Guillermo Rodriguez delighted audiences during the latest episode of *Dancing with the Stars*, showcasing his flair for performance and dedication to the competition. On September 29, 2026, Rodriguez, aged 55, teamed up with professional dancer Witney Carson to present a lively foxtrot as part of the show’s themed “Yacht Rock Night.” The duo danced to the classic “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes, a choice that perfectly complemented the episode’s festive atmosphere.
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In a memorable twist, at the conclusion of their routine, Rodriguez surprised the crowd by ripping open his Hawaiian shirt to reveal a coconut bra adorned with the phrase “Dancing 4 the People” inscribed on his stomach. This cheeky reveal not only showcased Rodriguez’s playful spirit but also prompted an enthusiastic response from the audience, culminating in a standing ovation that has become a regular occurrence for the popular contestant.
Following their performance, Rodriguez spoke candidly about the creative moment, attributing the idea to his partner, Witney Carson. “Witney created everything,” Rodriguez stated. His admiration for Carson’s guidance was evident as he expressed his trust in her decisions, saying, “I told Witney, ‘Whatever you say, whatever you want me to do, I do it’.” Carson, a two-time winner of the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, was quick to share the credit, noting that much of the excitement stemmed from Rodriguez’s natural charisma. “Honestly, all these ideas come from Guillermo being him,” she remarked, underscoring the collaborative spirit of their partnership.
The judges – Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough – praised the pair’s performance, commending them for their entertainment value and steady progress. Inaba remarked, “I know you’re not dancing for the judges, but you impressed me. He’s working really hard, and it’s paying off.” The couple achieved their highest score so far in the competition, earning 15 out of a possible 30. Rodriguez expressed his joy over receiving three 5s, saying, “Little by little I’m moving up, and I’m working hard so people can see that I’m learning and putting a lot of effort in.”
In preparation for their performance, the energy was palpable in rehearsals. Carson shared a glimpse of Rodriguez’s commitment in a TikTok video, highlighting how he practices the routine even during breaks. “Anytime I’m sitting down or taking a break, he’s practicing,” she explained, clearly impressed by his dedication. Rodriguez echoed her sentiments, stating, “I was rehearsing this, and I wanted to do good, and I did good. It pays off when you work very hard.”
Looking ahead, Rodriguez and Carson are set to continue their journey in the competition, preparing for an upcoming theme night dedicated to the music of Mariah Carey. Fans of the show can tune in to watch the duo’s next performance as they strive to impress once more.
*Dancing with the Stars* airs live on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Hulu. As Rodriguez and Carson push the boundaries of creativity and performance, their journey in the competition promises to bring more surprises and entertainment, captivating audiences week after week.