Longtime fans of Dancing with the Stars and Swifties alike are buzzing as Jen Affleck and professional partner Jan Ravnik prepare for their highly anticipated Week 7 performance. Following a week filled with criticism, the duo is ready to deliver a passionate contemporary routine set to Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do,” promising to “set the haters straight” with their fiery energy.
The ballroom is heating up for Week 7 of Dancing with the Stars, and all eyes are on Jen Affleck and her partner Jan Ravnik. The pair, known for their captivating performances, has been the subject of recent critiques, with former DWTS pro Maks Chmerkovskiy notably offering critical comments. However, Affleck and Ravnik are not backing down; they’re channeling that energy directly into their upcoming performance.
Their chosen song, Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do,” is more than just a popular track—it’s a statement. Affleck explicitly noted that “rehearsals start here! Time to set the haters straight!” a clear indication of their intent to use the dance as a powerful retort to any negativity. This bold move is amplified by Ravnik’s deep connection to the pop superstar.
Jan Ravnik’s Swiftie Roots and the Path to the Ballroom
Before dazzling audiences on Dancing with the Stars, Jan Ravnik was a prominent backup dancer for Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour. His history with Swift’s choreography and stage presence is not lost on fans or the duo themselves. This experience has been a frequent point of discussion and excitement throughout their DWTS journey, with Affleck teasing that the audience will “finally going to see us live in Jan’s world” during this performance.
Ravnik’s collaboration with Swift extends beyond the Eras Tour; he also appeared in the music video for “The Fate of Ophelia,” a lead single from Swift’s album, The Life of a Showgirl. This appearance further solidified his “Swiftie” credentials and fueled fan anticipation for a Swift-themed dance on DWTS, as reported by People.
The idea of a Taylor Swift dance has been brewing for weeks. Following their Disney Night performance, Affleck and Ravnik confirmed their intention to dance to Swift’s music, a plan they discussed “the first day” they began talking about their season wishes. Fans even hoped for a reappearance of the iconic “ladder” prop, a nod to Ravnik’s “Lavender Haze” performance during the Eras Tour. While Affleck playfully noted “sadly, no ladder” for this week’s choreography, the spirit of Ravnik’s Swift tour experience is undoubtedly influencing their contemporary number.
Building a ‘DWTS’ Family Amidst the Competition
Beyond the intense training and public scrutiny, Jen Affleck has found immense support within the Dancing with the Stars community. The “MomToker” and star of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives frequently shares insights into the camaraderie among contestants and pros. She describes the cast as a true family, noting how “everyone is so supportive and happy to be there!” This close-knit environment provides a crucial emotional anchor amidst the pressures of the competition.
Key figures in her growing DWTS family include:
- Danielle Fishel: Described by Affleck as “such a positive and optimistic person to have on stage and backstage!” Fishel’s friendship has significantly impacted Affleck’s outlook.
- Robert Irwin and Witney Carson: Affleck shared a mirror selfie with the competing duo, emphasizing the supportive bond among the cast members during rehearsals.
Even with her partner Jan Ravnik recovering from a flu caught from Affleck earlier in the week, their bond remains strong, a testament to the genuine connections forged on the show. Affleck shared her excitement for their “dream come true” DWTS journey during press interactions, indicating her gratitude for the experience despite the challenges.
The Fiery Performance Awaits
As Halloween Night approaches, the anticipation for Affleck and Ravnik’s performance is palpable. Their decision to explicitly address criticism through their dance to “Look What You Made Me Do” adds a layer of dramatic intensity that promises to captivate audiences. This strategic choice, coupled with Ravnik’s impressive background dancing for Taylor Swift, positions their Week 7 routine as a must-watch event.
The duo has been diligently working on their choreography, promising a “fiery look” to their performance, as detailed by AOL. Affleck also teased a “long day in the makeup trailer ahead,” hinting at an elaborate and impactful look for the night. This blend of personal statement, professional expertise, and fan-favorite music makes their upcoming dance one of the most talked-about of the season.
Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Jen Affleck and Jan Ravnik will embody the powerful message of Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do” and if this performance will indeed “set the haters straight” and propel them further in the competition.
