Providing candid critiques is a fundamental aspect of our role as judges.
The challenge lies in whether they can impress all of us.
So, it is important to explain what about the performance needs work.
Carrie Ann Inaba.Disney/Eric McCandless
If we just tell them all they are great, who will improve?
If we just shower them with positivity, they would not challenge themselves to move past their comfort zone.
What does it feel like to get booed when you’re giving your critiques?
Disney/Eric McCandless
Getting booed comes with the territory.
You do have to develop thick skin to be a judge.
He warms up the audience before the show starts.
He gets them dancing and encourages the audience to participate.
It makes everyone in our audience part of the show.
After all, a boo for me is actually a “yay” for one of the competitors.
So, I’m absolutely okay with it.
You said you “didn’t buy” Charity Lawson’s performance this week?
Janet has a style of performing, it’s sharp and clean and every movement has intention and style.
I “didn’t buy” her as Janet.
It’s an “I won’t take no for an answer” kind of attitude.
This was missing from her performance last night.
From early on in the season, Charity has shown us she can dance.
But, can she perform in a way that engages the audience?
This is where there is room for improvement.
I know she’s got it in her.
I saw it in the contemporary she performed a few weeks ago.
Alyson and Sasha really did a fantastic job.
It was a breakthrough performance for her.
Alyson is really finding her way as a performer.
Last night she received her highest scores of the season and they were well deserved.
It’s so wonderful to see someone tap into parts of themselves they didn’t know were there.
I’m proud of her for going there!
What was it like judging alongside Paula Abdul?
Paula Abdul is family.
I adore her and she was the perfect fit for Music Video night.
I loved that we both could laugh about our AARP membership as well.
After the show we were saying we actually need to hang out and spend more time with each other.
So, there’s nothing but love for each other, and a shared love of dance and dancers.
Which couple do you think channeled the vibe of their assigned music video best?
Last night’s assignment was undeniably challenging, and I believe all the couples deserve credit for their efforts.
Also, Ariana attacked every single movement in the choreography with passion and presence.
You couldn’t take your eyes off of her, she’s exciting.
It wasshocking to see Lele Pons go home.
What do couples need to do this upcoming week to see to it they stay in the competition?
I was both shocked and saddened by Lele’s departure.
Everyone needs to bring something new to the dance floor.
At this point, you have to show us something incredible.
And I wish everyone the best of luck next week!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Dancing With the Starsairs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC andDisney+and streams the following day on Hulu.
