Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas Discuss Controversial Elimination in “Dancing with the Stars”

In a recent episode of the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy,” Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas opened up about their surprising elimination from Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS). The couple made headlines when they were unexpectedly ousted during the semi-finals, an outcome that shocked fans given their consistently high scores throughout the season. However, the judges’ scores didn’t translate into a favorable fan vote for Leavitt, which has led to considerable backlash surrounding her previous dance experience.

Leavitt, a participant in the hit reality show and known for her role in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, addressed criticisms regarding her dance background, explaining that despite holding a modern dance degree from Brigham Young University, the experience of dancing in tandem with a partner in the DWTS format was a novel challenge. “Dancing with a partner in this capacity is so new to me,” Leavitt stated on the podcast, emphasizing the differences between modern dance and the ballroom style showcased on the show. Her comments shed light on the unique dynamics involved in DWTS, suggesting that her formal training was not as beneficial as some fans believed.

Mark Ballas, a seasoned DWTS professional, echoed Leavitt’s sentiments, discussing the common occurrence of contestants with prior dance experience in every season of the show. Citing examples like Nicole Scherzinger and Jordan Fisher, Ballas highlighted that while fans may have perceived Leavitt’s previous training as an unfair advantage, her natural ability and stage presence played an integral role in indicating her performance skills. "She is a dynamic performer, and that’s something I can’t teach," he remarked, reinforcing the notion that the competition isn’t solely about prior experience but also about individual artistry and charisma.

The conversation took a more serious turn as the duo tackled the online backlash they faced this season. Ballas expressed deep concern over the intense negativity that accompanied their journey, describing how he had never encountered such a concerted effort from fans aiming to vote against a couple. He lamented about the hurtful comments directed toward him, one of which included deeply derogatory language. "I didn’t sign up for that type of hate," Ballas said, revealing the emotional toll this season has taken on him, as he initially joined the show for a joyful experience.

The support for Leavitt was unwavering despite the turmoil, as she articulated that she was accustomed to online criticism but was more affected by seeing Ballas endure harsh remarks for the first time. In a defiant response, she playfully suggested a message for their haters during the podcast, much to the amusement of both hosts and listeners alike. The camaraderie between Leavitt and Ballas was palpable, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity, with Leavitt declaring that the criticism was less impactful when compared to watching someone she cared about being hurt.

Fans were particularly disappointed as Leavitt was considered one of the competition’s most technically proficient dancers, and many had been eagerly anticipating their freestyle performance. Although they were not part of the finale, the duo was given the opportunity to perform their anticipated routine, remotely filmed on a set constructed by the show. The performance was lavish, featuring Leavitt in a showgirl costume that transitioned into a sparkling leotard, set to Frank Sinatra’s renowned track “My Way.” The performance included dramatic elements, such as Leavitt smearing red lipstick on her face, and concluded with a powerful commentary on social media negativity, reading: “Social media is bad for your health.”

Meanwhile, Robert Irwin ultimately took home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy with his partner, Witney Carson, marking a significant turnout in an intense finale. As a frontrunner throughout the season, Irwin expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his sister, Bindi Irwin, who won the same title in 2015. He reflected on the legacy of their family’s outreach efforts through their conservation work, emphasizing the importance of using their platform for good. “It’s about making the world a better place,” he articulated, encapsulating the essence of both the competition and his family’s mission.

In her emotional Instagram posts following the competition, Leavitt candidly shared her feelings about the elimination, likening it to a breakup. She expressed sadness about not being able to practice with Ballas anymore and described their partnership as one that developed into a lifelong friendship. Her heartfelt reflections highlighted the personal growth experienced throughout the competition, leaving fans with a sense of closure and connection to her journey.

As the dust settles from this season of Dancing With the Stars, the experiences shared by Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas resonate beyond the dance floor, reminding audiences of the complexities of artistry, personal struggle, and resilience in the face of public scrutiny. Their conversation serves not only as an insight into the reality of competitive dancing but also as a testament to the emotional weight that accompanies public performances. The lasting impact of their journey is an important reminder for fans and participants alike about the significance of support, understanding, and the role of community in the world of entertainment.