Dancing with the Stars 2, February 23: Thursday Night Fever

Stacy Kiebler and her partner Tony are now reflecting back on their performances. From the very beginning of the show, Stacy looked the part of a dancer. Tony says that he knew immediately that the competition was going to be great.

When the couple danced the rumba, she wanted to impress the judges so she focused on various aspects of it including the lines. She goes on to say that the tango was difficult. Tony explains that the moves have to be synchronized. Len didn’t like the performance.

Stacy states that she wanted to be smooth during the foxtrot. Tony says that he wanted to be like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

The samba was exciting for Stacy to perform. She explains that “shaking her booty” was fun. This is the performance that earned them their first perfect score.

Jumping and skipping during the quickstep made Stacy feel like a kid. While she enjoyed the performance, the judges were divided; they of course argued about it. However, they all enjoyed the couple’s cha cha cha. Tony says he added more tricks to it than their other dances.

Stacy explains that while the competition is draining, it is also the greatest thing she has ever done. She certainly is grateful for the experience.

Their average score from the judges is 27.375

Finally, at 9:00 PM, Tom and Samantha introduce the couples. They also explain that the dancers will perform their favorite routines and a freestyle dance tonight. On Sunday, the couples will perform once final time, but only the judges will score that performance.

Anna and Jerry are ready for their first routine. We’re reminded of how rude Len was to Jerry, but how polite Jerry was in return. Jerry says that he is so touched by his fans’ support. He dips one lucky lady. Anna says that in the freestyle, they can show off his athleticism. She also feels that the foxtrot is a great dance for him because he is a gentleman.

They are dancing the foxtrot to “Why Don’t You Do Right.” Anna works her way down the steps of the stage. She then grabs Jerry and pulls him on the dance floor. I like this performance simply because Jerry dances more than he does in other routines. His posture also looks great.

Len says that the dance was elegant and it was Jerry’s best effort in the competition. Carrie Ann Inaba agrees and then says that she saw the joy of dancing in Jerry. Bruno Tonioli explains that it lacked a bit of drive, but overall Jerry’s commitment and attitude are commendable.

Backstage, Anna and Jerry speak with Samantha. He says that it felt great to hear the judges’ comments. He and Anna had fun as well. Carrie Ann and Len give the performance a nine while Bruno gives it an eight. The couple’s total so far is 26 points. Jerry says that they’ll get Bruno on the next dance.

Stacy and Tony are set to perform. Stacy explains that she feels like they barely escaped elimination the previous week. We see them practice lifts. To help Stacy with this aspect of dancing, Tony has her work on a trampoline and then a trapeze. She says that dropping from the trapeze is scary. She’s happy when she’s back on the ground.

Stacy and Tony are doing the jive to “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go.” Soon after the dance begins, Stacy sheds her tuxedo and hat. They perform a lot of moves that involve quick steps. I think this dance fits Stacy’s personality better than some of the others; she can smile and have fun throughout it.

Bruno says something about a peanut and then uses adjectives like beautiful and delicious. Let’s just say he liked the routine. Len says that Stacy has set a high standard for herself and gives props to the couple for a job well done. Carrie Ann explains that this was her favorite dance from the couple during the season. She also says that it showcased what they can do separately and together. All three judges give the couple a 10 for a perfect score of 30 points. Suddenly, I’m hungry for a goober!

Cheryl and Drew are ready to perform their first dance of the night. Drew says he’s going to give this his everything. To prepare, the couple heads out to ride a mechanical bull. Instead, they end up at a surprise party given by their families. Eventually, they do get to ride a bull though. Cheryl says that Bruno will be in shock when he sees them dance.

They are performing the paso doble to “Thriller.” When they originally performed this routine, the judges and viewers loved it. Tonight, the couple appears to be on again. Their moves are sharp and crisp. They also bring out the zombie hands. (I prefer jazz hands myself.) The crowd goes wild.