Forget About 'Don't Forget The Lyrics'

Despite my initial apprehension, I watched The Singing Bee on Tuesday night and loved it, so I was prepared to give into Fox's Don't Forget the Lyrics as well. Problem is, it wasn't nearly as entertaining.

Where The Singing Bee combines elements of The Price is Right, Wheel of Fortune, and American Idol, Don't Forget the Lyrics simply seems to be a blatant rip-off of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, complete with escalating prize scale and three lifelines. The general concept is the same -- you have to sing along to a song, until it comes time to fill in the lyrics, word-for-word.

I'm not going to say Don't Forget the Lyrics was terrible -- it wasn't. Wayne Brady is certainly a capable (and appropriate) host, and there is great fun to be had in extended karaoke moments, complete with lyrics on the bottom of the screen. Yes, for the second night in a row I was singing on the top of my lungs in my apartment (if any of my neighbors happen to be Idol Thoughts readers -- sorry!)

No, the show is not an abomination. The problem is that The Singing Bee's structure, starting with six contestants and whittling it down to one person who will compete for the $50K prize, allows the show to move so much faster than Don't Forget the Lyrics that the latter show seems slow and kind of boring by comparison. Sure, the stakes are higher on the Fox show, but, like Millionaire, there is so much time spent determining whether or not a contestant should use a lifeline or "lock in their lyrics," that I found myself growing a bit bored -- never a good thing in a 30 minute show.

So basically, if you're going to choose one of these shows to watch, I'd make it The Singing Bee. But for those of you who can't get enough karaoke in your lives, it looks like you'll have two opportunities to get your vocalizing on this summer.

Which show do you prefer -- The Singing Bee or Don't Forget the Lyrics?

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Okay, I Admit It -- I Loved The Singing Bee!

When I was reading about The Singing Bee last week, my eyes rolled back instinctively in my head. While I am an unabashed lover of reality television, I've never really gotten into the primetime gameshows. If the show doesn't feature people who are talented in some way (Ido, So You Think You Can Dance, Top Model), or who are participating in some sort of social experiment (Survivor, Big Brother), I'm not interested. Yes, I realize shows like Deal or No Deal, 1 vs. 100, and Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? are big hits, but they've never been even remotely appealing to me.

But what do ya know -- I loved The Singing Bee! And apparently I wasn't alone -- the show brought in nearly 14 million viewers last night!

A cross between Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right, and American Idol, the show requires its contestants to fill in the lyrics, word-for-word, to well-known songs. Who knew that would be so entertaining? I was in my apartment, singing on the top of my lungs, congratulating myself when I got the lyrics correct, and figuratively beating myself up when I screwed them up. Joey Fatone was a high energy hoot as the host, and the contestants were totally game and easy to root for. All in all, the show had me smiling from ear-to-ear.

I mean, the show wasn't perfect -- the dancers seem a bit unneccesary, and the process of selecting the contestants seemed a bit arbitrary. But, all in all, it was a pretty damn entertaining half-hour, and I'll definitely be tuning in again next week. Heck, I may even check out Fox's Don't Forget the Lyrics tonight. What can I say, I'm on the game show bandwagon!

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The Ten Best Dancing with the Stars Teams of All Time

Another season of Dancing with the Stars has come to an end, which means it's time for...a best-of list!

Below is my list of the Ten Best Dancing with the Stars Pairs throughout the four seasons of the show. Of course, like any best-of list, this is subjective, and there is plenty of room for disagreement. For example, I've got last year's runner-up Mario Lopez finishing higher than last year's winner Emmitt Smith -- that's my opinion, and I'm stickin' to it!

Who do you think is the best pair of all time? Did I leave your favorite off the list? Leave a comment and let me know!

1. Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke
2. Mario Lopez and Karinna Smirnoff
3. Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough
4. Joey Fatone and Kym Johnson
5. Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke
6. Stacey Kiebler and Tony Dobolani
7. Laila Ali and Maksim Chmerkovskiy
8. John O'Hurley and Charlotte Jorgensen
9. Kelly Monaco and Alec Mapa
10. Monique Coleman and Louis van Amstel

Honorable Mentions:
Jerry Rice and Anna Trebunskaya
Joey McIntyre and Ashley Delgrosso
Lisa Rinna and Louis van Amstel

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Apolo Anton Ohno Skates to Victory on Dancing with the Stars

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!

There is nothing more satisfying than investing 13 weeks or so in a reality show and then seeing your favorite take home the prize.

Such was the joy I felt when it was announced that Apolo Anton Ohno was this year's champion of Dancing with the Stars. He won me over with his determination, his sharp, energetic dancing, his amazing chemistry with his partner Julianne -- and, oh yeah, he's kinda cute. My crush started small, back in week one, but became a full-fledged obsession by fairly early in the competition, and hasn't subsided since. Can someone tell me when the speed skating season starts? Is there such a thing?

As for the #2 finisher, Joey Fatone put up quite a fight. In fact, right after the announcement of the winner, I felt actually pangs of sadness for Joey, who so clearly wanted to win this thing. Like Mario Lopez before him, Joey will have to be content with the fact that he put his heart and soul into the competition, and gave thrilling, entertaining performances week after week. And like I've been saying all along, it's only a matter of time before he is back on Broadway -- mark my words.

I also felt a bit of sadness saying goodbye to Laila in third place, as she really has brought a sophistication and elegance to the competition, along with an element of surprise. I mean, who knew this boxer could be so sexy or so graceful? She, Joey, and Apolo are definitely the strongest Top 3 this show has ever had.

As for the rest of the show, I must give the producers some credit for actually putting together a very entertaining finale. I was worried -- more than one results show this season has been a painful, bloated affair. Tonight's show, however, was very self contained, with no random musical guests -- just a celebration of the history and this current season of Dancing with the Stars. All three of the final pairs brought their A-games to their reprised routines (Apolo's was far and away the most exciting), it was nice to see all three former winners return to the ballroom, and it was fun to relive, via clip packages, the journeys of Laila, Joey, and Apolo, as well as Heather, Ian, Billy Ray and the rest of the gang.

So, congratulations Apolo, you deserve it. And nice work to everyone else involved with Dancing with the Stars...it's been fun.

If you like Dancing with the Stars or American Idol, you'll love So You Think You Can Dance, which premieres this Thursday at 8PM. Click here to read Looking Forward to So You Think You Can Dance.

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Dancing with the Stars Finale: Round 2

So, the first round was a tie. Now it's time for the eagerly awaited free-style round...

Laila and Max
When I think of the freestyle round on Dancing with the Stars, I think of the excitement over Kelly Monaco's final dance in Season 1 or Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke's tour de force in Season 2. While it was clear Laila was having a good time, and she does have some good "fly girl" moves, this dance just didn't blow me away. In fact, I prefer Laila doing straight-up ballroom, if you can believe it. I'm a little disappointed.

Not disappointed in Max's physique, though, I must say.

My Grade: 9

Apolo and Julianne
Now that is the kind of excitement that I am talking about! Fun, exuberant, humorous, playful -- this was the most joyful dance of the season, hands down. Sure, Apolo won't be grabbin' a spot on Justin Timberlake's tour anytime soon (it's funny how the celebrities are sharper doing the ballroom and Latin dances than they are during freestyle), but he was having such an infectiously good time it was impossible not to smile while watching it. And some of those lifts and tricks were pretty darn good!

My Grade: 10

Joey and Kym
Wow. Joey has had years of experience performing in front of screaming audiences, and he put all that experience to use tonight, performing an energetic, entertaining dance that showed, as Carrie Ann said, everything that Joey has learned throughout the course of the competition. And those lifts! Easily the most techinically difficult of all three dances.

My Grade: 10

I'd have to call Round 2 a tie between Apolo and Joey, with a bit of an edge to Apolo for sheer originality.

Overall
Well, in my post yesterday Who Should Win Dancing with the Stars? Who Will Win? I said that my vote would go to Apolo but I thought Laila would pull out a victory.

I take it back.

Not the part about Apolo -- he still has my vote, because, all else being equal (and I really do find he and Joey to be equally entertaining) I find it more impressive that Apolo, who is an athlete, can do what he can do, as compared to Joey, who spent years traveling the world performing live. Maybe it is an unfair bias against Joey (although one of those times he performed live was for me -- yes, I was at an 'nysnc concert), but there it is. Plus, I want Apolo to be my boyfriend. Sue me.

No, the part I take back is Laila winning this thing. She had a real shot, but I think she dropped the ball tonight. I now think it will be a battle between the two boys for the trophy, and Apolo will end up taking it home.

There it is -- my fearless prediction -- Apolo will win Dancing with the Stars. Feel free to heckle me if am wrong.

Click here to read Dancing with the Stars Finale: Round 1

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Dancing with the Stars Finale: Round 1

Dancing with the Stars finale! Woo hoo!

Ok, before we get to the performances, I have to say that I think it's a little lame that past "celebrities" from the show (I'm talking about you Rinna, Hamlin and Springer) come to the show each week seeking some tv face-time, and other "celebrities" (I love ya, but I'm talking about you Lance Bass) think appearing in the audience each week is just as good career-wise as, oh I don't know, actually doing something. Get a job people!

Ok, on to the performances...

Laila and Max - Judge's Choice (Paso Doble)
Laila is definitely in it to win it this week, and her paso doble is fiery and very well-executed. I felt flames -- but I think I was hoping for a forest fire. It had aggression, but I can't say it was an aggression I found particularly sexy. Still, a solid start to the show.

My Grade: 9

Apolo and Julianne - Judge's Choice (Rumba)
"They made love on the dance floor. They could have conceived a baby."
Bruno Tanioli, May 21 2007

That, my friends, might be the quote of the season. And, for all of it's hyperbolic glory, it is actually sort of accurate. Apolo and Julianne are dynamite together-- their chemistry is palpable, and Julianne's choreography is dramatic and fabulous. I can't say I totally disagree with Carrie Ann -- something about it did feel a bit rushed and even, dare I say, sloppy. But still, they are so cute, the two of them, I can hardly stand it.

My Grade: 9

Joey and Kym - Judge's Choice (Cha Cha)
Wow, the judges are really a buzzkill tonight. That was such fun to watch -- clever, funky, and sharp. Ok, maybe it wasn't cha-cha enough (whatever the heck that means), and for all of the cheekiness it actually felt a little stiff to me at parts, but it wasn't nearly as bad as the judges made it to be.

My Grade: 9

Looks like I'm calling the first round a tie.

Click here for Dancing with the Stars Finale: Round 2

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Who Should Win Dancing with the Stars?

I came into this season of Dancing with the Stars begrudgingly, thinking that I might just be over the whole thing. Boy, was I wrong.

I fell hook, line and sinker for Apolo and Joey, Laila and even Heather. Sure I have my gripes about the show (I can't stand that Samantha Harris!), but some of the dancing was so entertaining I was able to look past even the biggest of my complaints (those bloated results shows!) Adding to the excitement if that we've got a final 3 that actually deserve to be there. I'm looking forward to a real fight to the finish.

So who's gonna win this thing? Each has their strengths and weaknesses, but I kinda think any of the three would be worthy winners:

Joey is undeniably entertaining -- he just turns it on as soon as he hits the dance floor, and he manages to add some serious showmanship into all of his routines. Whether he wins this thing or not, I have no doubt he'll back on Broadway by year's end.

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Laila has proven herself to be much more versatile than I would have thought she would or could be -- she is graceful and elegant one moment, sexy and kittenish another. As the only woman left in the competition for the past few weeks, she has definitely had a harder task, having to compete with the professional ladies, but she has more than lived up to the challenge. I would put her up there with Stacey Kiebler as one of the best female dancers ever to be on the show.

And then there is my boy Apolo, adorable Apolo. His determination and passion is clear every time he performs, and he's managed to really infuse his personality into his performances, which is all the more impressive because he is an athlete and not an entertainer. I mean, that is a movie star smile, people, and he's not even a movie star! I think he and Julianne are the best matched couple, as well as the most ambitious, and personally, I'm hoping they take home the prize.

Even though Apolo will get my vote on Monday night, I don't actually think he's going to walk away victorious. The judges seem to be very '10' happy these days, but if they are likely to slip a '9' into the batch it will be for Apolo, whose dancing sometimes loses a sense of sharpness in the midst of all of the tricks he attempts. Laila is almost sure to grab all '10''s, as is Joey, which would leave Apolo at a disadvantage going into the voting round.

So who's gonna win? My prediction (before having seen the final predictions) is Laila -- I think she sealed the deal with the blown kiss to her father, and her dancing really is spectacular.

But, really, any of this could change once the contestants take to the floor on Monday evening -- Apolo just might come out and blow the other two away! Whatever happens, it should be exciting!

Remember, even after American Idol and Dancing with the Stars come to an end, there will continue to be updates on former Idol contestants (including this year's crew), along with recaps and commentary on summer shows "So You Think You Can Dance," "On the Lot," "Top Chef," "Big Brother," "Pirate Queen" and more (see Summer TV) So bookmark Idol Thoughts now!

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Ian Ziering Waltzes Out: Dancing with the Stars Results

It was time for him to go.

Ian Ziering had a good run, he really did. And he had a great partner, who likely has a pretty sizable fanbase herself (I know my friend Nick is a fan club member). But in the end, he just doesn't have the chops of the remaining competitors. Even though at times it was almost painful to see how badly Ian was trying, he ultimately proved himself to be an endearing, if occasionally heartbreaking, character.

Ian's exit leaves us with undoubtedly the competition's three best teams -- Laila and Max, Apolo and Julianne, and Joey and Kym. If last night's electric performances are any indication, that trio should make for a very exciting finale.

I am refusing to comment on the other 50 minutes of filler the producers mandated we sit through to get to the results, except to say that I did find slightly interesting the comparison between the athletes and the entertainers. But only slightly.

Enrique Iglesias? I liked him better with the mole.

Click here to read more posts on Dancing with the Stars, including a recap of Monday night's show

Dancing with the Stars: Wow!

Wow! What a great evening of performances on Dancing with the Stars. It's funny how losing Billy Ray suddenly makes the rest of the competition look that much better.

A few observations on this evening's show:

-Apolo is almost too cute to handle, and his quickstep, for me, was the dance of the night. I was a little less fond of his cha cha (it seemed a bit sloppy to me), but, really, who cares, it was so damn sexy! So much so, I had to rewind it and watch it again!

-Joey really is an entertainer, and if he is not playing Billy Flynn in Chicago on Broadway by the end of 2007, I will be shocked. That Kym is a knockout, too. And can I just say that I love that he is in on the joke about being called Fat-One. Gotta love it.

-Laila has really turned out to be a pretty tremndous dancer. Like, Stacy Kiebler good. It'd be a shame if she got the boot before Ian, but this competition does seem to favor the men, so I wouldn't be surprised if it happened. She can definitely hold her own with the boys, though, that's for sure. And those curves!

-Ian really did come out of his shell during the jive tonight -- good for him. I still find him totally heartbreaking, however, and I kind of want him put out of his misery so we can see a Joey/Laila/Apolo face-off next week. But that crazy Cheryl Burke, she's got some magic going on with her, who knows what she's capable of.

So, there it is...I think Ian should go, but there's a chance Laila could be shown the door. Guess we'll see on a "jam-packed" (with crap) results show tomorrow evening.

Dancing with the Stars /
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Maks Takes it Back -- He Will Stay on Dancing with the Stars

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Helio Castroneves Races to Victory on Dancing with the Stars

The Idol Thoughts Dancing with the Stars Endorsement Goes To...

Jane Seymour Waltzes Out of Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 6: Rankings and Elimination Prediction

Dancing Shocker: Cheetah Girl Sabrina Bryan Eliminated!

Dancing with the Stars Top 7: Rankings and Elimination Prediction

Money Can't Buy You Everything: Mark Cuban Eliminated from Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 9: Rankings and Elimination Prediction

Wayne Newton Sent Packin' on Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 10: Who Will Be Eliminated Tonight?

Youtube Encore: Sabrina Bryan's Jazzy Jive on Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 10: Rankings and Recap

Dancing with the Stars Top 11: Who Will Be Eliminated Tonight?

Youtube Encore: Helio Castrovenes' Fiery Mambo on Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 11: Rankings and Recap

Who Will Be The Next Celeb Eliminated on Dancing with the Stars?

Bye Bye Josie: Model First Eliminated from Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Top 12: Overall Rankings and Elimination Prediction

Dancing with the Stars Top 6 Men: Rankings and Recap

Youtube Encore: Sabrina Bryan's Dancing with the Stars Cha Cha Cha

Dancing with the Stars Top 6 Women: Rankings and Recap

Dancing with the Stars Pros Get Hitched

Dancing with the Stars Contestant is a Model -- And Gorgeous!!

Drew Lachey to Host Dancing with the Stars Spin-Off

Dancing with the Stars Season 5 Contestants Officially Announced

Ten Best Dancing with the Stars Pairs of All Time

Apolo Anton Ohno Skates to Victory on Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars Finale Performance Recap: Fight to the Finish

Who Should Win Dancing with the Stars? Who Will Win?

Ian Ziering Waltzes Out: Dancing with the Stars Results

Dancing with the Stars Top 4: Wow!

Billy Ray Cyrus Two Steps Out of the Competition

Dancing with the Stars Top 5: Dance Like a Butterfly

John Ratzenberger Eliminated from Dancing with the Stars

Twice as Nice: Dancing with the Stars Top 6 Performances

Heather Mills Disabled from the Competition

Ay Carumba: Dancing with the Stars Top 7 Performances

Billy Ray Two Steps Out of the Competition: Dancing with the Stars Results

It was time for him to go, but it doesn't make it any less sad. Yes, Billy Ray Cyrus has (finally) been voted off of Dancing with the Stars.

He wasn't the best dancer on the show -- far from it. But he brought a charm, charisma, sens of humor, and a committment to his performances that far transcended technical skill. I'm gonna miss the guy.

And now we're stuck with another week of Ian Ziering, the stiffest dancer this side of...well, I don't have an end to that statement. He's just stiff.

If Ian gets the boot next week (as he should), we could actually end up wth the season's best three dancers in the finale. Apolo vs. Joey vs. Laila? Should be fun to watch.

Dance Like A Butterfly -- Dancing with the Stars Performances

Here we go again... Dancing with the Stars Top 5:

Ian and Cheryl
Ian is totally heartbreaking. He wants so badly to do well, but, ultimately, he just isn't that good. And, as long as I'm being totally honest, I think Cheryl Burke could have more chemistry with a chair than she has with Ian. I didn't actually think the fox trot was quite as bed as the judges did, but it certainly wasn't smooth and elegant. Their rumba was probably their best dance of the competition, but it still left me cold. I think we may have seen the last of Steve Sanders.

My Grades: 7 and 8

Joey and Kym
Joey is clearly a frontrunner in this competition, but I think he took a few steps back this evening. Joey minus razzle dazzle? Kinda boring. Their waltz was technically proficient, I suppose, but it was bo-o-o-ring. Their mambo shoud have been a return to form for Joey (and some of that choreography looked suspiciously 'nsync-esque), but it felt sloppy and rushed to me. Not Joey's best night.

My Grades: 8 and 8

Billy Ray and Karina
While it's totally adorable to see how badly Billy Ray wants to make Karina proud of him, I am so over watching him simply walk around the stage, pretending like he is dancing. I'm not sure I would agree with Bruno that the fox trot was "deliciously awful" -- I'd go with just plain awful. And the mambo? Embarrassing. I mean, Billy Ray looks like a fool out there (although that face-first dive through Karina's legs was pretty cool). America, please put this guy out of his (and our) misery!

My Grades: 5 and 6

Laila and Max
It's nice to see "the greatest" in the audience cheering on his daughter (and if that kiss she blew to her father during the waltz doesn't earn her a trip to the Top 4, nothing will). Laila looked absolutely gorgeous during her waltz, and it was elegant, although I can't say it was the most inspiring dancing I've seen her do. And while her jive was, as Carrie Ann said, clever and fun, she just didn't seem as light on her feet as someone doing the jive should. Poor Max, though -- getting scolded for his choreography! The guy is working his butt off, cut him some slack!

My Grades: 8 and 8

Apolo and Julianne
If I haven't made it clear in previous weeks, I'm gonna go ahead and spell it out for y'all -- Apolo is my favorite, and I have a huge crush on him (that beanie cap -- totally adorable). I love how seriously he and Julianne are taking the competition -- like the true athlete he is, he is pushing himself to be the very best he can possibly be. And their hard work paid off -- their tango was sharp, sexy, and super-energetic, and their Latin dance was passionate, dramatic, and extremely well danced. I loved nearly every moment of both dances.

My Grades: 9 and 10

Overall, Apolo and Julianne were far and away my favorites of the evening, followed, at a pretty significant distance, by Laila and Max and then Joey and Kym. The worst of the evening was, of course, Billy Ray and Karina, but I'm guessing Ian and Cheryl will get the boot, ending Cheryl's Dancing with the Stars winning streak. Guess we'll see...

Twice As Nice: Dancing with the Stars Performances

You have to give it up for the celebrities on Dancing with the Stars -- learning two new dances can not be easy (the folks over at American Idol don't even have to sing two songs until the Top 5 -- or in this year's case, the Top 4). I would have expected the quality to plummet considering the extra workload, but all in all they acquited themselves quite nicely. On to the performances...

Laila and Max
First off, love Laila's hair. Love it!

It just doesn't seem right that Laila is the only female left in the competition, although considering some of the ladies she was competing with (Leeza? Shandi?) I guess it's not really that surprising (although I do miss Heather a bit). But thank goodness Laila has stuck around, because she is really pretty dazzling to watch. Her quickstep is simply fantastic, and her samba is even better -- sexy, sultry, and sassy, simply a thrill to watch. Two knockouts for Laila.

My Grades: 9 and 10

John and Edyta
I guess if we have to be stuck with a guy who is around more for his personality than for his dance skills, we could do worse than John Ratzenberger (better than Clyde Drexler, at least). While I'm guessing this is his last week in the competition, his waltz really was quite charming, and his rumba was totally passable (even if it was a bit strange to see John and Edyta trying to be "sexy"). I never would have imagined Cliff Clavin would be half as good as John has proven to be.

My Grades: 8 and 6

Apolo and Julianne
Ya know, they do a really good job of matching the professional partners with the celebrities -- I can't imagine a better partner for Apolo than Julianne. I'm also constantly shocked by Apolo's ability to sell the performance -- I mean, lest we forget, he is an athlete, not a performer.

I don't know what Len was smoking tonight, but that fox trot was so entertaining and endearing, I had a smile from ear-to-ear the entire 90 seconds. While I enjoyed his Latin number, however, I thought it was a bit rushed and had a few too many tricks. Having said that, though, and at the risk of sounding redundant, Apolo is dreeeeeeeeeeeeamy.

My Grades: 9 and 8

Ian and Cheryl
Oh my god, Kelly Taylor, Donna Martin, and Brandon Walsh are here to cheer on Steve Sanders? I'm not gonna lie, I'm freaking out a little bit with excitement.

I feel a little badly for Ian -- he so desperately wants to do well, but he just doesn't have the musicality or the charm of Apolo or Joey. And compared to Cheryl's previous partners Drew and Emmitt, he's a bit of a disappointment (you can kind of tell Cheryl thinks so too). His tango was smily and energetic, but I can't say it was exactly good (certainly not worthy of the 9's the judges generously gave him). His Latin dance was a little better (and he seems to have embraced the shimmy, which he was resisting a few weeks ago), but I agree with Len -- I'm just not feelin' the chemistry. I'd be shocked if Cheryl finds herself a three-time winner of this competition.

My Grades: 8 and 8

Billy Ray and Karina
There's no denying Billy Ray is charming, and, to be honest, I'd rather Billy Ray stick around another week than John Ratzenberger. However, I think "showcasing" Karina is a bit of an understatement -- did Billy Ray even dance during the waltz? He made up for it in the Latin round, however, attacking the dance with a vigor and passion we have yet to see from Billy Ray. Sure, he's no Mario, but I'm kind of falling for the guy.

My Grades: 5 and 7

Joey and Kym
Ooh, Joey whipping out an Ian Ziering crack -- that wasn't very nice. All is forgiven after the fox trot, however, which has so much charisma they must have had to come and sweep up the extra charisma off of the dance floor after the dance. Is there a doubt in anyone's mind Joey is going to find himself back on Broadway by the end of the year? (Although I must say Ricky Miner and the band managed to make that Michael Jackson song nearly unrecognizable) The jive was even better and, if possible, more charming -- as Bruno said, a "smashing showcase of talent." Joey also looks like the pounds are flying off -- FatOne no more!

My Grades: 9 and 10

Overall, a shockingly good night of dancing, with Laila & Max and Joey & Kym tying for best of the evening in my book. While I actually gave Billy Ray lower scores than John Ratzenberger, I'm guessing it'll be John who gets the boot tomorrow night. Guess we'll see...

Ay Carumba: Dancing with the Stars Performances

It's Monday night, which can only mean one thing -- it's time for some cheese-tastic Dancing with the Stars. Here we go...

Joey and Kym
Do I detect a bit of homophobia in all of this talk about Joey Fatone and "masculinity"? A little ironic, don't you think, considering Dancing with the Stars is hands down the campiest show on television. As for the dancing, I thought Joey was great -- entertaining, sharp, even a bit sexy (who ever thought I'd be saying that about the Fat-one, who, come to think of it, should perhaps now be referred to as Not-So-Fat-One).
My Score: 9

Heather and Jonathan
I gotta say, seeing Heather fall last week only made me like her more. And how 'bout that, um, cleavage this week? Where did those come from? I can't say I loved the performance (it was a bit sloppy), but I do have respect for the lady.
My Score: 7

John and Edyta
First off, Edyta's body is sick. I have to agree with Carrie Ann -- it was cute. Not good, per se, but, yes, it was cute. Having said that, I'm ready for him to go -- he just doesn't have the chops to keep up with the likes of Joey, Ian, and Apolo, and he's not as charming as George Hamilton or even Jerry Springer. It is, however, good to see that Norm came out to support Cliff Clavin.
My Grade: 6

Laila and Max
I love that Laila has brought her competitive spirit to this competition, and that she shows that desire to win while still maintaining a sense of joy while she is dancing. I loved seeing that funky breakdown at the end, and I'm glad that Laila is so committed that she wants to make sure her own flavor is represented in the final product. I'm liking Laila more and more every week.
My Grade: 9

Billy Ray and Karina
There is no denying that Billy Ray is adorable, but that certainly didn't look like and jive that I have ever seen. It looked more like a kind kinda stumbling all over the stage. Will his charm save him another week? I'm guessing yes.
My Grade: 6

Apolo and Julianne
Every week I fall a little deeper in lust with Apolo. The boy is hot! And he certainly knows how to move his hips! I was a little creeped out by all the brother/sister/lady's bedroom talk, but I'm willing to overlook that because I enjoyed the performance so much. And Julianne is providing some serious competition for Cheryl Burke in terms of who my favorite professional is. Another winner from Apolo.
My Grade: 9

Ian and Cheryl
Ian does something that Joey, Apolo and even Billy Ray don't do -- he takes himself too seriously. If he would just relax and have a little bit of fun, his performances would improve tremendously. As is, he's solid, but he's didn't exactly blow my mind. Eh.
My Grade: 7

The Swing
Wow. That was a big hot mess. A fun hot mess, but a hot mess nonetheless. Props to Joey and Kym, who had the best lift by far, and Laila and Apolo, which literally made me laugh out loud. I can't say any of them came off as skilled dancers, but it was pretty entertaining to watch.


The Latin dances are definitely my favorite, and the celebrities didn't disappoint tonight, with Joey, Laila, and especially Apolo the highlights . While Billy Ray probably gave the weakest performance of the evening, and Ian could possibly get sent home, I'm guessing it's John Ratzenberger who will get the boot. Guess we'll see...

Apolo Steals The Show: Dancing with the Stars Performances

>Every time I begin to get frustrated with some of the tedious ways American Idol is produced, Monday night rolls along and I am reminded that it could be so much worse. The production values on Dancing with the Stars are an embarrassment for any show, let alone one that rakes in as many viewers (and advertising dollars) as this one. From the "technical mishaps" (which occur every week when the camera is focused on someone and the name is off), terrible hosts (Bergeron is fine but that Samantha Harris gets on my last nerve) to the horrible band (that rendition of "Hips Don't Lie"? Really?), the way this show is produced is shameful.

Just had to get that off my chest.

On to the performances:

Ian and Cheryl
Oh Ian, don't you know that real men shimmy? I do love it when they fight on this show, I must say, and it was a little cute (just a little) that Ian was so concerned that they make up. The Broadway star (thanks Nick for the reference) shakes his hips pretty well, but the performance is kind of a mess.
My Grade: 7

Clyde and Elena
Clyde's video clip certainly didn't assuage Len's concern that Clyde isn't putting much effort into this competition. Fine, I understand honoring a prior commitment -- as far as I'm concerned, send Clyde to China for good. The guy's got no place in this competition.
My Grade: 4

Heather and Jonathan
I have a confession to make -- I kinda forgot that Heather only had one leg until about 1/2 way into her performance, that's how entertained I was. Crazy, right? That was a pretty darn good performance, slip and all. Color me impressed.
My Grade: 8

Joey and Kym
I hate Carrie Ann and Len. Joey is clearly a solid enough guy that he is not threatened to acknowledge that he and the openly gay Lance Bass are tight, and then, directly following a segment where Lance taught him how to be sexy and a dance where he lost his girl to Lance, they go and call him feminine? First of all, expect Rosie to call them homophobic on tomorrow's The View, and second of all, they are wrong. That dance was hot.
My Grade: 9

John and Edyta
Watching John dance is a little heartbreaking. He's certainly trying hard (much harder than Clyde, that's for sure), but he just isn't pulling it off. The judges clearly felt badly for their "schoolyard taunting" (good for John for calling them out on that) and overpraised him a bit. I wouldn't be surprised if he's the next to go.
My Grade: 5

Laila and Max
I kinda have a crush on Laila's husband. You gotta be a real man to be with a woman as though as Laila. The dance was solid but left me a little cold, save for that one move toward the end where she moved up the length of his body -- that was hot. Not as good as the judges said it was, but solid nonetheless.
My Grade: 8

Apolo and Julianne
Every week I like Apolo a little more and more. And is it just me, or does he keep getting cuter and cuter as well? His dancing is a bit sloppy, but he's so adorable and has such an infectious energy it is hard not to smile ear-to-ear while he's performing. And this, from an athlete! Not worthy of the not-so-elusive "three10's," but by far my favorite performance of the night.
My Grade: 9

Billy Ray and Karinna
I love Billy Ray's commitment to the show, and I love the line "this does seem like the kind of dance you would want to do in the dark". Genius. The dance however, was pretty embarrassing. It looked like he just spun around in a few circles! He was just standing there! Almost worse than Clyde, but so much more likable.
My Grade: 5

My favorite performance of the evening was definitely Apolo and Julliane, with Joey and Kym a close second. Billy Ray and Clyde tie for worst of the evening, but I'm guessing it is John who will become the first man voted off this year's show. Stay tuned for tomorrow's results show extravaganza, complete with a performance from Lisa Rinna of "Roxie" from the musical "Chicago." Should be a good time.

Stumblin' Around: Dancing WIth the Stars Performance Recap

Appearing on Dancing with the Stars has got to be a little mortifying for the "celebrities" -- they are performing in front of millions of people, doing something they are not trained at, and then on top of that, they are subjected to scathing criticism from the judges and soul-killing eliminations. Having said that, it was so much fun to watch their faces as Len chastised them for only training 13 hours a week, instead of the 19 hours last year's crew was averaging. A sheepish Ian Ziering and Joey Fatone makes me happy, what can I say?

On to the performances...

Laila and Max
I like Laila a lot -- this performance, not so much. When I think of the paso doble (and, truth be told, I don't think of it often, except when I'm watching this show...or So You Think You Can Dance) I think of Cheryl and Drew sensational "Thriller" from Season 2, or Mario and Karina's thrilling performance from last year. This paso was just, well, passable -- Laila can do better.
My Grade: 7

Apolo and Julianne
I'm not gonna lie, I totally have a crush on Apolo. He's adorable! And this waltz was impressive -- sophisticated, romantic, and even a bit fiery (for a waltz, at least). It wasn't the most elegant waltz I've ever seen on the show, but it was solid and very entertaining. I'd definitely like to see more of Apolo -- in more ways than one!
My Grade: 9

Leeza and Tony
If Apolo is this year's B-grade Mario Lopez, Leeza is this year's B-grade Lisa Rinna. Props for that body -- girl is lookin' good -- but like Lisa, while Leeza certainly tries hard, unfortunately for her her dancing looks more awkward than accomplished. After a Bottom 2 showing last week, and very low scores from the judges, Leeza is definitely in danger of elimination.
My Grade: 6

Ian and Cheryl
I really wish they would clarify how Ian earned the title of "Broadway star" -- can someone fill me in as to what show he's been in? Was there a "90210: The Musical" that I don't know about? As for the dance (to a song I had never heard before sung horribly by the band), it was solid, but I can't say I found it tremendously inspiring. Cheryl Burke, however, is always inspiring -- the girl is a star.
My Grade: 7

John and Edyta
It's a bit disorienting to see Cliff Clavin being so humorless -- he's shown glimpses of real personality this season, but tonight was pretty much a disaster. Edyta, however, was gorgeous, and showed Leeza and Laila what a female dancing the paso doble is supposed to look like. John's adorable mother will probably earn him a few votes, but truth be told, I wouldn't be sad to see him go.
My Grade: 5

Clyde and Elena
Unfortunately for Clyde, Jerry Rice and especially Emmitt Smith set the bar very high for athletes-turned-dancers. Unlike those two, not only does Clyde not having an innate sene of rythym, he also doesn't seem very into the whole competition (much to the chagrin of his partner). He didn't embarrass himself, per se, but there is just not much joy in his performance. Get this guy outta here.
My Grade: 5

Billy Ray and Karina
Ay, Karina, with the drama. Everyone on this show needs to chill out a bit -- it's Dancing with the Stars, people, not the quest for the cure for cancer. It's not hard to like Billy Ray -- he certainly is trying hard. Unfortunately, effort (or a smokin' hot partner) does not a dancer make. Stumbling all over the place, this was less a paso doble then a big, fat, sloppy mess. A charming mess, though, nonetheless.
My Grade: 6

Heather and Jonathan
Coming in to this season, I thought I couldn't care less about Heather Mills. As far as I was concerned, she was on the show simply for tabloid fodder's sake, and I had no interest in that. But I gotta say, she is amazing! I thought this was the best waltz of the night, one leg or not. Her extension was fantastic, and those spins were beautiful. And the judges are right -- her partner creates beautiful choreography and is a perfect match for her. Nice work, Heather!
My Grade: 8

Joey and Kim
Wow, it really makes me feel old that Joey Fatone has a 7-year old daughter. Wow. And Lance Bass in the audience, meaning 2/5 of 'nsync is in da house. What, Justin Timberlake was too busy to attend? I was a bit less enthused by the performance than the judges were (a 10, Carrie Ann? Really?), but there is no denying that Joey has a stronger fundamental sense of rythym and movement than any of his competitors. Due to his experience, however, I expected more.
My Grade: 8

Overall I'd say this was a pretty unexciting evening of dancing, with nary a thrilling performance in the bunch. I'd give my "best in show" honors to Apolo, with Joey a close second. As for who's gonna go, I wouldn't be surprised to see Clyde or John get the boot, but I'm predicting we've seen the last of Leeza Gibbons. Think she can convince Mary Hart to do to show next season?

Idol Thoughts on Dancing with the Stars 3/19

I have to say, I wasn't much looking forward to this season of Dancing with the Stars. I'm already deep into American Idol, I've got Amazing Race, Survivor, and Top Model, and it seems like the last season just ended, so do I really have time to invest in another reality show? Plus, Dancing has never been one of my favorites -- I much prefer So You Think You Can Dance (love it!) Don't get me wrong, I do like the show, it just usually takes me a few weeks to warm up and get into it.

So, I sat down to watch the show almost reluctantly. And lo and behold, it was entertaining. From the get-go. Like, really entertaining. I wouldn't have thought it from just looking at their names, but it's a really interesting group of people this year (and I'm not just talking about Heather Mills, who I thought I could care less about but actually found riveting). And somehow their dancing was more fun to watch this time than in years past this early in the season. Go figure.

So, I guess it's added to the list of reality shows. One more won't kill me, right? Right?

A few thoughts on tonight's show:

• I loved his performance, but is it really fair that Joey Fatone is in this competition? He danced for practically 6 years straight in 'nsync, in front of huge audiences. I smell a ringer. On a related note, I LOVE that Kim called him Joey Fat-one. Classic.


• Laila Ali is gorgeous, and she danced beautifully, but there is no way that girl is not on steroids. No female's voice is that low. There's no mistaking those breasts as belonging to anyone else but a woman, though. She certainly knows how to wear a dress.


• How much plastic surgery has Leeza Gibbons had done? Kinda scary.


• Apolo Anton Ono is the cutest! And he was a good dancer, to boot. I think I've got me a favorite...