Dancing With The Stars: The Premiere!

 

It's back! One of my favorite shows, Dancing with the Stars, began it's new season last night.  When the case was first announced, I was a tiny bit disappointed.  There were just a lot of names that I didn't recognize.  So I approached last night's episode with cautious excitement.  It's just always better when you know who the stars are before the show.  In my humble opinion of course. 

First, we need to address Erin Andrews replacement of Brooke.  I have to admit I was a little shocked when I heard about the switch-a-roo.  Brooke seemed to do a good job, and I had no issues at all with her as co-host.  I should add, however, that I have always thought that the show made a mistake way back when they chose Brooke over Melissa Rycroft.  She would be fabulous! But as usual, ABC didn't ask little ol' me.

1. First to dance was Nene Leakes. I honestly may be the only person alive who didn't already know who she was, but I didn't. I had heard her name a few times, but that's it.  She looked like she was having so much fun.  I also couldn't help but notice that she looked beyond thankful to be done. She had so much relief on her face! One more thought...how in the world are her teeth that white?!?! WOW.  Scores: 7, 7, 7

2. James Maslow, the cutie patooty, came on next.  Again, no clue who he was.  However, Claire knew and filled me right in.  Apparently, he's from Big Time Rush.  I would assume that's a reality tv show being created to film live at the Murray house every morning before school.  Right out of the gate, the producers are trying to get us roped into a SHOWmance.  Apparently, James and his partner Peta went out on one date a while back, and now we will all be watching to see what unfolds in the weeks to come....I thought he did a great job dancing (and looking like a cutie patooty) and definitely has some potential.  I need to mention that Peta's dress looked like a pair of suspenders.  I could have used a little more coverage.  Ahem.  Scores: 7, 7, 7 (should have been higher)

3. Danica McKellar, otherwise known as Brian's teenage love of his life aka Winnie Cooper, was the third to dance. Seriously, Brian would list The Wonder Years in his top three favorite shows ever. I never really liked it. I did hope that he might agree to watch it with me this season since his old friend Winnie was dancing.  No such luck.  Even Winnie Cooper can't make him a DWTS viewer. So I give up. She did a great job and was just so excited to be there. Scores: 8, 8, 8

4. Sean Avery (WHO?) was fourth.  Never in my life have I even heard the name Sean Avery.  Granted, I do live under a rock at times, but who?!?! He didn't exactly impress me when he started talking and described himself as a "bad boy".  His voice was kind of monotone, but Karina says he's funny.  He did a lot of running, jumping, and catching Karina.  Scores: 7, 6, 7

5. Billy Dee Williams was next.  Because I was never much of a Star Wars fan, I really wasn't familiar with him either.  See above: I live under a rock.  Bless him.  He's 77 years old with arthritis and two hip replacements so I say, "You go boy"! He's a cute little fellow and seemed to be having fun.  Scores: 5, 5, 5

6. Meryl Davis, an Olympic ice skater, danced her way right into my heart.  She just seems so precious! I also thought she did a fantastic job dancing.  Scores: 8, 8, 8

7.  Candace Cameron Bure was one of the only people that I recognized.  She immediately made a statement about faith, family, and modesty. So I sent a fist bump through the tv screen. Then she did a wonderful job dancing, so I'm really excited and hopeful that she will stick around for a while. Scores: 9, 8, 8

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8. Cody Simpson ~ I've at least heard the name. Ha! He's only 17 years old and full of energy for sure.  I love his Australian accent.  I'm not sure about his dancing style, but time will tell! Scores: 7, 7, 7

9. Now Drew Carey, I know! He was next to dance, and I couldn't get over how much weight he has lost.  Yay for him! He made a good effort. Scores: 7, 7, 7

10. I'm sad to say I didn't know who Amy Purcy was before, but she is amazing.  She is a snowboarder with two prosthetic legs.  I promise you that I couldn't snowboard with two natural, albeit chunky and wobbly, legs.  I was just so proud for her and her accomplishments. I'm definitely a fan already! I accidentally forgot to write down her scores probably due to my shock of what I just watched her do!

11. Diana Nyad, the swimmer who swam from Cuba to Florida, danced next. The dance just seemed a little slow overall for me. I did love her motto though of  "Never, ever give up"! Scores: 6, 6, 6 

12. Charlie White, another Olympic ice skater, was the last to dance. He seemed like a very nice guy and danced really well. I'm anxious to see him dance more for sure. His scores were the best for the night: 9, 9, 9

So, after watching the new contestants dance and hearing some of their back stories, I'm very excited for the rest of the season. I just wish we didn't have to wait a whole week until it comes back on again! I'd love to know what you thought about the premiere!