Week 9 of 'Dancing with the Stars' Marks 20th Anniversary, Four Couples Earn Perfect Scores as One Duo Is Eliminated Ahead of Semifinals
ABC aired the week‑9 episode of "Dancing with the Stars" on Tuesday, marking the series' 20th anniversary while the competition entered its final stretch. The special edition combined nostalgic tributes with heightened stakes, as the show approaches the semifinals next week.
Four couples delivered performances that earned flawless 30‑point scores from the judging panel, a feat that underscores the technical proficiency and entertainment value expected at this stage of the contest. The standout dances included a contemporary routine by a celebrity‑pro pair, a Latin ballroom piece by another duo, a jazz number that blended classic choreography with modern flair, and a final show‑stopper Latin‑pop hybrid that impressed all three judges.
At the same time, the episode featured the first elimination of the season. The couple with the lowest combined tally of judges' scores and audience votes was asked to leave the competition, ending their journey after a series of mixed results. Their departure was announced after a brief recap of their performances, and the host conveyed gratitude for their participation.
The anniversary celebration highlighted two decades of the program's influence on popular culture, noting its launch in 2005 and its evolution from a simple dance contest to a prime‑time staple that has launched careers and inspired countless viewers. The special episode incorporated archival clips and a montage of memorable moments, reinforcing the show's legacy.
Judges offered generic praise, noting that the perfect‑score performances demonstrated “exceptional technique, musicality and connection with the audience.” Industry analysts commented that the surge of perfect scores indicates a narrowing gap between professional and celebrity dancers as the field matures. Social media reactions reflected excitement over the high‑scoring routines and sympathy for the eliminated pair.
Looking ahead, the remaining contestants will face increasingly complex choreography in the semifinals, with the potential for additional perfect scores and further eliminations. The competition remains open, and viewers can expect another week of dramatic performances as the series moves toward its finale.
