Jenna Dewan Defends ‘DWTS’ Casting Amid Backlash: ‘Step Up’ Star and Ex-Janet Jackson Backup Dancer Says ‘I Do Not Know How to Ballroom Dance’
When the cast of “Dancing With the Stars” Season 35 was announced on Wednesday morning, a few of the names raised eyebrows among fans of the reality competition series. The most controversial casting, perhaps, is Jenna Dewan, a professional dancer who started her career as a back
Jenna Dewan's casting on "Dancing With the Stars" Season 35 has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning her inclusion given her professional dancing background. As a former backup dancer for Janet Jackson and star of the "Step Up" film series, Dewan is no stranger to the entertainment industry. However, her admission that she "do[es] not know how to ballroom dance" has raised eyebrows, as the show typically features contestants with little to no dance experience.
Despite the backlash, Dewan's presence on the show could bring a fresh dynamic, given her extensive experience in other forms of dance. Her participation also speaks to the show's ongoing efforts to mix up its casting and appeal to a broader audience. As a seasoned performer, Dewan may be able to leverage her charisma and athleticism to succeed in the competition, even if she's not well-versed in ballroom dance.
What's next to watch is how Dewan's lack of ballroom dance experience will impact her performance and whether she'll be able to quickly adapt to the demands of the show. Fans should also keep an eye on how the show's producers and judges respond to Dewan's unconventional background and whether her celebrity status will influence the competition. Will Dewan prove to be a dark horse in the competition, or will her inexperience hold her back? Stay tuned to find out.
Originally reported by variety.com. TriviaNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.