“It Gave Me a Push” — Dancing with the Stars Alumni Chandler Kinney Recaps Her Inspiring Comeback Performance

In the most recent episode of Dancing with the Stars, which aired on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Chandler Kinney and her professional dance partner, Brandon Armstrong, made an impressive resurgence. After previously landing in the bottom three, the duo remarkably soared to the top of the leaderboard.

In an interview with Us Weekly on October 23, 2024, Chandler credited her impressive comeback to the judges’ criticisms from the previous week, which motivated her to reach her full capabilities.

“Last week was crucial for my progress. It gave me the drive I needed to reflect on what was lacking. I never want to perform without establishing a connection,”Chandler shared.

During Dedication Night, the judges provided pointed feedback regarding Chandler’s dance performance, urging the Disney actress to unveil a deeper, more vulnerable side of herself on stage. They noted that her last performance did not leave a strong impression.

Chandler admitted that this constructive criticism was instrumental in her growth, allowing her to re-emerge stronger and set higher standards for both herself and her peers.

Chandler Kinney Takes Judges’ Feedback to Heart

Reflecting on the evaluation of her Dedication Night dance, Chandler revealed that she personally absorbed the judges’ comments because she views herself as both an artist and a storyteller. Therefore, it was essential for her to ensure her narratives resonated; otherwise, her efforts would be futile.

She articulated the distinction between performing on a live stage and acting in a film scene, stating, “It’s a completely different experience being in front of an audience versus filming under different conditions,” which further emphasized her need for the judges’ encouragement to elevate her performance.

The critique from the judges ultimately proved beneficial, prompting Chandler to express her abilities in a more impactful manner.

During Dedication Night, where she performed Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance,”judge Carrie Ann Inaba inspired Chandler to “really let it out,” expressing hope that the Disney actress would captivate with her artistry. Guest judge Mark Ballas additionally encouraged her to “connect at a deeper level”with Brandon.

Chandler found herself contemplating how to align with the judges’ expectations; nonetheless, she resolved to return stronger and alter their perception of both herself and Brandon.

During Disney Night, Chandler dazzled as Willa from the Zombies series, dancing a Paso Doble to “We Own the Night”from her film Zombie 2. She noted that this performance allowed her to express her emotions fully.

“Willa represents confidence and embodies a fierce werewolf, which aligns with the qualities I aspire to showcase on the dance floor,” she described.

Chandler and Brandon scored 9s from each judge, achieving a total score of 27 out of 30. Thanks to their impressive scores throughout the season, they secured advancement to the next round of competition, coupled with immunity from the upcoming dance-off.

Reflecting on their achievements, Brandon expressed that it was a “blessing”to perform in the ballroom weekly, despite the fierce competition from fellow Dancing with the Stars participants.

“We are aware that many talented contestants are vying for votes. As long as we are still in the running, we are just grateful to be here,”he stated.

Viewers can catch the next episode of Dancing with the Stars on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 8 PM ET, exclusively on ABC and Disney+.

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