Dancing With the Stars pro alum Peta Murgatroyd voiced her strong opinion that the show’s recent Dedication Night should have included an elimination, a sentiment echoed by several contestants despite the emotional nature of the episode.
The latest non-elimination week on Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) came as a significant surprise, not just to the current cast but also to former professional dancers deeply entrenched in the show’s competitive spirit. Among the most vocal was Peta Murgatroyd, whose candid remarks on her podcast highlighted a tension between the show’s emotional moments and its core competitive format.
During the Friday, October 17, episode of her “Penthouse With Peta” podcast, Murgatroyd, 39, shared her perspective on Week 5, also known as Dedication Night, with fellow alum Sharna Burgess. “I was hoping for an elimination,” she stated, adding, “Not like that’s a terrible thing to say, but someone’s got to go home.” This sentiment underlines the professional dancers’ expectation for the competition to progress with its regular structure.
The Emotional Dedication Night and Unexpected Twist
The episode in question, which aired live on Tuesday, October 14, saw DWTS couples deliver deeply emotional tributes to significant people in their lives. These performances, often raw and heartfelt, are a staple of the show, designed to connect stars with their personal stories and, by extension, with the audience.
However, at the culmination of the evening, cohosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough delivered the unexpected news: there would be no elimination, and all votes would carry over to the following week. This decision, while seemingly compassionate given the emotional intensity of the performances, ignited a debate among cast members and viewers alike.
Murgatroyd acknowledged the reasoning behind the show’s choice. “I know why they don’t because it’s a sad situation,” she noted on her podcast, reflecting on the decision to spare a couple after such profound performances. Yet, she found herself “in two minds about it,” particularly happy for couples like Elaine Hendrix, 54, and Andy Richter, 58, who were visibly elated by the reprieve. Hendrix and Richter shared a sweet hug on the ballroom floor following Ribeiro’s announcement, a moment that encapsulated the relief felt by many.
Contestants’ Confusion and Frustration
The twist wasn’t just a talking point for former pros; it profoundly affected the contestants themselves. Gymnast Jordan Chiles, 24, and her partner Ezra Sosa, 24, were among those who expressed strong feelings about the non-elimination. Chiles, in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, described the twist as “the most devastating thing ever.” She highlighted the pre-show rehearsals that meticulously prepared them for an elimination announcement. “I think this was the first time I was like, ‘We’re in elimination and what is happening?’ Only because we rehearsed it. We rehearsed everything going on,” Chiles told Us Weekly. “I was pissed, personally.”
Sosa echoed Chiles’ frustration, articulating a common sentiment that such twists can feel like “mind games.” “You can’t play these mind games with us. That’s not right,” Sosa quipped to Yahoo Entertainment. “It’s almost worse. You’re going to line us up? No, girl. No. Send someone home. Just do it. Come on.” This reaction reflects a broader fan concern regarding the integrity and predictability of the competition.
The Speculation of Future Twists and Peta’s Legacy
The non-elimination also led to speculation about future competitive rounds. Sharna Burgess, 40, suggested on Peta’s podcast that the twist might be “signaling another twist up ahead,” specifically questioning, “Are team dances next week?” She reasoned that the show might need an even number of couples for such a format. While it’s unconfirmed if Season 34 will feature team dances, the producers frequently introduce new dynamics to keep the competition engaging.
Peta Murgatroyd’s long-standing history with Dancing With the Stars provides context for her perspective. As a two-time mirrorball champion, she understands the rigorous demands and competitive nature of the show from an insider’s view. Her dedication to the ballroom is evident, even returning for Season 32 just ten weeks after giving birth to her second son, Rio. In an exclusive chat with E! News, Murgatroyd explained her eagerness to return, saying, “I miss dance. I miss the show… I love working and meeting new people.” This deep passion for the show’s structure and performance quality likely fuels her desire for clear competitive outcomes.
Looking Ahead to Wicked Night
Despite the week of confusion, the competition presses on. Elaine Hendrix, Andy Richter, Jordan Chiles, Ezra Sosa, and the rest of the remaining Season 34 partners are set to return for “Wicked Night.” This themed episode promises another spectacular showcase, featuring guest judge Jon M. Chu, known for directing the upcoming film adaptations of Wicked and Wicked: For Good.
The dynamic interplay between emotional performances, competitive expectations, and unexpected twists continues to be a hallmark of Dancing With the Stars, keeping fans and pros alike on their toes. Dancing With the Stars airs on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
