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October 25th, 2011
10:35 AM ET
Pro loses cool, fights with judges on 'DWTS'Leave it to Maksim Chmerkovskiy to provide the water cooler moment of this season's "Dancing With the Stars." The talented but occasionally hotheaded pro went at it with judge Len Goodman after Len referred to Maksim's dance with Hope Solo as "the worst dance of the whole season," adding that Maksim was partly to blame for the poor performance. After Len reminded Maksim that he's been involved with the dance business for some five decades, Maksim suggested that maybe it was time for Len to retire. Maksim then had words with Carrie Ann Inaba after she criticized him for acting inappropriate toward Len.
Speaking to co-host Brooke Burke Charvet in the "celebrity skybox," Maksim went off again, saying that "DWTS" was "my show," and that he "helped make it what it is." The dance in question was a rumba done to the music from the Broadway musical "Rent." The storyline heading into last night's dance for Hope was her struggle to perform in a less "masculine" style and display more femininity in her routines. But last night looked to be a step back for Hope, as her moves looked robotic and she had Maksim do much of the dirty work. The judges, while critical, did commend Hope for working hard, with Len noting that he "never lost faith" in her. But the dance, alas, was not up to the standards she showed in previous weeks. Hope Solo: 20/30 (Carrie Ann Inaba 7, Len Goodman 6, Bruno Tonioli 7) So when all is said and done, who is to blame for this dustup? It's clear watching Maksim that, while a gifted dancer, his blowups clearly do not help the cause of his celebrity partners. This isn't the first time Maksim has had a row with the judges, and it likely won't be the last. He also comes off as a foul-mouthed bully toward his celebrity partners during practice sessions, but crafty editing could be to blame. Nevertheless, watching Maksim go off on people and then acting later like it's "water under the bridge" is disturbing. Perhaps ABC would be smart to rest Maksim for one tournament and make him work out his anger issues before returning to the show. The judges must also take some blame as well. The scoring this season has been quite inconsistent - see the Chynna Phillips "brain lock" incident as an example - and suggests that favoritism is at play. To top it off, the language that some of the judges have used to describe the performances can be inappropriate. Bruno Tonioli referring to Chaz Bono last night as a "cute little penguin" during his critique of the transgender activist's tango was particularly insulting. Finally, ABC must also take the blame for not reigning all this nonsense in. With ratings down 20 percent in the 18-49 demo compared to last year, perhaps fans are starting to grow tired of the playground fare. So how did the other six celebrities do on "Broadway Week"? Rob Kardashian was the first to perform last night, and he did a cha-cha to "Walk Like a Man" from "Jersey Boys." Once again, America's sixth-favorite Kardashian looked more confident and charismatic, but there were times where he appeared stiff and unsure. Len Goodman praised Rob for a clean and precise dance, but warned that it lacked rhythm. Carrie Ann Inaba noted that Rob was no longer a boy but not yet a man, but the more she tried to clarify this, the more perverted it started to sound. Rob Kardashian: 22/30 (Inaba 8, Goodman 7, Tonioli 7) HLN legal eagle Nancy Grace was up next, and she dressed as a Medieval Times extra to perform a foxtrot to "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life" from "Monty Python's Spamalot." The music alone earned this routine a "10" in my book. Nancy really stepped up her game this week. She mentioned in practice that she had to step up her choreography if she wanted to advance, and she definitely did that. The routine was easily her most challenging dance of the season, but Nancy managed to handle it well. Bruno Tonioli praised Nancy for doing a classy dance with a silly song, while Carrie Ann congratulated her for "proving her wrong." Grumpy Len questioned Nancy's foxtrot technique, leading to Bruno and Carrie Ann going after Len! Nancy Grace: 24/30 (Inaba 9, Goodman 7, Tonioli 8 ) David Arquette did a quickstep to "We Go Together" from "Grease," and he looked good maintaining proper pose throughout the routine. Like Rob, he's visibly showing improved confidence week after week. Len called the dance "rough around the edges" but fun, while Carrie Ann said David looked out of sync at times. David Arquette: 23/30 (Inaba 8, Goodman 7, Tonioli 8 ) We're now up to Ricki Lake, who stumbled last week after three straight weeks at the top of the dancing charts. She's looking to get back on track with a quickstep set to the music of "Guys and Dolls." Ricki managed to maintain a decent hold throughout the routine, and she doesn't struggle at all with the high-energy moves required from the dance. The result was a well-deserved standing ovation from the crowd and two of the judges (Grumpy Len preferred to keep his seat). Len said Ricki's motor was on overdrive, adding that he loved the routine. Carrie Ann called the dance "poetry in motion." Ricki Lake: 29/30 (Inaba 10, Goodman 9, Tonioli 10) Chaz Bono had to follow up on Ricki's judge-pleasing performance with a tango performed to "Phantom of the Opera." Once again, Chaz gave it his all and looked to be having fun. But once again, it seemed to take a while for Chaz and Lacey Schwimmer to get the routine going. Chaz may have also erred by wearing the patented "Phantom" mask through most of the routine. The judges agreed that while Chaz tried hard and looked aggressive, the choreography seemed flat and the music didn't fit his style. Chaz Bono: 19/30 (Inaba 7, Goodman 6, Tonioli 6) After Hope Solo's routine, J.R. Martinez was the final celebrity to compete and, once again, he delivered, performing a quickstep that was fast-paced and breezy. He may be the only celebrity dancer this season to hit his mark week after week. Len Goodman said J.R.'s quicksteps may be one of the best in the history of the show, yet he only gave him a "9". What warrants a "10" in Mr. Goodman's eyes? J.R. Martinez: 29/30 (Inaba 10, Goodman 9, Tonioli 10) The seven couples then performed a group dance that wasn't scored. The judges were quick to praise Nancy, Ricki and Rob for their work as a group. What did you think of last night's "Dancing With the Stars"? Who will be eliminated tonight? And who do you blame for "Maksim-gate"?
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Nancy , What do you think about all these dumb-ass tea party-ers and republicans that speak their mine about the president of united states President BARACK OBAMA. If you think that Maks should be punishfor him speaking up .well all those racist figure head should be punish too . They are so disrespectful to our current president never treated bush or any others.
@ Dee LG....As much as I agree, with your assessment of the situation, this is not the venue for a political discourse. There are other comment boards for that.
As a person who is paid to judge (not in the field of dance), the one best rule is to not make your judging comments personal. Technically, you are not judging a person, you are judging their work, performance, skills, or technique. Any criticism given should be beneficial with constructive comments about how what you see as a flaw can be improved. They certainly should not be degrading or demeaning.
I can understand Chaz Bono being hurt and upset when a judge is so unprofessional that they use a phrase including the word Penquin to describe a dance movement. Couldn't Bruno have simply stated. "Your movements are not centered and stable, you had a tendency to move from side to side which could be improved by centering your core, and moving your feet this way." That would be more helpful and less hurtful to the performer.
As for Len, yes he may have 50 years of experience. In my own field, I know judges who have 50 years of experience...this however does not always make them current with what is being judged, or what is happening in the field today. Every creative field grows and changes over time. Maks nailed it right on this one, Len should retire. Len's out-of-date views are obvious every time the audience groans during his judging comments.
It's time to get back to what this show is about – dance , not a agenda . since last years show large blocks of "voters" have been useing the show to push their cause. political , social , or personal. get back to basics or loose your viewing public.
It makes me wonder how the pros and the "STARS" that are NOT stars can mouth off about abuse they take and the media has the audacity to glorify that crap when everyone one on the show is compensated VERY well to take their so called judgements! What kind of integrity do the producers have putting mentally unstable and infirm guest on the show? Knowing this controversy is just a ratings ploy makes me sick when so many people are trying their best to save their lives and feed their families. I for one will no longer watch or support this show. BOOOOO on you!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbAQfSa4WyY&feature=player_embedded
I am one of the demographics that isn't watching this season because of the lynch mob inducer, Nancy Grace. I love Maks and if they kick him off the show, I will not be back to watch next season either!
Maks needs to go – he is no fun to watch and his arrogance spoils whatever talent he has. Len's job is to judge and speak his mind about his impression of the overall presentation. Maks was rude and totally out-of-line when he claimed that it is HIS show.
Also....Would you put up with the judges calling the dancers names and tearing them to shreds if you were on the show?. I'm sure the guests did not sign up to be abused by the judges on Dancing with the Stars.
I have to agree with Max on this one. The judges need to stop chastizing and demeaning the guests on their show.
Hippy hips Carrie Ann is a conceited and cruel little thing, Len-a dinosaur that needs to move along, and then there's the poor little dimwit of a Bruno, with a name way bigger than his career can ever be. Three judges who have reached the end of their careers, and this is all they are left capable of doing.
Of course, we web commenters would NEVER stoop to their level and write anything mean about anyone!
Nancy cannot dance. Hardly moves her feet. I did not like her remark about JR last evening. He is a War hero. If she had ever been thru what he did to protect her and her family Maybe she could keep her mouth shut. JR is the best. Ricki and Dereck are great also. Judges need to be replaced??????
I get really offended when someone ignorantly states that men who go to war do it to "protect her and her family". Let's be honest...there are many reasons which one might wish to join the armed services and I've met so many people who have done (or wish to do so) for their own personal reasons whether it be for citizenship, to get away from a small town with no opportunities, to pay for their education (many do this), etc. Yes, there are some who wish to protect others and they feel as though they can accomplish this by going to "War". I disagree. We are now sophisticated enough to have seen that far from protecting "her and her family" America's warmongering has actually made people like me, who delight in international travel, more at risk than ever. I'm a Christian and my only protector is Jesus Christ, not some men in suits who cleverly manipulate poor blacks, whites and latinos into shedding their blood overseas while their own comfortable families are safely at home. (Colin Powell and Joe Biden are the exceptions.) I feel for J.R., but like many ex-service men will tell you, they go overseas for nothing more than U.S. hegemony.
i agree with Kathi and Cheryl, Max needs to sit one out! he has gotten too big for his britches, the show has been on long enough for all the (hummmm) stars to know that there will be harsh comments made, if you cant stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! Max is a jerk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and should be fired! It isnt his show.
It's all part of the hype. This show is on it's last legs and doing anything it can to keep afloat.
I love Maks. He was right. He only said what we were all thinking. Can't imagine the show without any of them. The judges must have been afraid of bad press from Cher fans.
I think is funny how someone can jump in and say NOT to show disrespect, on this show.. but i think that is all the judges do on this show, they call people names and make fun of them. I watch the show with my son and i have to tell him to never say those kind of hurtful things to ANYONE.. and i think that is really sad. They need to remind these judges they are to judge the dance... NOT say Hurtful things to people.. and if they can dish to people they better be able to TAKE it also..
Isn't it amazing how a judge can call someone a penquin and an ewok and not a thing is said. Judges are there to judge the dance NOT BE RUDE. But when a professional dancer calls a judge out on something he is ostrosized. Brunos comments about Chaz were deplorable and I think he owes Chaz an apology. As far as Len telling Hope that was her worst dance is degrading. If he has been judging so long, you would think he would weigh his words better and Carrie Ann Inaba should have just kept her mouth shut.
I totally agree Richard,
Max was right to stand up for what he believes in and not let the judges bully him. ABC better get on stick and review what the public thinks of this kind of behavior if they want to be back next year.
Really, people. Max is a great dancer. Len doesn't like or approve of him which i s his right. Interesting that last season he loved him because he schlepped Kirstie Alley across the floor. It strikes me as very interesting that the one man who could whine and complain, JR, never does. God Bless this wonderful wounded warrior who deserves all his great scores
The judges should be able to pass judgement without the nasty remmarks, the stars are not professional dancers and work very hard to perform at the level of professional dancers. The blowups between the professionals and the judges is the fault of ABC and The producers.foe letting get that far. This isn't the first time this has haapened and I'm sure it won't be the last. SHAME ON ABC.ratings should tell them viewers really just want to entertained.
Conflict IS entertaining. The quickest way to kill DWTS would be to have everyone be "nice" to each other. They could even drop the judging and not make anyone feel like a loser by sending them home. Nice, nice, nice. Just sequins and feathers and... yawning... ratings dropping... what else is on? Conflict, that's what's on.
I'm sure tonight it will all be glossed over. Tom kept trying to make a joke out of it. The guy who was voted out last week (the flaming gay guy, who I kind of liked, but can't think of his name) kind of said it all when the judges made fun of him one week and at rehearsals with the camera running...he said, " That was like high school all over again." I know the judges are pretty good at what they do, but they can be cruel in their comments. I actually like it when the pro's stand up to them once in a while. ANY comment can be said nicely. I think Hope may be going home tonight or Chaz. I've actually enjoyed seeing Chaz on this show. He is someone I think I'd like to sit down with and have coffee. He has a really nice smile. I think Hope wants to go. I don't think she is enjoying this one bit.
I think the comments that Len and Bruno made are sometimes not constructive, ,just rude. There is no reason to be rude to the stars. They put in long hours of practicing, they dont have experience, and they are trying their best. They only have a week to learn the dancing and Im sure that is hard. Carrie Ann gives helful comments and she almost always try to say something [psitive abou the performance. I think that is the way it should be handled. There is no reason for Bruno to refer to Chaz a a dancing penguin. I felt so sorry for him. He looked like he was really embraced. They don't make comments about the way Brunco acts. Sometime I mute the TV when Bruno and Len give their comments, because I feel so sorry for the stars. I really look forward to watching DWTS. If I'm not home I tape it. But when they make comments like that I think twice about watching it. I really think Len and Bruno should try to give their comments a little more constructive. They are by any means perfect. They remind me of Simon on Idol. There is enough negitiveity in the world today without a TV shows contributing to that.
I agree!
I don't think comparing Chaz to a "cute little penguin" was insulting at all. I could think of several was to describe the dance that would be accurate and much more insulting. And where is the insult by the way? Cute isn't insulting, Little, while gratuitous in this case, is not insulting. So is it penguin? What if he was called a cute little teddy bear, is this OK. The fact is that the dance was not good. Comparing him to a cute little penguin was is much kinder than saying " the dance stunk, it's time for you to go." Which, by the way should have happened at least three weeks, if not sooner. And certainly before Chynna Phillips or Kristin Cavallari.
As for Maks and Len. Good for Maks. He's the on only one with a big enough pair to speak his mind. While hope is not the best dancer by far, she certainly is no where close to as bad a she has been scored. This season more that before, I believe that the scoring reflects the need to keep popular or controversial personalities on the show for ratings, instead of rating on dancing ability.
I agree–even Chaz' partner said he is "cute" and "adorable". And you are right, Bruno's remarks could have been much more cutting. So here we have two dancers responding to judges they disagree with. Maks says what he thinks and maybe over-reacts but is honest. Chaz gets kinda whiny. I would rather see more of Maks' directness. Sometimes you can almost see Len's knickers twisting–you tell 'im, Maks!
Judging by it's very nature is subjective, but to judge Chaz or Nancy against Hope as dancers on the same level is a mistake. Hope is able to move more smoothly, more gracefully and has a better overall fluidity of movement IN COMPARISON to Nancy or Chaz. I'm NOT saying Hope is amazingly graceful, just better specifically than those other two. Maks was right to call the judges on this error, although he could have done it more diplomatically...No, you're right, he probably couldn't ;-). Anyway, I would put Hope at a similar level as Courtney Cox's ex (ex?) or the unknown Kardasian for dance skill. I mean, Nancy Grace deserving of a "9"? Come on. That alone is insulting to the rest of the dancers. The judging this season has been way off balance.
Smooth, grace and fluid are not three words that would ever come to mind when thinking of Hope Solo dancing. Trucker, butch and the phrase "I thought Chaz was the transgender" do. Hope moves like a man.
Maks was spot on with his comments to Len. His retirement is long overdue. It's very obvious that Len has a problem with Maks. He is very critical and seems to go out of his way to pick on Maks & his partners. He even went so far as to comment on Hope's wearing boots. Lens bias was even more clear when he handed out a score of six. No way did maks & Hope deserve that. This whole year has been disappointing. The judges pick their favorites and give the high scores to them. If it weren't for the professional dancers like Maks and Cheryl coming back season after season, the show would not be worth watching!!! ABC definitely needs to find a new panel of judges. until they do, I predict the ratings will continue to fall.
exactly
It's been happening in prior seasons. Remember Bristol Palin? Len and Carrie Anne never gave her any criticism that came as close to rudeness as what they gave to Hope Solo, and they even rewarded her with scores she didn't deserve. Sure, the votes helped, but the judges' scores also propped it up more. I think it goes beyond just the biases, but for ABC wanting certain celebrities to stay longer because they rake in the ratings. This year, though, it seems to have backfired, though I bet Monday's heated exchange brought about a bit of an uptick.
Somebody needs to start slipping Max a couple Prozacs in his predance pina colada umbrella drink. -Art
Max was very disrespectful. I may not be able to hold a light next to his dancing but professionalism is more than just putting on good show. It takes constraint and respect to be a true professional, unless his arrogance thinks he above it all. All three of the judges are professionals as well. If Max is going to turn this in to the REAL LIFE OF DANCING WITH STARTS then I'll tune out. Max needs to go or take criticism and critique like a man and not a spoiled little brat. He needs to learn respect.
The judging is very biased. Tony and Maksim are always targeted by Len and Carrie Ann. Regarding Bruno, he is so out of line with the things that he says, he is rude, crude and obnoxious. His most recent attack on Chaz should be his ticket out the door. Why ABC doesn't reach out to other professionals to judge is beyond me. This is supposed to be a family show. I know that if my children were young, I wouldn't want them watching Bruno's gyrations and bumps. If Maks and Tony go, I probably won't watch any more.
Hope is a man.
...and you are an idiot.
Takes one to know one, right, betty?
Really Betty? That kind of trash talk is what started this whole thing. I can tell that your very jealous of Hope, how pitiful for you.
Keep flirting with my man. You'll c. I'll wipe the floor with u if i was 2 get my hands on u.
Maksim was right on. Len sometimes goes out of his way to be mean spirited. Never ever take Maksim off the show.How boring would that be.
Max could have toned it down but he is right Len could be more tactful in his critique of these dancers since they are not pros and are limited in the time they have to learn an prepare for these dances.
Now maybe we can get rid of Maks and Hope-FINALLY! If this were judged on arrogance and disrespectfulness alone, these two would win it . I get absolutely nothing out of watching a primadonna bully with anger management issues dancing with a whiney girl who thinks she is above it all to begin with. GOODBYE, GOOD RIDDANCE, NEXT!
AGREED!
I would love to see Chaz take it off while doing a pole dance!!
....and I need to find a dull butter knife to gouge my eyes out before that ever happens.
The judges need to stop tip-toeing around dancers with issues and be as truthful with them as they are rude with the potential finalists who have some real talent but seem to evoke the insecurities of Carrie Ann and sarcasim of Len. Thank God, for Bruno!
Maxim needs to go. There are plenty of pros that are much better of a dancer and teacher that he is. His brother needs to go also. When you have a judge involved in dancing, they SHOULD have the last word on what is being done and Len, for one, tells it like it is. This is coming from an ex-pro who over the years was judged by some of the best in the field. We must remember though, this show is a popularity show, not a true dance ability show.
Without Maxin there is not show!!
Really? I say let's give it a try.
Seriously? Max HAS left the show before and *gasp* IT WENT ON!
Although Maks is very talented, this job has gone to his head. He said he "made this show"? Really?? Time for Maks to go.
B S on that statement
Although Max is my favorite, he's still not the show. The world is filled with talented and highly underpaid dancers and I think that the show would benefit from a higher rotation and should seek more (and diverse) talent. Both Max and Derek think that they are the celebrities and their dances are more about them looking good than their D-list celebrity partners. Get rid of the pair of them!
I think you can critique a dance with more finesse than Len has for some of the dancers. It seems the
dramatics of Bruno iare a little too much also. Carri Ann seems to have a great way of judging the dancers
with a lot of finesse and helpful suggestions to help the dancers compete.
I agree! I'm to the point I don't even want to hear what Len and Bruno have to say....like the celebrities and pros have commented on, the reference to an "Animal" and being overweight is totally uncalled for if your going to be a judge on National TV...or anywhere else for that matter! I was glad Max stood up to Len...never have cared for his comments. Maybe Max is right, he needs to retire as a judge! I hope DWTS changes their judges next season if they want people to keep watching the show.
A queen throwing a hissy fit is such a surprise.
Nice Evel...Max isn't a queen. I'd like to see you dance like that!
You must be joking – there is absolutely nothing about Max that is 'queenly'.
What's the matter Evel???? Are you jealous of hunky Max? Get real, the judges need to go. If ABC wants to see higher ratings and keep their show on the air, they better get rid of at least Carrie Ann, she plays favorites and it is very obvious.
I know Max is a hothead, but both Len and Carrie Ann try to prod him into getting mad. Hope is masculine in her dancing but Max is trying hard to make her relax. Last night he did a good job with her. She is so much better than say Chaz. I'm beginning to not like the judges, maybe they need to get a couple of new judges. Carrie Ann is always out to get Max. It shows clearly. I truly try to NOT watch DWTS anymore but I check when Max is going to be on so I can watch him.
I really disagree. For the most part, I think the judges do a really good job. Len I commend particularly, because I think he is honest and doesn't pander to the crowd. I trust his judgement the most overall. As for Maks, I think he should get penalized for such rude, inappropriate behavior. And no, we don't all just get to say what he wants. You don't tell off the judge and insult them for an opinion you disagree with (especailly when it's about you!)/
Maksim, I think you are a rude jerk and they should make you sit the next show out every time you do something like this. If you can't act like a professional, you aren't one and don't belong on the show. That's my story and I'm sticking to it!
I agree 100% with GrayHair Lady!!!!!
Yes, the judges are starting to get on my nerves, too. A little respect for all the dancers who are way out of their comfort zone would go a long way. Some are coddled, others are not. I'll never forget Brunos's rudeness last season, he needs to get over himself. Len's comments can be equally as hurtful, not something I would expect from a true professional. Some good advice to further the contestants' dancing skills would go a long way, they should leave it at that. If they keep up the insulting comments, the pool of quality contestants will dwindle down to nothing. Maksim let it get to him and who can blame him. I hear Lacy cried after Bruno compared Chaz to a Penguin last night. That tells it all.
The judges on dwts are totally out of line and hurtful in their judging. That is so unecessary call the stars hateful names.
Just judge the dancing and provide some helpful hints. Don't comment of their body shape. Just saying!!!!
I totally agree. Maks is the man along with his team of dancers. They have talent and know it. The show can do without these unprofessional judges. Their comments are too personal and have nothing to do with the dancers' skills. Bruno is a fool and should be fired for his unprofessional comments Chaz. Also, in many cases this is a popularity contest and the judges feed into that. Notice how the judges kiss the Kardashians' buns. This boy is horrible and they continue to give him high marks....I think I will stop watching after this season.
Very inconsistent judging every week. The judges reward too much for effort when they have a really bad dancer.
***COUGH**** chazbono ****AHEM....COUGH******
just glad chaz/chad is gone. I was one of the millions – who drew the line in the sand when producers shoved that individual in the face of those who really like the show. Bono's entrance became a statement about something that had nothing to do with dancing. Bono is not a star – in fact, some of the other choices through the years are not either – but at the least, someone who clearly has mental and psychological and emotional issues and clearly doesn't know who he/she wants to me...and takes matters into her/his own hands as to what gender he/she will be – is clearly off balance. Sorry – call it what you want – but changing the gender you're born with is clearly an emotional and mental issue.... I am would think those who enjoyed the show for what it was intended to be will now return.
This is very simple....Maks has character and integrity. He is someone who will stand up when things are so wrong. I think he is absolutely right to speak up...you know some people will let others just stomp all over them and never say anything....no huevos! I watch this show and the judges are way too personal. Chaz had to endure some extremely rude, inappropriate remarks by Bruno. Remember how they treated Michael Bolden...I wanted to scream. Look, this show is not that important, but these nobody judges, I mean nobody's, need to act like professionals and show respect.