“Dancing With the Stars” fans are just one episode away from learning which new pro is joining Season 35 this fall.
At the end of the latest episode of the summer spinoff series, “Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro,” the three finalists were revealed. Judges Mark and Shirley Ballas, as well as guest judge and former pro Kym Johnson, announced the top three after the season’s most shocking elimination.
Episode 7 began with the remaining dancers — Adele Zaikman, AJ Pritchard, Allen Genkin and Selena Hamilton — learning that for the semifinals they would have to choreograph and perform two routines that wowed the judges, just like the pros are asked to do on “DWTS.”
“You’ve all proved you’re great dancers, but now we need to dig deep. To decide whether you have the choreography, the teaching skills and the personality,” Shirley explained.
For their first dance, the contestants were paired with four current pros on the show, creating the following duos:
- Adele and Gleb Savchenko dancing the samba
- AJ and Rylee Arnold dancing the cha cha
- Allen and Witney Carson dancing the jive
- Serena and Jan Ravnik dancing the salsa
Then, the contestants teamed up with each other for their second dances of the night.
With the best dancers left in the competition, the margin for error was slim. See who impressed the judges enough to earn a spot in the finale.
What Happened During the ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’ Semifinals?
The first couple to dance was Allen and Witney. Before the performance, Witney mentioned in her feedback during rehearsals that Allen needed to work on his confidence. While he seemed to be the ideal leading man as they danced together, Shirley had some criticisms. She said the two were excellent when they were side by side, but she said Allen’s choreography didn’t highlight enough “wow moments” for Witney. Kym agreed with the critique, although she said the routine included many classic jive moves. Mark disagreed, however, and said it was his favorite jive of the season and he was bouncing in his seat the entire time.
Selena and Jan, who both have backgrounds as commercial dancers, were up next with their steamy salsa. Mark said Selena “nailed the brief” and he could see her routine being performed on “Latin Night” on “DWTS.” Kym called Selena a “star” and applauded her “clever” choreography. Shirley continued to praise her, pointing out Selena’s impressive balance and her chemistry with Jan.
Ahead of taking the dance floor, Adele revealed she was panicking a little and worried she wouldn’t be able to keep up with Gleb. But as soon as the music started, those fears seemed to dissipate. Kym said Adele was a great teacher and that her routine could appear on “DWTS.” Mark compared her fierce dancing to the movements of a “hooded cobra” ready to strike at any moment. Shirley called Adele and Gleb a “power couple,” but reminded Adele that she needs to include more “wow moments” that play to the cameras.
AJ, who has repeatedly shared in past episodes how long he has wanted to be a pro, had an intense rehearsal with Rylee. She expressed concerns about how his teaching style would work with a celebrity on “DWTS.” However, the two earned positive comments from the judges. Shirley said AJ went outside of his comfort zone and showcased Rylee well. Kym said AJ and Rylee’s personalities shined in the dance. But Mark, again, had a slightly different opinion. He said he wanted more “soul and funk and grit” in the routine.
For the second half of the episode, Adele was partnered with AJ for a foxtrot, and Selena and Allen were given the quickstep.
Close friends Allen and Selena danced together first. After the performance, Shirley said “the hardest thing to teach is a personality, and you both shine like bright lights when it comes to that.” Kym said she was most impressed by their creativity and musicality. Mark said the routine had “intention” and he enjoyed how much charisma they exuded.
The final dance of the night was performed by AJ and Adele. Even host Robert Irwin had to compliment the cool routine. Mark said the performance was “gorgeous.” Kym mentioned the chemistry between AJ and Adele and said the dance was “perfection.” Shirley, who constantly gave AJ tough criticism at the start of the competition, called him a “star.” As for Adele, Shirley said she is “the new generation for ‘Dancing With the Stars.’”
Who Was Eliminated on Episode 7, the Semifinals, of ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’?
Shirley gave each contestant a compliment before sharing how difficult it was to eliminate one person.
Since there were only four dancers, Shirley opted to just announce the name of the person going home instead of revealing a bottom two.
Shirley said there was one dancer who “ever-so-slightly underperformed.” She announced that Allen had danced for the last time on the show.
Allen said in his last confessional that he was “sad and devastated” to be going home. He added he had a great time and that he hoped he made his late mother proud. Robert told Allen that he connected with Allen’s story and passion. In his final words, Allen said he hoped his time on the show inspired viewers to pursue their dreams.
What Will Happen in the Finale?
Next week, “DWTS: The Next Pro” comes to an end with an epic finale airing on Monday, Aug. 31.
The teaser showed Mark and Shirley dancing together and a live audience joining the ballroom. Plus, each finalist will be paired with three “DWTS” alums: Adam Rippon, Nēv Schulman and Charli D’Amelio.
Who will win and appear on “DWTS” Season 35? Tune in to find out.
