Hey All!
Welcome to night one of the two-night season twenty-three finale of Dancing with the Stars. After eleven weeks, more than a hundred routines, and nine eliminations, only four couples remain. Tonight features two rounds: the “Redemption” dances—where couples revisit a previous routine to improve their scores—and the Freestyle round, where anything goes. One couple will be eliminated and two will advance to tomorrow’s grand finale.
Polls heading into the finale showed James & Sharna leading with 49% of the vote and Laurie & Val in second with 33%. The other two couples trailed in single digits. The audience favorite routine was James & Sharna’s Argentine tango (48%), while Laurie & Val’s foxtrot earned 42% in that poll. In the trio dance voting, James & Sharna (with Jenna) took 45%, Laurie & Val (with Maks) had 27%, Calvin & Lindsay (with Witney) reached 15%, and Jana & Gleb (with Alan) received 13%. For least-favorite trio, Jana & Gleb (with Alan) scored 37%, Laurie & Val (with Maks) 31%, and Calvin & Lindsay (with Witney) 26%.
Last week’s elimination of Terra & Sasha was considered correct by 71% of poll respondents. Tonight’s exit was expected to be close between Jana & Gleb and Calvin & Lindsay, with 48% predicting Jana would finish fourth and 46% predicting Calvin would. Despite that tight race, the real competition for the trophy is clearly between Laurie and James.
Len Goodman returned to the judges’ table for the finals. Hosts Tom and Erin opened the episode and we moved into the redemption round.
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Calvin & Lindsay – Viennese Waltz
Lindsay wanted to showcase Calvin’s progress by reworking their Viennese waltz. The routine demonstrated noticeable improvement: stronger posture and frame, smoother rise and fall, improved connection, and more confident gliding. It wasn’t the flashiest performance of the night, but it clearly reflected the growth Calvin has made and highlighted Lindsay’s choreography and coaching.
Judges’ reactions: Len called Calvin the most improved finalist and praised the fluidity and charm while noting minor footwork issues. Julianne said much more was on point this time and admitted she couldn’t take her eyes off Calvin. Bruno loved the lead and sweep of the routine. Carrie Ann observed how far Calvin has come and reluctantly had to call a lift she spotted.
Carrie Ann – 8 / Len – 9 / Julianne – 9 / Bruno – 9 = 35/40
Jana & Gleb – Tango
Jana returned to redo the tango she’d been injured during previously. Despite Gleb feeling under the weather, the couple presented a tighter, cleaner tango this time. There were a couple of minor missteps and a small moment with Jana’s leg that Len mentioned, but overall she displayed the sharp staccato footwork she’s honed all season.
Judges’ reactions: Julianne expected more spark but Bruno praised the passion and cleaner execution. Carrie Ann felt Jana finally matched Gleb, while Len disagreed on a lift deduction but pointed out the odd leg moment.
Carrie Ann – 8 / Len – 9 / Julianne – 9 / Bruno – 9 = 35/40
Laurie & Val – Paso Doble
Laurie revisited a paso doble that had been a challenge in rehearsal. Her athleticism and conviction shone in this reworked performance: crisp movements, strong chemistry with Val, and classic paso technique that pleased the judges.
Judges’ reactions: Bruno called it “wicked” with perfect shaping. Carrie Ann saw immediate improvement, noting Laurie’s determination. Len praised the focus and intensity, and Julianne highlighted their growth and improved chemistry.
Carrie Ann – 9 / Len – 10 / Julianne – 9 / Bruno – 10 = 38/40
During a break, Train performed “Play That Song,” accompanied by Cheryl and other cast members. The performance drew a quick aside from the reviewer about the chorus sounding familiar to another popular tune.
James & Sharna – Foxtrot
James re-did his season-opening foxtrot with Sharna. The routine captured James’ flair for character-driven performance and strong foxtrot technique, though a small stumble—possibly costume- or footing-related—likely affected the score. Even so, James’ showmanship and steady dancing remained highlights.
Judges’ reactions: Carrie Ann praised James’ glide and noted the stumble; Len called the routine fantastic despite that moment. Julianne deemed James the complete package, and Bruno said he was completely engaged.
Carrie Ann – 9 / Len – 9 / Julianne – 9 / Bruno – 10 = 37/40
The Freestyle round followed, beginning with Jana & Gleb.
Jana & Gleb – Freestyle
Their freestyle aimed for a contemporary, emotionally driven piece anchored by a long piece of fabric. While the material added visual interest, the routine otherwise felt familiar—angst-driven contemporary with dramatic moments and a few risky moves. A stumble and small mistakes prompted deductions despite the heartfelt concept.
Judges’ reactions: Len called it a wonderful performance despite a moment during a flying sequence. Julianne saw disappointment on Jana’s face after a stumble but praised the risk. Bruno admired the concept and fearlessness; Carrie Ann respected Jana’s underdog spirit but agreed points must be deducted.
Carrie Ann – 9 / Len – 9 / Julianne – 9 / Bruno – 9 = 36/40
Calvin & Lindsay – Freestyle
Lindsay promised a showpiece and delivered: inventive choreography that included treadmills and playful, energetic staging. Calvin was charming, fully committed, and technically solid throughout. The inventive use of props and variety of moments made this freestyle a standout.
Judges’ reactions: Julianne said Calvin did it all and loved the variety. Bruno praised the choreography, and Carrie Ann declared the world needed more Calvin. Len joked he’d send a love letter and called the performance entertaining.
Carrie Ann – 10 / Len – 10 / Julianne – 10 / Bruno – 10 = 40/40
A production number inspired by the upcoming La La Land and choreographed by Mandy Moore followed, featuring pros and troupe members.
Laurie & Val – Freestyle
Laurie’s freestyle was playful and joyful, set in a playground and full of energy. Her spirit and enthusiasm carried the piece, with strong solo moments and smart use of props. It was a fitting finale to her season-long journey.
Judges’ reactions: Bruno praised the embodiment of youth and joy. Carrie Ann called Laurie inspiring. Len described the routine as fantastic and joyful, and Julianne called it fresh, youthful, and crisp.
Carrie Ann – 10 / Len – 10 / Julianne – 10 / Bruno – 10 = 40/40
James & Sharna – Freestyle
James used his freestyle to tell his personal story of accident and recovery. The emotional narrative, combined with strong choreography and memorable moments, made for a powerful, moving routine. James’ own spoken reflections at the start and finish underscored the significance of his journey.
Judges’ reactions: Carrie Ann called James the season’s miracle man. Len praised the personal and beautiful nature of the performance. Julianne noted James’ consistent improvement, and Bruno described the routine as unique, exceptional, and like visual poetry.
Carrie Ann – 10 / Len – 10 / Julianne – 10 / Bruno – 10 = 40/40
Elimination
Just 24 hours from the finale, one couple’s season ended tonight. All four finalists delivered strong performances and should be proud. After the votes were tallied, the couple eliminated was Jana & Gleb.
Jana graciously thanked the show and said it was their time, acknowledging the talent of the remaining contestants and reflecting on what she learned. That leaves Laurie & Val and Calvin & Lindsay to dance for the title tomorrow night.
One interesting note: the show’s placement of James alongside Jana in the elimination package raised questions about whether Calvin received enough public votes or whether producers were shaping the narrative toward a James victory. With Laurie as the only remaining female contender, there are still many questions heading into the finale.
Following tonight’s broadcast, final polls will be posted and voting lines remain open during and after the show. See you tomorrow night at 9 PM for the grand finale as we crown the season twenty-three champion.