Yesterday’s program gave me a euphoric feeling, as my premise that this year’s participants are the most even we’ve ever had, turned out to be 100 percent correct. The theme switch-up became the theme switched on. Even I lit up. The participants delivered beyond my expectations. We saw Rickard and Hampus take home a full pot for two completely different reasons: Hampus because he was soft, graceful and an incredible dancer. Rickard because he was explosive, energetic and showy. On top of this, these two gentlemen mastered the added complexity of having significant height differences with their partner. We saw Charlotte transform from an icy, boring, stomping-down newbie into a hot, sensual, passionate woman with distinct technical qualities—all the things I wanted from her. Now that I know what she can do, I no longer accept the old crap she used to perform. “Not sure whose fault it was” In my opinion and my scores, Renaida performed what was tonight’s challenge. Even though she came off, she still became one with her partner. Because when she got off, he got off too. Adapting to a new partner was the challenge of the evening and then I can forgive Renaida because I’m not sure whose fault it was. As for our other two lovely women – Johanna and Tone – I can only say that they are going from strength to strength. They lit up from the moment the camera came on and proved just how hard they’ve been working this week. Now I must say that I am already tired of being positive. And luckily, they now return to their old partner with newfound skills which in themselves will create adjustment problems and stir the pot anew. “Now the sprint towards the quarter-finals begins” Next week I want everyone to show as clear a development curve as they did this week. Because now the sprint towards the quarter-finals begins in three weeks. They have 21 days to master the final details required to become a fully-fledged competitive dancer and showman. Going forward, I will not look back or forgive our participants – or their dance partners and coaches – for a single mistake. I expect them to perform at their best. Otherwise, I will toss them on my beloved junk pile. Honestly, you shouldn’t accept any crap either if you want a final like no other. And the only way you can do that is to listen to my guidance and give the hell to vote with your heart.
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