**Bruno Tonioli Reflects on Evolving Judging Standards in ‘Dancing With the Stars’**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/dancing-with-the-stars-judges-bruno-tonioli-090225-999c3787630a45e0b50e27db0e100090.jpg)
Bruno Tonioli, a long-standing judge on the popular television dance competition “Dancing With the Stars” (DWTS), has shared insights into how judging dynamics have transformed since the show’s inception in 2005. Speaking at the recent Behind the Mirrorball panel during DWTS Con on 1 August, Tonioli, who has been part of the judging panel since the very first episode, elaborated on the increasing competitiveness of the show and its impact on the standards expected from contestants.
According to Tonioli, the nature of the competition has changed significantly over the years. He remarked, “The show has evolved… and they’re getting better and better.” This growth has led to a more rigorous judging process, where the judges, including fellow panel members Carrie Ann Inaba and Derek Hough, are now focusing not just on technique but also on the overall execution quality and artistic expression of each performance.
Tonioli expressed his admiration for the current crop of professional dancers, noting that a “friendly competition” has emerged among them, which he believes enhances the performances overall. He stated, “If you don’t give me something, I’ve got nothing to talk about.” This atmosphere of constant improvement ensures that the judging experience remains fresh and exciting for both the judges and the viewing audience.
Despite his extensive experience, Tonioli admits to feeling nervous before each episode. He confessed to wanting to avoid distractions, saying, “I mean, there’s millions of people watching. And I still have that feeling, you know, the butterflies in your stomach.” The pressures of live television can weigh heavily, particularly as even small mistakes can significantly impact the viewer’s experience and the judges’ feedback.
During the panel, moderator and three-time Mirrorball champion Kym Johnson-Herjavec posed a question regarding the elusive qualities that certain contestants possess, which cannot be taught. Tonioli highlighted that some individuals naturally exude a certain charisma or presence that captivates him during performances. “I always say it’s not what you do, it’s the way that you do it,” he explained. This intrinsic quality often transcends technical skill and resonates on a deeper emotional level with the judges.
He further elaborated, stating, “We’re very lucky that we have a lot of people who have those qualities in our show.” Nevertheless, Tonioli emphasised the importance of both technical skill and performance in his evaluations, maintaining a clear perspective while watching the performances unfold. “You really have to be very, very clear in your mind and watch what happens in front of you and look for the magic,” he said, underscoring the dual nature of the judging process.
Tonioli’s insights reflect a broader appreciation for the artistic journey that DWTS contestants embark on, not only as dancers but as performers seeking to connect with their audience. The merging of technical prowess with emotive performance remains a core focal point of the judging criteria.
As the countdown begins for the upcoming Season 34, which is set to debut with a two-night premiere on 15 and 16 September, enthusiasts of the show eagerly await the fresh talent and innovative routines that will emerge this season. With Tonioli and his fellow judges aiming to inspire and cultivate excellence, viewers can anticipate a groundbreaking series filled with riveting performances and electrifying moments.
In an era where reality television continues to evolve, the sustained success of “Dancing With the Stars” can be attributed to its ability to adapt and elevate standards while maintaining the heart and spirit of dance at its core.