It’s been a while since Dancing with the Stars was a regular part of my TV viewing. Back in the day, I was hooked, especially when pros like Derek and Julianne Hough were tearing up the dance floor, not sitting at the judges’ table or hosting. I remember being impressed by celebrity contestants like Zendaya, Shawn Johnson, and Jerry Rice, who graced the show in 2013, 2009, and 2006, respectively. Life happened, viewing habits changed, and DWTS slipped off my radar. However, with Season 33 premiering on the 2024 TV schedule, something sparked my interest, and I decided to Watch Dancing With The Stars for the first time in years.
As I settled in to watch Dancing with the Stars, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. It was comforting and familiar, like revisiting an old friend. But beyond the warm feelings, what truly captivated me this time around was a fresh appreciation for the judges and their insightful, constructive criticism.
RYLEE ARNOLD and STEPHEN NEDOROSCIK performing high kicks on Dancing with the Stars
(Image credit: Disney/Eric McCandless)
The Olympic Spark That Reignited My Interest to Watch Dancing with the Stars
My decision to watch Dancing with the Stars again wasn’t random; it was ignited by the Olympics. Like many, I was completely captivated by the men’s gymnastics team during the recent games. Stephen Nedoroscik’s mesmerizing pommel horse routines, in particular, were unforgettable. Then, my TikTok feed became filled with the infectious energy of rugby player Ilona Maher and her fun-loving videos. Learning that both this incredible pommel horse specialist and the charismatic rugby star were joining the DWTS Season 33 cast was the push I needed. I knew I had to tune in and see how these athletes would translate their skills to the ballroom.
Read More About Season 33 Of Dancing With The Stars
Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and Julianne Hough share a lighthearted moment on the Dancing With The Stars set.
(Image credit: ABC )
So, on a recent Tuesday evening, around 9 p.m., I fired up my Disney+ subscription and prepared to watch Dancing with the Stars live – or almost live. I opted for an hour delay, a strategic move to fast-forward through commercials. Ironically, even this act of time-shifting triggered a nostalgic pang, reminding me of watching the show on my family’s old DVR.
The contestant introduction packages, followed by their passionate performances on the dance floor, immediately transported me back to my childhood. I could almost feel myself sitting alongside my family, captivated by the glitz and glamour of the show. I found myself mentally picking my favorites for Season 33 – definitely rooting for Stephen and Rylee! And I was genuinely impressed and smiling wide at the strong first-week performances from celebrities like Chandler Kinney, Joey Graziadei, and Dwight Howard.
Adding another layer of nostalgia was seeing familiar faces amongst the pros. While I recognize Witney Carson, Jenna Johnson, and Alan Bersten as seasoned DWTS veterans, my first memories of them are from So You Think You Can Dance. Seeing how much they’ve grown and evolved since their SYTYCD days was a delightful surprise.
A Newfound Respect for the Judges’ Constructive Feedback on Dancing with the Stars
While the nostalgia was potent, the most significant takeaway from my return to watch Dancing with the Stars was a newfound appreciation for the judges.
Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli holding up score cards on Dancing With The Stars.
(Image credit: Disney/Eric McCandless)
When I was younger, the judges’ critiques were just background noise. I was impatient to get back to the dancing! Frankly, I didn’t grasp the value of constructive criticism. However, as someone who now works as a journalist, both giving and receiving edits, I understand and value insightful feedback.
Watching Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli deliver their comments was truly enlightening. They masterfully balanced praise with actionable advice. From commending Stephen Nedoroscik’s energy while suggesting he point his toes, to assuring Ilona Maher that her athleticism was evident and could be channeled into her dance technique – it was all incredibly valuable.
I was struck by how effectively they offered both encouragement and concrete steps for improvement. The dancers can directly apply this feedback to their next performances, and as a viewer, I can also use these points to deepen my understanding and appreciation as I watch Dancing with the Stars and witness their growth throughout the season.
There was no negativity or harshness, only a genuine desire to foster growth and improvement. This positive and encouraging approach elevated the entire experience of watch Dancing with the Stars.
Overall, my return to watch Dancing with the Stars was overwhelmingly positive. It was a delightful blend of nostalgia and newfound appreciation. I am now fully committed to watching the upcoming episodes every week on ABC and Disney+ at 8 p.m. ET. If you are looking for an uplifting and entertaining show, I highly recommend you tune in and watch Dancing with the Stars too!
