DWTS Scoring: How Are The Stars Judged?

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Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) is a beloved competition that combines the glitz and glamour of ballroom dancing with the suspense of reality TV. A crucial element of the show is its scoring system. But how does DWTS scoring actually work? Let’s break it down.

The Judges' Scores

The primary component of DWTS scoring comes from a panel of judges, typically four experts in dance. Each judge awards a score out of 10 for each performance. Here's what they generally consider:

  • Technique: This covers the dancer's form, footwork, posture, and precision in executing the steps.
  • Performance Quality: Judges assess how well the celebrity embodies the character and emotion of the dance.
  • Choreography: They evaluate the creativity, difficulty, and appropriateness of the routine.
  • Overall Impression: This is a subjective assessment of the entertainment value and impact of the performance.

The scores from each judge are added together, resulting in a total score out of 40 for each couple each week. These scores are prominently displayed and contribute significantly to a couple's fate.

The Audience Vote

While the judges' scores carry considerable weight, the audience also has a say. Viewers can vote for their favorite couples via phone, text, or online during a designated voting window. The number of votes each couple receives is converted into a separate ranking.

Combining Scores and Votes

The judges' scores and audience votes are combined to determine the final leaderboard each week. Here’s how it usually works:

  1. The couples are ranked from highest to lowest based on their combined judges' scores.
  2. The couples are then ranked based on the number of votes they received from the audience.
  3. These two rankings are then usually weighted (e.g., 50% judges' scores and 50% audience vote) to calculate a final combined score.

The couple with the lowest combined score is typically eliminated each week. This system ensures that both technical skill (as assessed by the judges) and popularity (as determined by audience votes) play a role in deciding who stays and who goes.

Twists and Variations

It's worth noting that DWTS sometimes introduces variations to the scoring system, such as:

  • Guest Judges: Occasionally, guest judges join the panel, adding a fresh perspective and potentially influencing the scores.
  • Special Rounds: Theme nights or special rounds might have different scoring criteria or additional points available.
  • Judges' Save: In some seasons, judges have the power to save one couple from elimination, adding another layer of complexity.

Why It Matters

Understanding the DWTS scoring system is key to appreciating the nuances of the competition. It highlights the importance of both technical proficiency and audience appeal, making for an engaging and unpredictable viewing experience.

So, the next time you tune in to Dancing with the Stars, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how the scores are tallied and how each couple's journey hangs in the balance. Who will get your vote? (CTA: Share this article with your DWTS-loving friends!)