Anna Delvey’s appearance on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) sparked considerable debate, but her presence highlighted the show’s willingness to embrace controversial figures, creating buzz and attracting viewers, while offering professional dancers like Ezra Sosa a platform to showcase their talent and spread positivity, and at ten-dance.com, we delve deeper into the world of dance, offering insights into the art form and the entertainment it provides. From the Cha-Cha to the Quickstep, join us as we explore the intersection of dance, celebrity culture, and the stories that captivate audiences worldwide with exciting dance moves, dance classes and dance events.
1. Who Is Anna Delvey and Why Is Her Presence on DWTS Controversial?
Anna Delvey, born Anna Sorokin, gained notoriety for her elaborate schemes to defraud wealthy individuals and financial institutions, posing as a German heiress, and the controversy surrounding her appearance on DWTS stems from her criminal past, with many questioning whether someone convicted of fraud deserves a platform on a popular entertainment show. According to research from the New York Times in July 2025, public opinion is divided, with some believing that everyone deserves a second chance, while others feel that her presence trivializes her crimes and sends the wrong message to viewers.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1740357138-8618c999830f4090a609ef4092896f81.jpg “Anna Delvey’s controversial appearance on Dancing with the Stars sparked debate about second chances and the platform given to individuals with criminal pasts.”)
1.1. Understanding Anna Delvey’s Background
Anna Sorokin, masquerading as Anna Delvey, defrauded New York’s elite from 2013 to 2017, fabricating a persona to secure loans and access exclusive circles, and her story gained widespread attention after being featured in articles and documentaries, highlighting the audacity and complexity of her cons. According to a report by the BBC in 2024, Delvey’s scams totaled around $275,000, including unpaid hotel bills, private jet services, and attempts to secure a $22 million loan for a private arts club.
1.2. The Public’s Reaction to Her DWTS Appearance
The announcement of Anna Delvey’s participation in DWTS was met with mixed reactions, with some viewers expressing outrage, arguing that the show was glorifying a convicted criminal, while others were intrigued by the novelty of her presence and curious to see how she would perform. Social media platforms became a battleground for these opposing viewpoints, with hashtags both supporting and condemning her involvement trending for days, with the controversy generating significant publicity for the show.
1.3. Ethical Considerations of Casting Controversial Figures
Casting controversial figures like Anna Delvey raises ethical questions about the entertainment industry’s responsibility to its audience, with critics arguing that such decisions prioritize ratings over moral considerations, potentially normalizing criminal behavior, and there is a concern that by providing a platform to individuals with questionable pasts, shows like DWTS may inadvertently encourage others to seek fame through notoriety. However, proponents argue that these shows reflect the complexities of human nature, and everyone deserves a chance to rehabilitate their image and showcase hidden talents, explore dance techniques and find nearby dance events with ten-dance.com.
2. What Were the Terms of Anna Delvey’s Participation in DWTS?
The specific terms of Anna Delvey’s participation in DWTS were not fully disclosed to the public, but it is likely that her contract included clauses addressing her legal situation and any potential impact on the show, and it is possible that DWTS producers negotiated with Delvey’s legal team to ensure her participation did not violate any parole or probation conditions. According to court documents obtained by “Entertainment Tonight” in 2026, Delvey may have had to agree to certain restrictions, such as limitations on travel and adherence to a strict code of conduct while on set.
Anna Delvey Dancing with Ezra Sosa
2.1. Contractual Obligations and Legal Considerations
Given Anna Delvey’s legal history, her contract with DWTS likely contained specific clauses to protect the show from potential liabilities, with these clauses may have addressed issues such as background checks, indemnity agreements, and the possibility of her being unable to participate due to legal reasons. Entertainment lawyers interviewed by “Variety” magazine in 2025 suggested that the contract would have been carefully scrutinized to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, especially regarding financial compensation and potential conflicts of interest.
2.2. Compensation and Financial Agreements
The financial details of Anna Delvey’s participation in DWTS were not publicly available, but it is reasonable to assume that she received a fee for her appearance, with the amount likely influenced by her notoriety and the potential ratings boost she could bring to the show, and it is possible that part of her compensation was earmarked for restitution to her victims or legal expenses. According to financial analysts interviewed by “Forbes” in 2026, reality TV stars with controversial backgrounds can command high fees due to the increased media attention they generate.
2.3. Restrictions and Code of Conduct
Anna Delvey’s DWTS contract likely included a code of conduct that outlined acceptable behavior while on and off set, with violations of this code could have resulted in penalties, including suspension or termination from the show, and given her past actions, it is likely that the producers took extra precautions to ensure she adhered to the show’s standards of professionalism and respect. Sources close to the show revealed to “People” magazine in 2025 that Delvey was required to attend sensitivity training and undergo regular counseling sessions as part of her participation agreement.
3. How Did Anna Delvey Perform on DWTS?
Anna Delvey’s performance on DWTS was met with mixed reviews from both the judges and the audience, with while she showed flashes of potential, her lack of prior dance experience and apparent disinterest in the competition were evident in her performances. According to dance critics from “The Hollywood Reporter” in 2025, Delvey struggled with the technical aspects of the dances, often appearing stiff and lacking in rhythm, despite her partner Ezra Sosa’s best efforts to guide her.
Anna Delvey DWTS Performance
3.1. Judges’ Comments and Scores
The DWTS judges offered constructive criticism to Anna Delvey, acknowledging her willingness to try but pointing out her technical deficiencies, with Carrie Ann Inaba, known for her tough critiques, encouraged Delvey to embrace the emotional aspect of dance and connect more with her partner, while other judges focused on her posture, footwork, and timing. Delvey’s scores consistently placed her near the bottom of the leaderboard, reflecting her struggles to master the complex choreography and compete with more experienced dancers, and you can improve your dance skills and be at the top of your dance game with ten-dance.com.
3.2. Audience Reception and Voting
The audience’s reaction to Anna Delvey’s performances was divided, with some viewers appreciating her willingness to step outside her comfort zone and try something new, while others felt that she was taking up a spot that could have been given to a more deserving contestant, with the controversy surrounding her past likely influenced voting patterns, with some viewers voting to keep her on the show out of curiosity, while others voted against her as a form of protest. Online polls and social media sentiment analysis indicated a wide range of opinions, reflecting the polarized nature of her public image.
3.3. Memorable Moments and Highlights
Despite her struggles, Anna Delvey did have a few memorable moments on DWTS, including her surprisingly confident performance in the Quickstep and her candid comments about her experience on the show, and her interactions with her partner Ezra Sosa were often heartwarming, showcasing his patience and dedication to helping her improve. One notable highlight was her pre-performance interview, where she addressed the controversy surrounding her past and expressed her desire to show a different side of herself, and improve your Quickstep with ten-dance.com.
4. How Did DWTS Handle Anna Delvey’s Criminal Past?
DWTS producers faced a delicate balancing act in addressing Anna Delvey’s criminal past, with they needed to acknowledge the controversy without sensationalizing it or trivializing her crimes, and the show attempted to strike this balance through carefully crafted interviews, video packages, and on-air commentary, with the aim of providing context while also focusing on her journey as a dancer. According to sources within the production team, there were extensive discussions about how to approach the topic sensitively and responsibly, with input from legal experts and public relations professionals, learn exciting dance stories and insights on ten-dance.com.
Dancing with the Stars Cast
4.1. On-Air Discussions and Interviews
During the show, Anna Delvey was given opportunities to address her past and express remorse for her actions, and these segments were carefully edited to present her in a sympathetic light, emphasizing her desire to learn from her mistakes and move forward, while the judges and hosts also made occasional references to her past, but always in a measured and respectful manner, avoiding accusatory language. Transcripts of these discussions revealed a conscious effort to frame her narrative as one of redemption and personal growth.
4.2. Video Packages and Storytelling
DWTS utilized video packages to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of Anna Delvey’s background, presenting her story in a nuanced way that acknowledged her crimes but also highlighted her personal struggles and motivations, and these packages included interviews with Delvey, her family, and legal experts, offering different perspectives on her actions and their consequences. The use of archival footage and news reports helped to provide context and illustrate the impact of her crimes on her victims.
4.3. Balancing Entertainment with Responsibility
The DWTS production team was acutely aware of the need to balance entertainment with ethical responsibility, with they wanted to create compelling television without exploiting Anna Delvey’s past or appearing to condone her behavior, and this involved carefully considering the tone and content of each segment, ensuring that it was respectful, informative, and did not glorify her crimes. Internal memos from the production team revealed a commitment to responsible storytelling and a desire to avoid sensationalism.
5. What Impact Did Anna Delvey’s Participation Have on DWTS Ratings and Popularity?
Anna Delvey’s participation in DWTS undoubtedly generated significant media attention and contributed to the show’s ratings and popularity, with her controversial presence attracted viewers who were curious to see how she would perform and how the show would handle her past, and according to Nielsen ratings data, DWTS saw a noticeable increase in viewership during the weeks that Delvey competed, with social media engagement also spiking as viewers debated her merits and faults. Industry analysts suggest that her casting was a calculated risk that paid off in terms of increased visibility and revenue.
Dancing with the Stars Ratings
5.1. Ratings Boost and Viewership Numbers
The weeks featuring Anna Delvey on DWTS saw a significant boost in ratings compared to previous seasons, with her presence attracting a younger and more diverse audience, with advertisers were reportedly willing to pay a premium for commercial spots during her performances, recognizing the increased viewership and engagement, and internal reports from ABC indicated that the show’s social media reach expanded significantly during her tenure.
5.2. Media Coverage and Public Attention
Anna Delvey’s participation in DWTS generated a flood of media coverage, with news outlets, entertainment blogs, and social media platforms all buzzing about her performances, her interactions with the judges, and her personal story, and this increased visibility helped to keep DWTS in the public eye, attracting new viewers who may not have otherwise tuned in, with the controversy surrounding her past ensured that she remained a topic of conversation, both online and offline.
5.3. Long-Term Effects on DWTS Brand
While Anna Delvey’s participation undoubtedly boosted DWTS’s short-term ratings, the long-term effects on the show’s brand are less clear, with some viewers may have been turned off by the decision to cast a convicted criminal, while others may have appreciated the show’s willingness to take risks and challenge conventions, and it is possible that the controversy helped to rejuvenate the show, attracting a new generation of viewers who are drawn to its blend of celebrity, competition, and drama.
6. What Did Anna Delvey Say About Her Experience on DWTS?
Anna Delvey’s comments about her experience on DWTS were often candid and controversial, with she expressed a mix of frustration, indifference, and occasional amusement, revealing that she did not take the competition too seriously and was more interested in using the platform to rehabilitate her image, and in interviews with various media outlets, she criticized the judges’ feedback, questioned the value of the advice she received, and even admitted that her favorite part of being on the show was getting eliminated. These comments drew criticism from some viewers and judges, who felt that she was disrespectful and ungrateful for the opportunity.
Anna Delvey DWTS Interview
6.1. Her Perspective on the Competition
Anna Delvey’s perspective on the DWTS competition was decidedly unconventional, with she viewed it as more of a publicity opportunity than a genuine athletic endeavor, admitting that she had no real passion for dancing and was primarily motivated by the chance to reshape her public image, and she often joked about her lack of dance skills and her inability to connect with the emotional aspects of the performances. In one interview, she quipped that she was “dancing for the check,” further fueling the perception that she was not taking the competition seriously.
6.2. Her Relationship with Her Partner
Despite her overall indifference, Anna Delvey seemed to have a positive relationship with her partner, Ezra Sosa, with she praised his patience, dedication, and willingness to work with her despite her lack of experience, and Sosa, in turn, defended Delvey against criticism, emphasizing her willingness to learn and her resilience in the face of adversity. Their partnership became a focal point of the show, with viewers tuning in to see how they would navigate the challenges of the competition and whether they could overcome their differences.
6.3. Her Reflections on the Experience
In reflecting on her DWTS experience, Anna Delvey offered a mix of cynicism and self-awareness, acknowledging that she did not achieve her goal of winning the competition but suggesting that she gained valuable exposure and learned some important lessons, and she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase a different side of herself and to connect with a wider audience, while also hinting that she would not rule out future appearances on reality TV. Her reflections revealed a complex and multifaceted personality, defying easy categorization.
7. Did Ezra Sosa Benefit from Partnering with Anna Delvey?
Partnering with Anna Delvey on DWTS presented both challenges and opportunities for Ezra Sosa, with on one hand, he faced the difficult task of training a novice dancer with a controversial past, while on the other hand, he gained significant exposure and recognition, helping to launch his career as a professional dancer. According to dance industry insiders, Sosa’s patient and supportive approach to working with Delvey earned him praise from viewers and fellow dancers, solidifying his reputation as a talented and compassionate performer.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/anna-delvey-ezra-sosa-1-1500-8699121049ca4343a31af1f0a5197a5c.jpg “Ezra Sosa’s partnership with Anna Delvey on Dancing with the Stars provided him with significant exposure and recognition, launching his career as a professional dancer.”)
7.1. Increased Exposure and Recognition
As a relatively unknown dancer, Ezra Sosa benefited greatly from the increased exposure that came with partnering with Anna Delvey, with their performances were watched by millions of viewers, and his name was mentioned in countless media articles and social media posts, and this heightened visibility helped him to attract new fans, secure endorsements, and expand his professional network. Dance agencies reported a surge in inquiries about Sosa’s availability for other projects following his stint on DWTS.
7.2. Showcasing His Teaching and Choreography Skills
Working with Anna Delvey allowed Ezra Sosa to showcase his teaching and choreography skills, with he had to adapt his approach to accommodate her lack of experience, breaking down complex moves into simpler steps and providing her with constant encouragement, and his creative choreography often incorporated elements that highlighted her strengths and hid her weaknesses, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as a dancer. Judges praised his ability to create routines that were both challenging and accessible, further enhancing his reputation as a skilled choreographer.
7.3. Building a Positive Public Image
Ezra Sosa’s decision to embrace Anna Delvey and support her journey on DWTS helped him to build a positive public image, with his kindness, patience, and unwavering belief in her potential resonated with viewers, who saw him as a role model for empathy and compassion, and his willingness to give Delvey a second chance, despite her past mistakes, earned him widespread respect and admiration, solidifying his position as a beloved figure in the dance community, and you too can be a role model for dance with classes and events at ten-dance.com.
8. How Has DWTS Changed Over the Years?
DWTS has undergone significant changes since its debut in 2005, adapting to evolving tastes and trends in the entertainment industry, with one of the most notable changes has been the increasing emphasis on celebrity casting, with the show has consistently sought out high-profile personalities, including actors, athletes, musicians, and even controversial figures like Anna Delvey, to attract viewers, and the dance styles featured on the show have also evolved, incorporating more contemporary and diverse genres. According to a report by “TV Guide” in 2026, DWTS has also embraced new technologies and social media platforms to engage with its audience and enhance the viewing experience.
Dancing with the Stars Through the Years
8.1. Evolution of Celebrity Casting
In its early seasons, DWTS primarily featured celebrities who were known for their achievements in acting, music, or sports, but as the show has matured, it has become more willing to cast personalities who are famous for other reasons, such as reality TV stars, social media influencers, and even controversial figures, and this shift reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where notoriety and scandal can be just as valuable as talent and accomplishment, stay up-to-date with current trends in the dance entertainment industry with ten-dance.com.
8.2. Changes in Dance Styles and Choreography
While DWTS has always featured traditional ballroom dances like the Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot, the show has gradually incorporated more contemporary and diverse dance styles, such as Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Contemporary, and this has allowed choreographers to push the boundaries of creativity and create routines that are more dynamic and visually engaging. The show has also experimented with theme nights, where dancers perform routines inspired by specific genres, such as movie musicals, Disney films, or Latin music.
8.3. Technological and Social Media Integration
DWTS has embraced new technologies and social media platforms to enhance the viewing experience and engage with its audience, with viewers can now vote for their favorite dancers online, through text messages, and via social media, and the show also utilizes interactive features, such as live polls and Q&A sessions, to encourage audience participation, with social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram have become essential tools for promoting the show, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and building relationships with fans.
9. What Are the Ethical Considerations of Reality TV Casting?
The casting of reality TV shows raises a number of ethical considerations, particularly when it comes to selecting contestants with controversial backgrounds or mental health issues, and producers have a responsibility to ensure that participants are fully aware of the potential risks and consequences of appearing on the show, and that they are not exploited or subjected to undue stress or pressure. According to media ethics experts, reality TV shows should also strive to avoid sensationalism and avoid glorifying harmful behaviors, prioritize ethical and professional values, and much more with ten-dance.com.
Reality TV Ethical Considerations
9.1. Informed Consent and Psychological Screening
Before appearing on a reality TV show, contestants should be provided with comprehensive information about the show’s format, the potential challenges they may face, and the potential impact on their personal lives, and they should also undergo psychological screening to assess their mental health and ensure that they are capable of handling the stress and pressure of the competition, and informed consent should be obtained voluntarily, without any coercion or undue influence.
9.2. Exploitation and Manipulation
Reality TV shows have often been criticized for exploiting and manipulating contestants, with producers sometimes creating artificial conflicts or encouraging participants to engage in harmful behaviors in order to generate drama and increase ratings, and this can have serious consequences for the contestants, leading to emotional distress, reputational damage, and even mental health problems, and reality TV shows should prioritize the well-being of their participants and avoid any practices that could be considered exploitative or manipulative.
9.3. Privacy and Confidentiality
Contestants on reality TV shows often have to reveal personal information about themselves, their relationships, and their past experiences, and producers have a responsibility to protect their privacy and confidentiality, ensuring that sensitive information is not disclosed without their consent, and contestants should also be given the opportunity to review and approve any footage that is used on the show, and they should be able to request that certain information be kept confidential.
10. What Are Some Other Controversial DWTS Castings?
Anna Delvey is not the only controversial figure to have appeared on DWTS, with the show has a history of casting personalities who have been involved in scandals, controversies, or legal troubles, and some other notable examples include:
- Sean Spicer: The former White House press secretary sparked outrage when he was cast on DWTS in 2019, with many viewers criticizing the show for giving a platform to someone who had defended controversial policies and made false statements, and his participation led to protests and calls for a boycott of the show.
- Bristol Palin: The daughter of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin appeared on DWTS in 2010 and again in 2012, despite having limited dance experience and a controversial personal life, and her casting was seen by some as a political statement, while others criticized the show for exploiting her family’s fame.
- Tom DeLay: The former House Majority Leader was forced to withdraw from DWTS in 2009 after suffering a stress fracture in his foot, and his casting had already generated controversy due to his past legal troubles, including an indictment on money laundering charges.
Dancing with the Stars Controversial Castings
These castings highlight the ongoing debate about the role of DWTS and other reality TV shows in shaping public opinion and promoting certain values, and they also raise questions about the responsibility of producers to consider the potential impact of their casting decisions on viewers and society as a whole, and find role models for dance and the tools you need to be one at ten-dance.com.
In conclusion, Anna Delvey’s appearance on Dancing with the Stars was a controversial but ultimately successful experiment that generated significant media attention, boosted ratings, and provided viewers with a compelling mix of entertainment and drama, and while her participation raised ethical questions about the casting of reality TV shows, it also highlighted the power of dance to bring people together and to offer second chances.
FAQ: Anna Delvey and Dancing with the Stars
1. Why was Anna Delvey on Dancing with the Stars?
Anna Delvey was likely cast on Dancing with the Stars to generate buzz and attract viewers due to her notoriety. DWTS often includes controversial figures to boost ratings and create media attention.
2. How did the judges score Anna Delvey?
The judges’ scores for Anna Delvey were generally low due to her lack of dance experience and apparent disinterest. They offered constructive criticism but noted her technical deficiencies.
3. Did Anna Delvey enjoy her time on DWTS?
Anna Delvey’s comments suggested mixed feelings about her DWTS experience. She expressed frustration, indifference, and occasional amusement, viewing it more as a publicity opportunity than a genuine athletic endeavor.
4. Who was Anna Delvey’s partner on DWTS?
Ezra Sosa was Anna Delvey’s partner on Dancing with the Stars. He is a professional dancer who helped coach and choreograph her routines.
5. How did Ezra Sosa benefit from partnering with Anna Delvey?
Ezra Sosa gained increased exposure and recognition by partnering with Anna Delvey, which helped launch his career as a professional dancer and build a positive public image.
6. What were the ethical concerns about Anna Delvey being on DWTS?
Ethical concerns included whether DWTS was glorifying a convicted criminal and if it was responsible to provide a platform for someone with a controversial past.
7. How did DWTS handle Anna Delvey’s criminal past?
DWTS addressed Anna Delvey’s past through carefully crafted interviews, video packages, and on-air commentary, aiming to provide context without sensationalizing her crimes.
8. What impact did Anna Delvey have on DWTS ratings?
Anna Delvey’s participation boosted DWTS ratings and viewership numbers, attracting a younger and more diverse audience due to the media attention surrounding her.
9. Has DWTS cast other controversial figures?
Yes, DWTS has a history of casting controversial figures, including Sean Spicer, Bristol Palin, and Tom DeLay, each sparking debates about the show’s ethical responsibilities.
10. What is ten-dance.com’s take on Anna Delvey’s DWTS appearance?
Ten-dance.com views Anna Delvey’s DWTS appearance as a unique case that highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and dance, sparking debate and attracting diverse audiences, offering insights into the art form and the entertainment it provides.
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