The recent episode of Dancing With the Stars featured contestant Alix Earle and her dance partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, performing to Billie Eilish’s track, bury a friend. The Halloween-themed show aired on October 28 and saw Alix earn a score of 39 from the judges. However, controversy arose due to a lower score from guest judge Cheryl Burke, who awarded a 9, preventing a perfect score.
The facts
Alix’s performance highlighted her growing skills on the dance floor, earning commendations from most judges. However, Cheryl Burke’s lower score sparked disappointment among fans and family. Following the performance, Alix’s stepmother, Ashley Dupré, expressed her pride on social media, but her comments quickly turned contentious after Cheryl’s scoring was revealed.
Reactions
While watching the broadcast, Ashley made a pointed remark towards Cheryl, suggesting, “Oh, go take more Ozempic!” This comment confused her children but underscored the emotional intensity surrounding the show. Cheryl Burke, a former champion, has openly discussed her struggles with body image and the pressures dancers face, which adds a layer of complexity to the public’s perception of her judging.
Background
Cheryl has candidly addressed her experiences with body dysmorphia and the scrutiny she faces regarding her health and weight. In previous interviews, she noted the harsh standards dancers endure, stating, “As a dancer, we were stuck in front of mirrors constantly…it was important to stay at a certain weight.” Cheryl’s reflections on public criticism reveal the ongoing challenges of maintaining a public persona while navigating personal struggles.
As Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars continues, it features a diverse cast, including Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles and author Hilaria Baldwin. The show celebrates its 20th anniversary, showcasing thrilling performances and emotional narratives that engage viewers. The interplay of personal and professional challenges remains a central theme, emphasizing the resilience and ambition of the contestants.
The competition evolves as contestants navigate the complexities of performance and public scrutiny, leaving audiences captivated by both their dance skills and personal stories.