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Jenna Dewan moved quickly from surprise to performance, turning a sudden lineup change on Dancing With the Stars into a heartfelt moment. When her regular partner was sidelined, she and a replacement pro pulled together a polished routine in a matter of days.
Last-minute partner change and a tight rehearsal clock
When Val Chmerkovskiy was suspended, pro Alan Bersten stepped in at short notice. Dewan and Bersten had barely more than a weekend to prepare.
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- Rehearsal time: roughly two and a half days to stage and polish the dance.
- Coordination: Val and the fill-in remained in touch about choreography and tone.
- Mental approach: Dewan emphasized adapting quickly and keeping focus under pressure.
Bersten later said the team exchanged ideas with Chmerkovskiy before the episode. That dialogue helped shape the dance and kept the original spirit intact.
Tribute dance: a Viennese waltz for family
Dewan chose a Viennese waltz to the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” as a dedication to her mother. The performance resonated with viewers and judges alike.
- Score: the routine earned a 37 out of 40.
- Milestone: it delivered Dewan’s first perfect 10 of the season.
- Judges highlighted the emotional connection and refined technique on the floor.
On-air feedback praised Dewan’s elegance and growth. One judge noted her class and poise, while another described the dance as a significant breakthrough in her season.
How the cast handled controversy and public reaction
The shake-up followed a social-media remark by Chmerkovskiy that referenced Will Smith’s Oscars moment. The comment drew swift backlash from fans and the production team.
- Chmerkovskiy’s post was deleted after criticism.
- He issued a public apology addressing the misstep.
- BBC Studios, the show’s producer, announced a one-week suspension.
A source close to production told media outlets that the suspension surprised Chmerkovskiy, but he accepted the decision and cooperated with the show’s process.
Reactions offstage: support, messages and a quick return
Val reportedly watched the episode from home. After the broadcast, he thanked Bersten on social media for stepping in.
- He left a public message commending the fill-in’s performance.
- Insiders said the suspension was later lifted.
- Return plans: Chmerkovskiy was expected back at rehearsals the following day.
Production insiders indicated Val would rejoin Dewan ahead of the next themed episode, giving the pair time to reconnect before live night.
What’s next on the dance floor: upcoming theme and stakes
The show moves on to “Horror Movie Night” next week. Producers have raised the stakes: two couples will face elimination.
- Couples will need fresh choreography and strong storytelling.
- Rehearsal time and chemistry will be critical as partners regroup.
- Expect judges to weigh both technical skill and emotional delivery.
Behind-the-scenes teamwork
The episode underscored the show’s collaborative nature. When unexpected events occur, dancers, choreographers and producers must improvise.
- Communication across the cast smoothed the transition.
- Fill-in pros must quickly honor the original creative intent.
- Competitors stressed the importance of staying present and performing for the audience.
