The competition continues on “Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro” and now it’s time to shine.
In the Aug. 10 episode of the “Dancing With the Stars” spinoff, pro Daniella Karagach showed off her impressive skills with a mega performance as host Robert Irwin introduced the challenge.
This week it was all about having that “wow” moment that “DWTS” viewers love. The six remaining dancers were mentored and guided by Daniella as they created a contemporary routine that incorporated one of her signature and viral moves.
If the dancers failed to deliver a spectacular move in their choreographer, they would be at risk for elimination. But first, the contestants took a trip to the Australia Zoo for inspiration.
What Happened During Episode 5 of ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’
When Daniella entered the rehearsal room, she told the dancers that they also had to create their own standout moment that would “forever be embedded in someone’s memory.” This was in addition to including one of Daniella’s “wow” moves.
“The more you wow the audience, the longer you and your partner stay in the competition,” she said about competing on “DWTS.”
Since last week, the ladies got to choose their partners, this week the guys picked who they wanted to perform with. If more than one guy chose the same girl, she would have the option to choose who she wanted to partner up with.
Allen Genkin chose Adele Zaikman, while AJ Pritchard and Erik Linder chose Selena Hamilton. No one chose Nina Mayster.
Selena ultimately chose Erik, meaning AJ and Nina would be partners by default.
AJ and Nina were up first, performing a contemporary piece to “Human” by Christina Perri that impressed the judges. Daniella told them they “understood the assignment,” while judge Mark Ballas complimented their “total trust.”
Shirley Ballas also applauded their multiple wow moments, AJ’s vulnerability and Nina’s musicality.
Next were Allen and Adele, who also got major kudos from the judges with their routine to “All That Really Matters” by Illenium featuring Teddy Swims.
Mark was a fan of their wow moments, that included the Allen-copter and caveman walk at the beginning. He also called Adele a “diamond.”
Shirley echoed her son’s comments, calling her “beyond a diamond, one of the best female dancers I’ve ever seen.” Daniella also shared how she loved the routine.
Last but not least were Erik and Selena, who specializes in contemporary, with a routine to “You Stole the Show” by Sienna Spiro.
Shirley began her comments by saying she was “conflicted” and didn’t know what their wow moment was. Selena replied that sometimes the “wow” is in the silence.
Shirley continued by saying she would have liked to see Erik let go more and ultimately wasn’t impressed. While she did appreciate the quality of Selena’s routine, she expected more.
Mark and Daniella both shared kind words about their dancing, but noted that they did not follow direction.
Who Was in the Bottom 2?
Because they did not complete the challenge and include a visibly “wow moment” in their routine, Erik and Selena were on the chopping block.
The other four contestants were visibly emotional in the background, as Daniella said, “If you have a challenge, you have to deliver it. You have to make that the priority.”
Who Got Eliminated on Episode 5 of ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’?
Ultimately, Shirley shared that with a “very, very heavy heart” this would be the last dance for Erik.
Allen broke down in tears, with Adele and Nina covering their faces in shock.
Shirley told Erik that he was “a beautiful dancer,” but applauded Selena for her strong and advanced choreography.
“I knew that I was taking a risk,” Erik said in his confessional, adding that he didn’t regret a single decision that he made. He then thanked the judges for the opportunity to grow as a dancer and person.
What Will Happen Next Week?
Five dancers remain on “Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro.” For the Aug. 17 episode, guest judge Witney Carson will deliver the dancers’ toughest challenge yet: teaching ballroom novice.
In the next episode, the contestants will be paired with “DWTS” superfans who are dancing amateurs. They will then have two days to prepare a performance that will land them a spot in the semifinals.
