the fandom with a lot of feelings. Episode 5 marked a milestone, the first 9 paddles of the season finally appeared, but the night also ended with one of the most-discussed eliminations of the year: Ciara Miller and Brandon Armstrong saying goodbye despite a season of crowd-pleasing performances. Matt and Sasha dig into what went wrong with the voting and why some fans feel the show's fanbase dynamics are working against certain contestants no matter how well they dance.

Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach delivered another standout rumba, Jenna Johnson had her best night of the season, and Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas broke the season's 9 barrier with a waltz to "If It's Over." Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov closed the show with one of the most talked-about finishing poses of the year. But not every moment landed: Carrie Ann Inaba's judging drew fire from both hosts, Val Chmerkovskiy's hairstyle sparked social media controversy, and Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold gave the show its most eyebrow-raising package segment of the season. Matt also drops a hot take about Sharna Burgess's hair, the duo digs into the Jackson Olson-Guillermo TikTok drama, and Sasha's complicated feelings about Guillermo Rodriguez make for one of the funniest exchanges of the year.

Ezra Frech and Daniella earn 8s across the board. Both hosts feel 9s were warranted
Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas score the first 9 of Season 35; Matt and Sasha debate whether it was truly a 9
Amber Glenn and Pasha close the show to high praise, but Carrie Ann's 7 draws serious pushback from Sasha
Ciara Miller's elimination over Tyler Cameron sparks a bigger conversation about Black women on DWTS and voting dynamics
Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa charm in the middle of the pack; Jackson Olson struggles with his performance face

With Super Bowl night on the horizon and Matt away, Sasha and Chappell will break it all down next week. Catch Matt when he returns the following episode.

Timestamps:
0:00:00 – Intro / Ciara elimination reaction
0:07:00 – Black women on DWTS and voting dynamics
0:14:00 – Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson tango (Amber Riley in the ballroom)
0:21:00 – Jenna's best night / Val's haircut controversy
0:34:00 – Tyler Cameron and Sharna / Julianne-Val weirdness
0:45:00 – Maura and Mark score the first 9 of Season 35
0:50:31 – Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson: "Obsessed" samba
0:57:07 – Jackson Olson and Emma Slater: birthday week
1:01:37 – Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik
1:06:27 – Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold: the grinding package
1:12:50 – Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa: Viennese waltz
1:16:33 – Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov close the show
1:22:07 – Elimination breakdown
1:25:20 – Next week: Super Bowl night with Chappell

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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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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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