Alix Earle Reveals Val Chmerkovskiy’s Struggle with Wicked Routine
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Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy took to the stage on the recent episode of Dancing with the Stars to showcase a jazz routine set to “What Is This Feeling?” from the beloved movie musical Wicked. Following their performance on the show’s Wicked Night, the pair engaged in a conversation with PEOPLE, where Earle disclosed the specific segment of the routine that posed the most challenge for her professional partner.
As they gear up for next week’s Halloween-themed episode, Earle, known for going all out for themed performances, reminisced about the demanding nature of live television performances. The competitors brought their A-game on the October 21st episode, infusing the dance floor with dazzling musical theater finesse as they embraced the essence of Wicked under the guidance of guest judge Jon M. Chu, the acclaimed director behind Wicked and Wicked: For Good.
With no eliminations during the previous Dedication Night, the pressure mounted for the 10 remaining couples to impress and survive the rounds. Sadly, Scott Hoying from Pentatonix and his pro partner Rylee Arnold faced elimination at the end of the episode.
While Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy executed their jazz routine flawlessly to the tune of “What Is This Feeling?”, Earle disclosed Val’s struggles during rehearsals in an interview with PEOPLE post-performance. She reflected on a humorous moment during practice sessions where Val grappled with mouthing the lyrics correctly, causing hilarity with his rendition of “lonely” instead of “loathing.”
In a candid moment captured in a backstage video, Earle expressed her excitement about portraying the contrasting characters of Glinda and Elphaba from Wicked, shedding light on the misconception that they might not have gotten along initially. The duo’s chemistry and camaraderie shone through their performance, dispelling any doubts about their mutual admiration and compatibility.
Last week, during DWTS Dedication Night, Earle and Chmerkovskiy delivered an emotional performance to Coldplay’s “Sparks,” accompanied by Earle’s younger sister, Izabel. Reflecting on the experience, Earle commended Val for creating a safe space that enabled her to tap into her vulnerable emotions, a significant departure from her usual persona.
As the competition heats up, Alix Earle continues to captivate the audience with her grace and resilience on the dance floor, supported by the unwavering guidance of her partner Val Chmerkovskiy. With each performance, the duo showcases not only their technical prowess but also their ability to connect on a deeper emotional level, resonating with viewers and judges alike.
Through their journey on Dancing with the Stars, Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy exemplify the true essence of partnership, resilience, and artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of their audience. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, their unwavering dedication and passion promise to elevate their performances to greater heights, setting the stage for unforgettable moments in the episodes to come.